NASDAQ Turns School Bus Yellow for Student Transportation Inc. U.S. Stock Market Debut  
NEW YORK--Sept. 6, 2011: Student Transportation Inc. (STI) made its debut on the U.S. stock market today as the company's senior management team rang the Opening Bell at the NASDAQ MarketSite in New York City's Times Square. Trading under the symbol "STB", the company's common shares now are dual-listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market(SM)and the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX), where its common stock and convertible debentures have traded since December 2004. The company's convertible debentures are only traded on the TSX.

"This is an exciting day for us," said Denis J. Gallagher, chairman and CEO. "Beginning today U.S. investors have the ability to easily buy and sell our securities through the NASDAQ system and with any broker they choose. For nearly seven years, we have built a good reputation on the Toronto Stock Exchange as a simple but stable business and our Canadian investors have given us strong support. We currently have about 15 percent U.S. holders, so this listing will give us greater access to a larger pool of investors who like both dividends and growth. We have paid 79 consecutive monthly dividends since first going public and are well poised for another solid year of growth in our historical range of 15 percent. Now that's consistency investors want and appreciate."

Gallagher said there is no change for current shareholders in Canada or the U.S. so there is nothing they need to do. "This is simply an additional listing of the same class of common shares and all currency and tax regulations remain the same," he said.

Founded by Gallagher in 1997, STI has grown over the past 14 years to be the third largest and most progressive provider of services in the $24 billion North American school transportation market. Serving school districts throughout the U.S. and Canada, the company continues to grow through a disciplined series of strategic acquisitions, bid-ins and privatization of district and state run school bus fleets.

Bruce Aust, executive vice president, NASDAQ OMX Corporate Client Group said, "NASDAQ is elated to welcome Student Transportation to the NASDAQ Global Select Market. In Canada and across the United States, Student Transportation has distinguished itself as a provider of reliable, safe and cost-effective transportation services to school districts. We look forward to STI's continued growth and success in the years to come."

"We look forward to selling securities in the U.S. as we do new offerings," said Gallagher. "The markets may go up and down but the company performance has remained consistent. It's not surprising that many U.S. brokers are calling to learn more about STI for their clients' portfolios."


Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/6/2011)

Domestic passenger vehicle sales fall 5.7 pc in August: SIAM  
NEW DELHI: Passenger vehicle sales in the country fell 5.7 percent in August, Pawan Goenka, president of industry body Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers ( SIAM) said on Wednesday, as higher interest rates and rising vehicle costs hit demand.

Passenger vehicle sales are expected to see double-digit growth by January, he said.

National Safety Council Launches Video Series to Educate Public About Dangers of Cell Phone Use While Driving  
ITASCA, IL - September 6, 2011: The National Safety Council today released a series of short videos, “Understanding Distracted Driving,” to address the most frequently asked questions about cell phone use while driving. The videos, featuring NSC Senior Director of Transportation Initiatives David Teater, are free to download or are available to businesses and the public via YouTube.

In short, two- to three-minute clips, Teater answers 12 questions, including why cell phones are a particularly dangerous distraction, and explains the science behind cognitive distraction. The videos also address how employers can protect their employees with workplace policies.

Teater’s 12-year-old son Joe was killed in a motor vehicle collision in 2004. The driver who caused the crash was distracted by a cell phone. Prior to joining NSC, Teater’s 30-year business career included serving as CEO of a research and strategy firm that provided consulting services to most auto manufacturers. He is a frequent speaker on the topic of distracted driving, has testified before the U.S. Congress and has appeared before several state legislatures to advocate for restrictions on cell phone use while driving.

“Cell phone use and driving are a dangerous, and oftentimes deadly, combination,” Teater said. “The resources NSC has developed explain why this behavior is so dangerous and provide solutions on how to go about changing behaviors to make our roadways safer.”


Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/6/2011)

Hybrid Medium and Heavy-Duty Truck Sales to Surpass 100,000 Vehicles Annually by 2017, Forecasts Pike Research  
BOULDER, CO--September 6, 2011: As the global economy begins tentative steps toward recovery, truck manufacturers are looking to technologies that can help mitigate the rising cost of diesel fuel while meeting increasingly strict emissions requirements. Trucks that utilize electricity to meet these goals come in four variations: hybrid electric, plug-in hybrid, battery electric, and plug-in electric power take-off (EPTO) to operate equipment onboard without using fuel. As the technology costs fall and diesel prices increase, the value proposition for hybrid trucks is strong, and a new report from Pike Research forecasts that sales will surpass 100,000 vehicles annually by 2017.

“The truck market has experienced seismic changes in the last few years”

"The truck market has experienced seismic changes in the last few years," says senior analyst Dave Hurst. "The global recession has taken a huge toll on medium duty and heavy duty truck sales in many regions. As fuel prices have increased, truck manufacturers have responded by expanding their offerings of alternative drivetrains to help reduce emissions and fuel usage by trucks."

However, Hurst adds that the primary challenge facing the hybrid truck market remains the cost of the system. Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and battery electric vehicles (BEVs) all continue to have higher upfront costs that are significant enough to result in higher total cost of ownership for the vehicles. While the typical operating cost of a diesel vehicle is significantly higher than that of other drivetrains ($0.72/mile for diesel versus $0.60/mile for hybrid and $0.22/mile for BEV trucks), Pike Research's analysis indicates that the higher purchase cost and low cost of diesel in some markets means that the trucks are not able to recover the incremental costs for the electric drive system in their lifetime. As a result, government incentives and emissions or fuel economy regulations will continue to play a very important role in promoting hybrids and plug-in trucks.

Pike Research's analysis further indicates that most HEV, PHEV, and BEV trucks will utilize different chemistries of lithium ion (Li-ion) batteries. The cleantech market intelligence firm expects that the use of nickel metal hydride (NiMH) batteries will peak in 2016, as vehicle manufacturers move their remaining systems toward Li-ion. The Li-ion market is expected to reach 3.6 million kilowatt hours (kWh) globally in the medium and heavy duty truck market by 2017.

Pike Research's report, "Hybrid Medium and Heavy Duty Trucks", examines the opportunities and challenges in the market for hybrid electric, plug-in hybrid, and battery electric medium and heavy-duty trucks. The report provides a comprehensive assessment of the different drivetrains, battery technologies, and key drivers of market growth. The report explores global government regulations regarding diesel emissions and vehicle purchase incentives and includes detailed forecasts through 2017. Key market players are also profiled. An Executive Summary of the report is available for free download on the firm's website.

Pike Research is a market research and consulting firm that provides in-depth analysis of global clean technology markets. The company's research methodology combines supply-side industry analysis, end-user primary research and demand assessment, and deep examination of technology trends to provide a comprehensive view of the Smart Energy, Smart Grid, Smart Transportation, Smart Industry, and Smart Buildings sectors


Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/6/2011)

First Kia Vehicles to Offer HD Radio Technology Are Now Available  
COLUMBIA, MD--Sept. 6, 2011: iBiquity Digital Corporation, the developer of digital HD Radio Technology for AM and FM audio and data broadcasting, today announced the first Kia vehicles equipped with HD Radio Technology -- 2012 model-year Optima, Sorento and Sportage -- have begun arriving in showrooms. The funky 2012 Kia Soul urban passenger vehicle also will be available with HD Radio Technology this fall and additional radios and Kia models will offer HD Radio Technology later this year.

HD Radio Technology delivers significant benefits for Kia drivers: crystal-clear sound quality; additional local FM channels known as HD2, HD3 and HD4s; Program Service Data or PSD, which displays song title and artist name on the radio screen. These value-added features, with more to come, are complimentary with no monthly subscription fee.

"We are excited to be aligned with a growing brand and look forward to Kia drivers enjoying HD Radio Technology in their new vehicles," said Jeff Jury, Chief Operating Officer of iBiquity Digital, the developer of digital HD Radio Technology. "HD Radio Technology is the digital standard for AM and FM broadcasting and has become a central feature in the digital dashboard. We are confident that Kia customers will enjoy the expanded digital radio experience."

"Today's savvy drivers expect more features and technologies in their cars and incorporating HD Radio technology into our vehicles allows Kia drivers to enjoy a more entertaining listening experience," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. "Responding to the marketplace and offering advanced technology options such as HD Radio, strengthens Kia's value proposition that features a combination of style, technology, performance, safety in Kia Motors' critically acclaimed lineup of vehicles."

HD Radio Technology is available nationwide, with more than 2,000 digital stations on-air, and over 1,300 HD2/HD3/HD4 digital-only channels that broadcast fresh new content that can only be heard with an HD Radio receiver. A sampling of the formats on these extra channels, which vary in different markets around the country, include Dance/Electronica, Bluegrass Country, Comedy, Local Music, Chill/Coffee Shop Music, South Asian, Talk, News, and Sports, to name just a few.


Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/6/2011)

Enterprise, Enbridge and Anadarko to Jointly Develop New NGL Pipeline Linking Key Natural Gas Producing Basins to the Gulf Coast  
HOUSTON & THE WOODLANDS, TX--September 6, 2011: Enterprise Products Partners L.P. , Enbridge Energy Partners, L.P., and Anadarko Petroleum Corporation today announced an agreement to design and construct a new natural gas liquids (NGL) pipeline that will originate from Skellytown, Texas in Carson County and extend approximately 580 miles to NGL fractionation and storage facilities in Mont Belvieu, Texas. The new Texas Express Pipeline, TEP will help producers in West and Central Texas, the Rocky Mountains, Southern Oklahoma and the Mid-continent maximize the value of their natural gas production by providing additional takeaway capacity and enhanced access to the Gulf Coast NGL market. Initial capacity on TEP will be approximately 280,000 barrels per day (BPD), which can be readily expanded to approximately 400,000 BPD.

“This project will further enhance our ability to consistently access premium Mont Belvieu markets and increase the wellhead netbacks for our growing NGL production from our Rockies and Texas assets, as well as better align our interests with the project developers through our equity participation.”

In addition, the joint venture will include two new NGL gathering systems. The first will connect TEP to natural gas processing plants in the Anadarko/Granite Wash production area located in the Texas Panhandle and Western Oklahoma. The second NGL gathering system will connect the new pipeline to Central Texas, Barnett Shale processing plants. Volumes from the Rockies, Permian Basin and Mid-continent regions will be delivered to the TEP system utilizing Enterprise's existing Pipeline (MAPL) assets between the Conway hub and Enterprise's Hobbs NGL fractionation facility in Gaines County, Texas. Enterprise will construct and serve as the operator of the pipeline, while Enbridge will build and operate the new gathering systems. The pipeline and gathering systems are expected to begin service in the second quarter of 2013, subject to regulatory approvals.

"We are very pleased to partner with Enbridge and Anadarko on this project, which offers a comprehensive industry solution for addressing NGL transportation constraints that are currently limiting access to the largest domestic NGL market located along the Gulf Coast," said Michael A. Creel, Enterprise president and chief executive officer. "The new pipeline and gathering systems, which are underpinned by long-term contracts, will also have the capability to provide takeaway capacity for other producing areas not presently served by the MAPL system, including Oklahoma's Granite Wash, the Anadarko-Woodford basin, and the Barnett Shale. Wider access to multiple production areas, in addition to a competitive transportation fee structure, makes this an attractive option for producers and natural gas processors. NGLs controlled by affiliates of Enterprise, Enbridge and Anadarko will solidly anchor the project."

"Enbridge is also very pleased to be working with Enterprise and Anadarko on this critical NGL pipeline," said Mark Maki, president of Enbridge Energy Partners, L.P. "Through our extensive gathering and processing assets, Enbridge has developed a significant and growing NGL supply position in Texas and Oklahoma. The Texas Express Pipeline will provide guaranteed NGL access to the primary U.S. petrochemical market in Mont Belvieu, ensuring premium NGL netbacks for our customers. Importantly, the Texas Express pipeline fulfills a key strategic objective of Enbridge to extend our value chain from gathering and processing to include NGL transportation, providing Enbridge's unit holders with a new source of strong and stable cash flow."

Anadarko Vice President, Midstream, Danny Rea, said, "This project will further enhance our ability to consistently access premium Mont Belvieu markets and increase the wellhead netbacks for our growing NGL production from our Rockies and Texas assets, as well as better align our interests with the project developers through our equity participation."

While providing producers with much-needed takeaway capacity, TEP will also supply petrochemical facilities with a reliable, domestic source of feedstock. Demand for natural gas-derived feedstocks remains strong, driven by the wide spread between crude oil and natural gas prices.

Enterprise Products Partners L.P. is the largest publicly traded partnership and a leading North American provider of midstream energy services to producers and consumers of natural gas, NGLs, crude oil, refined products and petrochemicals. Enterprise's assets include approximately: 50,200 miles of onshore and offshore pipelines; 192 million barrels of storage capacity for NGLs, refined products and crude oil; and 27 billion cubic feet of natural gas storage capacity. Services include: natural gas transportation, gathering, processing and storage; NGL fractionation, transportation, storage, and import and export terminaling; crude oil and refined products storage, transportation and terminaling; offshore production platform; petrochemical transportation and storage; and a marine transportation business that operates primarily on the United States inland and Intracoastal Waterway systems and in the Gulf of Mexico.

Enbridge Energy Partners, L.P. owns and operates a diversified portfolio of crude oil and natural gas transportation systems in the United States. Its principal crude oil system is the largest transporter of growing oil production from western Canada. The system's deliveries to refining centers and connected carriers in the United States account for approximately 13 percent of total U.S. oil imports; while deliveries to Ontario, Canada satisfy approximately 70 percent of refinery demand in that region. EEP's natural gas gathering, treating, processing and transmission assets, which are principally located onshore in the active U.S. Mid-Continent and Gulf Coast area, deliver approximately 2.5 billion cubic feet of natural gas daily. Enbridge Energy Management, L.L.C. manages the business and affairs of EEP and its sole asset is an approximate 14 percent interest in the EEP. Enbridge Energy Company, Inc., an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Enbridge Inc. of Calgary, Alberta, (TSX:ENB) is the general partner and holds an approximate 25 percent interest in EEP.

Anadarko Petroleum Corporation is one of the world's largest independent oil and natural gas exploration and natural gas exploration and production companies with 2.42 billion barrels-equivalent of proved reserves as of year end 2010. The company has significant producing properties in southwest and West Texas, including premier positions in the Eagleford Shale, Ozona area and Permian Basin. The company also is among the largest operators in the Rocky Mountain region, and combined with its master limited partnership, Western Gas Partners, LP , has extensive midstream infrastructure throughout its U.S. onshore operating areas. Anadarko's mission is to deliver a competitive and sustainable rate of return to shareholders by exploring for, acquiring and developing oil and natural gas resources vital to the world's health and welfare.


Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/6/2011)

Special Motorsports Event - 1956 Ferrari 250 Best Of Show At Four Seasons  
Beverly Hills, Sept. 6, 2011: The 1956 Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Zagato earned the title of Best of Show at ‘2011 uniques special ones’: the car belonging to the well-known Beverly Hills collector David Sydorick won the favour of both panels of judges charged with naming in unison the most beautiful vehicle, on both technical and stylistic levels, among those present at the event.

The Giardino of the Gherardesca is ‘disrobing’ itself of the 82 cars that adorned it on display, bringing a close to the 2011 uniques special ones, the exhibition event of international appeal that brought the elite of the world’s most exclusive collector circles to Florence for two days.

The international event, created and organized by MAC Group for the second consecutive year, starred vehicles unique in their kind, all gathered in the striking setting of the Giardino, Palazzo and Conventino of the Gherardesca, today a Four Seasons Hotel. With the cars came their collectors, important managers and businessmen, hailing from all over the world.

“It was wonderful to see the enthusiasts’ excitement in finding themselves at this event for the second time,” recounted Sandro Binelli, President of MAC Group. “The cars and their collectors succeed in creating a unique atmosphere that only so striking a setting can accommodate. These aren’t my words, but the words of the participants themselves, and I can’t help but feel proud of them.”

The preeminent panel of judges, composed of important figures from the fields of Design, Automobiles, Culture, and the Media, adopted rigorous judging criteria, which they applied in examining the competing cars over the two days of the event. The Best of Show was revealed during the uniques special ones closing cocktail party in the Conventino of the Gherardesca.

“Selecting the winning vehicle was an extremely difficult choice and caused the members of the judges panel to debate for over two hours,” stated Adolfo Orsi, Automotive expert and Chief Judge of the International Judges Panel. “The final showdown played out between the 1938 Bugatti Type 57 S Cabriolet and the 1962 Ferrari 268 SP, as both perfectly fulfilled the Competition’s criteria of uniqueness. Having to assign the Best of Show title to only one car, the vote fell to the Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta built by Zagato.”

For each of the 9 established classes, two separate awards were given: the Best of Class for Originality and Restoration and the Best of Class for Styling, with an Overall Best of Class award uniting the two classifications.

This formula led to some classes having three different winners, while in others certain ‘uniques’ vehicles swept the board.


Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/6/2011)

GM Design Wins 'Cool Places to Work' Award  
WARREN, MI--Sept. 6, 2011: GMDesign, the industry's first and largest global automotive design function, is among Crain's 2011 "Cool Places to Work" winners for their ability to communicate with employees, attract and retain talent and create a positive work environment, among other factors.

"Our commitment is to create an environment that empowers its people and provides the technology and tools they long to work with and places a premium on creativity and passion," said Ed Welburn, GM vice president of Global Design. "It's a privilege for me to work with the talented team of designers, sculptors, engineers, skilled trades, imaging and business personnel that make the GM Design Center an award-winning place to work."

The annual award honors Michigan companies with offices in the Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw and Livingston counties in a two-phase evaluation process. The first phase reviews online nominations submitted by non-executive employees; the second phase is a qualitative survey focusing on promotions, hiring practices, compensation, benefits and more.

"Our employees also appreciate GM's rich design heritage and the historical significance of the Technical Center campus," said Welburn. "It's pretty cool to have a front-row seat to the company's future as well as access to a past so rich with iconic brands and buildings recognized on the National Register of Historic Places and 'Most Outstanding Architectural Achievements of its Era' by the American Institute of Architects."

A team of Crain's editors, reporters and representatives from the American Society of Employers evaluated hundreds of candidate companies to choose the winners. Formal honors will be given at Crain's award event Nov. 10.


Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/6/2011)

Audi to Unveil Electric-Only A2 Concept at 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show  
INGOLSTADT, Germany - September 6, 2011: The technical study features a classic, premium-standard space concept that offers plenty of room for four people.

The Audi A2 concept is just 3.80 meters (12.47 ft) long, 1.69 meters (5.54 ft) wide and 1.49 meters (4.89 ft) high; even so, it makes an elegant, powerful and sporty impression on the street. Its clean appearance concentrates on the essentials; all details are subtle but shaped for visual impact. The dark glass roof of the white-painted show car switches to transparency with the push of a button.



Audi A2 Electric Concept With its headlights, Audi is presenting the next phase in LED technology, known as matrix beam. A package of LEDs and microreflectors generate a high-resolution and non-glaring high-beam light. Delicate daytime running light fibers frame the highly efficient LED low-beam light module. Intelligent tail lights adapt their illumination to the visibility conditions. The rear fog light, produced by laser diodes, is seen as a beam of light in fog and projects a red triangle onto the road as a warning.

The dynamic light runs below the edge of the window from the front to the rear of the A2 concept – a band of light that contains a multitude of innovative, dynamic light functions. Integrated approach sensors detect the owner and unlock the doors via gesture control. While driving, the dynamic light functions as a continuous side marker light. If the car’s indicator is activated, light impulses run throughout the entire band of light.

In addition, a red bar of light flows forward from the tail lights when braking and demonstrates the strength of the brakes intuitively for other road users.

The dynamic light is also located in the cockpit area of the show car, structured in two separate arches. Like the entire interior, the dash panel has a light and clean look and intuitive controls. The driver manages many important features via touch-control areas on the inside of the steering wheel. Two additional control surfaces fold up at the driver’s right when starting the vehicle. An open profile serves as the steering column; a seven-inch display and two secondary displays are located at its end.



Audi A2 Electric Concept The Audi A2 concept has a flat interior floorboard. The center console is attached to the driver’s seat; the rear console extends forward between the two rear seats. The four individual seats add lightness, and there is storage space under the fold-up seat cushions. There is room between the rear seats for a city bicycle with its front wheel removed. The load area has two levels; a frame with functional nets creates the upper level.

The colors and materials in the interior support the impression of lightness and functionality. The large areas from the door top shoulders to the floor bear a new and innovative covering material made of polyurethane with a neoprene surface feel; a ribbed material made from recycled polyester covers the central floor area. The seat shells are made with a plastic blow molding technique. Aluminum elements create highlights the cockpit.


Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/7/2011)

Toyota to raise prices by 1.5-2 pct in India-exec  
MUMBAI: Japanese car maker Toyota Motor Corp will raise prices on most models by 1.5 percent to 2 percent with effect from Oct. 1, said Sandeep Singh, deputy managing director of Toyota Kirloskar - a joint venture between Toyota and India's Kirloskar group.

Automakers in India have been raising prices in recent months to offset high input costs.

Motor Vehicle Act: Government may slap Rs 1 lakh fine on companies making faulty vehicles  
NEW DELHI: The road transport and highways ministry is planning to formulate a stringent policy that will hold manufacturers accountable for making faulty vehicles. An expert committee appointed by the ministry has recommended slapping Rs 1 lakh fine on manufacturers for each faulty vehicle or a three-month jail term or both.

The ministry is working on amendments to Motor Vehicle Act. The ministry is under pressure amid a growing demand to formulate a policy on mandatory product recall like other developed nations.

Sources said new recommendations stipulate that in case a consumer finds manufacturing faults with engine or any other parts, s/he would be able to lodge a complaint with the state transport authority (STA). Consequently, experts would investigate the case and suggest action. Increasing complaints from consumers and rise in instances of recalls by manufacturers have called for new rules. The ministry will hold a meeting with stakeholders to discuss these issues next week. Last year, the government had proposed a penalty of Rs 10 lakh on the manufacturers for each faulty vehicle and introduced a bill to set up National Road Safety and Traffic Management Board. However, the standing committee sent the bill back.

In India, companies like Maruti and Honda, have recalled particular batches of cars after detecting faults in some of their parts.

"The defective vehicles having defects are usually recalled under the product recall mechanism in other countries by the national road safety authority in case the manufacturers failed to voluntarily recall the defective vehicles. This mechanism has been created by the authorities to protect consumer interest," said S P Singh of Indian Foundation of Transport Research and Training.

He added that due to resistance from vehicle manufacturers and tyre makers, the mandatory recall mechanism has not been enacted by the government even though the world's most saleable vehicle brands are available in the domestic market.

In several letters to the roads transport and heavy industries ministers, the IRTFT has claimed that the vehicle manufacturers in India occasionally recall defective vehicles to "safeguard their image" rather than display their "concern for the safety of vehicle owners and other road users".


Source : Economic Times (9/7/2011)

Fiat looks at life beyond Tata Motors’ dealerships; to open exclusive ‘Fiat branded’ showrooms across the top 20 cities in India  
NEW DELHI: A struggling Fiat is finally set to move beyond dealer network of Tata Motors as the company will open exclusive 'Fiat branded' showrooms across the top 20 cities to revive sales. While Tata Motors has been retailing Fiat cars through its dealerships as per an arrangement between the companies, Fiat will have exclusive sales showrooms for the first time, perhaps signalling the Italian carmaker's frustration with Tata's network.

Rajeev Kapoor, managing director of Fiat's India operations, confirmed the development and said he expects as many as 55 exclusive Fiat dealerships within 18 months.

The decision comes at a time when Tata group chief Ratan Tata has said the Fiat joint venture needs to be critically examined and Tata Motors CEO Carl-Peter Forster admitted that the company is "not happy" with the growth of Fiat sales. Sales were down 15% last fiscal to 21,066 units and have fallen 23% in the April-August period this fiscal to 7,874 units.

"However, this does not mean that we are altering the joint venture. The exclusive Fiat dealerships will be in addition to the Tata-Fiat set-up that we already have. Also, the new dealerships for Fiat will be set up by the existing Tata dealers and we are not going to appoint a dealer on our own," Kapoor said.

While admiting that sales were not going strong, Kapoor said the idea of a separate network also emanated from the fact that space within the existing Tata dealerships was insufficient to house both the brands. "The display area was becoming crowded and we needed space to showcase our products properly. The exclusive showrooms will help us do that."

Fiat and Tata Motors have a 50:50 joint venture - Fiat India Automobiles Ltd - for manufacturing cars and engines for both brands at a factory in Maharashtra. Apart from the manufacturing and distribution tie-up, dealerships also provide after-sales support.

While the companies have refrained from openly speaking about the partnership, the Tata-Fiat JV has been struggling, as Fiat has not managed to gain good numbers and Tata's performance is also not encouraging. Fiat had hired global consultancy firm Accenture to suggest ways to improve its position in India. It is also opening exclusive company-owned brand stores in major cities to generate more sales inquiries.

Ratan Tata, in a recent interview, said his good personal rapport with Fiat chief executive Officer Sergio Marchionne had not translated to the working level of the two firms. "... I have to admit that so far, the venture with Fiat has not been as active as we had thought."


Source : Economic Times (9/7/2011)

German automaker Audi plans to roll out luxury cars in smaller cities, towns in India  
NEW DELHI: Luxury carmaker Audi is looking at the potential of smaller cities and towns as it undertakes its journey to become second largest player in Indian luxury car market.

The company launched a new dealership in Ludhiana this June and will start its dealership at Surat this week. It will roll out the cars in Lucknow, Surat, Indore and Coimbatore from 2012 onwards.

The German giant is aiming to double its dealerships to around 25 by end of 2012 as it readies its network to get on high-volume models such as the Q3 SUV and the smaller sedans like the A3.

This year, the company has sold 3,655 cars till August, a growth of 95% year-over-year, and is looking at displacing Merc from the coveted second slot by 2013.

"There have been some good years, and we are planning to get right products to generate volumes and meet customer expectations," Audi India head Michael Perschke said. "While other players in the Indian market are reviewing their targets downward, we are confident that we will exceed our target of 5,000 units this year."

The carmaker will also consolidate its operations in two major metros by opening sales outlets in Delhi West and Mumbai South. In addition, Audi India and its dealer partners aim to hire at least 600 employees by the end of 2012. The company, which has invested around 30 million euros in India so far, is finalising its investment plans till 2015.


Source : Economic Times (9/7/2011)

2011 Ford Explorer LTD Review and Road Test By Larry Nutson +VIDEO  
Ford boldly stated, "Ford Explorer, the vehicle that defined a segment, has been completely reinvented for 2011 to raise the bar on SUV efficiency, performance, safety, technology and capability." That's what Ford said they did. And in my opinion, that's what they did indeed do!



My interest in driving the all-new Explorer was two fold. I wanted to see how well it fit in to the city environs of Chicago or for that matter any of the other 50 or so large cities in our United States. And also, I’ve had a string of personal-use Ford SUVs, most recently in 2009 an ’07 Edge. Prior to the Edge, an ‘04 and an ‘02 Explorer, and a little bit further back an Expedition. So I’m well-versed in Ford SUVs.

Coincidentally, the new Explorer is assembled in Chicago since the shift to unibody construction facilitated it being built alongside the Ford Flex and Taurus models.



My test-car was a Limited model equipped with 4-wheel-drive, the 3.5L V6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Base price for the LTD is $39,190. Also equipped was a $4,910 “rapid spec” option package with Nav system, luxury seating, power fold third row seats and power liftgate, active park assist and a few other items. Plus a trailer tow package ($570) and the white platinum paint ($495) brought the total to $45,160 including shipping. Ford did a really nice job of packing the Explorer chock-full with new technology, equipment and features. So much so that to really understand how it all works requires that you sit in the vehicle with the owners manual in hand and just go through it all little by little. Most operations are very intuitive but some things require more concentration.

To this point, I believe, generally speaking for all car company’s products, new vehicles have become so sophisticated that upon taking delivery or perhaps within a couple weeks after, a dealer tutorial session is appropriate to make sure a new owner understands how everything works and is receiving maximum satisfaction and enjoyment from their new car.



For those folks who don’t need 4WD, front wheel drive is available. The Explorer is offered in base, XLT and Limited models with prices starting at $28,995. Seating is for six or seven. The 3.5L V6 is rated at 290 HP with EPA fuel economy estimated of 17 city mpg and 23 highway mpg. I recall vividly my V8 equipped Explorers from days past and it was really tough to get 20 mpg on the highway. The V6 provides the same performance as the former V8 with better economy and can still tow a 5000 lb. trailer. A new feature on Explorer 4WD models is a terrain management system. The traditional transfer case has been deep-sixed. Rather than the use of four-high, four-low and auto settings, Explorer terrain management is selectable by situation. The four settings – available by shift-on-the-fly – include normal, mud, sand and snow. Each setting provides unique engine behavior, throttle tip-in, transmission shift scheduling and calibrations for traction and stability control systems. Terrain management also includes Hill Descent Control, which provides engine braking to increase driver confidence and control when descending a steep incline.



Electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) is the way to go today and not only reduces fuel consumption but facilitates the addition of other technology. Curve Control is a new feature that senses when a driver enters a turn too quickly and applies brake pressure to stabilize the vehicle.

In addition, EPAS enables the optional active park assist technology. When activated, the system scans for a suitable spot, calculates the trajectory, and steers the vehicle. The driver continues to control brake and throttle inputs, but the system steers the vehicle throughout the parking maneuver. I tried this, listening to the voice prompts, and it works.



When it comes to creature comforts, the interior abounds. Fit and finish and material surfaces are top notch. The cabin is very quiet and a good job has been done in managing wind and tire noise. MyFord Touch driver connect technology and SYNC integrated communications and entertainment are a part of the new Explorer. A quick study guide came with my vehicle and after a short time I was managing audio, navigation and climate control fairly well. There has been some criticism of this “infotainment” system and I think a good dealer tutorial program would solve most of anyone’s issues.

Overall, the new Explorer is light-years ahead of the previous generation. Driving dynamics are much improved. Space abounds on the inside. The power liftgate is wonderful when your arms are full and the power fold seat makes it easy especially for the ladies to fold down that third row for hauling lots of stuff. The rear vision camera helps greatly when parallel parking. And, where was the zoom feature that helps when connecting a trailer when I needed it years ago? At 90.2 inches wide to the mirrors, the Explorer will challenge you on narrow city streets. More than once I used the power-fold outside mirror feature when squeezing past a stopped delivery truck.

For 2012 model year the Explorer gets an expanded color palette and is the first Ford model in North America to offer an all-new Ford EcoBoost 2.0L, 240 HP four-cylinder engine. Available in front wheel drive, EPA estimates are 20 city mpg and 28 highway mpg. We hope to drive an Explorer with this engine very soon and provide out review.

Warranty coverage is 3 year/36,000 miles bumper to bumper, 5 year/60,000 mile powertrain and 5 year/60,000 mile roadside assist. Ford dealers abound across the U.S., therefore the ownership experience should be very convenient. In choosing a new vehicle all to often not enough emphasis is given to the convenience of getting needed service.


Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/6/2011)

Achates Power to Present Fuel Efficiency Results of its Two-Stroke Opposed Piston Engine at SAE 2011 Commercial Vehicle Engineering Congress  
SAN DIEGO – September 6, 2011: Achates Power, developer of radically improved internal combustion engines that enhance fuel economy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and are lower cost, will discuss engine fuel efficiency challenges and improvements at the SAE 2011 Commercial Vehicle Engineering Congress (ComVEC) Sept. 13-14 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Ill.

In a paper presentation on Sept. 14, CEO David Johnson will detail the Achates Power two-stroke opposed-piston (OP) engine architecture and reveal its performance and emissions results in a medium-duty application (paper 2011-01-2221). During his presentation, Johnson will discuss OP engine advantages and challenges, describe methods used to leverage the advantages and minimize challenges, highlight test and analytical methods, and provide cost, weight and complexity reductions of the engine.

Highlights include testing, analysis and results that conclude the Achates Power engine:

is more efficient, demonstrating a fuel efficiency improvement by more than 19 percent compared to today's best diesel engines;

is clean, with engine-out emissions that are compatible with current and future standards; and reduces costs, weight and overall complexity of the engine with 40 percent fewer parts due to elimination of the cylinder head and valvetrain.

During the same session, Dr. Randy Herold, Achates Power senior staff engineer, will present the thermodynamic benefits of opposed-piston two-stroke engines (paper 2011-01-2216).

Achates Power draws on the engineering and analytical expertise of its more than 50 in-house engineers and scientists, state-of-the-art laboratory facilities utilizing industry-leading testing, simulation and analysis tools, and its 2,000-plus engine test hours to develop innovations in all areas of engine design, which are covered by more than 50 patents and patent applications.

The SAE ComVEC is the first of several conferences this fall where Achates Power executives will present their demonstrated results. Achates Power will also speak at the upcoming Der Arbeitsprozess des Verbrennungsmotors (Working Process of the Internal Combustion Engine), ASME Internal Combustion Engine Fall Technical Conference, and Directions in Engine-Efficiency and Emissions Research (DEER) Conference. For more information about these presentations, visit the Achates Power events website.


Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/6/2011)

Pennsylvania State Police: Nine Killed, 351 Injured in Labor Day Travel Period Crashes  
HARRISBURG, PA--Sept. 6, 2011: Nine people died and 351 others were injured in 783 crashes investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police during the Sept. 2 -- Sept. 5 Labor Day holiday driving period, Commissioner Frank Noonan said today. Of the total crashes, 80 were alcohol-related, including five of the fatal crashes. "All of those killed over the weekend were not wearing seat belts," Noonan said. "It astonishes me that in 2011, some people still don't use seat belts. Please buckle up; not only is it the law, seat belts really do save lives."

Failure to properly wear a seat belt remains one of the leading causes of death and serious injury in crashes. Troopers cited 673 people for failing to wear seat belts.

During the four-day holiday travel period, troopers arrested 438 persons for driving under the influence, issued 6,713 speeding citations, and issued 102 citations for not securing children in safety seats.

"Drivers must insist that all passengers wear a seat belt," said Noonan. "They work best when everyone is buckled and children are properly restrained in the back seat."

State law requires that children under the age of 4 ride in a federally-approved car seat that is appropriate for the child's age, height and weight. Children between the ages of 4 and 8 must use a booster seat if they are no longer in a car seat. State law also requires children between the ages of 8 and 18 must use a seatbelt whenever they are riding in a vehicle, regardless of seating position.

During last year's Labor Day holiday travel period (Sept. 3-6, 2010), nine people died and 271 others were injured in 754 crashes investigated by troopers.

The statistics include only those incidents investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police and do not include data from incidents to which other law enforcement agencies responded.


Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/6/2011)

Volvo Says Less Can Be More When It Comes to Engine Size  
GOTHENBURG - September 6, 2011: Volvo Car Corporation takes the next step towards zero emissions and climate impact through a new, downsized engine range – consisting solely of four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. “It is time to stop counting cylinders. At the Frankfurt Motor Show, we will reveal a new concept car. It proves that downsized engines can go hand in hand with our customer’s expectations on luxury and driving pleasure,“ says Peter Mertens, Senior Vice President Research and Development at the Volvo Car Corporation.

Volvo Car Corporation’s upcoming four-cylinder engine range VEA (Volvo Environmental Architecture) includes common rail diesels and direct injected petrol engines. It covers the whole range from high power and torque variants to fuel-efficient derivatives. “Our four-cylinder focus is the perfect way for us to quickly reduce CO2 emissions and fuel consumption. We will develop four-cylinder engines with higher performance than today’s six-cylinder units and lower fuel consumption than the current four-cylinder generation,” continues Peter Mertens. The new VEA engines reduces the number of unique parts is reduced with 60 percent. The new power trains are also up to 90 kg lighter than the present ones and fuel economy is improved by up to 35 percent.


Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/6/2011)

Two-Thirds of Americans Believe Drivers Rely Too Heavily on Technology  
WARWICK, RI--September 6, 2011: Has modern technology made our roadways safer? The majority of Americans believe cars are safer today than they were 10 years ago, but feel that technological innovations have failed to make people safer drivers. In fact, according to the new MetLife Auto & Home American Safety Pulse Poll, fully 85% of Americans believe cars are safer today, but just 29% think technology innovations have translated into making people safer drivers, and nearly two-thirds (63%) of Americans believe that today’s drivers rely too heavily on technology features to operate their vehicles.

“Auto manufacturers have made significant strides with regard to safety innovations over the past 10 years - but the ultimate safety feature is an alert and prepared driver”

The survey also suggests that many people are not necessarily making wise decisions when it comes to evaluating the importance of different technology features, with Americans favoring increased convenience over driver and passenger safety. To voice your opinion, join the conversation on MetLife's Facebook page.

"Auto manufacturers have made significant strides with regard to safety innovations over the past 10 years - but the ultimate safety feature is an alert and prepared driver," said Bill Moore, president of MetLife Auto & Home. "Technology advancements have greatly improved the comfort and safety of cars, but overreliance on these features can be dangerous -- drivers need to remember that it's still up to them to operate their vehicles in a safe and responsible manner."


Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/6/2011)