China 2006-2010 five-year plan calls for 40% p.a. automotive production growth  
China's 11th five-year plan for 2006-2010 being drafted by the National Reform and Development Commission has set a growth target of 40% a year for vehicles, parts and components production, the Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post has reported. The paper says that within 10-15 years, China's car exports are expected to account for over 10% of the global market, from less than 1% currently – China became a net exporter of new vehicles last year for the first time.

Of first quarter 2006 Chinese vehicle exports, 16,813 were passenger cars with a total value of $US116.8 million, mostly sent to to Russia, the Middle East and Southeast Asia, though Honda exported 9,700 of its Guagzhou-assembled Jazz superminis to Europe in the second half of last year, and expects to export 25,000 vehicles this year.

Chinese built-up car imports in Q1 06 more than doubled y-o-y to 50,988 units, worth $US1.7bn. 21,382 of the total were passenger cars, and with an average per-unit value of £40,000, many of them were premium models not assembled by local joint ventures.

Thanks to burgeoning domestic car output, these imports accounted for only 2.5% of the Chinese market. Exports are likely to be driven by excess domestic capacity; Morgan Stanley was last month the latest of a string of analystsin recent months, including Chinese officials themselves, predicting overcapacity in China’s passenger car sector, saying it would rise from 1m units in 2005 to 1.2m this year.


Source : http://www.autoindustry.co.uk (5/8/2006)

NHRA Top Fueler Doug Kalitta Wins Again in Atlanta; Repeats His Repeat of 2005  
COMMERCE, Ga.– Deja vu...again. For the second consecutive season, Doug Kalitta, driver of the bright red, 7,000 horsepower Mac Tools Top Fuel dragster, won the rain-delayed Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway in Commerce, Ga., northeast of downtown Atlanta, Sunday. Doug’s 26th career Top Fuel victory also marks the second consecutive season that the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series veteran won consecutive events in Bristol, Tenn., and Atlanta. Just like in 2005, this year’s final eliminations at the Atlanta event were delayed by rain.

Doug, the No. 2 qualifier (4.529 seconds, 324.67 mph), and his crew chief Rahn Tobler both proved why they are considered by their peers and fans alike as two of the best in their respective positions Sunday. Tobler tuned the Mac Tools rail to three consecutive 4.4-second quarter-mile laps in eliminations including a season-best 4.469-sec., blast in the final round. Behind the wheel, Doug’s average reaction time on the starting line during eliminations was a very impressive 0.054 sec. His opponents averaged 0.084 sec., against him. Doug had a starting line advantage in every round and saved his best, 0.033 sec., for the finals.

In round one, Doug cruised to an easy win over a tire-smoking David Baca, 4.550 sec., 324.20 mph to 8.009 sec., 96.71 mph. In the quarterfinals, Doug faced off against the defending Top Fuel points champion dragster tuned by Alan Johnson. Doug, Tobler and the Mac Tools crew were ready for a colossal battle, but very early traction loss from his opponent let Doug again rocket to the finish line uncontested, 4.473 sec., 325.37 mph to 6.952 sec., 130.35 mph.

In that second-round run, the Mac Tools dragster’s parachutes, used to rapidly slow his nitro-fueled race car, became tangled in the dragster’s wheelie bar and did not deploy as they should. Doug was unable to slow his car enough with just the brakes as he drove into the pea gravel trap at the very end of Atlanta Dragway. When the car and driver returned to the pits, a tremendous effort by all of the Kalitta Motorsports team members unfolded, including crewmen from Dave Grubnic’s, Scott Kalitta’s, and Hillary Will’s teams there to help clean and repair the battered red race car. They all helped Doug and his team make extremely quick mends and roll to the staring line in the semifinals to race Larry Dixon.

Doug roared past Dixon in the semifinals, 4.483 sec., 328.70 mph to 4.556 sec., 328.78 mph, to set up a final-round duel with the current points leader Melanie Troxel. In the highly anticipated final round, Doug and his team yet again proved their resolve by posting another dominating performance, 4.469 sec., 327.59 mph to 7.234 sec., 133.55 mph.

“What a great effort by Rahn and my guys and our whole Kalitta Motorsports team today,” Doug said. “Everything just fell into place. Rahn had the tune-up dead on and I was able to do my job on the line. I can’t say enough about the whole effort this weekend. I want to thank all of the other Team Kalitta crews for coming over to help after the second round. I’ve never seen so many guys working on the same race car before. Without all of their help, we would’ve had a hard time getting ready for the semis.”

Doug moved up one position in POWERade championship points from third to second. He is now only 132 points away from the leader.

Doug, a 41-year old resident of Ann Arbor, Mich., is a two-time Top Fuel championship points runner-up (2003-2004) and the 1998 Auto Club of Southern California Road to the Future Award winner for rookie excellence. He is now in his ninth season in NHRA Top Fuel drag racing. Before joining the quarter-mile set, Doug raced in open-wheel competition and won the 1994 USAC National Sprint Car Championship.

Doug’s Kalitta Motorsports Top Fuel teammate and native Australian Dave Grubnic, driver of the StriVectin-SD Top Fuel dragster, qualified for final eliminations in the No. 11 spot (4.600 sec., 324.90 mph). He raced No. 6 qualifier Dixon in round one. Unfortunately, Grubnic ended up on the losing end of a great drag race with the former world champ, 4.545 sec., 322.34 mph to 4.532 sec., 329.34 mph. Grubnic entered the Atlanta event in second place in points. He leaves in third place, 202 points off of the lead.

In early 2004, Grubnic, a 43-year old resident of Ennis, Mont., was hired to drive for Kalitta Motorsports after several years of driving for teams with minimal funding. Since joining Team Kalitta, Grubnic, now in his 12th season as a Top Fuel driver, has posted consecutive top-five championship points finishes. In 2004, he won the lucrative and coveted Budweiser Shootout in Las Vegas, becoming only the fourth driver in the special event’s 20-year history to win its $100,000 prize in his first attempt, and he picked up an emotional and long overdue first NHRA national event win in May, 2005 in Topeka, Kans., to become the first non-native North American to win a Top Fuel trophy.

Doug’s cousin Scott Kalitta, driving his new Kalitta Air Monte Carlo Funny Car flopper, qualified No. 12 (4.829 sec., 318.47 mph) for Sunday’s eliminations. Scott, the son of team owner and drag racing legend Connie Kalitta, raced No. 5 qualifier and defending POWERade points world champion Gary Scelzi in the first round of eliminations. Scott’s race car lost traction very early in the run and that allowed Scelzi to charge unchallenged to the finish line for the win, 10.049 sec., 84.86 mph to 4.709 sec., 326.40 mph.

Scott, a 43-year old resident of Palmetto, Fla., and 25-year drag racing veteran, made the switch from Top Fuel to Funny Car this season. Scott has one NHRA national event win in his career in nitro Funny Car and that was at the Houston event in 1989 while driving with a broken left foot. In Top Fuel, Scott scored two world championships (1994-1995) and 17 NHRA national event wins.

Rookie Top Fueler Hillary Will, driving the Kalitta Motorsports-managed, Ken Black-owned dragster, qualified in the No. 5 position. She defeated Scott Weis in round one, but lost to Troxel in the quarterfinals.

The Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals was the 7th of 23 national events in the 2006 NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series.


Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (5/8/2006)

NBA 2006 Finals Trophy Tour Launches at Offutt Air Force Base, Neb.,  
ARLINGTON, Va., PRNewswire/ -- The NBA and Toyota, in conjunction with the USO, are sending NBA Legend Clyde Drexler, one of basketball's all- time great guards, to Offutt Air Force Base, Neb., May 13 on the NBA's 2006 Finals Trophy Tour. This is the first stop on a five-base tour, which will include one-day interactive festivals at the military bases in the heartland of the United States. At each base, the NBA and Toyota will bring a fleet of NBA finals-themed vehicles, including the specially designed Toyota Tundra "Trophy Mobile," the Larry O'Brien Trophy and an interactive NBA-themed activity center. The festivals will feature contests, shooting games, and a variety of activities for children of military personnel.

"The NBA is proud to partner with Toyota and the USO on executing the tour as a way to thank and honor military personnel and their families for their service to our country," said Heidi Ueberroth, Executive Vice President Global Media Properties and Marketing Partnerships for the NBA. "Toyota and the NBA Focus on creating memorable experiences for NBA fans through unique vehicles and basketball interaction, so we are pleased to deliver the NBA experience and the Larry O'Brien Trophy to these military bases."

"Our military men and women face some of life's most difficult situations in service to our country," said Don Esmond, Toyota's Senior Vice President and also a Marine Corps helicopter Pilot in Vietnam, where he earned a Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross and Purple Heart. "We appreciate their dedication and commitment, and we're glad we can help bring some fun and excitement to everyone through the NBA experience."

"The USO is pleased to support the NBA and Toyota in bringing the tour to military bases in the United States," said Edward A. Powell, USO President and CEO. "The NBA has a long history of support for service members, and NBA players and Legends participated on the USO's first tour to Baghdad in 2003."

The other stops on the 2006 NBA Finals Trophy Tour are: May 19 at Fort Leavenworth, Kan.; June 1 at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas; June 24 at Fort Riley North, Kan.; and July 3 at Fort Carson, Colo.

This tour continues the USO tradition of bringing professional athletes to troops serving far from home. NFL players Bryce Fisher, Patrick Kerney and Max Starks recently returned from a USO tour marking the 40th anniversary of the NFL-USO partnership. Last year, NBA Legends Artis Gilmore and Darryl Dawkins visited military personnel serving in Hurricane Katrina relief efforts, and Gilmore, Gail Goodrich, Spencer Haywood and Dan Roundfield brought the Larry O'Brien Trophy to troops in Kuwait. AT&T, Inc. is the official telecommunications sponsor of USO entertainment tours.


Source : http://www.automotive.com (5/8/2006)

Chrysler Group Wins Award for Training Excellence  
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- The American Society for Training & Development (ASTD) presented DaimlerChrysler Academy (DCA), the primary training provider for Chrysler Group dealership personnel, with an Excellence in Practice Award today at the International Conference and Exposition in Dallas, Texas. ASTD is the world's largest association dedicated to workplace learning and performance professionals.

DCA received the award in the Performance Improvement category for its certification program, which delivered clear and measurable results. DCA provides training and performance improvement services for retail employees working at 3,900 Chrysler Group dealerships throughout the U.S.

DCA was chosen from a field of 78 submissions for the award and underwent a blind review process conducted by a panel of ASTD representatives and experts in the training and performance field. A total of nine Excellence in Practice Award winners were honored at the event.

"This award from ASTD confirms our belief that training can be an effective tool in helping a dealership to be successful," said Pat Kittle, Director - DaimlerChrysler Academy. "DCA training enhances the ability of dealership personnel to contribute to the dealership's long term profitability, customer satisfaction and brand loyalty."

DCA has long realized that well-trained personnel are a critical component of a successful dealership operation. By targeting its services at acknowledged performance gaps, DCA certification and course work led to increased sales success and high levels of professionalism among Chrysler Group dealership staff.

Dealership employees have to complete prescribed training and intense study while achieving exceptional customer satisfaction scores in order to become certified. Also, DCA launched a mystery shopper program to ensure employees could effectively demonstrate extensive product knowledge among a vast portfolio of Chrysler, Jeep(R) or Dodge products.

A Measurement Task Force (MTF) was created by DCA and BBDO Detroit Retail Performance Solutions to measure the results of these training initiatives. Data soon revealed that training did matter and showed a link between certification and sales success:

* DCA certified sales staff makes up 54 percent of the nearly 27,000 retail sales consultants at Chrysler Group dealerships; however, they represent 75 percent of nationwide vehicle sales.

* On average, a DCA certified sales consultant generates about 70 percent more sales than a non-certified sales consultant.

* Eighty nine percent of the sales consultants who sold 100 or more units in 2005 were DCA certified.

* DCA certification leads to lower annual employee turnover; dealer retention of certified personnel is 62 percent higher for sales consultants and 34 percent higher for service advisors when compared to non-certified personnel.

* When measured against common factors including tenure and store size, only DCA certification had a significant, positive impact on an individual sales consultant's sales success.

"Certification represents a reciprocal relationship in which the dealership invests funds to train an employee and the employee invests time and effort to advance their career. This cooperation contributes to overall dealership success," said Kittle. "DCA always thought training was important but now there are facts to support this thinking. Chrysler Group continues to use this measurement process to provide industry-leading training and performance support in the marketplace."

Through a combination of classroom, in-dealership, web and ride-and-drive learning experiences, DaimlerChrysler Academy provides innovative learning, process improvement and retail activation solutions to nearly 100,000 retail employees at 3,900 Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealers in the U.S.


Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (5/8/2006)

Universal Technical Institute, Inc. Announces New Training Contract With Nissan  
PHOENIX, -- Universal Technical Institute, Inc. , a provider of technical education training, announced today that the Company has signed a training contract with Nissan North America, Inc. The nine-week elective training is scheduled to begin during the summer of fiscal 2006 and is planned to be offered at the existing UTI locations in Houston, Texas; Orlando, Florida; and Mooresville, North Carolina. As part of the contracts Nissan plans to equip the elective with specialized training aids and tools supporting their unique training needs. Students who successfully complete their training will be eligible to receive credit within the Nissan Technician Certification system.

Kim McWaters, President and Chief Executive Officer of Universal Technical Institute, Inc., commented, "The Company is pleased to announce UTI's new relationship with Nissan to provide a nine week elective program at three UTI locations. A key component of our strategy includes the development of new relationships that provide value to our industry customers and our students. Students who opt to take this type of specialty training will have greater opportunities to obtain top jobs using their specialty skills. In turn, Nissan benefits from a more proficient entry-level technician trained specifically to meet their needs. We are excited to add Nissan to our list of valued customers at UTI."


Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (5/8/2006)

Carster.com Offers $1000 to ''Car of the Month'' Winners  
SEATTLE-- Carster.com, the online car community for those who believe the words "love" and "car" go hand in hand, is celebrating its launch by offering one thousand dollars ($1000) for the next twelve (12) months to each member who wins the Carster.com "Car of the Month" award, while individual "Car of the Week" winners will receive a free Carster.com t-shirt.

The contest works this way: each calendar month, Carster.com members can vote on who deserves the Car of the Month. The Carster.com member who receives the most number of votes, based on online voting results, will win the $1000 prize (additional terms and conditions apply).

Carster.com is unique among web sites catering exclusively to auto enthusiasts. Membership is free at Carster.com, and Carster allows its members to upload as many photos as they like for as many cars as they have. Members can also list previously owned cars, cars for sale, their dream cars, and even cars they would like to purchase -- taking advantage of Carster's wide ranging membership to match their wishes with reality.

Carster.com members have control of their personal pages and can customize their Carster homepage to reflect their individual style, adding a personal profile, color schemes, stories, original backgrounds and more. Members can create Car Clubs, access message boards, organize rallies, post information about auto shows and create car reviews. The ability to upload video clips of members' rockin' wheels is also in the works.


Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (5/8/2006)

Caterpillar Demonstrates 2007 On-Highway Engine for EPA Administrator  
WASHINGTON -- Caterpillar Inc. today committed to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that it will be ready to provide customers with on-highway truck engines that will meet the EPA's stringent 2007 emissions standards. As part of an industry-wide clean-diesel event held near EPA headquarters in Washington, Caterpillar again demonstrated the company's absolute readiness when it comes to meeting the 2007 standards.

"Two years ago this week, I was honored to be in Washington where we demonstrated for the EPA a prototype engine that met the 2007 standard," said Doug Oberhelman, Caterpillar group president with responsibility for the company's engine business. "The C13 engine we demonstrated today is like the production engines our customers will use starting in 2007 as they help deliver the products, goods and supplies that are a vital part of everyday life in America."

In May of 2005, Caterpillar also demonstrated a 2007 compliant truck engine for President George Bush at an event in Virginia. The President examined a white handkerchief that had been held over the exhaust stack of a truck as the engine was revved. Following the demonstration, the handkerchief was still white.

As part of a comprehensive testing program to make sure customers are familiar with the technology used to meet emissions regulations, Caterpillar customers have already logged more than two million miles on 2007 compliant engines. Caterpillar is building on its proven ACERT(R) Technology to meet the 2007 regulations, adding clean gas induction and a diesel particulate filter to make sure the engines provided to customers will meet the 2007 EPA standards.

"In 1988, the average EPA compliant heavy-duty on-highway truck traveling 120,000 miles in a year emitted about 470 pounds of particulate matter," Oberhelman said. "The engine we demonstrated today, and the engines our customers will use in 2007, will emit less than eight pounds of particulate matter a year, a reduction of approximately 98 percent."

The Caterpillar truck engine demonstrated for the EPA uses ultra low sulfur diesel fuel, a key component for all on-highway truck engine manufacturers to meet the 2007 emissions standards.

Caterpillar has invested more than $1 billion in clean-diesel technology in recent years, and customers using Caterpillar engines featuring ACERT Technology have experienced superior fuel economy without a loss of reliability or durability.

For more than 80 years, Caterpillar Inc. has been making progress possible and driving positive and sustainable change on every continent. With 2005 sales and revenues of $36.339 billion, Caterpillar is the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines and industrial gas turbines.


Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (5/8/2006)

Enhanced Fuel Economy Tops List of Automotive Technologies European Vehicle Owners Say They are Likely to Purchase  
DETROIT and ROCHESTER, N.Y.-- A new automotive study conducted by Harris Interactive(R) in the five largest European countries shows that enhanced fuel economy is the top automotive technology vehicle owners say they are very or extremely likely to purchase for their next new vehicle (41%). This is consistent with findings from a U.S.-based study, also conducted by Harris Interactive, showing that nearly half (47%) of vehicle owners are very or extremely likely to purchase a new vehicle with enhanced fuel economy.(1) However, Europeans in the five major markets are significantly less likely than their U.S. counterparts to say they are very or extremely likely to purchase a new vehicle with hybrid electric technology (20% vs. 30%).

These are some of the results from the inaugural Harris Interactive AutoTECHCAST(SM) Europe, a study conducted bi-annually among adults in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom. The study is designed to collect consumer-based information on 61 advanced automotive technologies. This wave of the study was conducted online between February 15 and March 20, 2006 among a cross-section of 19,382 adults ages 18 and over who own or lease a vehicle, have a valid driver's license, have at least one household vehicle and own a listed European model dated 1998 or newer.

"Overall, the European market appears much less interested in hybrid technology versus what we see in the United States, especially when considering the cost that it adds to a vehicle," says Bryan Krulikowski, Senior Director of Automotive and Transportation Research at Harris Interactive. "European consumers already enjoy access to fuel-efficient diesel-powered vehicles and are looking beyond hybrid technology."

In fact, European respondents are significantly more likely to say they will purchase a fuel cell vehicle (28% say they are very/extremely likely) than a hybrid (20%). Italians show the greatest purchase consideration for this technology as almost half (48%) say they are very or extremely likely to next purchase a fuel cell vehicle.

The key factor, however, is affordability. While purchase consideration for fuel-efficient technologies is high among Europeans in the five major markets, the additional cost they place on a vehicle makes them less attractive. Purchase consideration for both enhanced fuel economy and fuel cell vehicles declines significantly once respondents are made aware of their estimated market prices, an additional euro 950 (650 pounds Sterling) and euro 5,800 (4,000 pounds), respectively.

"While consumers indicate they are not willing to pay for this technology at today's estimated prices, their initial high level of interest suggests that these technologies will gain consideration as they become more affordable," continues Krulikowski.

The specific country from which a consumer resides, as well as the type of vehicle they currently own, has considerable impact on their likelihood to purchase advanced automotive technologies. For instance, Spanish consumers show the highest levels of familiarity and purchase consideration for the majority of technologies measured, while owners of small city/small compact cars tend to show below average purchase consideration levels.

"Like we see in the United States, European car owners are diverse in their demographics as well as their specific vehicle needs," says Krulikowski. "AutoTECHCAST Europe is a resource that allows vehicle manufacturers and suppliers to analyze these various groups to truly understand where their technology will find success."


Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (5/8/2006)

When It Comes to Buying a Car, Mom's the Word  
COSTA MESA, Calif., -- NADAguides.com, a leading vehicle information website, today announced the results of a Mother's Day survey aimed at revealing the opinions of moms when it comes to buying a car, including important purchase considerations such as safety and fuel economy, as well as the types of vehicles mothers currently drive versus the types of vehicles they ideally want to drive. Following are highlights of the survey. Participants were asked what their top three most important purchasing considerations are when it comes to buying a new car. A solid 67% indicated Safety was among their most important consideration, followed by Fuel Economy (52%) and Roominess (50%). Overall Purchase Price came in fourth position at 48%. When asked what type of vehicle the participants currently drive, over half (54%) indicated they drive SUVs. Twenty-two percent of respondents drive 4-Door Sedans while 8% each drive Luxury Vehicles and Crossovers. Six percent of those surveyed drive Mini Vans. When asked if they'd like to drive something different than the vehicle they currently drive, 52% responded they currently drive the type of vehicle they ideally want to drive, followed by 17% who responded they'd ideally like to drive a Mini Van, and 12% who indicated they'd like to drive a Hybrid. "It makes perfect sense Safety was the most important purchase consideration in our Mother's Day survey," said Don Christy, Jr., president and chief executive officer of NADAguides.com. "When you have children, their needs -- and ultimately their safety -- become the number one priority. We were also eager to learn about the vehicles mothers currently drive versus the vehicles they ideally want to drive. Believe it or not, SUVs were a popular choice in both camps, even with Fuel Economy ranking as the second most important purchasing consideration." Finally, when asked which vehicle they 'dream' of driving, regardless of their current familial or financial situation, a majority of respondents revealed they dreamed of driving a 2007 Cadillac Escalade followed by a new Land Rover Range Rover and finally, the Porsche Carrera. Other popular choices included BMW (7 series sedan and 6 series convertible) and Lexus (IS 350 and GX 470). A majority of mothers who responded to the survey (59%) parented two children under the age of five, while 22% of the respondents parented one child under the age of four. Seven percent of the respondents are currently expecting their first child.
Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (5/8/2006)

Goodyear Honors 347 Associates for Inventions, Patents  
AKRON, Ohio -- The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has recognized nearly 350 of its technical associates for their inventions and innovations.

Among those honored are inventors responsible for standout new products including DuraSeal technology, a revolutionary built-in commercial tire sealant that repairs punctures when they occur; the brand new Eagle with ResponseEdge and Carbon Fiber technology, a performance-touring tire that will start reaching consumers this month; and the Goodyear UltraGrip 7, an award- winning European winter tire.

The inventors work in the company's Technical Centers in Akron, Ohio, and Colmar-Berg, Luxembourg, as well as manufacturing locations around the world. They were responsible for 159 U.S. patents and 70 trade secrets in 2005.

The company recognized 19 associates as 2005 "Inventors of the Year," and 11 others were awarded special honors in recognition of their contributions over the course of their careers with the tiremaker.

"We have become the industry leader in commercializing high-margin new products with relevant technology that consumers want -- and we intend to get even better," said Robert J. Keegan, Goodyear's chairman and chief executive officer.

"We have a strong global portfolio of innovative and differentiated new products. These outstanding, award winning products are at the top of their categories, helping to demonstrate that tires are no longer a commodity," he said.

In the past year, Goodyear introduced new products including the Eagle ResponseEdge and Fortera featuring TripleTred technology in North America, as well as the Goodyear UltraGrip 7 and Dunlop SP Winter Sport 3D in Europe, and the Eagle F1 GS-D3 SUV tire in Europe.

Special awards issued at this year's banquets include:

Inventors of the Year

Akron, Ohio: Jim Gillick, Bob Gartland, Cecil Bennett, Tom Madrin, Jennifer Wall, Bina Patel Botts, George Balogh, Lenny Reiter, Mike Crawford, Luis Cabrera

Marysville, Ohio: Robin Steven, Bud Brown

Colmar-Berg, Luxembourg: Jean Collette, Claude Jacoby, Dave Zanzig, Pascale de Briey, Richard Heinen, Philippe Manne, Andre Domange.

Silver Coin Awards

The Silver Coin Award is given to inventors who achieved various ingenuity milestones through their career. Sam Landers, Akron, has achieved 60 patents and trade secrets, while new recipients at the 40 level are: Mahmoud Assaad and Neil Maly, Akron. At the 20 level are Bob Brown, Len Charek, Ramen Majumdar, Ralph Okonieski, Jimmy Richards, Greg Shteinhauz, Vito Sinopoli, Akron, and Laurent Colantonio, Luxembourg.

Goodyear is the world's largest tire company. The company manufactures tires, engineered rubber products and chemicals in more than 100 facilities in 29 countries around the world. Goodyear employs approximately 80,000 people worldwide.


Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (5/8/2006)

Cummins Committed to Remaining a Leader in Clean Diesel Technology; Company Displays Readiness to Meet 2007 EPA Emissions Standards  
WASHINGTON-- Cummins Inc. today once again demonstrated its commitment to clean diesel technology by joining other leading engine-makers, industry groups and the EPA at an event designed to display the industry's readiness to meet the 2007 U.S. EPA on-highway emissions regulations.

Ed Pence, Vice President and General Manager - Heavy Duty Engine Business - represented Cummins at today's event sponsored by the Diesel Technology Forum, which also featured remarks by EPA Administrator Steven Johnson and a "white handkerchief test" to demonstrate the clean-running 2007 engines.

Pence spoke of the success of Cummins cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) technology and reaffirmed that the Company's 2007 engines will be fully compliant with the new EPA regulations, which go into effect Jan. 1, 2007.

"Diesel engines are vital to the success of a number of industries worldwide because of their reliability and inherent fuel efficiency. And, as the 2007 EPA regulations clearly demonstrate, clean diesel technology is good for the economy and the environment," Pence said.

"We're confident that our cooled-EGR technology - combined with effective exhaust aftertreatment and the introduction of ultra low sulfur diesel fuel - offers the best solution for our on-highway customers, and we're on schedule to deliver as promised just as we did in 2002."

The 2007 engine line is just the latest example of how Cummins leverages its complementary capabilities to produce the most dependable products for customers in all its markets around the world.

Cummins is the only independent engine manufacturer with the in-house capability to produce all major engine systems - combustion, air handling, electronics, fuel systems and exhaust aftertreatment - which allows the Company to provide the best solution to customers across all applications.

"Given the breadth of our engine design capabilities, we consider emissions technology a competitive advantage for Cummins and we welcome the new EPA regulations," Pence said. "Our customers should have confidence that we are prepared to deliver the best possible product in 2007 - one that will be easier on the environment, but won't sacrifice the reliability and fuel efficiency for which Cummins is known."

Cooled-EGR, introduced to meet the 2002 EPA emissions standards, has proven to be an effective and reliable solution for the North American on-highway truck market and remains at the heart of Cummins efforts to meet the 2007 regulations.

This proven technology has been widely accepted by Cummins customers, who have purchased more than 300,000 cooled-EGR powered vehicles that have logged more than 30 billion miles since October 2002. The 2007 engines will build on that success, as well as on the Company's expertise in exhaust aftertreatment technologies.

The result will be a cleaner-running engine that offers comparable fuel economy to today's products and that will live up to Cummins industry-leading standards for dependability. In order to meet the 2007 emission regulations, Cummins will combine the newest version of its cooled-EGR engine with a particulate filter designed and produced by Emission Solutions, a division of Cummins.

Cummins Emission Solutions was formed in 2002 specifically to design and manufacture exhaust aftertreatment products to help Cummins and other engine manufacturers meet ever-tightening emissions requirements around the world. Cummins Emission Solutions, which operates in both the first-fit and retrofit markets, provides state-of-the-art technologies designed to clean the air by removing oxides of nitrogen, particulate matter, hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide from diesel engine emissions.

"As emissions regulations become more stringent around the world, exhaust aftertreatment is going to play an increasingly vital role in the diesel engine industry," said Mike Cross, Vice President - Cummins Emission Solutions. "The leading-edge products being designed by Cummins Emission Solutions will not only allow Cummins to remain at the forefront of emissions technology, but represent a significant growth opportunity with customers outside the Company."


Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (5/8/2006)

Chip-and-pin scam cons motorists  
Motorists have been conned out of £1 million in a chip-and-pin scam at Shell forecourts.

With the help of an insider, a criminal gang has managed to tamper with the chip-and-pin machines used at 600 of Shell's 1000 forecourts. Motorists are being asked to sign for purchases since the scam was uncovered.

According to the Association of Payment Clearing Services (Apacs), which administers the chip-and-pin system, the type of machine Shell uses is not used in any other retail outlets or forecourts in the UK.

It says motorists should check their bank account statements and query any suspicious withdrawals with their bank for a full refund of the stolen money.

Apacs says the gang managed to meddle with the supposedly tamper-proof machines and copy the magnetic strips of motorists' cards. Forged cards were then made and used for cash withdrawals from ATM machines, mostly on the Continent.

This is the first scam exploiting chip-and-pin machines since their introduction in October 2003. Apacs said more frauds would have been uncovered since then if there was a major and widespread security issue with the system.

Eight people have been arrested in connection with a fraud inquiry by a specialist division of the Metropolitan Police.


Source : http://www.whatcar.com (5/8/2006)

Order books open for hot Clio  
It's one of the hottest hot hatches of the year and you can now sprint to the front of the queue for the Renault Clio Renaultsport 197 before it goes on sale on July 18.

Anyone who registers at renaultsport.co.uk can get in before the crowds and order their car from today (May 8).

Turning in 0-62mph in 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 134mph, normal orders for pocket rocket begin on May 30.

Looking every inch the mean little performance package, the Clio 197 has a 2.0-litre engine with, yes, you guessed it, 197bhp.

There's a six-speed manual gearbox, 17in alloy wheels and hip-gripping seats inside. All of this comes as standard with the £15,995 Clio Renaultsport.


Source : http://www.topgear.com (5/8/2006)

Car buyers will give up size, not power, for mpg  
NEW YORK - Almost a quarter of car shoppers would be willing to sacrifice size, performance, prestige and even pay more money to buy a car that got five more miles per gallon, according to a survey conducted by Kelley Blue Book's KBB.com Web site at the request of CNNMoney.com.

But about the same percentage said they wouldn't be willing to sacrifice anything to get a car with that kind of fuel savings.

The survey asked car shoppers, defined as those who said they intended to purchase a vehicle within the next six months, which of four trade-offs they'd be willing to make when selecting their next vehicle if it would mean an extra five miles per gallon. Respondents could also choose "all of the above."

About half of the respondents said they would be willing to make certain specific trade-offs to get that kind of mileage gain.

Twenty-seven percent of respondents said they would be willing to buy a smaller vehicle to save that much, making that the most popular response. Less than half that many, 12 percent, said they'd be willing to buy a less prestigious brand of car to get five more miles per gallon.

Only eight percent said they would be willing to get an engine with 100 less horsepower.

"In a lot of instances, you'd be giving up more than half the available horsepower in the car," said Jack Nerad, editorial director of KBB.com.

Still, based on a review of models with various available engine options, that's about what it would take to gain five miles per gallon in fuel economy.

Another nine percent said they would be willing to pay more money to get that kind of extra fuel mileage. That response indicates a willingness among those respondents to purchase a hybrid vehicle or other type of vehicle that would get increased fuel mileage without sacrificing size or power.

Roughly 22 percent, however, said they would be willing to do "all of the above" to get an extra five miles per gallon. The same percentage indicated they wouldn't be willing to sacrifice anything.

In reality, said Nerad, many car buyers who said they'd be willing to sacrifice something might end up falling into that last group when it comes time to select the car they will actually buy.

"It's politically correct to say you're willing to do something," Nerad said.

Overall, 629 car shoppers completed the survey which has an estimated two to three percent margin of error.


Source : CNNMoney.com (5/8/2006)

Toyota to sell low-cost car in India - paper  
TOKYO - Toyota Motor Corp. plans to launch a compact car priced at the equivalent of less than 800,000 yen ($7,165) in India by around 2010 as it aims to boost sales in emerging markets, the Nihon Keizai newspaper said on Tuesday.

The paper said Toyota is struggling to keep its market shares in emerging markets due to a lack of low-cost models, and faces competition from rivals like Suzuki Motor Corp. and South Korea's Hyundai Motor Co.

A Toyota spokesman said the company has been considering developing a car for emerging markets, but no details have been decided.

The new vehicle, which will be developed jointly with Toyota unit Daihatsu Motor Co., will be powered by a 1-litre engine. It will be more than 100,000 yen cheaper than the lowest priced vehicle Toyota currently offers anywhere, the paper said.

The vehicle will also be sold in Central and South America and in Europe, it said.

The business daily also reported on Tuesday that Toyota is considering paying a quarterly dividend starting this business year.


Source : Reuters (5/9/2006)

GM Wants Advanced Transmissions in 3 Million Vehicles by 2010  
DETROIT — General Motors Vice Chairman Robert Lutz says the automaker has "plans to significantly increase the number of vehicles equipped with six-speed transmissions."

Writing in his online blog, he vows: "We will continue to aggressively introduce our six-speed over the next few years — and will have over 3 million vehicles equipped with this transmission by 2010."

Lutz also notes that GM plans to increase the number of DOHC V6s in the company portfolio, but he adds that it is "probably not a good idea" to replace all pushrods, especially on vehicles like the Chevrolet Corvette and the company's full-size trucks. "The newest versions of our pushrod V6s, mated to the new six-speed transmissions that are on the way, will be silky smooth and virtually indistinguishable from any DOHC V6," Lutz writes.

The GM exec writes that he does not want to reveal details on the company's future product plans, but he finishes his rant in typical Lutz style: "You'll be surprised at how much GM is at war — and not with itself anymore."


Source : http://www.edmunds.com (5/9/2006)

Ford Freedom Award Fundraiser to Pay Tribute to Actors Ossie Davis, Morgan Freeman  
DETROIT, -- Legendary actors Ossie Davis and Morgan Freeman will be honored at the 2006 Ford Freedom Award black-tie gala, which will be held on Monday, May 15 at 6 p.m. at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. Proceeds from the program support the museum's educational programs, exhibits and community outreach initiatives.

Davis will be named the 2006 Ford Freedom Award Honoree at the event. His widow, Ruby Dee, will accept the award on his behalf. The Ford Freedom Award, created in 1999, is presented posthumously to distinguished individuals who dedicated their lives to improving the African American community and the world in general. A brass plate bearing Davis' name will be added to the Ring of Genealogy, the centerpiece of the Ford Freedom Rotunda lobby at the museum, and will be unveiled during the awards program.

Freeman, the 2006 Ford Freedom Award Scholar, will deliver the scholar's lecture at the Detroit Opera House on Monday, May 15 from 10:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. and also will address the audience at the evening's gala. The Ford Freedom Award Scholar honor is bestowed upon a living individual who has demonstrated excellence in the field of the award recipient. Freeman will speak to nearly 2,000 students at the Opera House, including winners of the Ford Freedom Award Essay Contest hosted by Detroit Newspapers in Education.

This year, Woodie King Jr. will be given a special 2006 Ford Freedom Pioneer Award for providing a path to success in the performing arts for many talented African Americans. King is founder and producing director of New Federal Theatre and National Black Touring Circuit in New York City.

"The partnership between Ford Motor Company and the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History speaks to the company's commitment to celebrate diversity," said Ziad Ojakli, Group Vice President of Corporate Affairs at Ford Motor Company. "As we commemorate the life of Ossie Davis and appreciate the work of Morgan Freeman, we at Ford Motor Company applaud their contributions to society and their efforts to unite people through their skills."

"We salute Ford Motor Company for its ongoing support of the Ford Freedom Award," said Tyrone Davenport, Chief Operating Officer of the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. "Over the years, Ossie Davis and Morgan Freeman have served as role models for people of all ages and backgrounds in the entertainment industry, and we are proud to add Ossie Davis' name to the Ring of Genealogy."

Ossie Davis, who was born Raiford Chatman Davis, acted in more than 100 films following his debut in the 1950s. In addition to acting, Davis worked as a writer, director and producer. His film credits include "No Way Out," "Malcolm X," and "Four Little Girls." Davis received an Emmy for Best Guest Actor in a Drama, a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor and a Screen Actors Guild Lifetime Achievement Award. Ford Motor Company and the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History dubbed Davis "The Groundbreaker" for opening doors for other African American actors to perform.

Morgan Freeman has acted in more than 70 roles since the 1960s. Films include "Seven," "A Man Called Adam" and "Million Dollar Baby," for which he won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor. Freeman also has received a Golden Globe for Outstanding Achievement in Acting, six NAACP Image Awards and a Screen Actors Guild Award for Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role. Ford Motor Company and the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History dubbed Freeman "The Captivator " for his ability to grab audiences' attention with his gripping performances.

In addition to founding the New Federal Theatre and National Black Touring Circuit, Woodie King Jr. made a mark in the theatrical circuit by producing or directing more than 170 on and off Broadway shows, including For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide/ When the Rainbow Is Enuf, the 1991 production of A Raisin in the Sun and the 1993 production of Good Black Don't Crack. He has also produced and directed many shows in Detroit. King holds a Doctorate in Humane Letters from Detroit's Wayne State University.

Previous Ford Freedom recipients include:

Year Ford Freedom Award Ford Freedom Award Scholar

1999Detroit Mayor Coleman A. Young Former U.N. Ambassador Andrew Young
2000Entertainer Sammy Davis Jr.Entertainer Gregory Hines
2001Writer Langston Hughes Poet Sonia Sanchez
2002Baseball great Jackie Robinson Hall of Fame member Reggie Jackson
2003Tuskegee Airman Gen. Daniel "Chappie" James Jr.NASA astronaut Mae C. Jemison
2004Educator/civil rights activist Educator/philanthropist/actor Benjamin MaysBill Cosby
2005The Songstress - Ella FitzgeraldThe Stylist - Al Jarreau

Additional sponsors include Compuware, Comerica Charitable Foundation, DTE Energy Foundation and McDonald's.

The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, founded in 1965, is the world's largest institution dedicated to preserving African American history and culture. The Museum is open to the public Tuesday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.; and Sunday, 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.


Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (5/8/2006)

Harris Interactive's 'Roll Out at the Ritz' Invites Automotive Industry Experts to Explore the Future of 'Bling'  
DETROIT and ROCHESTER, N.Y.-- Harris Interactive(R), a worldwide full-service market research and consulting firm, and News/Talk WJR 760AM today announce the third annual automotive conference dubbed "Roll Out at the Ritz." The event takes place Thursday, May 1, 20068, 2006 from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom of the Ritz-Carlton in Dearborn, Mich.

"Roll Out" takes an innovative look at aftermarket trends including vehicle customization, product development, overseas manufacturing and the latest in "bling" and how OEMs, aftermarket suppliers and the media can work together to harness the market's potential.

Our panels of journalists and industry experts will offer contemporary criticism and future projections of where the customizable vehicle trend is going, why manufacturers should pay attention to it and why niche marketing is so important.

Our panel discussions include "Targeting the Hip Hop Generation," "Top Aftermarket Trends," and "The Customization Craze and Where is the Trend Headed?"

In addition, Harris Interactive's brand, customer loyalty and marketing communications experts will provide attendees with new case studies on automotive retailing, customer satisfaction and advertising effectiveness.

"Dubs, chrome and spinners help consumers looking for the latest and greatest ways to personalize their stock vehicles," said Scott D. Upham, Senior Vice President of Harris Interactive's Automotive and Transportation Research Group. "These tuner vehicles attract attention on the streets, but are also garnering attention from manufacturers."

Featured panelists and speakers include: Myles Kovacs - President DUB Publishing Inc., Carl Sheffer - VP, OEM Relations, SEMA , Will Castro - The Speed Channel, Mark Chung - Director of Strategic Marketing, Yokohama Tire, Raymond Stiles - VP Global Lubricants Consumer and Market Insights, Shell Oil, Joe Gross - Manager, OEM Sales and Design, Kicker, Maria Rohrer, Chevrolet Advertising Manager, General Motors Chevrolet Division, Judy Ricker - Division President, Marketing Communications Research, Harris Interactive, Ron Hurd - VP, Senior Consultant, Consumer Loyalty Research, Harris Interactive, Carol Gstalder - Senior VP, Harris-Wirthlin Brand and Strategy Consulting and others.


Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (5/8/2006)

Automobile Association Philippines 75 Years of Serving the Filipino Motorist  
It was in 1931 when the Philippine Motor Association (PMA) – now known as Automobile Association Philippines (AAP) – was born.

At their first PMA office in a room at the Manila Hotel, AAP’s founding fathers aspired to be known for service to the community as seen in their objectives. Small as the group hobnobbing at the American Chamber of Commerce office was, they wanted to be relevant, as seen in their objectives, as follows: the enactment of laws on the use of motor vehicles; construction of good and safe roads; practice of road courtesy and safety; development and promotion of tourism; and the promotion of rights and privileges of all motorists for better and safer motoring.

The first incorporators were: Antonio Brias M. Elizalde, L. M. Hausman, L. C. Moore, Gen. Carlos P. Romulo, Omar Schuman, James King Steel, Albino Sycip, Percy Warner Tinan, Executive Secretary Jorge Vargas, and Col. J. N. Wolfson. Vargas was elected the first chairman and president of PMA.

The maiden issue of The Philippine Motor Review, PMA’s official newsletter, rolled off the press in 1932. (Today, AAP communicates with its members via Drive, its bimonthly full-color magazine.)

Don Benito Legarda, elected in 1937, continued to be president up to 1973. Service to members such as free towing, bailbonds for those involved in accidents, personal accident insurance, and discounts at selected shops were initiated by Don Benito. To this day these services, plus several other new ones, are rendered to members.

PMA was affiliated with the Alliance Internationale de Tourisme (AIT) in 1951 and with the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) after a few years. AIT was the biggest federation of auto clubs worldwide while FIA was the worldwide governing body for motor sports. (In 2004 these two worldwide federations merged, forming an even much bigger organization of which AAP is a member.)

In 1953, as the National Auto Club, the PMA was authorized to issue international driving permits under the UN Convention on Road Traffic of 1949. It first issued these permits as the Manila division of Washington D.C.-based American Automobile Association (AAA). Ten years later, the PMA issued these permits as an independent institution.

As the Philippine affiliate of FIA, PMA regulated motor sports in the country as it still does today. It hosted international motor racing events and supported race drivers in local and international competitions.

Don Benito gave up the presidency in 1973. Elected to replace him was Dr. Manuel Lim who held the position until 1981. Under Lim, the PMA hosted the AIT international conference in Manila.

The PMA moved to a building owned by Juan Tuason after his election as president in 1981. Traffic safety was foremost among PMA’s concerns. It launched a strong lobby for the implementation of the UN Conference on Road Traffic that called for standardized traffic signs and signals.

Tuason’s stint covered barely two years. In his place, Lawyer Conrado "Dodo" Ayuyao was elected in 1982. He held the position for almost 17 years until 1999. Under his watch, the PMA bought a property on Aurora Blvd., now the site of AAP’s headquarters. A satellite office was established in Makati in 1980, then in Cebu City in 1993.

Ayuyao also formally launched a 911-type of rescue program, the Emergency Medical Service. Its personnel were trained in the US and operated the most modern equipment also from the US. In 1999, Architect Carlos Arguelles took over as president.

In 2001, on the occasion of its 70th anniversary, the PMA changed its name to AAP.

Antonio L. Mapa took over from Arguelles in 2003, and stayed on as AAP president until his untimely demise in 2005. The club’s presidency was assumed by then Vice President Augusto "Gus" Lagman.

The ownership of motor vehicles grew from a rich few to hundreds of thousands of Filipinos. The membership of AAP, now close to 75,000, also grew and continues to grow.

We congratulate the Automobile Association Philippines, headed by its President Augusto C. Lagman, on the occasion of its 75th Anniversary and wish them success in all their endeavors.


Source : http://www.tempo.com.ph (5/8/2006)

Bajaj Auto Keen To Put Up A Unit In Pak After FTA Is In Place In July 2006  
Pune-based two-wheeler giant Bajaj Auto is waiting for the outcome of the Pakistan government's decision on how much free trade it will allow between India and Pakistan. The South Asia Free Trade Agreement or Safta comes into effect from July 2006. Mr Sanjiv Bajaj, executive director, Bajaj Auto Limited, while talking to this newspaper from Pune, said: "our proposal for investing in Pakistan in the two-wheeler industry has been with the local investment board for some years and we are awaiting a decision."

Mr Bajaj said there is tremendous scope for the industry in Pakistan. The demand for two-wheelers (including autos) was six-and-a-half-lakhs last year and they expect this to grow to one million annually for two-wheelers and 40-50,000 units for autos. Bajaj Auto and the Pakistan Local Board signed an agreement in 2004, if all went well Baja Auto was hopeful of rolling out the first production in a year.


Source : tradingmarkets.com (5/8/2006)

EPA Certifies Propane System For Automobile Engines  
AFV Solutions, Inc., an alternative fuel vehicle solution provider, has received a certificate of conformity from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for its propane conversion system for the 2005 model year Ford Motor Co. 4.6-liter engine. The system, which allows a vehicle to operate on inexpensive, clean and abundant propane will be installed on the Ford Crown Victoria, Lincoln Town Car and Mercury Grand Marquis automobiles.

"We chose this Ford engine family because the 4.6-liter-equipped Crown Victoria is the fleet vehicle of choice for taxi services, law enforcement, as well as state and federal government agencies throughout the U.S." said AFVS president Jeff Groscost. "Fleet operators that retrofit with our system and purchase bulk propane can substantially reduce their fuel costs, often by up to 40%, while increasing their vehicles' longevity and reducing maintenance costs."

AFV Solutions' systems are based on a technology platform which has been used in a commercial application with more than 30 million operating miles in the field.


Source : http://www.industryweek.com (5/8/2006)

Want the best job in the world?  
If you are a budding journalist looking to break into the world of motoring, an award run by the Guild of Motoring Writers could help you get a foot in the door.

The winner of the Sir William Lyons Award, sponsored by Jaguar, will receive a trophy, £1500, two years' probationary membership of the Guild and a chance to work for a leading motoring or motor sport magazine.


Source : http://www.whatcar.com (5/8/2006)

New Effort to Educate Californians About Pending Auto Insurance Rate Increase  
SACRAMENTO, PRNewswire/ -- A diverse group of local elected officials, chambers of commerce, tax groups and insurance companies today announced that Californians to Stop Unfair Rate Increases (CSURI) will begin immediately educating Californians through television ads and mail to their homes about proposed auto insurance regulations that will unfairly raise rates for millions of drivers statewide.

To see a list of CSURI Steering Committee members, a PDF of the mail piece and the script for the TV ad, go to stopunfairrates.org A list of CSURI Steering Committee members also follows this press release.

"I testified at a town hall meeting in Fresno and expressed my concerns when these auto rating changes were being discussed in early 2004," said Kings County Supervisor Jon Rachford. "I also drove from Hanford to San Francisco in February of this year to testify against the changes again at the public hearing. I'm not alone in my opposition or in my frustration. Over the past several months, dozens of local elected officials, chambers, and other community leaders have registered concerns with the regulations. Unfortunately, we have been ignored."

"I want to ensure my constituents understand how this regulatory change will impact their pocketbooks," said Inyo County Supervisor Linda Arcularius. "I'm sure elected officials from other negatively affected regions would feel the same. We are confident that when more Californians are made aware that they are about to pay as much as 30% more for auto insurance -- just to subsidize arbitrary rate decreases for drivers in the state's biggest cities -- they will take action and urge Insurance Commissioner Garamendi to drop the plan before it is implemented."

The law requires auto insurance rates to be based on the actual costs and risks associated with providing insurance to each driver. That's the way rates are calculated today and that's the way it should be. But, under the plan first announced by the Department of Insurance in December, 2005, drivers in the state's biggest cities will receive arbitrary rate reductions, while drivers in other regions of the state will be forced to pay more.

The proposed changes seek to reduce the influence location carries in the formula when insurers calculate auto rates. By reducing the influence of location, drivers in more congested areas of the state like Los Angeles, San Francisco and Beverly Hills, where there are more people on the road and more risk of an accident or theft, will pay less for auto insurance. Alternatively, rates will go up for drivers in more rural and Suburban areas, where there are fewer people on the road and less risk of an accident.

The proposed changes ignore factors that greatly contribute to risk associated with certain regions. Population density and congestion are two such factors, another is fraud. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, there are more staged accidents in Los Angeles than any other city in the country, except Miami.

"This proposed regulation is simply unfair," said Michael Turnipseed, executive director of the Kern County Taxpayers Association. "Rather than invest time and resources in fighting fraud so that insurance rates can be reduced for all drivers -- this misguided proposal would shift the cost of that fraud to drivers who live in less populated regions of the state -- like ours, where there is less fraud."

Some members of CSURI also participate in Californians Against Higher Insurance Rates, a loosely formed coalition that has been speaking out against the proposal during regulatory proceedings held by the Department of Insurance. Many local leaders became frustrated with the lack of response to their opposition and look forward to participating in a more expansive effort to educate and engage more Californians before it's too late.

CSURI will be requesting contributions from the public and businesses, but in the meantime a few insurance companies, Farmers, 21st Century, State Farm, Safeco and Allstate agreed to fund the education effort because they strongly believe that auto insurance rates should be based on actual costs and risks and not arbitrary desire to reduce rates for certain customers.

A budget of approximately $2 million will allow the coalition to educate households in the following counties: Butte, Del Norte, Humboldt, Imperial, Inyo, Kern, Kings, Mendocino, Nevada, Lake, Plumas, Santa Barbara, San Benito, San Diego, Solano, Tulare and Yolo. Additional counties may be added later.


Source : http://www.automotive.com (5/8/2006)

New Clio Renaultsport 197  
Six months after the launch of the New Clio, the Clio Renaultsport 197 is now available to order prior to its launch day of 18th July – the opening day of the British Motor Show.

Ordering opens today exclusively for registered members of the renaultsport.co.uk community before anyone else as a special acknowledgement to their loyalty and devotion to the Renaultsport brand. Ordering officially opens to everyone on 30th May.

Priced at £15,995, the Clio Renaultsport 197 features a 2.0-litre engine producing 197hp at 7,250rpm and 215 Nm of torque at 5,550, a new six-speed gearbox, resulting in 0-62mph in just 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 134mph. New Clio Renaultsport 197 has a combined mpg of 31.7 and CO2 emissions of 209 g/km.

Standard features include specific Renaultsport sports seats with extra lateral support, height and reach adjustable Renaultsport leather steering wheel with stitched red centreband and soft touch carbon dashboard with satin chrome instrument dial surrounds and interior door handles and drilled aluminium pedals.

The front of the car features Renaultsport extended front wings with integrated side air extractors and extended rear wings and sills. Wider wheel arches accommodate 17" Renaultsport alloy wheels and the latest 215/40 Continental Sport.


Source : http://www.newcarnet.co.uk (5/8/2006)

Freudenberg-NOK Team Honored with Platinum Award at Marketing & Sales Executives of Detroit Gala  
PLYMOUTH, Mich., PRNewswire/ -- To honor their exemplary success, dedication and collaboration, a team of Freudenberg-NOK associates recently received the Platinum Award from the Marketing & Sales Executives of Detroit (MSED) at the 14th annual Detroit Gala.

The team, lead by Tim Guzman, director of sales and marketing, included Anthony Joquico, application engineer, Rich Hamed, account manager, and Dave Sakata, vice president of technology.

"This is an extraordinary recognition for our company and a testament to our innovative sales and marketing department," said Richard Allen, senior vice president, commercial processes and president of automotive for Freudenberg-NOK. "The team demonstrated excellent teamwork by developing new concepts and approaches to address customer wants and needs at all levels of design, quality, manufacturing, timing to launch and delivery."

According to MSED, the Platinum Award winners were evaluated on their track records in sales, utilizing new ideas or approaches, meeting challenges imaginatively, exhibiting exemplary teamwork, exceeding business goals and impacting a business or industry.

The Freudenberg-NOK sales team, as well as the Northfield, N.H. axle- focused factory engineering and support team, combined their experience and expertise to utilize a "clean sheet approach" to develop, design and create a "Best in Class" pinion seal design. The new design increased sales and market share, while greatly reducing warranty exposure with Freudenberg-NOK seals.

The Platinum Awards are co-sponsored by Crain's Detroit Business magazine.

Founded in 1989, Freudenberg-NOK General Partnership is a joint Venture between Freudenberg & Co. of Germany and NOK Corp. of Japan.

Freudenberg-NOK is a leader in automotive sealing and noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) products and is a supplier to all automakers producing in North America, as well as all major tier one chassis and drivetrain suppliers. The company's headquarters and technical center in Plymouth, Mich. houses the most extensive supplier-operated sealing and noise and vibration testing facility in North America.

Freudenberg-NOK offers its automotive customers globally integrated products, including sealing packages for transmissions, engines, brakes, axles and steering, NVH components and packages, and all rubber, plastic and PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) components for suspension, electrical and fuel systems.

The company also offers an extensive portfolio of special precision seals for the aerospace, appliance, business machine, fluid power, marine, medical, off-highway equipment and recreational vehicle markets.


Source : http://www.automotive.com (5/8/2006)

Sports Resorts International, Inc. Announces Acquisition By Sports Resorts Acquisition Corporation  
OWOSSO, Mich., PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Sports Resorts International, Inc. (the "Company") today announced the completion of the acquisition of the Company by Sports Resorts Acquisition Corporation effective April 26, 2006.

As a result of the acquisition, shares of the outstanding common stock of the Company held by shareholders on the effective date of the acquisition were converted into the right to receive $1.00 per share, net to seller in cash.

Sports Resorts Acquisition Corporation is owned by Donald J. Williamson and members of his family. It is expected that the Company through its wholly-owned subsidiaries will continue to manufacture and market high-quality drop-in bedliners and other truck accessories for the original equipment manufacturers and automotive aftermarket business and operate a multi-purpose motor-sports facility located near Brainerd, Minn.


Source : http://www.automotive.com (5/8/2006)

DVLA unveils 56 series  
DVLA will be giving motorists the chance to look through its range of forthcoming 56 series registrations, just over three weeks ahead of the official on sale date of 1 June.

There will be more than eight million different combinations of the 56 series registrations available to view online with car lovers given the option to see their chosen number plate on a vehicle of their choice.

DVLA's spokesperson, Louise Pierpoint commented, "The pre-sale three week period gives motorists the opportunity to discover a number of different combinations to suit their requirements without the worry of their chosen registration being snapped up before 1 June."

From 10 May, customers can visit DVLA's official website dvlaregistrations.co.uk to check the availability and price of all their 56 series registrations. Once they've found their ideal registration simply call their hotline from 8.00 am on 1 June by dialling 0870 6000 142. Normal opening hours will resume thereafter; Monday to Friday from 9am and 5pm and Saturday, 9am to 1pm.


Source : http://www.newcarnet.co.uk (5/8/2006)

Countdown for Cinquecento launch  
The countdown is on, and we don't mean Carol Vorderman.

Fiat has begun marking off the days on the calendar until it launches the new Cinquecento, or 500, in September 2007.

To give us all a taster of the new car, which will closely resemble the Trepiuno concept shown at the Geneva show in 2005, Fiat has launched a project called 'The 500 wants you'.

Visit the website at fiat500.com and you can join in by airing your opinions about the car's styling and have an influence over the final design. You can even style your very own 500 with individual colours and accessories.

Luca De Meo, of Fiat Auto, said: "For the first time in history, a car will be created by the public and for the public."


Source : http://www.topgear.com (5/8/2006)

Seat's frugal new Altea FR  
Seat has gone crazy sensible with the launch of its Altea FR in the UK.

Here we have an Altea that looks every inch the sporty hot hatch, with a 168bhp 2.0-litre engine.

However, that engine is a turbodiesel which returns 45.6mpg.

It does also see the Altea FR from 0-62mph in 8.6 seconds and on to 129mph, thanks to a hefty 258lb ft of torque.

The Altea FR TDi costs £17,795 and a 197bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol follows in June.


Source : http://www.topgear.com (5/8/2006)

Goodyear Honors 347 Associates for Inventions, Patents  
AKRON, Ohio, PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has recognized nearly 350 of its technical associates for their inventions and innovations.

Among those honored are inventors responsible for standout new products including DuraSeal technology, a revolutionary built-in commercial tire sealant that repairs punctures when they occur; the brand new Eagle with ResponseEdge and Carbon Fiber technology, a performance-touring tire that will start reaching consumers this month; and the Goodyear UltraGrip 7, an award- winning European winter tire.

The inventors work in the company's Technical Centers in Akron, Ohio, and Colmar-Berg, Luxembourg, as well as manufacturing locations around the world. They were responsible for 159 U.S. patents and 70 trade secrets in 2005.

The company recognized 19 associates as 2005 "Inventors of the Year," and 11 others were awarded special honors in recognition of their contributions over the course of their careers with the tiremaker.

"We have become the industry leader in commercializing high-margin new products with relevant technology that consumers want -- and we intend to get even better," said Robert J. Keegan, Goodyear's chairman and chief executive officer.

"We have a strong global portfolio of innovative and differentiated new products. These outstanding, award winning products are at the top of their categories, helping to demonstrate that tires are no longer a commodity," he said.

In the past year, Goodyear introduced new products including the Eagle ResponseEdge and Fortera featuring TripleTred technology in North America, as well as the Goodyear UltraGrip 7 and Dunlop SP Winter Sport 3D in Europe, and the Eagle F1 GS-D3 SUV tire in Europe.

Special awards issued at this year's banquets include:

Inventors of the Year

Akron, Ohio: Jim Gillick, Bob Gartland, Cecil Bennett, Tom Madrin, Jennifer Wall, Bina Patel Botts, George Balogh, Lenny Reiter, Mike Crawford, Luis Cabrera

Marysville, Ohio: Robin Steven, Bud Brown

Colmar-Berg, Luxembourg: Jean Collette, Claude Jacoby, Dave Zanzig, Pascale de Briey, Richard Heinen, Philippe Manne, Andre Domange.

Silver Coin Awards

The Silver Coin Award is given to inventors who achieved various ingenuity milestones through their career. Sam Landers, Akron, has achieved 60 patents and trade secrets, while new recipients at the 40 level are: Mahmoud Assaad and Neil Maly, Akron. At the 20 level are Bob Brown, Len Charek, Ramen Majumdar, Ralph Okonieski, Jimmy Richards, Greg Shteinhauz, Vito Sinopoli, Akron, and Laurent Colantonio, Luxembourg.

Goodyear is the world's largest tire company. The company manufactures tires, engineered rubber products and chemicals in more than 100 facilities in 29 countries around the world. Goodyear employs approximately 80,000 people worldwide.


Source : http://www.automotive.com (5/8/2006)

Leading Engine and Truck Makers Demonstrate Readiness to Deliver Clean Diesel  
WASHINGTON, PRNewswire/ -- "We're ready" was the message echoed today by all six leading diesel engine and truck manufacturers, as they declared themselves on-track to deliver the next generation of clean diesel technology beginning in January 2007. Outside the Washington headquarters of the Environmental Protection Agency, top industry executives today displayed these new generation trucks for EPA officials, environmental leaders and trucking representatives at an event hosted by the Diesel Technology Forum.

"We are using white handkerchiefs to demonstrate that the exhaust from these six clean diesel trucks contains no smoke or visible soot," explained Allen Schaeffer, DTF's executive director. "Diesel engines are cleaner than ever before, and in the next few years, the industry will virtually eliminate key emissions once associated with on- and off-road diesel equipment." Representatives from Caterpillar, Cummins, Detroit Diesel, International Truck and Engine, Mack and Volvo participated in today's technology demonstration and declaration of readiness.

Diesel's environmental progress is the result of the advanced clean diesel system -- combining cleaner fuel, state-of-the-art engines and effective exhaust-control technology. By October 2006, clean diesel fuel -- containing 97 percent less sulfur than today's diesel -- will be available nationwide. This new fuel is important because sulfur tends to clog exhaust-control devices in diesel engines, like lead once clogged the catalytic converters on gasoline cars. Just as taking the lead out of gasoline in the 1970s enabled a new generation of emissions control technologies that have made gasoline vehicles over 95 percent cleaner, so will removing the sulfur from diesel help usher in a new generation of clean diesel technology ultimately across all applications.

"New trucks and buses will be the first class of equipment to benefit from clean diesel," continued Schaeffer. "While today's trucks and buses already produce only one-eighth the tailpipe exhaust compared to those built in 1990, new engines will be even cleaner. It will take 60 trucks built in 2007 to equal the soot emissions of one truck sold in 1988."

Government officials and representatives from the environmental community confirmed that clean diesel will play a leading role in helping cities and states meet strict new air quality goals set by the federal government. The EPA predicts that these new trucks -- once they fully replace the existing fleet -- will reduce emissions of smog-forming gases by 2.6 million tons each year and cut soot emissions by 110,000 tons annually.

"These clean diesel trucks are the backbone of our economy powering the most low-cost and efficient distribution of goods and movement of people in the world," declared Schaeffer. "They're delivering fresh produce from coast to coast, powering the nation's school and transit buses, hauling bulk products like sand and gravel, picking up wastes for recycling, and powering emergency fire and rescue equipment."

While clean diesel will first arrive on new trucks and buses in 2007, many other diesel vehicles and equipment will soon benefit from this environmental technology, including:

*Cars, Pickups and SUVs -- By 2009, both gasoline and diesel cars, pickups and SUVs -- regardless of fuel type and engine size -- will meet the same stringent emissions standards. In the coming years, consumers can expect to see more diesel options in showrooms and will ultimately benefit from diesel's greater fuel efficiency (typically 20 to 40 percent more miles per gallon than a comparable gasoline version).

*Construction Machines and Farm Equipment -- Emissions reductions on the same magnitude as those occurring for trucks and buses in 2007 will be phased in for off-road construction and agricultural equipment later this decade.

*The Existing Fleet -- Many of the same clean diesel technologies developed for new engines can be applied to some older vehicles and equipment. The nationwide availability of ultra-low sulfur fuel will help expand opportunities for these clean diesel retrofits.

Representatives from the environmental and trucking communities, as well as executives from the six participating companies, made the following remarks during today's demonstration:

Richard Kassel

Clean Fuels and Vehicles Project Director, Natural Resources Defense Council

Cleaner diesel engines will mean cleaner air for the millions of Americans who continue to breathe polluted air. Just as unleaded gasoline was the key to cleaner cars twenty years ago, ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel is the key to cleaner diesels today.

Governor Bill Graves

President and CEO, American Trucking Associations

The men and women who work for our motor carriers are as dedicated as any Americans to assuring clean air and clean water for our country. Our adoption of the new 2007 technology trucks reflects that commitment.


Source : http://www.automotive.com (5/8/2006)

Are You a Singing Star in Your Car?  
MOORPARK, Calif., PRNewswire/ -- When you're driving down the road with the music turned up and your favorite tunes piping through the speakers, do you feel compelled to sing? If so, you are like the majority of Americans who tend to break out into song while cruising in their cars. In fact, according to the "Music in Motion" survey of more than 1,000 U.S. drivers, conducted by Directive Analytics and commissioned by Auto Expressions(TM), a leading brand of automotive accessories and air care products, more than 9 out of 10 Americans sing in their cars ... that's more than the number of people that sing in the shower!

With 196 million licensed drivers in the United States(1), just imagine how many drivers could possibly be singing simultaneously on the road at any given time. Results of the survey also found that most people prefer to sing solo in their car since 8 out of 10 people said that they experience 'stage fright' and don't like to sing when there is an audience of other passengers present. Ironically though, 6 out of 10 don't care when someone in another automobile catches them singing in the car -- more than three-fourths of drivers actually continue singing.

Who are the car crooners?

The survey revealed that redheads, not blondes have more fun singing in the car, since 53% of redheads always sing in the car. The survey also discovered that women more often than men sing in their cars, however both men and women born under the Aries astrological sign are more likely to sing in their car than any other sign. Capricorns are least likely to attempt to carry a tune while driving.

What are they singing?

Even with all of the new music and audio technology out on the market today, most drivers still find themselves just singing along to the songs on the radio. The preferred genres of song for the car crooners are rock songs, followed closely by music from the '80s and pop music. However, country songs top the charts for older Americans who exercise their vocal cords behind the wheel.

What are their cars like?

Car manufacturers may want to consider renaming SUVs to "Singing Utility Vehicles," since the survey found that drivers of these types of cars tend to sing the most. Car crooners also enjoy having a fragrant, organized "stage" since 4 out 10 car stars have air fresheners and organizers in their cars.

"It's not hard to believe that people are belting out their favorite tunes behind the wheel to occupy their driving time since most drivers spend more than one hour in their car each day," said Sharon Bykerk, head of marketing communications for Auto Expressions(TM). "We applaud those who like to Express themselves whether it is vocally or with the accessories they choose for their cars."

Turn It Up and Win

Are you looking for more ways to sing in the car? Now through September 29th or until supplies last, look for specially marked packages of Auto Expressions(TM) Vent Fresh(R) adjustable air fresheners to find a "Turn it up and Win" scratch-off game piece. Five lucky Grand Prize winners will receive an Alpine music car makeover and 200 First Prize winners will receive an Apple iPod Nano 4GB. All game pieces, whether you are a winner or not, may be redeemed at the iTunes(R) Music Store for a free song download. Log on to ventfreshturnitup.com for more details and official contest rules.


Source : http://www.automotive.com (5/8/2006)

Caterpillar Demonstrates 2007 On-Highway Engine for EPA Administrator  
WASHINGTON, PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Caterpillar Inc. today committed to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that it will be ready to provide customers with on-highway truck engines that will meet the EPA's stringent 2007 emissions standards. As part of an industry-wide clean-diesel event held near EPA headquarters in Washington, Caterpillar again demonstrated the company's absolute readiness when it comes to meeting the 2007 standards.

"Two years ago this week, I was honored to be in Washington where we demonstrated for the EPA a prototype engine that met the 2007 standard," said Doug Oberhelman, Caterpillar group president with responsibility for the company's engine business. "The C13 engine we demonstrated today is like the production engines our customers will use starting in 2007 as they help deliver the products, goods and supplies that are a vital part of everyday life in America."

In May of 2005, Caterpillar also demonstrated a 2007 compliant truck engine for President George Bush at an event in Virginia. The President examined a white handkerchief that had been held over the exhaust stack of a truck as the engine was revved. Following the demonstration, the handkerchief was still white.

As part of a comprehensive testing program to make sure customers are familiar with the technology used to meet emissions regulations, Caterpillar customers have already logged more than two million miles on 2007 compliant engines. Caterpillar is building on its proven ACERT(R) Technology to meet the 2007 regulations, adding clean gas induction and a diesel particulate filter to make sure the engines provided to customers will meet the 2007 EPA standards.

"In 1988, the average EPA compliant heavy-duty on-highway truck traveling 120,000 miles in a year emitted about 470 pounds of particulate matter," Oberhelman said. "The engine we demonstrated today, and the engines our customers will use in 2007, will emit less than eight pounds of particulate matter a year, a reduction of approximately 98 percent."

The Caterpillar truck engine demonstrated for the EPA uses ultra low sulfur diesel fuel, a key component for all on-highway truck engine manufacturers to meet the 2007 emissions standards.

Caterpillar has invested more than $1 billion in clean-diesel technology in recent years, and customers using Caterpillar engines featuring ACERT Technology have experienced superior fuel economy without a loss of reliability or durability.

For more than 80 years, Caterpillar Inc. has been making progress possible and driving positive and sustainable change on every continent. With 2005 sales and revenues of $36.339 billion, Caterpillar is the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines and industrial gas turbines.


Source : http://www.automotive.com (5/8/2006)

Tele Atlas and Inrix Expand Partnership to Speed Delivery of Next-Generation Traffic Services  
PHILADELPHIA, PRNewswire/ -- Tele Atlas and Inrix, Inc. announced today at ITS America that the companies are significantly extending their collaboration to deliver next-generation traffic services in North America. Under the new agreement, Inrix and Tele Atlas will form joint operations to optimally collect, integrate and deliver enhanced Tele Atlas traffic solutions and related map information within wireless applications and personal and in- car navigation systems. Tele Atlas customers will immediately benefit from the expanded partnership through access to Inrix's industry-leading real-time and predictive traffic information and the ability to develop next generation navigation solutions featuring applications such as traffic-influenced dynamic routing.

Inrix currently provides real-time traffic incident information for 138 metropolitan markets and real-time traffic speed and dynamic predictive information for more than 20 markets. Tele Atlas supplies digital map data and related content to application developers and device manufacturers across a range of markets.

"Tele Atlas and Inrix share a passion for providing customers with the highest quality navigation information available," said Tele Atlas' Mike Gerling, chief operating officer, Americas. "Inrix's industry leading real- time and predictive traffic services combined with our comprehensive approach to providing the most accurate digital map information enable our customers to make drive-time easier for millions of individuals and businesses."

"Our expanded relationship with Tele Atlas firmly establishes Inrix as the leading provider of traffic information services in North America," said Inrix President and CEO Bryan Mistele. "Together, we're providing our customers with navigation solutions of unparalleled quality, coverage and reliability."

The rapid adoption of personal and in-vehicle navigation systems, the growth of Web-based routing, and a broad choice of high-bandwidth data channels -- such as cellular, satellite, FM sideband, and HD radio -- are fueling an explosion of location-enabled traffic solutions. As the market evolves, Tele Atlas and Inrix have a unique opportunity to provide navigation to application software companies and location-based services (LBS) platform providers with enhanced solutions for consumer and business applications across wireless, personal navigation, automotive, fleet management, public transportation, and other markets. The companies uniquely provide businesses with relevant, actionable information that helps their customers accurately anticipate traffic conditions minutes, hours, weeks and even months in advance.

In a new report titled "Real-Time Traffic Information: Services and Infrastructure for Data Collection and Delivery" ABI Research states it expects the expanded Inrix/Tele Atlas partnership will have an important impact on the North American traffic market.

"In a market laden with disappointing products, Inrix may be the first aggregator that can provide traffic data in a way that improves the quality of the information delivered with mapping data for various personal navigation solutions," said Dan Benjamin, Principal Transportation Analyst, ABI Research.


Source : http://www.automotive.com (5/8/2006)

GSF Car Parts adds all-makes product range  
GSF Car Parts, an independent supplier of replacement parts for German, French and Swedish cars to independent repairers, have announced the launch of an ‘All Makes’ product range, to support garages repairing Fords, Vauxhalls and Fiats, among other makes.

The parts will be sourced direct from OE suppliers. To support the launch, GSF Car Parts will run a series of regional focus groups for independent garages to develop customer awareness of developments and opportunities in the UK aftermarket. As the year progresses, customers who shop at participating GSF stores will be eligible for free vehicle assessments at GSF partner garages.

In April 2000 the import parts distributor German & Swedish merged with the French car parts supplier, Andyspares Ltd to form German Swedish & French Car Parts (GSF Car Parts), and then acquired Autocavan and URO Automotive to establish the present, £50 million-turnover company, which has 48 branches including 2 HQ distribution depots based at Heathrow and Birmingham, over 200 delivery vehicles and over 600 staff.


Source : http://www.autoindustry.co.uk (5/8/2006)

When It Comes to Buying a Car, Mom's the Word  
COSTA MESA, Calif., PRNewswire/ -- NADAguides.com (www.NADAguides.com), a leading vehicle information website, today announced the results of a Mother's Day survey aimed at revealing the opinions of moms when it comes to buying a car, including important purchase considerations such as safety and fuel economy, as well as the types of vehicles mothers currently drive versus the types of vehicles they ideally want to drive. Following are highlights of the survey.

Participants were asked what their top three most important purchasing considerations are when it comes to buying a new car. A solid 67% indicated Safety was among their most important consideration, followed by Fuel Economy (52%) and Roominess (50%). Overall Purchase Price came in fourth position at 48%.

When asked what type of vehicle the participants currently drive, over half (54%) indicated they drive SUVs. Twenty-two percent of respondents drive 4-Door Sedans while 8% each drive Luxury Vehicles and Crossovers. Six percent of those surveyed drive Mini Vans.

When asked if they'd like to drive something different than the vehicle they currently drive, 52% responded they currently drive the type of vehicle they ideally want to drive, followed by 17% who responded they'd ideally like to drive a Mini Van, and 12% who indicated they'd like to drive a Hybrid.

"It makes perfect sense Safety was the most important purchase consideration in our Mother's Day survey," said Don Christy, Jr., president and chief executive officer of NADAguides.com. "When you have children, their needs -- and ultimately their safety -- become the number one priority. We were also eager to learn about the vehicles mothers currently drive versus the vehicles they ideally want to drive. Believe it or not, SUVs were a popular choice in both camps, even with Fuel Economy ranking as the second most important purchasing consideration."

Finally, when asked which vehicle they 'dream' of driving, regardless of their current familial or financial situation, a majority of respondents revealed they dreamed of driving a 2007 Cadillac Escalade followed by a new Land Rover Range Rover and finally, the Porsche Carrera. Other popular choices included BMW (7 series sedan and 6 series convertible) and Lexus (IS 350 and GX 470).

A majority of mothers who responded to the survey (59%) parented two children under the age of five, while 22% of the respondents parented one child under the age of four. Seven percent of the respondents are currently expecting their first child.

*Respondents of the NADAguides.com Mother's Day survey were polled between April 24 and May 5, 2006.More than 520 mothers of various-aged children (including expectant mothers) participated in the survey.NADAguides.com marketing and editorial staff members contacted opt-in respondents via phone and email correspondence.


Source : http://www.automotive.com (5/8/2006)

Harris Interactive's 'Roll Out at the Ritz' Invites Automotive Industry Experts to Explore the Future of 'Bling'  
DETROIT and ROCHESTER, N.Y., PRNewswire/ -- Harris Interactive(R), a worldwide full-service market research and consulting firm, and News/Talk WJR 760AM today announce the third annual automotive conference dubbed "Roll Out at the Ritz." The event takes place Thursday, May 18, 2006 from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom of the Ritz-Carlton in Dearborn, Mich.

"Roll Out" takes an innovative look at aftermarket trends including vehicle customization, product development, overseas manufacturing and the latest in "bling" and how OEMs, aftermarket suppliers and the media can work together to harness the market's potential.

Our panels of journalists and industry experts will offer contemporary criticism and future projections of where the customizable vehicle trend is going, why manufacturers should pay attention to it and why niche marketing is so important.

Our panel discussions include "Targeting the Hip Hop Generation," "Top Aftermarket Trends," and "The Customization Craze and Where is the Trend Headed?"

In addition, Harris Interactive's brand, customer loyalty and marketing communications experts will provide attendees with new case studies on automotive retailing, customer satisfaction and advertising effectiveness.

"Dubs, chrome and spinners help consumers looking for the latest and greatest ways to personalize their stock vehicles," said Scott D. Upham, Senior Vice President of Harris Interactive's Automotive and Transportation Research Group. "These tuner vehicles attract attention on the streets, but are also garnering attention from manufacturers."

Featured panelists and speakers include: Myles Kovacs - President DUB Publishing Inc., Carl Sheffer - VP, OEM Relations, SEMA , Will Castro - The Speed Channel, Mark Chung - Director of Strategic Marketing, Yokohama Tire, Raymond Stiles - VP Global Lubricants Consumer and Market Insights, Shell Oil, Joe Gross - Manager, OEM Sales and Design, Kicker, Maria Rohrer, Chevrolet Advertising Manager, General Motors Chevrolet Division, Judy Ricker - Division President, Marketing Communications Research, Harris Interactive, Ron Hurd - VP, Senior Consultant, Consumer Loyalty Research, Harris Interactive, Carol Gstalder - Senior VP, Harris-Wirthlin Brand and Strategy Consulting and others.

Interested participants can register for Roll Out at the Ritz at: HarrisInteractive.com/RollOutatTheRitz. The conference fee is $295 per person and includes breakfast and lunch.


Source : http://www.automotive.com (5/8/2006)

BorgWarner Commends Beru For Winning 2005 Ford World Excellence Award  
AUBURN HILLS, Mich., PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- BorgWarner Inc. is pleased to announce that Beru AG, part of the BorgWarner Engine Group, has received the 2005 Ford Motor Company World Excellence Award -- Ford's highest supplier honor -- which recognizes suppliers who achieve the highest levels of cost, quality and delivery and embrace the vision to build on Ford's Legacy and drive innovation to new heights.

"Congratulations to Beru's global employees for earning this prestigious recognition from BorgWarner's largest customer," said Tim Manganello, BorgWarner Chairman and CEO.

"The World Excellence Award recognizes suppliers who share Ford's vision and strive to achieve many of the same goals. Beru has demonstrated the ability to address the needs of its customers, and, in turn, helps Ford meet the needs of its customers. I am proud that Beru has distinguished itself with exceptional success in this vital aspect of our business."

There are three types of World Excellence Awards - Gold, Silver and Recognition of Achievement. Beru received one of 13 Gold Awards at a May 3 ceremony in Dearborn, Michigan.

Beru is a worldwide leading supplier of diesel cold start technology and a leading manufacturer of ignition technology for gasoline vehicles. The electronics and sensor technology of Beru provides more comfort and safety for applications in various engine and vehicle functions, with products such as direct-measuring tire-pressure monitoring systems and sensors for applications in engines, powertrain and exhaust systems.

Auburn Hills, Michigan-based BorgWarner Inc. is a product leader in highly engineered components and systems for vehicle powertrain applications worldwide. The FORTUNE 500 company operates manufacturing and technical facilities in 62 locations in 17 countries. Customers include Ford, VW/Audi, DaimlerChrysler, General Motors, Toyota, Renault/Nissan, Hyundai/Kia, Honda, BMW, Caterpillar, Navistar International, and Peugeot.

Statements contained in this news release may contain forward-looking statements as contemplated by the 1995 Private Securities Litigation Reform Act that are based on management's current expectations, estimates and projections. Words such as "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and generally beyond the control of the Company, that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed, projected or implied in or by the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include: fluctuations in domestic or foreign automotive production, the continued use of outside suppliers by original equipment manufacturers, fluctuations in demand for vehicles containing the Company's products, general economic conditions, as well as other risks detailed in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Risk Factors identified in the Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005. The

Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement.


Source : http://www.automotive.com (5/8/2006)