Talking About Automobiles

2008 Mercury Grand Marquis Features Revealed

2008-06-26T22:33:00.000-07:00

The Mercury Grand Marquis is a full-size rear-wheel drive sedan sold by the Mercury division of the Ford Motor Company. This first generation debuted in 1992 remained in production until a complete redesign in 1998. It later on came out with a new front and rear fascia, grille, hood, bumpers, wheels, lights, and mirrors.

The 2008 Grand Marquis is a 4-door, 6-passenger family sedan, available in two trims, the GS and the LS. Both trims are equipped with a standard 4.6 liter, V8, 224 horsepower, flexible fuel engine that achieves 15 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. A 4 speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard. Most reviewers find its performance generally smooth and strong around town.

Little has changed over the past decade with its exterior styling, but it gets a flashier grille and tail lamp treatment. Both trims come with 16-inch steel wheels with faux chrome wheel covers.

The Grand Marquis offers space to seat six and a spacious cabin. It comes standard with an AM/FM stereo with single CD player; cup holders; dual ashtrays, map pockets; day/night rearview mirror; sliding driver and passenger visors; premium cloth seats with eight-way power lumbar and recline control, and carpeted floor mats.

The Grand Marquis has scored well in tests by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The Grand Marquis has an anti-lock braking system and auto on/off headlamps with delay. All-speed traction control is an additional option for the GS but comes standard on the LS.

Nissan's Smyrna Plant Achieves Major Milestone

2008-06-17T00:38:00.000-07:00

Nissan North America's (NNA) vehicle assembly plant situated in Smyrna, Tennessee rejoiced the 25 years of constructing first-class vehicles at the award-winning facility today. Over 8.2 million vehicles have been manufactured in Smyrna since the plant fashioned its very first compact pickup truck in June 1983.

"Over the past 25 years, Nissan's Smyrna plant has placed its mark on this community, the southern United States, and the automotive industry," said Greg Daniels, senior vice president, U.S. Manufacturing, Nissan North America. "We are extremely proud of what we've accomplished over the past quarter of a century and are looking forward to the next 25 years."

Nissan was the first foreign automaker to convey vehicle assembly business to the southern region of the United States.

"Nissan's decision to begin manufacturing in Tennessee 25 years ago was a watershed event for our state and our nation. With Nissan's continued success and the passage of time, it's easy to forget what a bold, innovative move that decision was and how it transformed our state's economy. The launch of the Smyrna facility was literally the first step in an explosion of automotive manufacturing in the southeast U.S. and the impact of the Nissan team is still being felt today,” says Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen.

"After 25 years, Nissan's investment in Tennessee continues to reap benefits for our state each day. From the thousands of good paying jobs to the additional employment provided by Nissan suppliers to the quality of the vehicles rolling off the assembly line, all of us in Tennessee are proud of Nissan's contributions to our state's economy," says Matt Kisber, commissioner, Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development.

All-new 2009 Dodge Journey Crossover Bags Ward's 'Clever Utility' Achievement Award

2008-06-04T19:37:00.000-07:00

The all-new Dodge Journey stood-out from the pact and claimed one of the most prominent title this year; the “Clever Utility” award presented by the world-renowned Ward’s Auto Interior Show. Panelists from the awarding body presented the all-new 2009 Dodge Journey crossover an extraordinary achievement award, "Clever Utility," for its carefully planned and elegantly incorporated interior features at the 2008 Ward's Auto Interiors Show. The show is the annual auto interior event of the publication

"'Extreme functionality' sums up one Ward's judge of the Dodge's flexible interior. To start, the Journey has more hiding places than a Nancy Drew mansion. Flip forward the front passenger-seat cushion to reveal a nicely sized compartment for keeping valuables out of sight. There are also concealed compartments under the floor in the rear cargo bay and ahead of the second-row seats -- the latter specially lined for potential use as an ice chest," says David E. Zoia, Editorial Director - WardsAuto.com.

A significant goal for the 2009 Dodge Journey's design team was conveying a crossover with a convenient, flexible interior, with seating and inventive storage features usually instituted in the high-quality and best-selling Chrysler and Dodge minivans.

"The all-new Dodge Journey right-sized crossover is designed to satisfy buyers' rapidly changing demands by offering a unique combination of versatility and flexibility," said Joe Dehner, Vice President - Small, Family and Premium Vehicle Design, Chrysler LLC. "The 'Clever Utility' special achievement award validates what our designers and engineers sought to accomplish, and we are honored by Ward's judges for this recognition."

BMW Victorious

2008-05-09T21:59:00.000-07:00

BMW has successfully secured its spot as the world’s number one manufacturer of competent high-performance power units with six awards for five engines gained at this year’s “International Engine of the Year Awards”. The 3-liter inline six engine with Twin Turbo and High Precision Injection is behind the group’s successful campaign by notching the overall ranking in this most prominent international engine contest for the second straight time and counting.

History repeats itself! The 300 hp engine engaged in the BMW 3 Series and 5 Series, the BMW 1 Series Coupe and Convertible, as well as the latest BMW X6, repeated last year’s win in the 2.5 to 3-liter engine category.

If we will recall the history, only one engine had formerly ever succeeded in recurring overall victory at the “International Engine of the Year Awards”: the 5-litre V10 high-revving engine employed in the BMW M5 Sedan, M6 Coupe and M6 Convertible received top honors in 2005 and 2006.

In addition to this, according to the Auto Channel, this year, the 500 hp high-end power unit won the “Above 4-liter” category. BMW M GmbH was triumphant in posting another winner: the 414 hp V8 engine in the new BMW M3 won the category for engines in the 3 to 4 liter category. Furthermore, the 2-liter four-cylinder diesel with Variable Twin Turbo technology outfitted in the BMW 123d got the award for “Best New Engine” of the 2008. And the 1.6-liter four cylinder with Twin Scroll Turbocharger and direct gas injection employed in the MINI Cooper S took over to repeat last year’s victory in the 1.4 to 1.8 liter class.

Labor Leader Dies At 91

2008-02-25T21:07:00.000-08:00

Last year, the United Auto Workers union made the news when they assembled to strike against General Motors. It was during that time when the solidarity of the union was seen, although not for the first time. Today's UAW president Ron Gettelfinger has seen his share of bargaining with the Big Three and other automakers but even Gettelfinger looks up to someone.

That someone happens to be the former president of the United Auto Workers union, the late Douglas A. Fraser. Fraser passed away late Saturday at the Providence Hospital in Southfield. His wife, Winnie said that the former UAW president ad emphysema and was checked into the hospital after having problem breathing.

During his time as the president of the UAW, Douglas Fraser has been known to be popular with the rank and file workers. "Everybody thought he was wonderful," said Winnie Fraser. "He was a good guy, and he really was (wonderful)," she added according to The Auto Channel.

Gettelfinger said that Fraser was a "voice of reason". "He could interject humor in a very tense situation. He was realistic. He was abreast of what was going on. I was always relieved when on the other end of the line was Doug. He would always make you feel good before you hung up that phone," he added.

Sure, we are to talk about automobiles around here. But we have to talk about the guys who gave much to the industry. In fact, without Fraser, the Chrysler 300 would not have been possible. Why? It's because along with Lee Iacocca, Fraser had a major involvement in keeping Chrysler from bankruptcy.

So I honor this great man with this humble post.

VW Welcomes New Age Of Online Marketing

2008-02-15T00:49:00.000-08:00

After 18 months of pure work and ingenuity, Tribal launches one of the biggest web site projects that boasts of highly sophisticated car configurator features 3D models. The new Volkswagen.co.uk site offers the most updated online auto marketing. With just a few clicks on the mouse and without the inconvenience of going out, the web site promotes the most fabulous VW offers.

Tom Roberts, the Volkswagen site Account Director at Tribal, has this to say: "Buying a new car can be a confusing process. Using clean white space and featuring the most progressive car configurator currently available online, we built this site to be the most simple yet most comprehensive, intuitive and engaging experience in this market."

"Our research shows that people looking for a new car now do the majority of their research on the internet, with visits to showrooms more than halved, down from five to two on average,” said Marianne Nicholas, Volkswagen's Relationship Marketing Manager.

"The challenge for us was to respond to this change and ensure our website is equipped to give buyers and owners the information they need at the touch of a button. The old site has seen a massive rise in visits over the past three years - up from 500,000 in November 2004 to 1.4 million in November 2007, which clearly indicates the importance of the web in a customer's buying process. Our new site offers the most realistic experience on the web of what it's like to sit in and walk around a Volkswagen car - it's a richer, more responsive experience and heralds a new approach in the web's role in selling cars," she noted.

Key site facts:

This site is the result of 18 months' work with a dedicated team of 50 people
It is one of the largest websites to be built in Flex, providing a richer experience - in fact, the 15 strong Flex team hired by Tribal to build this site is thought to be one of the largest and most advanced Flex teams in the world
The site uses dynamic feedback, which allows car buyers to search and modify their preferred car in 'real time', which is more responsive and provides a much richer customer experience
It will allow people to book test drives directly on line
Taking into consideration all the different options customers can configure their car with, the site offers well over one million different combinations of Volkswagen

[credit: Fox Business]

Tata Motors Owns Jaguar, Almost

2008-02-06T20:37:00.000-08:00

We know that Ford is struggling as of today. The automaker has placed a lot of confidence on its large vehicles. SUVs and light trucks have been racking up sales for American automakers. But that was when the price of petroleum is still low and the United States' economy is still on the rise.

But today, the economy is slumping and the price of petroleum fuel is skyrocketing. This meant trouble for American automakers like Ford. The Dearborn automaker though has taken steps to battle this decline in sales of their large vehicles.

The automaker is now focusing on their core business which means they are shipping out their luxury marques such as Aston Martin which was sold early last year. After Aston martin was sold, Ford is now looking to sell its two British luxury marques in the form of Jaguar and Land Rover.

The two British luxury brands have been performing at s subpar level as few consumers in the United States of course are interested in purchasing expensive vehicles which eat up a lot of gasoline. And it seems that an Indian automaker is set to purchase the two prestigious British brands.

The said Indian automaker is Tata Motors. You might have heard of the name as the company has unveiled last month what would be the world's least expensive vehicle. If the Indian automaker succeeds in acquiring both luxury brands, it would really be a good boost for the company.

One advantage that they can get from acquiring the two luxury brands is that they would have a wide retail network where Tata Motors can easily market their own vehicles. Another advantage they may have is the technological prowess which Jaguar and land river represents. Tata Motors will be able to use those technologies on their vehicles.

To reap those benefits though, Tata Motors would have to shell put about $2 billion. Wow!

Electric Vehicles In Israel

2008-01-21T20:28:00.000-08:00

We all know that the auto industry is going green. This is not just true in the United States as other countries are also joining in the fight against the threat of global warming.

The Auto Channel recently reported that the Renault-Nissan Alliance joined hands with Project Better Place to promote the use of electric vehicles in Israel. The government of Israel will also work hand in hand with the automakers.

According to the report, here are some of the highlights of the initiative:

100% electric vehicles: Renault's vehicles will run on pure electricity for all functions. The objective of zero emissions will be achieved, while at the same time offering driving performances similar to a 1.6 liter gasoline engine. Renault's electric vehicles will be equipped with lithium-ion batteries, ensuring greater driving range and longevity.
Competitive cost of ownership: The Israeli government recently extended a tax incentive on the purchase of any zero-emissions vehicle until 2019, making them more affordable. Combined with the lower cost of electricity as opposed to fuel-based energy, and the vehicle's lifetime guarantee, the total cost of ownership for the customer will be significantly lower than that of a fuel-based car over the life cycle of the vehicle.
Perfect first mass market: In Israel, where 90% of car owners drive less than 70 kilometers per day, and all major urban centers are less than 150 kilometers apart, electric vehicles would be the ideal means of transportation and could therefore cover most of the population's transportation needs.
Innovative business model: For the first time in the electric vehicle business, ownership of the car is separated from the requirement to own a battery. Consumers will buy and own their car and subscribe to energy, including the use of the battery, on a basis of kilometers driven. This model is similar to the way mobile phones are sold, with an initial purchase and a monthly subscription for the mobility service.

Big 3’s Hot Cars At NAIAS

2008-01-15T06:07:00.000-08:00

What are being displayed inside Detroit's Cobo Center is truly remarkable. Imagine the most awesome car you can imagine. Take a pause. Imagination isn’t the only way to have a good glimpse of them. Visit NAIAS; they’re all there.

And Big 3 will never let the auto show pass without flaunting their aces. CNN writes:

FORD

2009 F-150
This concept certainly showcases Ford's new gasoline turbocharged direct-injection engine (GTDI) and may hint at a new design direction for the Explorer badge. Ford will roll out its efficient and powerful GTDI technology across four- and six-cylinder engines -- 500,000 units annually within five years.

The technology increases fuel economy 20 percent while cutting C02 emissions 15 percent. The Lincoln MKS also gets GTDI fitted to its 3.5-liter V6 first, boasting 340 horsepower and 340 ft-lbs of V8-beating torque.

Verve
This sub-Focus-sized sedan is designed by Ford Europe and is expected to be built South of our borders in time for the 2010 model year. Anticipate seeing something like this handsome concept along with the Verve Coupe that debuted in Frankfurt in the near future. But don't expect to see the frameless door glass make production. Pity.

CHRYSLER

2009 Dodge Ram
The Ram is thoroughly redesigned for 2009, and it's about time. A more powerful and efficient Hemi is under hood, but more importantly, a new Cummins light-duty clean diesel will be available in 1500s (this is a trend in itself).

Alternative-Fueled Concepts
Judging by the three's-not-a-crowd POV, Chrysler is showing the world it knows how to do "alternative." Their Dodge ZEO, Jeep Renegade and Chrysler ecoVoyager concepts all run on electric power, but produce and store that power in different manners.

GM

Cadillac Provoq Fuel Cell Concept
Cadillac's mid-size hydrogen fuel-cell powered concept looks like a 2008 Saturn Vue on glamour steroids. That's not a bad thing. Use this concept to see where Cadillac sees its styling headed and for specific engineering features to look for on Chevrolet's upcoming Volt (like the grille with computer-controlled openings to help better control aero drag).

Saturn Flextreme
Remember last year's show-stopper for General Motors? It was the Chevy Volt -- an advanced, practical, electrically-powered four-seat automobile that caught the eye of the press and public alike. After the positive response, GM dedicated huge resources to speed the Volt to dealerships sometime around 2010.

Hummer HX
Hummer isn't kidding anybody with their HX. It's the H4; a smaller Hummer aimed to challenge Jeep Wrangler and Toyota FJ. Our guess (based on general dimensions) is that this "concept" points to a production model built on a shortened H3 frame. GM's new 4.5-liter light-duty diesel will probably fit under the HX's hood. The engine that's already there is an E85 version of Cadillac's direct-injection 3.6-liter V6.

For more striking cars at the NAIAS, click here.

The Wrap-Ups of the 2007 PRI Trade Show

2007-12-28T01:00:00.000-08:00

The almost 45,000 spectators of the 20th Annual Performance Racing Industry Trade Show were the witnesses to how the show has gone at its best. Held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida for three years now, although I’m not one of those lucky 45,000 present at the actual event, autocahnnel.com listed the major highlights…let’s not be left in the dark. See below.

A number of significant achievements at the world’s largest racing trade show were set this year:

Booth count was up to 4,250, with 1,450 exhibitors participating. Both are new records for the Show!

Visitors from across the U.S. were joined by attendees and buyers from 47 countries.
Fox TV NASCAR Commentator Jeff Hammond once again hosted a lively discussion at the Industry Roundtable with a number of expert panelists, with 700 in attendance.

2007 NASCAR Busch Champion Carl Edwards entertained a crowd of 3,200 at the Grand Opening Breakfast with personal stories about moving up the racing ranks from dirt to today’s superspeedways.

The second Snap-on Stars of Karting All-Stars produced a dynamic show, highlighted by its 18 pro drivers in the Masters division, from Jamie McMurray to Marco Andretti to Christian Fittipaldi and Ron Capps, all returning to their racing roots. Grand-Am’s Michael Valiante took the All Star win, while ICC National Champ Gary Carlton won the Karter Division race (and also placed second in the All Star race).

Friday night, Dec. 7th, 8,000 people were present for the 3rd Annual MOPAR-PRI Sprint & Midget Classic Presented by DHL at Orlando Speedworld to see tight, exciting racing in four feature races – Sprint Cars, Midgets, Focus and Legends. Bobby East won the Sprint feature race, while young Dakoda Armstrong took the Midget feature. NASCAR legend David Pearson served as Grand Marshall.

The AETC motorsports engineering conference preceded the PRI Trade Show and was well attended by racing engine builders, motorsports engineers and auto racing industry entrepreneurs.

The PRI Trade Show continues to offer companies, racing organizations and even individual racers and race teams the opportunity to make announcements. Highlights include:

Legendary motorsports journalist Chris Economaki announced Two-time World of Outlaws Champion Donny Schatz as this year’s Economaki Champion of Champions presented by Rockett Brand Racing Fuel

Mazda North American Operations showcased the MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development Ladder and announced that Playboy would become the new title sponsor for the 2008 MX-6 Cup

Lyn St. James discussed her new motorsports program, Project Podium, the first ever endowed scholarship fund for women race car driver

Grand-Am Road Racing Association announced a new racetrack for ’08, Thunderbolt Raceway, at the New Jersey Motorsports Park, which will host a Labor Day weekend event for both its Rolex and Koni Challenge series.

Pontiac G8 Exports Underway to USA

2007-12-26T00:12:00.000-08:00

The Pontiac G8 is already on the go for export. The Pontiac G8 will be an additional product of GM Holden to cross from Australia to the market of North America.

As GM Holden starts to export the Pontiac G8 vehicles, its Elizabeth plant’s production will equally divided both for export and domestic production. The Adelaide-based Elizabeth plant will go into full blast production of 620 cars per day or at a rate of one car per 76 seconds.
The announcement for this GM Holden milestone was made in a Holden Vehicle Operations event in Adelaide, South Australia. Famous personalities were seen in the affair including new Federal Industry Minister Simon Crean MP, the Acting Premier of South Australia, Hon. Kevin Foley and Hon. Theo Theophanous, the Victorian Minister for Industry and Trade.

The Pontiac G8 will be available in showrooms and dealerships all over America during the first quarter of next year. According to GM Holden Chairman and Managing Director Chris Gubbey, vehicle exports is needed for the company’s success.

“For 60 years, we have been producing world class vehicles primarily for the Australian market. That market has developed into one of the most crowded in the world with almost fifty brands now competing for a share of only a million new vehicles annually.

“GM has recognised Holden’s expertise and has entrusted the design and engineering of the Group’s large rear-wheel drive cars to us. This commitment is seeing us develop our exports which we see as a vital part of our business model going forward.

“The results are already evident. Vehicles are now rolling off the production line here at Elizabeth for export under internationally recognised brand names of Holden, Vauxhall, Chevrolet and now Pontiac. Next year, with our exports to Korea, we will add Daewoo to that list,” he said.

“In the last few years, over $500 million has been invested in upgrading the plant at Elizabeth giving GM Holden of the most flexible plants in the GM group,” said Chris Gubbey.

“This investment has enabled us to remain competitive and means we can achieve a diverse mix of models, both left hand and right hand drive, for markets around the world.”

Merry and Safe Christmas Driving

2007-12-20T17:35:00.000-08:00

The Automobile Association wants to make your Christmas and New Year driving merry and safe. The AA has prepared the following driving tips to help keep motorists safe this holiday period:

1. COURTESY – be courteous and show consideration to other road users. Obey the rules of the road. Plan your travel to avoid traffic jams and keep calm.

2. SPEEDING – excessive speed is a major cause of road accidents. Drive within the speed limit at all times and to the conditions. Watch ahead for slow traffic or road signs notifying a change in the speed limit. If you encounter sunstrike or heavy rain, or are unsure of the road, slow down.

3. MAINTAIN THE GAP – make sure you have a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front, so you have enough time to stop suddenly if you need to. Under normal driving conditions the two-second rule is an easy way to do this, although you will need to increase the following distance to four seconds in adverse weather or visibility conditions.

4. KEEP LEFT - keep to the left at all times unless overtaking, and then only if you can see 100 metres of clear road ahead of you once you have finished passing. Check your rear-view mirror and side mirrors regularly. If you are driving on the open road in peak holiday traffic turn on your main headlights in dip mode, this helps you to be seen by oncoming and overtaking traffic.

5. SEATBELTS – wear your seatbelt at all times, and ensure every passenger is securely restrained. Pay particular attention to children, and don’t forget to secure pets or loose items.

6. FATIGUE –get adequate rest and a good night’s sleep before setting off on a long road trip. Avoid driving at times you would normally be asleep, late at night or early morning are high risk times for fatigue crashes. If fatigued, pass the driving over to another driver, provided they are less fatigued, or quickly find a safe area where they can pull off the road to have a short powernap - 20 minutes is recommended.

7. DRUNK DRIVING – driving and alcohol don’t mix. If you’re attending a social function and intend to drink, leave your car at home or nominate a sober driver. Never get in a car with a drunk driver.

8. CELLPHONES – don’t text and drive, or talk on a mobile phone while driving. Statistics show that using a mobile phone while driving is as dangerous as driving over the legal blood alcohol limit. Ask a passenger to handle any phone calls, or if you’re travelling alone turn your phone off and check it only when you take a break.

9. CONSERVE FUEL – driving smoothly and avoiding unnecessary acceleration will reduce fuel consumption and be less stressful; you can cut 13% off your fuel bill by travelling at 100km/h instead of 110km/h. Reduce drag by keeping your windows up and not using a roof or bike rack unless you have to, and only use air-conditioning when absolutely necessary. Pull over somewhere safe and take a break if you get stuck behind a line of traffic.

10. LOVE YOUR CAR – have your car checked or serviced before starting on your holiday to minimise the inconvenience of a breakdown. Check the pressure of your tyres and make sure your registration is current, and if you own a diesel, buy plenty of reserve for the holidays.

The 2008 IHRA timetable

2007-12-19T00:23:00.000-08:00

For drag racing enthusiasts, nothing beats the IHRA. So I wont wonder that you are anxious of what the IHRA is cooking for next year’s series. I want to be of help so since I browsed this page from autospectator.com, let’s see what the 2008 IHRA would be like.

“Having to expand the schedule to accommodate the growing number of IHRA member tracks and weekly competitors is a good problem to have,” said IHRA Vice President of Racing Operations Skooter Peaco. “We have been able to make these events more exciting and a better value for our grassroots competitors by expanding the schedule. Our focus is on making these weekends full of bonus races as well as the main event so that the competitor can get maximum value out of the expense associated with traveling. With the help of our member tracks, we have been able to manage the numbers so that each event is still a big event, but competitors can race different races each day instead of spending an entire weekend for just one race. This multiple race in one weekend format has been working very well at the Summit Pro Am level and it only makes sense to work at finding more ways to put more fun and more racing into these championships at the local level.”

2008 Summit Team Finals Schedule
Division 1 Patriots Farmington Dragway October 23-26
Division 2 Heat Wave “West” Alabama International October 9-12
Division 2 Heat Wave “East” Darlington Dragway October 9-12
Division 3 NorthStars Pittsburgh Raceway September 25-28
Division 4 Renegades Dallas Raceway October 2-5
Division 5 Thunder Knoll Gas Motorsports Park September 1

“This head to head competition between the proven best racers at each local track continues to be the most talked about program for IHRA sportsman racers,” said IHRA president Aaron Polburn. “When you can literally compete against the best season long racers on the local, regional and national level it really elevates the meaning of winning the Summit Super Series World Championship beyond the $250,000 in cash and prizes awarded. This is about being the best all year, not just during one race a year and that is what makes this program different from all others.”

Ford Names Joe Hinrichs Group Vice-President for Global Manufacturing

2007-12-18T00:23:00.000-08:00

Last December 13, Joe Hinrichs got his new job description as Ford CEO Allan Mullaly named him as Group Vice-President for Global Manufacturing, effective on January 1, 2007.

Hinrichs is presently leading the North America Manufacturing of Ford as vice-president. In his new job, the 40 year old automotive veteran will now be in charge of the worldwide integration of the company’s manufacturing operations and its engineering support for vehicle, powertrain and stamping. His additional duty would be to supervise the company’s Material Planning and Logistics, Ford Production system, and Manufacturing Business Offiec organizations.

“Joe has been successful in leading the restructuring of our North American manufacturing operations and was a key participant in the recent contract talks with the UAW,” Mulally said. “In his new role, Joe will focus on delivering a global manufacturing plan that allows us to improve our efficiency while leveraging our scale worldwide. A global manufacturing footprint supporting a global product plan that delivers the vehicles people want and value are key to creating an exciting and viable company – that delivers profitable growth for all.”
Since Hinrichs will be performing a global and a North American role, he will be reporting to two immediate supervisors. For his global duties, he will be reporting to Mullaly and to Mark Fields for his North American role.

“Our plants in North America are more competitive and our launches are stronger, thanks in large part to Joe’s leadership,” Fields said. “Integrating manufacturing around the world and aligning it with product development on a global scale will make the entire business stronger.”

Before joining Ford in year 2000, Hinrichs had been into major manufacturing works. His major contributions at Ford were basically on the relation of the automaker and the United Auto Workers, basically its Labor force.

“I am excited by the opportunity to bring our plants and engineering functions around the world together into one, cohesive manufacturing operation,” Hinrichs said. “Integrating a global process plan and combining it with our global product plan allow us to accelerate our ability to produce the vehicles customers want around the world while continuing to improve quality.”

Ford Named One of CRO Magazine’s “10 Best Corporate Citizens”

2007-12-17T00:32:00.000-08:00

Ford Motor Co. now belongs to a new top ten list, the “10 Best Corporate Citizens by Industry 2007”. The honorific list was ranked by the Corporate Responsibility Officer (CRO) magazine and Ford ranked as the fourth best automaker in the CRO’s Autos & Vehicle sector.

“We are honored to be recognized by CRO Magazine for our corporate social responsibility efforts,” said John Viera, director, Sustainable Business Strategies Office, Ford Motor Company. “Since we see sustainability as core to our business success, we have been working to develop metrics, targets and milestones to be explicitly integrated into our business plan. CRO’s recognition is one indicator that our efforts are paying off.”

The bimonthly journal worked with IW Financial, a research firm based in Maine specializing in environmental, social and governance issues in several sectors. CRO and IW financial based its winners on how each U.S. public companies in their performance in eight areas, Environment, Climate Change, Human Rights, Employee Relations, Corporate Governance, Lobbying, Philanthropy and Financial. The partnership of CRO and IW financial awarded ten companies in each industry.

“We saw this exercise as a valuable way to decipher companies’ performance on things like governance and sustainability issues, especially when looking at how they did when measured against the companies that they duke it out with in the marketplace,” said CRO Editor-In-Chief Dennis Schaal.

“Ford Motor Company’s inclusion among “CRO’s 10 Best” means the company’s citizenship efforts, based on the metrics considered, were at least several notches above many of the other companies in that industry,” Schaal added.

In this installment of “CRO’s 10 Best,” the magazine covers six specific industries: Auto & Vehicles; Paper; Technology Hardware; Technology Software; Transport; and Travel & Lodging. An earlier report published in CRO’s September-October issue analyzed the Chemical, Energy, Financial, Media and Utilities industries.

“CRO's 10 Best Corporate Citizens by Industry 2007” expands upon CRO's annual “100 Best Corporate Citizens,” which will appear in CRO's January-February 2008 issue.

GM’s Bob Lutz talks about retirement

2007-12-14T00:36:00.000-08:00

What’s General Motors’ most celebrated vehicle at the moment? After building a design studio, and after rolling the green carpet in Los Angeles, you will agree with me that there is no other than the Chevrolet Volt. Scheduled to debut and go on production in 2010, it will also be GM’s Robert A. Lutz’s cue for retirement. The GM boss made this announcement last Tuesday.

Volt’s media appearances, design and over-all development is headed by the 75 year old tycoon as GM’s vice-chairman for global product development. GM boasts that upon solving the challenges the Volt engineers are facing right now, it will be the mainstream electric sedan that can be plugged and recharge in an ordinary outlet.

"I'd like to see the Volt launched because I think that is an absolutely critical product," Lutz said in an interview with The Associated Press. The company has set sometime in 2010 as a loose date to roll out the Volt.

For more than 40 years of being a magnate in the American automotive industry, Bob Lutz said that there is no final retirement date yet. As long as his health will allow him and GM Chief Executive and Chairman Rick Wagoner together with the board members, Lutz will be very much willing to stay.

"You never know about your health. You never know about the needs of the corporation," he said in his office at the company's design center. "You never know what the board wants to do, or Rick wants to transition to a younger team. All of those things are possible."

GM expects that all their efforts and investments will be worth it as soon as the Volt hits the market in 2010. The plug-in vehicle can run 40 miles if its lithium-ion battery is fully charged and with the help of a small conventional engine to recharge the electric motor, the 40 miles range can be extended at an amazing 150 miles per gallon. In the new GM design studio for fuel-flex cars, the Volt’s hydrogen fuel cell version is being worked on.

Speculation over: Alonso names team for 2008

2007-12-13T15:50:00.000-08:00

In 2008, Fernando Alonso will return to the Renault team in an all-new line-up with Brazilian Nelson Piquet Jr.

Renault team boss Flavio Briatorewas quoted in a statement last Monday saying, "Fernando and Nelsinho will form one of the most exciting driver line-ups of 2008."

Alonso said in an interview released by the team: "The decision hasn't been an easy one to make. I would like to thank all the other teams for their interest to have me work with them.

"I chose Renault in the end considering its commitment to the sport and because of its strong track record."

In 2006, Alonso left Renault for MacLaren but also split with the Mercedes-powered team at the end of November this year. Alonso’s leaving MacLaren was due to the team’s management refusing to give him special treatment than Hamilton.

He said: "I am delighted to be returning to Renault. This is the team where I grew up as a driver in F1. Now it is time for us to begin a new chapter.

"I'm confident that together we can move back to the front of the field."

In 2007, Renault was not able to win in any race.

Alonso went on: "Renault had a difficult year in 2007 but I know the team has real strength in-depth. I am confident it can produce a fast and competitive car and be back at the top in 2008."

Though he did not get the preferential treatment he demanded in the MacLaren team, he sure will get in Renault. After his failure to maintain his title and turning it over to Ferrari’s Kimi Raikkonen, the former champion is determined to win it back now that he’s in Renault once again.

Briatore said,"His abilities as a driver and a team leader are well known and we look forward to forging another strong partnership. He knows the team well and how we operate; he will feel comfortable straight away in this environment."

He also praised the team's young recruit: "Nelsinho is one of the most promising young talents in motorsport.

"After his success in GP2, he has spent a year learning the ropes as our test driver and getting to know the team; he is now ready to step up to the next level."

Playboy Crowns the Hottest Cars of 2008

2007-12-11T16:48:00.000-08:00

2008 is welcomed by Playboy by awarding their expected head turners, the “2008 Cars of the Year”. The top magazine for men sees it that 2008 is the year for high-performance hybrid outpacing former title holders, European imports ruling over domestic products and a premium car maker now making one of the most-fuel efficient vehicles at a cheaper cost.

Awards were based from test drives done by the automotive writers of the magazine themselves. The journalists traveled around the world, to evaluate each model sent by leading automakers in their showrooms. To determine the most deserving of them all, these vehicles were driven on tough driving conditions like steep hills, sharp turns. The award winning vehicles to be featured on the January issue of the magazine are as follows:

PLAYBOY'S 2008 CAR OF THE YEAR: Audi R8

This mid engine sexpot boasts a 420 bhp, 4.2-liter V8, and hits zero to 60 in a sexy 4.4 seconds

BEST LUXURY SPORTS COUPE: Maserati GranTurismo

Features a 405 bhp, 4.2-liter double overhead cam V8 packs 339 foot-pounds of torque

SMARTEST PURCHASE: Smart Fortwo

Sits eight feet by eight inches long and weighs a whopping 1,807 pounds

BEST SPORTS SEDAN: Cadillac CTS

With a base engine of a 3.6-liter V6 that develops 263bhp, it is just as quick as the CTS-V

BEST SUV: Land Rover LR2

Equipped with a Terrain Response feature that adjusts the AWD and suspension for driving conditions

BEST CROSSOVER: Buick Enclave CXL

Proudly sits on 19-inch wheels and is available with a luxury package including articulated headlights

BEST CONVERTIBLE: BMW 335i

Not only does it whip from zero to 60 in 5.5 seconds, its light-weight steel top retracts in 22 seconds

BEST EARTH-DAY CAR: Mercedes-Benz E320 Bluetec

Outfitted with three catalysts and a filter in the exhaust that erases every trace of smoke and N2O

BEST PINT-SIZE PERFORMANCE: Volvo C30

Dances on the sporty side with its full-width glass hatch and clipped Manx bobtail

Double joy for BMW at ABC Awards

2007-12-10T15:41:00.000-08:00

The 2007 Australia’s Best Cars Awards had given the German premium maker, Bayerische Motoren Werke double joys with their BMW X5 and the BMW M3. The X5 grabbed the bragging rights in the Best Luxury All-Wheel Drive Category and the M3 won the title of Best Luxury Sports Car.

In 2001 and 2002, the X5’s predecessor also won the title in its category, and the second generation is even better with its 3.0d turbo diesel engine.

"The X5 did the job with consistently high scores and sealed the win with a couple of knockout punches in security, braking and handling; and, tellingly, 4WD ability," the Judges said.

"It's a big call to award a perfect 10 in any category, but it's particularly notable when it's for handling and we're talking about a large, all wheel-drive wagon.

"While this vehicle has the ability to be a serious off-roader, it is more likely to be appreciated for its luxurious appointments, precision handling and economy," Chief Judge Ernest Litera said.

The M3’s edge against its competitors is its F1 inspired V8 engine. In 2001 until 2003, the six cylinder parent M3 was an unswerving title holder.

"The BMW M3 is the ultimate example of precision and balance. This car has relegated some legendary machines to secondary status thanks to its technologically advanced 4.0-litre V8 and the best electronically managed selectable drive system. The M3 is simply an amazing machine to drive," Mr. Litera said.

"(The MDrive button) is a genuinely impressive feature that enthusiast drivers will love. You can dial up a setting to suit the conditions and your level of skill. You can have everything switched on and looking after you or partially/totally disabled for the ride of your life, especially on a racetrack," the Judges said in their summing up.

"The M3 is an amazingly competent, comfortable and rewarding sports saloon that happily 'tootles' around town and offers supercar performance and thrills when given its head," the Judges said.

"The ABC acknowledgement is an excellent reward for the thousands of dynamic BMW designers and engineers who consistently create the most exciting cars for the luxury market," said Guenther Seemann, Managing Director of BMW Group Australia.

"The ABC Awards back up what our customers know. BMW always delivers cars that appeal strongly to both the heart and the head," Mr. Seemann said.

Where Gas are most expensive

2007-12-07T00:58:00.002-08:00

San Francisco is famed by the Golden gate bridge but its gas is "golden" too. So if you thought that the Pacific Coast Highway scenes are free, you’re terribly wrong because gas pumps make you pay for it. In a span of one year, the price of one gallon soared by more than one dollar from $2.524 last year to $3.646 this year. Imagine!

Out of ten major American cities, five of them are in California so we have the right to brand this west coast state to be also the priciest state to fill your fuel tank. I hope Governor Schwarzenegger is doing something about this.

Since I want to be of help, when you’re on a road trip or any drive, be advised to have gas reserves at the back of your car. These places will burn your pockets.

1. San Francisco, Calif.
Price per gallon: $3.546
Price last year: $2.534
Annual per-person traffic delay: 60 hours

2. San Jose, Calif.
Price per gallon: $3.440
Price last year: $2.441
Annual per-person traffic delay: 54 hours

3. San Diego, Calif.
Price per gallon: $3.360
Price last year: $2.476
Annual per-person traffic delay: 57 hours

4. Sacramento, Calif.
Price per gallon: $3.348
Price last year: $2.387
Annual per-person traffic delay: 41 hours

5. Los Angeles, Calif.
Price per gallon: $3.344
Price last year: $2.447
Annual per-person traffic delay: 72 hours

6. New York, N.Y.
Price per gallon: $3.275
Price last year: $2.400
Annual per-person traffic delay: 46 hours

7. Buffalo, N.Y.
Price per gallon: $3.268
Price last year: $2.386
Annual per-person traffic delay: 11 hours

8. Seattle, Wash.
Price per gallon: $3.219
Price last year: $2.524
Annual per-person traffic delay: 45 hours

9. Miami, Fla.
Price per gallon: $3.191
Price last year: $2.263
Annual per-person traffic delay: 50 hours

10. Chicago, Ill.
Price per gallon: $3.181
Price last year: $2.316
Annual per-person traffic delay: 46 hours

Small makes it big in Car of The Year

2007-12-05T23:33:00.000-08:00

The 2008 New Zealand Auto Car Magazine Car of the Year for the first time is entitled to a small car, the Mazda2 supermini.

Judges picked the minute Mazda against its behemoths which includes the Holden VE ute, Subaru Impreza, Ford Mondeo, BMW X5, Mercedes Benz C-Class, Lexus LS460, Audi R8, Toyota Highlander and the Audi TT Roadster.

"Mazda's engineers obviously know that every gram saved is one less that engine has to motivate, one less that a chassis must control in corners, and one less that the brakes have to arrest. They designed the new Two with this always in their minds, and the result is a car that effectively demonstrates that less really does equal more.

"Our judges were highly impressed with the way this car performed throughout the two-day judging process. It is a car that makes no apologies for being small, and combines a fun driving experience with the usual low cost of ownership that we associate with frugal superminis."
Because the small car’s edge over big vehicles is fuel consumption, Owen explained that fuel prices did not belong to the critearia of the panel of critics.

"Sure, the Mazda2 earned the highest score of the ten finalists for environmental impact, but winning this award required it to do a lot more than that. It needed to be a delight to drive on the road, and a thrill to chuck around on the track. In short, it needed to exhibit the pizzazz that most ‘sensible' cars lack."

The Best Technology of the Year award was received by Hyundai of New Zealand for making the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system standard in all their vehicle models. The ESC system helps reduce fatalities and injuries in collision accidents.

"There were plenty of new technologies released this year, but most had an emphasis on in-car entertainment or convenience. With this bold marketing step, Hyundai have set an example that we hope the rest of the New Zealand motor industry will follow. Stability control systems are proven life-savers on the road, but they need to be made more accessible to consumers to have an effect."

Japanese cars beat American and German nameplates,

2007-12-05T01:36:00.000-08:00

In the most recent Consumer Reports Annual Car Owner Satisfaction Survey, Japanese cars beat those carrying American and European DNAs. There was a total of 39 vehicle entries in the Consumer Reports’ Most Satisfying List and 18 of which are Japanese. Out of the 18 cars shouting their Japanese nameplates, 10 are with Toyota badges.

The Toyota Prius was identified as the most satisfying vehicle for four consecutive years now. Aside from being in the pinnacle of the survey, 92 percent of Prius owners even said that they are even willing to buy another Prius. Toyota’s pride is followed by the German BMW 335i coupe/convertible followed by the Porsche boxter gaining scores of 91 and 90 respectively. For more details of the survey, see below:

Most Satisfying

-- Small Cars: Honda Fit, Volkswagen Rabbit

-- Family Cars: Toyota Prius, Toyota Camry Hybrid, Ford Fusion V6 (AWD), Saturn Aura

-- Large Cars: Hyundai Azera, Toyota Avalon

-- Upscale/Luxury Cars: Lexus LS 460, Acura TL Type-S, BMW 330i/335i (sedan)

-- Infiniti M35 RWD, Lincoln MKZ (AWD)

-- Sports Cars/Roadsters: Porsche Boxster, Porsche Cayman, Chevrolet Corvette, Mini Cooper S (hatchback), Honda S2000, Porsche 911 Carrera, Mazda MX-5 Miata, Audi S4, Mini Cooper (Convertible), Ford Mustang (V8), Volkswagen GTI, Mini Cooper (hatchback)

-- Coupes/Convertibles: BMW 335i (RWD), Volkswagen Eos

-- Wagons/ Hatchbacks: Mazdaspeed3

-- Minivans: Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey

-- SUVs: Lexus RX350, Ford Edge, Toyota Land Cruiser, Chrysler Aspen (4WD), Hyundai Santa Fe, Toyota RAV4 (V6), Toyota 4Runner (V6)

-- Pickup Trucks: Honda Ridgeline, Toyota Tundra (V8)

Least Satisfying

-- Small Cars: Chevrolet Cobalt (coupe, nonturbo), Saturn Ion (sedan), Chevrolet Cobalt (Sedan), Chevrolet Aveo (sedan)

-- Minivans: Ford Freestar, Buick Terraza, Chevrolet Uplander, Saturn Relay

-- SUVs: Chevrolet Trail Blazer (6-cyl., RWD) GMC Envoy (6-cyl., RWD), Suzuki Grand Vitara, Jeep Commander (V6), Chevrolet Equinox, Jeep Grand Cherokee (V6, gas)

-- Pickup Trucks: Dodge Dakota, Chevrolet Colorado (5-cyl.), GMC Envoy (5-cyl.), GMC Canyon (4-cyl.), Ford Ranger, Mazda B-Series, Chevrolet Colorado (4-cyl.), GMC Canyon (4-cyl.)

To be an entry in the Consumer Reports list of Most Satisfying vehicles, a model must be hailed by 80 percent of their owners, enough for them to say that they may buy or lease another of it. Meanwhile, those in the Least Satisfying List are those of which less than 50 percent of the vehicle owners say that they would want the same car. The winners are listed in their categories in order of the most satisfying auto.

Honda FCX showcased at University of Albany

2007-12-04T17:31:00.000-08:00

As part of Honda’s UAlbany Goes Green initiative, the Japanese auto maker has flaunted its FCX fuel cell vehicle at the University of Albany.

According to committee member Ken Jones, UAlbany’s Green Commerce Committee (an offshoot of the UAlbany Goes Green project) sent a special request to the Office of General Services (OGS), to be allowed to have the car displayed on campus.

In behalf of the State of New York, which has been leasing the vehicle from Honda at $500 a month, the OGS has been managing the use of the Honda FCX. OGS has established a small, compressed hydrogen fuelling station on the Harriman State Office Campus in Albany. It claims that the FCX has the capacity to run approximately 210 miles on a full tank of fuel. It has been normally used by state agencies like the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority.

Honda has been leasing the cars to New York and other states at a lower price due to their goal to have the data collected on their usage.

Jones said that fuel cell vehicles will soon be used by everyday consumers, and not just by a selected few for trial purposes. He said, “This is what the future might look like.” “It is consumerism that drives the market. These are alternatives to fossil fuels that might work,” he added.

The UAlbany Goes Green initiative is focused in encouraging university staff and students to “think and go green” through recycling and conservation projects.

Such plans prove that Honda is eager to join the other top automakers in promoting greener environment as global warming threatens to persist.

The Honda Civic Hybrid for 2008

2007-11-29T16:16:00.000-08:00

Since Honda Civic Hybrid became one of the most popular hybrids in the market, the automaker was able to create the already solid reputation of the model as it carries the 2008 model of Honda Civic Hybrid into the crowd.

Though the Civic Hybrid was already great, Honda still made some improvements and advancements. It was made even “greener”. The 2008 Civic Hybrid gets an estimated MPG of 45. But, more than that, the Civic was given better fuel efficiency. There were also other positive mechanical changes made on the engine and power sources. Compared with its predecessor, the new Civic has an even lesser impact on the environment.

Honda made some significant styling and design changes for the 2008 Civic Hybrid. The car was even described as having a “gracious interior” and having a very smart and extremely attractive exterior fixture.

The great popularity of the 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid was due to the fact that it relies upon regular unleaded gasoline. Even, users could easily fuel the vehicle at any gasoline station anywhere, unlike some other alternative fuel motor vehicle options.

As some may think that there is a need to “plug in” or charge up the battery through an electrical source, Honda believes that the battery should be self charging while the vehicle is being operated in the normal course of motoring.

The 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid will be packed complete with a three year or 36,000 mile warranty. The battery pack will be provided with at least an eight year or 80,000 mile warranty, and it could even extend up to ten years or 150,000 miles in some states.

Another good thing is the fact that any Honda dealership in the country and in the world could provide service and repair for the 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid.

The jury names Fiat 500 as the 2008 Car of the Year

2007-11-28T16:30:00.000-08:00

The jury from “Car of the Year” has decided to give the 2008 Car of the Year award to the Fiat 500. Since this year’s competition has not been closely contested compared with last year’s result, the Fiat 500 is presumed as an outstanding new car.

Based from “Car of the Year”, “Nostalgia and charm have been key factors in the good marks the Car of the Year 2008 Jury has given to the retro-looking 500, a car of classless appeal in the Fiat tradition… The top two cars this year were relatively small cars compared with last year’s SUV’s. The Fiat topped the pole by a sixty point margin over its nearest rival the Mazda2. In doing so the Fiat 500 received top marks from thirty four of the fifty eight Jury members. The Ford Mondeo was third, with two hundred and two points, the Ford S-Max won the top prize last year.”

To have a precise thought of how the judges voted, let us review what some of them have said (courtesy of epochtimes.com):

Diego Eramo (Italy) – “The modern reincarnation of the Fifties and Sixties legend, confirming Fiat’s talent for making small cars. The manufacturer is on top form, because the new 500 clearly shows the car’s progress in terms of quality, with good quality materials and finishings and careful construction. Low emission engines, active and passive security, comfortable, easy and pleasant to drive, an appealing design and a vast range of customisation options complete a truly winning picture.”

Jurgen Lewandoski (Germany) – “Off course everybody loves the Fiat 500 and I loved every mile behind the wheel of this marketing and retro miracle. Of course I am waiting for the Abarth and the Giardinette But as this is definitely not a new car, it cannot be a Car of the Year in my opinion.”

Andrew English (Great Britain) – “The ride is too hard, the rear seats too small and the noisy engine isn’t in the back like Giacosa’s original, but then you remember the price tag, the gorgeous interior and the smiling faces of people when they step out. OK this is Car of the Year, not retro-rebodied Panda of the year, but as Fiat's Luca De Meo says, ‘the Cinquecento 500 is a designer car for the man in the street.’ Yes, I’d need a Papal edict on compulsory days off for chiropractor appointments and Matt Monro’s Day’s Like These’ would be permanently on the stereo, but this car is cooler than gelato and it’s my Car of the Year winner by the length of the Apennines Way.”

Lasse Holmstrom (Sweden) – “It may be a Panda under cover, but 500 is a cute, nice-to-drive-car with personality and a lot of quality feeling. Five stars in crash test is also impressive”

Now, that leaves no doubt of Fiat’s capability to create an award-winning vehicle.