Volvo Announces Pricing of All New S80  
IRVINE, Calif., /PRNewswire/ -- Volvo Cars of North America, LLC (VCNA) announces pricing of the all new 2007 Volvo S80 sedan.

"The all new Volvo S80 is very aggressively priced in its segment while offering the latest in terms of safety, technology, design and performance," says Anne Belec, president and CEO, Volvo Cars of North America. "This all new car represents Volvo's on-going commitment to offering outstanding value in the premium segment."

The all new S80, Volvo's flagship sedan, enters the very competitive North American marketplace with elegant styling, two highly sophisticated new engine choices, a long list of breakthrough safety technologies and a premium driving experience -- all packaged in an aura of 'Scandinavian luxury.'

The all new Volvo S80 will be the first Volvo sedan with a V8 engine, as well as the first sedan with the highly sophisticated new Volvo in-line 6-cylinder engine. Both are mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with Geartronic sequential shifting. All Volvo S80 V8s with be equipped with the electronically controlled Volvo All-Wheel-Drive feature, while the I6 S80 will be front-wheel drive.

The highly refined ride and handling of the all new Volvo S80 can be attributed to an extremely rigid chassis structure. Performance and the drive experience are enhanced by the available Four C active suspension, adjustable steering force levels, and a host of measures that help keep noise, vibration, harshness and road irregularities from intruding into the luxurious interior.

The first generation Volvo S80, the first car to achieve 5-star crash test ratings for all tests in the United States, pioneered such safety innovations as the Inflatable Curtain (IC) and Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS) seating. The next generation S80 again raises the bar in safety.

Innovations in passive safety include a new side airbag with dual chamber construction for enhanced hip and chest protection, clever structural design that uses four different grades of steel for predictable crash energy absorption, the next generation of WHIPS rear impact protection and new approaches to pedestrian safety.

An Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system with Collision Warning and Brake Support is one of many highly advanced systems available on the all new Volvo S80. Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) and the Personal Car Communicator (PCC), the world's first remote car monitor, and swiveling bi-Xenon headlights are additional comfort and convenience features available.

For the more demanding customers, there is a comprehensive list of additional features available: A Sports Package, which includes 18" wheels, ventilated seats and more; An Audio Package, with an impressive 5x130W, 12-speaker Dynaudio system; A Climate Package, with heated seats and other features to help adapt to inclement conditions.

"The all new S80 will further enhance Volvo's position in the luxury segment, by integrating technology and design into a car that is inviting, intelligent and, accessible," says Belec.

Approximately 45 percent of production for Volvo's "Scandinavian Luxury" will target the United States and Canada.

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)

CII to hold expo on auto services  
The Confederation of Indian Industry will hold an exhibition-cum-seminar event in Chennai focussing on repair and maintenance of the automotive industry, between November 11 and 13.

Auto Serv 2006 will expose visitors to the trends in India in automotive repairs and maintenance, service infrastructure and garage equipment.

Announcing this at a press conference here on Monday, Mr R. Dinesh, Chairman, Auto Serv 2006 and Executive Director, T.V. Sundram Iyengar & Sons Ltd, said that the value of automotive service business in India, including spare parts, was about Rs 20,000 crore.

India today has close to nine crore vehicles on its roads and the vehicular population is growing at over 12.6 per cent a year, he said.

The automotive service industry was also a very large employment provider, a fact not much recognised, he said.

The conference, the second in what CII hopes will be a bi-annual event, will also feature seminars and workshops on fleet management, tyre car and dealers and mechanics meets.

Mr R. Seshasayee, President, CII and Managing Director, Ashok Leyland, is scheduled to deliver the keynote address.

The organisers expect over 100 exhibitors and over 30,000 visitors.

Source : Business Line (Online Edition) (10/11/2006)

Delphi to Evaluate Strategic Alternatives for Power Products  
Delphi Corporation announced today that it has identified its power products business as a non-core operation.

Management responsibility for the power products business -- which develops and manufactures power lift gates, power deck lids, power sliding doors, and power cinching latches and strikers -- will be transitioned to Delphi's Automotive Holdings Group.

As a result of this decision, Delphi will begin evaluating strategic alternatives for the Power Products business, including the potential sale of this business.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

Integral ABS from Continental Automotive Systems is Successfully Launched in Eight...  
FRANKFURT and COLOGNE, Germany, /PRNewswire/ -- The Motorcycle Integral Brake System (MIB), jointly developed by Continental Automotive Systems and BMW, has been successfully launched in eight K- and R-series motorcycles. The smallest electronically controlled integral brake system in the world is now being offered as standard or at extra cost on the R1200 GS, GS Adventure, RT and R boxer models and on the four-cylinder K1200 S, R and GT models. Due to its innovative valve technology, the MIB is especially effective during reduced vibration of the brake lever. It also offers additional functions for improved driving safety.

Ideal brake force distribution, rear wheel lift-off protection and traction control

The MIB from Continental Automotive Systems generates pressure in the wheel brake without the need for a brake booster and therefore does not make a loud noise. The continuously variable (analogue-controlled) activation of the innovative valves allows a smooth and hence extra effective modulation of the brake pressure. Less brake fluid has to be pumped back and forth during ABS intervention than with conventional valves. The driver feels the difference immediately: the brake lever vibrates just enough to show that there is ABS activity. Originally developed for brake systems on passenger cars, this valve technology also enables the motorcyclist to obtain the maximum possible deceleration, even on poor road surfaces.

The MIB used by BMW is a partially integrated ABS system. The rider controls the rear wheel brake using the brake pedal alone. The pressure for the front wheel brake is generated using the hand lever, while the ABS electric pump specially adapted for this partially integrated system actively increases the pressure on the rear wheel brake. The integrated rear wheel lift-off protection (RLP) represents a further safety benefit. It briefly stops the pressure build-up or gently reduces the pressure in the front braking circuit whenever the wheel speed sensors indicate that rear wheel lift-off is imminent. This maintains the minimum load on the rear wheel necessary for lateral guidance and prevents an imminent rollover within the bounds of physical possibility. In addition, the MIB supplies data from the wheel speed sensors to the engine management system via the CAN bus. This means that BMW can provide an electronically controlled traction control system that reduces the engine output before lateral stability is lost during acceleration.

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)

Veri-Tek International, Corp. Announces Anticipated Third Quarter Sales Attributabl...  
WIXOM, Mich., /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Veri-Tek International, Corp. ("Veri-Tek" or the "Company") today announced that based on current information, it anticipates that sales from its recently acquired subsidiary, Manitex, Inc., for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2006, will be approximately $19 million and $67 million, respectively.

The Company also anticipates that operating margin of its Manitex subsidiary for the quarter ended September 30, 2006, will be approximately 7.5%.

Outlook for Manitex for the Remainder of 2006 and 2007

Fourth quarter sales of our Manitex subsidiary for 2006 are expected to be approximately $18 million or slightly less than the third quarter due to fewer production days available in the fourth quarter, but operating margins are expected to continue their gradual improvement. We anticipate that this will result in anticipated sales attributable to our Manitex subsidiary of approximately $37 million for the second half of fiscal 2006 or a 23% increase over such sales for the first six months of 2006.

Veri-Tek expects this momentum to carryover into 2007, when it expects sales of its Manitex subsidiary to be in the range of $75 - $77.5 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007. Operating margins relating to the Manitex subsidiary are expected to continue to improve during this period to a range of 8.0% to 8.5%.

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)

Volvo Announces Pricing of All New 2007 S80  
Volvo Cars of North America, LLC (VCNA) announces pricing of the all new 2007 Volvo S80 sedan.

"The all new Volvo S80 is very aggressively priced in its segment while offering the latest in terms of safety, technology, design and performance," says Anne Belec, president and CEO, Volvo Cars of North America. "This all new car represents Volvo's on-going commitment to offering outstanding value in the premium segment."

The all new S80, Volvo's flagship sedan, enters the very competitive North American marketplace with elegant styling, two highly sophisticated new engine choices, a long list of breakthrough safety technologies and a premium driving experience -- all packaged in an aura of 'Scandinavian luxury.'

The all new Volvo S80 will be the first Volvo sedan with a V8 engine, as well as the first sedan with the highly sophisticated new Volvo in-line 6-cylinder engine. Both are mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with Geartronic sequential shifting. All Volvo S80 V8s with be equipped with the electronically controlled Volvo All-Wheel-Drive feature, while the I6 S80 will be front-wheel drive.

The highly refined ride and handling of the all new Volvo S80 can be attributed to an extremely rigid chassis structure. Performance and the drive experience are enhanced by the available Four C active suspension, adjustable steering force levels, and a host of measures that help keep noise, vibration, harshness and road irregularities from intruding into the luxurious interior.

The first generation Volvo S80, the first car to achieve 5-star crash test ratings for all tests in the United States, pioneered such safety innovations as the Inflatable Curtain (IC) and Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS) seating. The next generation S80 again raises the bar in safety.

Innovations in passive safety include a new side airbag with dual chamber construction for enhanced hip and chest protection, clever structural design that uses four different grades of steel for predictable crash energy absorption, the next generation of WHIPS rear impact protection and new approaches to pedestrian safety.

An Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system with Collision Warning and Brake Support is one of many highly advanced systems available on the all new Volvo S80. Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) and the Personal Car Communicator (PCC), the world's first remote car monitor, and swiveling bi-Xenon headlights are additional comfort and convenience features available.

For the more demanding customers, there is a comprehensive list of additional features available: A Sports Package, which includes 18" wheels, ventilated seats and more; An Audio Package, with an impressive 5x130W, 12-speaker Dynaudio system; A Climate Package, with heated seats and other features to help adapt to inclement conditions.

"The all new S80 will further enhance Volvo's position in the luxury segment, by integrating technology and design into a car that is inviting, intelligent and, accessible," says Belec.

Approximately 45 percent of production for Volvo's "Scandinavian Luxury" will target the United States and Canada.

* pricing does not include destination charges of $695.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

Euro 4 deadline drove September UK truck registrations growth  
Figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders show that heavy truck registrations boomed ahead of the 1 October deadline for Euro 4. Overall, September commercial vehicle registrations were up 3.1% to 53,530 for the year-to-date while the rolling year total was down 1.7% to 388,043 units.

“Heavy truck registrations boomed in September,” said Christopher Macgowan, SMMT chief executive. “Operators scrambled to beat the 1 October deadline for Euro 4 emissions and to catch the last of the Reduced Pollution Certificates that can cut road tax by up to £500 for greener trucks. Sadly the UK is now one of the few countries in Europe that fails to offer hauliers incentives to run those extra-green trucks. With this market distortion, we’ll see lower figures to the end of the year, but the overall total will still be very healthy and close to last year’s.”

Source : http://www.autoindustry.co.uk (10/10/2006)

Automotive Skills chief executive leaves suddenly  
Patricia Richards, the chief executive of Automotive Skills, has left the motor traders sector skills council Automotive Skills with immediate effect, Motor Trader’s web site reported yesterday, adding that no reason was given for her departure and that an interim management team, headed by Institute of the Motor Industry chief executive Sarah Sillars, has been appointed.

Ms Sillars said Patricia Richard’s departure was not linked to the prosecution of former Automotive Skills corporate affairs director James Munroe, alleged to have embezzled funds from the body.

Automotive Skills Limited is the Sector Skills Council for the retail motor industry, charged by government and employers with leading the drive to boost competitiveness through skills development. It recently mounted a series of regional road shows to consult businesses on their training priorities.

Source : http://www.autoindustry.co.uk (10/10/2006)

International Automotive Components completes Mitsuboshi acquisition  
Wilbur L. Ross, chairman of International Automotive Components Group, has announced the completion of IAC’s previously proposed acquisition of Mitsuboshi Belting Kaseihin Co. Ltd. from Mitsuboshi Belting, Ltd. The three MBK manufacturing facilities in Japan supply automotive interior and exterior plastic parts to every major OEM in Japan, including Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Calsonic Kansei and Mitsubishi.

MBK's $170 million in sales will bring total IAC Group revenues to more than $1.5 billion in Eastern and Western Europe, Brazil, Argentina and Japan. The transaction will enable MBK to follow its OEM customers overseas for the first time.

Wilbur Ross has recently become one of the foremost consolidators in the automotive supplier sector, assembling through acquisitions three groups of suppliers in allied fields together to create a new, large-scale Tier 1 force under the banner International Automotive Components LLC. He is CEO of the investment firm WL Ross & Co, which last week was acquired by Amvescap plc.

In an interview with Bloomberg News yesterday Mr Ross said he was in negotiations to purchase eight US-based companies and two in other markets, but declined to give specifics. IAC bought Collins & Aikman's European operations in May this year and agreed in July to acquire Lear’s European automotive interiors business. He has also indicated interest in acquiring US-based business units from the same companies, but is also targeting India for further automotive acquisitions.

Source : http://www.autoindustry.co.uk (10/10/2006)

Hyundai Marketing Exec Moves On  
The AIADA newsletter reported that Hyundai Motor America Vice President of Marketing, Michelle Cervantez, left the automaker last week, according to Automotive News.

Cervantez, who spent 15 years at Ford, serving as marketing VP for Jaguar for a stint and then moved into the role of marketing VP for Mercedes-Benz, had held the post at Hyundai since August 2005.

Details of her departure were not immediately available. Cervantez leaves Hyundai less than two months after the arrival of COO Steve Wilhite, a marketing and advertising veteran who had been senior vice president of global marketing at Nissan and played a key role in Volkswagen of America's revitalization in the mid-1990s.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

Autoindustry posts new feature on sustainability reporting  
Measuring sustainability in the UK automotive sector is the title of the latest feature posted on this website. The feature discusses the Society of Motor Manufacturers’ and Traders (SMMT) latest and seventh annual report on the environmental impacts of automotive manufacturing in the UK. The SMMT’s latest report contains 40 pages of data drawn from its 20 manufacturer signatories’ activities, which can be downloaded from a link within the article.

The data cover 26 key environmental, employment and economic performance measures, plus reference to other statistical sources covering vehicles’ environmental performance in use, safety-related statistics, and the measures in place to enhance sustainability in future. These include industry-government collaboration (such as the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership, LowCVP) and legislation on issues such as vehicles’ CO2 and noxious emissions standards.

Source : http://www.autoindustry.co.uk (10/10/2006)

WITH SIX TO GO, GORDON STILL HAS A SHOT AT FIFTH TITLE  
Although the situation is not as bad as he initially thought, Jeff Gordon and Team DuPont still face an uphill battle entering this Saturday night's Bank of America 500 at Lowe's Motor Speedway.

Following two third-place finishes in the first two races of the "Chase for NASCAR NEXTEL Cup," Gordon was second in the point standings and only six out of the lead. A fuel pump failure at Kansas Speedway dropped him to sixth in the "Chase" and, after being involved in an accident at Talladega Superspeedway, the four-time NASCAR Cup Series champion thought his 2006 title chances were over.

"It's pretty much done for us, as far as I'm concerned," Gordon said from the garage area at Talladega Superspeedway while the crew worked to repair his battered No. 24 DuPont Chevrolet. "Our chances are pretty slim to win the championship, if not completely done. "A lot can still happen, but we're going to take a hit." And a lot did happen. Points leader Jeff Burton encountered trouble of his own and finished 27th, while Chase contenders Dale Earnhardt, Jr., and Jimmie Johnson were involved in a last lap accident while battling for the lead and finished 23rd and 24th, respectively.

Gordon dropped only one spot in the standings after the smoke cleared, and lost only 27 points to the leader. A fifth championship is still attainable, but Gordon and Team DuPont will have to turn things around at a track where they have struggled recently.

In 27 starts at the North Carolina track, Gordon has captured four wins (including his first Cup victory in 1994), seven poles (including his first Cup pole in 1993 and five straight in the May event from 1994 - 1998), 13 top-fives and 15 top-10's. But his last three finishes here have been 30th, 38th and 36th - all due to accidents.

"We've run well here recently and led some laps, we just haven't finished the job," said Gordon. "Whether it's been mechanical failure or being collected in an accident, I've hit too many walls here recently."

The No. 24 team will use chassis No. 24-387 in Saturday night's 500-mile event. It visited Victory Lane earlier this year at Chicagoland, and Gordon also drove it to top-five finishes at California and Michigan.

"This has been a good car for us, and I hope it works well for us again this weekend," said Gordon. "We've started to run a lot better at the intermediate tracks, and that's why I'm looking forward to this race.

"This DuPont team is capable of winning races, and that's what we're going to try to do this weekend.

"That's the best way to get ourselves back in the championship hunt."

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

Car sales grow 22%, bike sales zoom 25% in Sept  
NEW DELHI: Even before the festive mood getting into full swing, automakers are having a ball. Industry sales figures for September indicate that automakers are up for a gala time.

According to the latest figures released by Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), car sales are up by 22.4% and bike sales by about 25% last month.

Passenger vehicle sales, including cars, utility vehicles and multi-utility vehicles, were up by 21.4% with 121,499 units sold in total. Nearly 94,734 passenger cars were sold this September as against 77,384 units last year. Two-wheelers too saw a big-bang start for the festive season.

The Motorcycle segment clocked a high growth of about 25%. However, number-crunchers have pointed out to the shrinking entry-level segment.

“In ‘01-02, the 100-cc segment was contributing nearly 94% volumes to the total motorcycle volumes. In ‘05-06, it is down to 72%. The second quarter figures, for this fiscal, show that the segment has further shrunk to 67%,” said a source.

The scooter sales growth has been flat. The total two-wheelers segment clocked a growth of about 18.8%, selling 7.78 lakh units during the month. Commercial vehicles clocked a growth of about 33.5% at 42,400 units. During April-September ‘06, passenger car sales were up by 22.84% at 503,249 units. Passenger vehicles clocked 20.73% growth in the first six months of this fiscal, selling 641,341 units as against 531,202 units in H1 of FY06.

Motorcycles have clocked a growth of 18.53% during April-September ‘06. Two-wheeler sales are up by 15.49% for the period at about 38.15 lakh units. Commercial vehicles have clocked a growth of about 37% at 206,222 units

Source : Economic Times (10/11/2006)

Domestic car sales up 22% in September  
NEW DELHI: Car sales in September grew 22.42 per cent in the domestic market at 94,734 units as against 77,384 units in the corresponding month last year.

According to figures released by Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), sales of commercial vehicles in September 2006 was 42,400 units against 31,749 units, a growth of 33.54 per cent.

Motorcycle sales stood at 6,72,570 units, growing by 24.80 per cent over 5,38,889 units in September 2005.

Total two-wheeler sales, including scooters and mopeds, were at 7,78,865 units against 6,55,210 units, growing by 18.87 per cent.

Source : Economic Times (10/10/2006)

L200 range expands  
Mitsubishi has extended its L200 pick-up range with a new Club Cab version and options pack.

The Club Cab is a two-door model like the Single Cab, but provides seating for four instead of two with a rear bench. It's available in basic 4Work trim as well as 4Life specification, which features air-conditioning, front electric windows and central locking, and Warrior format with its leather seats, alloy wheels and styling extras.

Prices start at £15,011 and rise to £19,067, so the Club Cab is between £1054 and £1116 cheaper than a Double Cab.

A £2000 upgrade pack for the Double Cab Elegance model has also been launched. It boosts power output from 134bhp to 165bhp and includes a range of styling extras, including a lower front grille and stainless steel steps.

Source : http://www.whatcar.co.uk (10/10/2006)

Mitsubishi extends L200 pick-up range  
October sees Mitsubishi's range of L200 pick-ups extended to include two important new variants in the shape of the Club Cab and the Single Cab Tipper.

With four body-styles launched and a wide range of specifications available, Mitsubishi now boasts the most comprehensive range of pick-ups on the market.

To promote this fact, every Mitsubishi dealership in the UK will take part in a dedicated 4x4 commercial vehicle week, during which dealers will display a range of commercial vehicles on their forecourts and will have a whole host of contract hire and finance deals on offer to customers.

The Club Cab is the latest addition to Mitsubishi's line-up of L200 pick-ups. Initially launched in March 2006, the new L200 featured single and double cab versions. Available in 4Work, 4Life and Warrior variations, all Club Cabs feature a 2.5-litre turbo-diesel engine and come with easy-select four-wheel-drive plus rear diff-lock across the range.

The L200 Tipper has been created in conjunction with one of the UK's most respected conversion companies, Southampton-based VFS. The combination of the L200's driver-friendly cockpit together with the practicality of a flat-bed tipper at the rear creates a vehicle which is as competent on the road as it is on a construction site. Added to this is the real benefit of its easy-select four-wheel-drive system, enabling access and driving safety when the going gets tough.

The L200 currently takes 37% overall market share and an impressive 52% of the retail sector.

Mitsubishi's 4x4 Commercial Vehicle Week will take place at all UK dealerships between 4th and 12th November.

Source : http://www.newcarnet.co.uk (10/10/2006)

Delphi to Evaluate Strategic Alternatives for Power Products  
TROY, Mich., PRNewswire/ -- Delphi Corporation announced today that it has identified its power products business as a non-core operation.

Management responsibility for the power products business -- which develops and manufactures power lift gates, power deck lids, power sliding doors, and power cinching latches and strikers -- will be transitioned to Delphi's Automotive Holdings Group.

As a result of this decision, Delphi will begin evaluating strategic alternatives for the Power Products business, including the potential sale of this business.

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)

BMW on Top, Hyundai Leads Toyota, GM Poised for Success: Strategic Vision Announces 2006 Total Value Winners  
Hyundai leads over many brands, including Toyota. GM proves that Asian and European makers are not out of reach. BMW and MINI top all brands as Total Value leaders. These are a few of the results from Strategic Vision’s Total Value Index (TVI), which factors economic issues against the total new vehicle ownership experience. The San Diego-based research firm announced today the winners of its Total Value Awards, which reflect that true value is about much more than the cheapest deal. Reliability, a solid warranty, strong anticipated resale value, durability, and innovation are all part of the definition of “total value.”

Hyundai and Kia continue to produce nicely styled, high quality products, backed by solid warranties, and the results are four leaders in Total Value for 2006. The new Kia Optima and Hyundai Azera were Total Value leaders in their respective car segments, and the Kia Sedona tops the Honda Odyssey in the minivan category. The Hyundai Tucson was also at the top of Small Sport Utilities (tied with the Saturn Vue). The challenge for both Hyundai and Kia remains consideration on buyers shopping lists, and success rests on communicating foundational issues of expected reliability and durability along with clear cues of quality.

Toyota remains solid with several models performing relatively well in Total Value and three leaders in 2006 from its Scion and Lexus brands. The Scion brand continues strongly, with the xB proving that vehicles can continue to deliver value throughout their production cycle; Total Value is not exclusively the domain of new releases.

GM was the top domestic corporation, and presented four 2006 Total Value winners. The Chevrolet Corvette Coupe and Convertible, Saturn Vue, and Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500 lead in Total Value in their respective segments. With the introduction of a five year 100,000-mile warranty, GM is poised for significant gain if the Total Value message is clearly recognized and communicated for individual models. “GM’s new warranty will bring new prospective buyers to the brand, who otherwise might have felt the quality, durability and value was missing,” said Alexander Edwards, president of Strategic Vision automotive research group. “If GM can communicate the right quality cues and value in current and future vehicles, then they will be poised for success in the near future.”

BMW and MINI lead all brands in Total Value for 2006. Perennial value leader MINI Cooper leads its segment for the fifth year running, and was the overall Total Value winner among all vehicles and segments. With the 3-Series and Cooper Convertible leading Total Value in their segments, BMW and MINI demonstrate that winning requires a formula for success. BMW and MINI buyers had the highest levels of believed resale value, validated by outside sources, and BMW’s Ultimate Service program differentiates it from other luxury brands.

Honda is the top full-line corporation in Total Value, with one of the highest expected reliability scores among its owners and each Honda model excelling in that area. Honda Civic, Accord Coupe, and Pilot lead Total Value in their respective segments. The Honda Ridgeline leads in its segment, proving that delivering superior product experience, innovative features and standard equipment can overcome the hurdle of premium pricing to deliver total value.

Nissan had three Total Value leaders, including the Xterra and Armada. It also achieved a milestone with the Titan replacing the Ford F-150 as the Total Value winner in full-size pickups. Innovation and the level of standard equipment helped nudge Titan ahead in a tightly contested segment.

“The calculation of Total Value clearly incorporates explicit statements that owners make about value, but those statements do not alone provide sufficient differentiation to give us the diagnostic power we want or to be able to herald one brand or vehicle as the leader in a segment,” says Strategic Vision Founder and CEO Darrel Edwards, Ph.D. “By incorporating the importance of the variables that make up the experience and the economic factors which impact the perception of value, we find convergent, stable indices of True Value.”

“Total Value is absolutely critical now in the US market. It is even important for brands with strong reputations, but is critical for everyone else. Total Value is more than price paid or deal, and it is more than initial quality (TGW) divided by price -- which some profess. Total Value encompasses the complete ownership experience with emotional components and priorities. Not all things are equal. Building Total Value is strongly related to brand reputation. It reinforces the notion of a ‘smart buy.’ In a mature market where consumers have a variety of excellent choices, yet concern for fuel economy and getting the most for their money, Total Value influences the purchase,” concluded Alexander Edwards, President of Strategic Vision, Automotive Group.

The Total Value Study surveyed over 64,000 new vehicle buyers who purchased their vehicles between October 2005 and March 2006, asking an extensive array of questions about their first 90 days of ownership.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

October 15 - 21, 2006, is National School Bus Safety Week  
NAPERVILLE, Ill., /PRNewswire/ -- With another school year in full swing, the safety experts at Laidlaw Education Services, North America's largest student transportation company, would like to take a moment to recognize National School Bus Safety Week October 15-21, by reminding all motorists to "Stop for the Bus!"

One of the most frequent violations involving other vehicles on the road and school buses is the failure of motorists to stop when they encounter a school bus that is stopped with its red lights flashing and stop arm and front crossing gate extended while boarding or unloading children.

Not only are motorists required by law to stop for school buses, they also must wait until the lights stop flashing, the stop arm and gate are retracted and the bus begins moving before they can start driving again.

Violation of this law can put children boarding or leaving the school bus in danger.

At Laidlaw, the safety of the students we transport is our top priority. We want to thank our professional drivers for keeping our communities' children safe. We have tremendous respect for the work they do and the responsibility they carry. We also want to recognize school administrators for their commitment to the safe transportation of their students.

As a leader in the student transportation industry, we realize the importance of reminding motorists of the school bus stop law to ensure the 24 million children who ride school buses each day can enjoy a safe trip to and from school.

Please join us in urging all motorists -- not only during National School Bus Safety Week but everyday -- to "Stop for the Bus!"

Laidlaw Transit, Inc. d/b/a Laidlaw Education Services is North America's largest provider of student transportation services operating in 37 states and 6 Canadian provinces. Headquartered in Naperville, Ill., Laidlaw has a modern fleet of more than 40,000 school buses and a daily passenger load of more than 2 million school children.

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)

Hyundai Azera and Tucson Named Best-in-Segment in Strategic Vision 2006 Total Value...  
FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., PRNewswire/ -- The Hyundai Azera and Hyundai Tucson were each named winners in the Strategic Vision 2006 Total Value Awards. Survey results placed the Azera atop the large car segment, and Tucson in a tie (with the Saturn Vue) for the top spot in the small sport utility vehicle segment. The Strategic Vision poll surveyed more than 64,000 new vehicle buyers after 90 days of ownership. Results from this information spotlight vehicles that give drivers the best economic value paired with the highest emotional satisfaction.

Consumers were asked an array of questions about their ownership experience including buying, owning and driving their new vehicles, as well as questions about their economic expectations of the car. The Hyundai Azera and Tucson outclassed competitor vehicles with a combination of distinct styling, outstanding safety features, and the Hyundai Advantage, America's Best Warranty(TM).

"We're proud that the Azera and Tucson lead their segments in balancing economic value with emotional satisfaction," said John Krafcik, vice president of Product Development and Strategic Planning, Hyundai Motor America. "It's quite a feat to provide consumers with the best of both worlds, and the Hyundai model lineup offers the right mix of comfort and convenience features, paired with standard safety technologies and unbeatable value, to appeal to consumers on both an emotional and economic level."

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through 725 dealerships nationwide.

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)

Shoppers Increasingly Turn to Manufacturer and Editorial Content Sites to Research New Vehicles  
New-vehicle buyers are relying more on manufacturer and dealer Web sites throughout their shopping process at the expense of portals and many independent Web sites, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2006 New Autoshopper.com Study(SM) released today.

The study, which measures the shopping habits of 28,989 actual new-vehicle buyers, has shown a shift in the focus of online vehicle shopping over the years from finding the right vehicle price to finding the right vehicle. A record high of 87 percent of automotive Internet users (AIUs) are visiting at least one manufacturer site, and they are visiting a greater number of them. By comparison, only 77 percent of AIUs visit an independent automotive Web site -- down from the 2004 peak of 80 percent.

"Generally speaking, the independent Web sites that shoppers find extremely useful are increasing in visitation or at least holding steady," said Dennis Galbraith, executive director of digital marketing solutions at J.D. Power and Associates. "However, consumer expectations are increasing faster than many independent Web sites are improving. The result is lower satisfaction ratings for relatively stagnant sites in terms of new content and less visitation by actual buyers. Instead, consumers are visiting several manufacturer sites during the shopping process to gather the information they need."

The automotive sections of large portals all experienced significant declines in site visitation from 2005, although Yahoo! Autos remains one of the industry's most visited automotive Web sites. Some of the better-known shopping sites of the past, such as CarsDirect.com and Autobytel.com, are steadily declining in site visitation by actual new-vehicle buyers. At the same time, some of the most visited shopping sites, including AutoTrader.com, cars.com, Consumer Reports.org, Edmunds.com, and Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com are helping shoppers find the right vehicle and are attracting as many or more new-vehicle buyers than ever before.

"Many independent sites start by asking the shopper 'what make and model are you looking for?' in exchange for pricing information," said Galbraith. "The problem is that many shoppers need help determining which vehicle is right for them. Shoppers know that first-year depreciation is going to cost them many thousands of dollars. They know how important it is to buy the right vehicle -- one that is going to meet their needs for some time to come. The cost of buying the wrong vehicle is generally far greater than the cost of poor negotiating. It is not a surprise that shoppers are moving away from sites that want to turn them into request-for-quote leads with little or no help offered to find the right vehicle."

The study finds that shoppers are relying more on manufacturer Web sites for vehicle information, commonly visiting a number of manufacturer sites before they buy. Among AIUs, 74 percent rely on manufacturer sites the most for options and features information -- the highest percentage yet recorded.

With a record 67.5 percent of new-vehicle buyers using the Internet in their online shopping process, visitation to vehicle brand Web sites has become extremely important to manufacturers' marketing efforts. The study finds that online shoppers who visit a brand site are far more likely to purchase that brand than are AIUs who do not. However, the site's impact on the shopper's vehicle choice is not the only variable impacting this relationship. Vehicle image as well as online and offline advertising remain important. If the desire for the vehicle is strong enough that the brand site is the first site visited, the chance of that brand getting the sale roughly doubles.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

Delphi to cut 300 jobs in French air con compressor plant  
Delphi is to cut 300 jobs by the end of next year at its Flers-en-Escrebieux air conditioning equipment plant in Northern France, ascribing the cuts to declining demand for traditional aircon compressors and fierce price competition. The job losses will occur in two phases, in April and then August 2007, according to French press reports yesterday.

Source : http://www.autoindustry.co.uk (10/10/2006)

ARM launches fault-tolerant processor for auto-electronics development  
The Cambridge-based electronics firm ARM Ltd announced at this week’s Fall Processor Forum in San Jose, California, the new ARM Cortex-R4F processor designed to reduce the cost and design-time of future automotive electronic technology. The Cortex-R4F processor will enable ARM users to meet the requirements of automotive applications including next-generation anti-lock braking (ABS) and vehicle stability systems.

The features of the Cortex-R4F processor specialised for the automotive market include support for Error-Correcting Code (ECC) memory, the extension of error detection into the interconnect and a synthesis-optional Floating-Point Unit (FPU). Source : http://www.autoindustry.co.uk (10/10/2006)

SupplierBusiness.com ethics survey: corruption is a serious issue in automotive sector  
Yesterday’s (7th) issue of the UK-based ‘SupplierBusiness Insight’ newsletter includes an ethics survey which suggests that although the industry is mostly managing its purchasing relations in an ethical manner, suppliers are unsure about what the guidelines of many of their customers really are. And a significant minority of suppliers believe that the kind of corruption that has come to light recently (e.g. with the resignation of Faurecia’s CEO Pierre Levi) is ‘fairly’ or ‘very’ typical of the industry.

Suppliers were divided about how typical such corruption is in the automotive industry. Fifty two percent of respondents said that bribery is not common, but the remainder thought that improper inducements do play a significant role. Indeed, 20% of those surveyed thought that bribery was either typical or very typical. Our respondents thought that the challenge was one for the whole industry. Despite the marked variation in opinion concerning the extent of bribery, there was a consensus (76%) that this issue should be addressed by both suppliers and carmakers.

So far, four carmakers and six suppliers have been questioned in the current investigations conducted by German authorities into allegations of corruption and bribery. The first conviction was that of Günther Link, a former BMW purchasing manager, who was sentenced to three years imprisonment, having admitted taking money from suppliers for providing inside information and influencing the decision-making process on new projects.

It has also been revealed that at least thirty individuals, across four OEMs and six suppliers, have been questioned in connection with these and other charges. The four manufacturers are Volkswagen, Audi, SEAT and BMW. The six suppliers are Lear, Intier, Dräxlmaier, Grammer, M&H (Automotive Interior World, as of December 05) and Faurecia. During the investigation, prosecutors questioned two other former BMW managers, together with more than 20 current and former supplier employees and their representatives. Up to nine people have been taken into custody and released. The allegations are currently centred on two separate cases of bribery and corruption in Frankfurt and Munich.

Source : http://www.autoindustry.co.uk (10/10/2006)

Lexus Presents Contemporary Art Exhibitions :The 460 Degrees Gallery: Light, Speed and Innovation  
There is no map to innovation. The path to invention is laid with passion, confidence and, above all, uncommon vision. Those are the guiding principles behind "Light and Speed" at The 460 Degrees Gallery, a one-of-a-kind contemporary art experience Lexus is presenting this fall and winter in Los Angeles, New York, Miami and Chicago.

Sebastien Agneessens, a prominent New York-based curator for the contemporary arts, curated the multi-media exhibition that brings together some of the freshest talents on the contemporary art scene. Shamim Momin, associate curator at the Whitney Museum of American Art, served as executive consultant. "Light and Speed" features conceptual photography by Miranda Lichtenstein, video art by Pascual Sisto and an architectural installation by Arne Quinze.

During its limited engagement in each city, The 460 Degrees Gallery will host gala events, public seminars, premium tastings and presentations by luxury retailers. The gallery opens in Los Angeles for a two-week run on October 20. "The idea of 460 Degrees is that there's more to discover beyond what we see or even imagine can be," says Agneessens.

The event is the first of its kind for Lexus, which is mounting "Light and Speed" at The 460 Degrees Gallery to showcase the launch of its all-new 2007 LS 460 luxury sedan. "We wanted to do something that celebrates reinvention and Lexus' heightened focus on design," said Deborah Meyer, vice president of marketing for Lexus. "The show is all about forward thinking and looking beyond the obvious, which perfectly represents the redesign of Lexus' flagship sedan."

The 460 Degrees Gallery in Los Angeles will be located at 269 N. Beverly Drive in Beverly Hills. The exhibition manifesto and further details are available at www.460degrees.com.

A Look Inside The 460 Degrees Gallery

A towering vortex of wood. Hypnotic video images of moving cars. Photographs chronicling the age-old quest for higher meaning and self-discovery. As Agneessens put it, entering "Light and Speed" at The 460 Degrees Gallery is like "journeying into a dream."

The exhibition space is dominated by "Timegate," Arne Quinze's massive spiral structure made of 3,300 pinewood planks, an installation that required more than three miles of wood and 26,600 nails. Quinze, a Belgian artist perhaps best known for his breakthrough designs for the Burning Man festival, said, "I want this work to be an experience out of time. Since it's a piece of art you walk into, it goes beyond visual understanding. This is an experience of sensuality and of deep feelings."

At the base of Quinze's vortex is a video installation by Barcelona-born artist Pascual Sisto, who now resides in Los Angeles. "Push/Pull" is his homage to American car culture: on one video screen, a kaleidoscopic vision of white headlights approaches in silence; on the other, red taillights speed away. "Living in L.A., most of my best ideas come to me while driving, and my imagery takes shape in the car," Sisto said. "The notion here is that driving is a meditative state and the car becomes an extension of one's imagination."

Miranda Lichtenstein also explores the nexus between meditation and machine. In a photographic series titled "The Searchers," the New York-based artist documents various paths that people take to discover higher consciousness. One image, "Anechoic Chamber," shows a man in a soundproof studio at Bell Laboratories that the Guinness Book once called the world's quietest room. "I wanted to create an image of something 'undocumentable' *complete silence," said Lichtenstein, whose other photographs on view document yoga, meditation and shamanic practices.

The 460 Degrees Gallery also presents opportunities for visitors to participate in the discovery process. Touch-screen displays feature in-depth artist interviews and take visitors inside the art-making process. In addition, various public events unfold around the exhibits, including a chocolate tasting seminar sponsored by Teuscher Chocolates & Cafe, glassmaking and silversmithing exhibitions by Micucci, Wired Magazine's "Gadget Lab" and a concierge seminar by Travel + Leisure (Los Angeles only. Events for other cities to be announced. See website for complete list of events and schedule.).

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

Monro Muffler Brake, Inc. Declares Quarterly Cash Dividend  
ROCHESTER, N.Y., /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Monro Muffler Brake, Inc. , a leading provider of automotive undercar repair and tire services, today announced that its Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $.07 per share on the Company's outstanding shares of common stock, including the shares of common stock to which the holders of the Company's Class C Convertible Preferred Stock are entitled. The dividend is payable on October 30, 2006 to shareholders of record at the close of business on October 20, 2006.

Monro Muffler Brake operates a chain of stores providing automotive undercar repair and tire services in the United States, operating under the brand names of Monro Muffler Brake and Service, ProCare, Mr. Tire and Tread Quarters Discount Tires. The Company currently operates 701 stores and has 16 dealer locations in New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Connecticut, Massachusetts, West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, Vermont, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, Indiana, Rhode Island, Delaware, Maine and Michigan. Monro's stores provide a full range of services for exhaust systems, brake systems, steering and suspension systems, tires and many vehicle maintenance services.

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)

Aim: Zero Emissions; Toyota's Drive towards Sustainable Mobility  
Can we enjoy a cleaner environment whilst continuing to drive our cars? Toyota believes that we can. While exhaust emissions are the most visible sign of how cars can negatively affect the environment, every part of a car’s life cycle has an impact. That’s why Toyota applies innovative environmental solutions to car design, manufacture and use, right through to recycling.

“It’s the only way to reach our ultimate aim of zero emissions,” says Eric Drosin, Manager Corporate Communications, Toyota Motor Europe.

Toyota Motor Europe is actively promoting its ‘aim: zero emissions’ ethos through a pan-European print and interactive campaign on leading websites such as iht.com, economist.com, ft.com and nationalgeographic.com. Equally, ‘Green Design’ movies, sponsored by Toyota, highlight cutting-edge environmental technologies which bring tangible benefits to consumers today. These are currently featured on major television channels including Euronews, BBC World and National Geographic.

Toyota has effectively set the pace towards zero emissions vehicles with its hybrid engine technology – the cleanest engine technology on the market. Toyota launched the world’s first mass-produced hybrid car – the Prius – in 1997, and is recognised as the leading manufacturer of hybrid vehicles, with over 750,000 sold to date. Today, Toyota has the most extensive hybrid model line up of any car manufacturer. Within the next few years, Toyota will expand its hybrid model line up two-fold, and expects to sell over 1 million hybrid cars annually by the early 2010s.

The company’s commitment to reducing energy, water, paint and packaging waste during the manufacturing process is designed to further limit environmental impact. The Toyota Production System (TPS) has resulted in tangible environmental benefits across Toyota’s eight European plants: a 37% reduction in energy used to build each car; a 34% reduction in water usage; a 21% reduction in emissions from paint usage; and a significant reduction in packaging waste, by using returnable or recyclable packaging.

Toyota recognises the clear link between mobility, the environment and economic growth, and believes that the growth of its business depends on the success of sustainable mobility.

“Sustainable mobility is good for everyone: consumers, the environment and Toyota,” adds Mr Drosin, “We’re developing advanced technologies in order to protect the environment, as well as ensure our continued growth.”

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

LoJack For Motorcycles Leads Police to Recover More Than $1 Million in Stolen Bikes...  
WESTWOOD, Mass., /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LoJack Corporation , the leading provider of tracking and recovery systems for stolen mobile assets, today announced that in the course of only one month (September), its LoJack For Motorcycles stolen motorcycle recovery system helped law enforcement recover more than $1 million in stolen bikes and accessories. The LoJack system has enabled police to uncover a wide variety of motorcycle-focused, organized crime rings, including several that involved chop shops selling stolen bike parts online. In total, the system has led police to discover nine organized theft rings, recover 82 stolen bikes, as well as stolen vehicles, bike parts, wheels, tools and electronics, and arrest 15 suspects during the month of September.

"Now that LoJack For Motorcycles is available in 25 states nationwide, we're seeing a tremendous increase in the number of recovered motorcycles and related theft rings the system is helping police uncover across the country," said Richard T. Riley, LoJack's President and COO. "With theft rates rising at alarming levels and motorcycle riding experiencing a surge in popularity, we're pleased to provide owners with such a powerful solution that is proving to be an integral part of helping police crack down on bike theft."

Emerging Trend of Chop Shops Selling Stolen Motorcycle Parts Online In the month of September, law enforcement discovered four chop shops in which the thieves were suspected of selling stolen motorcycle parts on online.

Here are the details:

* 13 Harley Davidson motorcycles recovered in a Monterey, CA chop shop -- total value of recovered items $370,000.Chop shop was involved with selling stolen parts online; two suspects were arrested.

* Metric bike chop shop uncovered in Pacoima, CA that was selling stolen bike parts online. Chop shop included six stolen metric bikes, a stolen BMW 528I, and large boxes containing components for Yamaha, Honda and Kawasaki bikes, six front ends, wheels, 12 mufflers, eight gas tanks, six rear wheel assemblies, numerous tools, parts and engines. Two suspects were arrested for chop shop violations and another for selling stolen goods online.

* Motorcycle chop shop in Alhambra, CA with a garage full of motorcycle frames and parts, as well as lap top computers -- all in boxes marked for sale online. Arrested one suspect and investigation in ongoing.

* Sport bikes chop shop in Elgin, IL that uncovered 26 sport motorcycles, motorized racing equipment, motorcycle frames, and tools used to "chop" up the motorcycles and stolen vehicles worth nearly $260,000.

Theft Rates Rise a Full 135 Percent in Past Five Years

According to motorcycle theft statistics release this past July by The National Insurance Crime Bureau, more than 70,000 motorcycles were stolen in 2005, representing a loss of more than $430 million to consumers and insurance companies. While theft statistics for 2005 were relatively flat when compared with 2004, the jump in bike theft is dramatic over the past five years, climbing from approximately 30,000 in 2000 to more than 70,000 in 2005 -- a full 135 percent increase.

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)

New Diesel Fuel Hitting Pumps Nationwide on October 15 Cuts Pollution, Enables New...  
WASHINGTON, PRNewswire/ -- The Natural Resources Defense Council and the Diesel Technology Forum issued the following statement today as EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson showcased the nationwide availability of ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel.

Starting Sunday, operators of more than eight million diesel-powered trucks and buses plying America's streets and highways will be able to fill up with a new, ultra-low sulfur fuel that is 97 percent cleaner than the old formulation it replaces. The new fuel, combined with innovative engine technology, will reduce diesel tailpipe pollution dramatically, with far- reaching clean air benefits, say both industry and environmental organizations.

Cleaner diesel fuel will immediately cut soot emissions from any diesel vehicle by 10 percent. But when combined with a new generation of engines hitting the road in January, it will enable emission reductions of up to 95 percent, according to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and the Diesel Technology Forum (DTF).

"Diesel is the invisible force that moves the American economy, but until now it has also been a big polluter," said Richard Kassel, head of NRDC's Clean Fuels and Vehicles Project. "Combining the new fuel with cleaner and more energy-efficient engines will mean healthier air and help reduce our dependence on oil."

Diesel trucks move 94 percent of the nation's goods -- more than 18 million tons of freight each day. Half a million diesel buses take 14 million people to work and school. The new fuel opens the door for auto companies to begin offering cleaner diesel cars that deliver greater fuel economy.

"Diesel vehicles have always been 20 to 40 percent more energy efficient than comparable gasoline engines," said Allen Schaeffer, DTF executive director. "With the switch to cleaner fuel, consumers will see more fuel- efficient diesel cars, pick-ups and SUVs on showroom floors in the years to come."

Improvements in both the fuel and the engines are required under new federal rules adopted by the Clinton administration and subsequently endorsed and implemented by the Bush administration. The policy was almost a decade in the making, and involved close collaboration between regulators, oil refiners, engine manufacturers and public health advocates to achieve a cost-effective solution.

The diesel clean-up rivals the removal of lead from gasoline a generation ago. "This is what can be achieved when all sides agree to buckle down and hammer out real solutions," Kassel said.

A new 2007 diesel truck will emit just one-sixtieth the soot exhaust of one produced in 1988. And thanks to the new fuel, owners of existing diesel vehicles will have the option to install new emission controls that can reduce soot emissions by more than 90 percent. Together, the new diesel technologies -- cleaner fuel, advanced engines, and new emission controls -- will play a leading role in helping cities and states meet new federal air quality standards over the coming decade.

"Getting industry, environmentalists and regulators around the table together produced better, faster results for everyone involved," Schaeffer added.

Clean, ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel is important because sulfur tends to hamper exhaust-control devices in diesel engines, much the same way lead once impeded the effectiveness of catalytic converters on gasoline cars. Removing the sulfur from diesel will help usher in a new generation of clean diesel technology applications across all vehicle types.

The Natural Resources Defense Council is a national, nonprofit organization of scientists, lawyers and environmental specialists dedicated to protecting public health and the environment. Founded in 1970, NRDC has 1.2 million members and online activists nationwide, served from offices in New York, Washington, Los Angeles and San Francisco.

The Diesel Technology Forum is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting clean diesel technologies. Forum members include engine and vehicle manufacturers, diesel fuel refiners, and manufacturers of emissions control devices.

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)

National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium  
The NAFTC commissioned a national survey of the knowledge and likelihood of consumers to purchase AFVs. The Consortium will reveal the results of this survey and issue a challenge outlining how they plan to overcome consumers' perceived barriers to buying an alternative fuel or advanced technology vehicle.

At the event, The NAFTC will showcase a fleet of these "next generation" vehicles, kicking off National AFV Day Odyssey 2006. Odyssey, a one-day, biennial event, helps to promote important AFV and advanced technology vehicle innovations and awareness. Reporters will have the opportunity to experience first-hand new designs and technology of more than two dozen alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles. WHO: Experts from the following industry companies/organizations will be available to speak to the media at the event:

* National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium (NAFTC), Virginia Clean Cities/Hampton Roads Clean Cities, New West Technologies, LLC, Arlington County Government, Global Electric Motorcars, LLC, U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Department of Energy - National Clean Cities, National Biodiesel Board, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., FuelMaker, Electric Drive Transportation Association, Clean Vehicle Education Foundation, NGVAmerica, Sustainable Energy Strategies Inc., Pohanka Chrysler

The following types of vehicles are scheduled to appear at the media event:

* Hydrogen-Fuel Cell, Neighborhood Electric, Hybrid-Electric, Vehicles Using Biodiesel Fuel, Ethanol Flex Fuel (FFVs), Natural Gas

WHEN:Thursday, October 12th, 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. Vehicles will be available with experts following the kick-off event (11 a.m. - 2 p.m.)

WHERE:Arlington County Court House Plaza: 1425 North Courthouse Road, Arlington, VA 22201 (above the Court House Metro Station)

National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium, founded in 1992, is the only nationwide training organization dedicated to improving air quality and decreasing U.S. dependence on foreign oil. Headquartered at West Virginia University, the NAFTC provides Training with Impact through its experienced instructors and real-world facilities. The Consortium presently consists of 27 training centers nationwide.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

Hero Honda introduces CBZ Xtreme in new avatar  
The biggest producer of two-wheelers in the world, Hero Honda Motors has launched the 150 cc motorcycle, CBZ Xtreme, in a new avatar, reports Business Standard. It is facing stiff competition from its arch rivals Bajaj Auto and TVS Motors.

The company had taken CBZ off the market seven month ago, owing to its low fuel-efficiency and engine troubles and has now refurbished the entire bike.

The two variants, kick-start and self-start models have been priced at Rs 54,500 and Rs 56,500 (ex-showroom Delhi), respectively. Disc brakes and alloy wheel have been made standard fitments on CBZ Xtreme, while the all new engine comes in dark metal grey colour for maximum efficiency on wet road conditions.

Hero Honda`s market share has been slipping in the premium 150 cc segment, and its lone model, Achiever, has failed to project sufficient sales.

It also launched a fuel injected variant (the first in the country) of its Glamour model in the 125 cc segment, in June this year, but failed to fill the vacuum in the 150 cc segment. This is the second offer made by the company.

Moreover, the firm will be launching six more motorcycle models in the remaining financial year.

Xtreme has been jointly developed by nine member teams of Hero Honda and Honda of Japan over a period of six months.

Source : myiris.com (10/10/2006)

VW and Ford Report Strong Sales in 2006  
Both Volkswagen Group and Ford Motor Co yesterday reported robust growth in China sales in the first three quarters of this year.

Volkswagen said in a statement that it sold 524,558 cars in China in the first three quarters, jumping 28.7 percent from a year ago.

The strong sales meant the German carmaker to take a 17.5 percent share of China's passenger car market, slightly more than last year, it said.

"We can state already today that we will achieve all three targets of our Olympic Restructuring Program for this year (in China)," said Winfried Vahland, executive vice-president of Volkswagen Group and president of Volkswagen Group China. The three targets are a stabilized market share, better sales than in 2005 and positive financial results, said Vahland.

Ford yesterday said combined sales of its wholly-owned brands Ford, Lincoln, Volvo, Jaguar and Land Rover rocketed by 105.5 percent year-on-year to 114,685 units from January to September this year.

Cheng Meiwei, vice-president of Ford and chairman of Ford Motor China, said: "Ford Motor Company is poised for an exciting full-year performance in 2006 in China and is ready to continue its rapid growth in 2007."

Other major global carmakers, such as General Motors, Toyota, Honda, Hyundai and PSA Peugeot Citroen, have not yet revealed their China sales figures for the first nine months of this year.

Volkswagen said China sales of the Volkswagen brand division, including its Czech arm Skoda, grew by a quarter to 464,589 units in the period.

Meanwhile, its luxury brand Audi sold 59,883 cars in China, up from 36,086 units in the first three quarters of 2005.

Volkswagen now runs two joint ventures in China with Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp (SAIC) and First Automotive Works Corp (FAW) the nation's top two vehicle manufacturers.

The venture with SAIC makes Volkswagen Santana, Passat, Polo, Gol and Touran cars, and will start to produce Skoda cars next year.

FAW Volkswagen's current lineup includes the Jetta, Golf, Sagitar, Bora and Caddy as well as the Audi A6 and A4.

Ford said China sales under the Ford brand, for passenger cars and commercial vehicles locally produced and imported, surged by 111 percent to 106,237 units in the first three quarters of this year.

The Detroit-based automaker also has two joint ventures with Chang'an Motor Corp China's No 4 vehicle producer and Jiangling Motor Corp, a smaller company.

Chang'an Ford is producing the Mondeo, Focus and Fiesta models and the Volvo S40. The venture with Jiangling is makes the Transit commercial vehicle.

Ford is also building a new car plant in East China with its Japanese affiliate, Mazda Motor, and Chang'an. The new plant will start assembling Ford and Mazda vehicles next year.

Source : http://www.china.org.cn (10/10/2006)

Suzuki Unveils "Hip Hop" Grand Vitara Concept  
ANAHEIM, Calif. — Suzuki rolled out its Hip Hop Grand Vitara, a concept vehicle designed in conjunction with Latino cable network SiTV, during the Orange County auto show this past weekend.

The automaker said the Hip Hop concept is designed to appeal to music enthusiasts, with its customized interior that puts a premium on recording technology.

The vehicle includes a gullwing window with slide-out audio mixing equipment, including a telescoping microphone boom, a drum machine and a digital recorder. The concept also includes an in-dash touchscreen video monitor, a 20-inch video screen in the back door panel, a Nokia 770 Internet tablet and rear exterior-mounted speakers, as well as a spare-tire-mounted subwoofer.

Other details include 20-inch customized painted wheels and chrome antenna housing, exhaust and mirrors. Suzuki said the vehicle was featured recently on the SiTV program The Drop.

Source : http://www.edmunds.com (10/9/2006)

Kia Optima and Sedona Receive Strategic Vision Total Value Awards  
Owners of the all-new Kia Optima sedan (known as 'Magentis' in some countries) and Sedona minivan (known as 'Carnival' in some countries) have expressed extreme satisfaction with their new cars as both products earned top honors in their respective categories in Strategic Vision's 2006 Total Value Index (TVI). The San Diego-based research firm's calculations correlate various economic issues with the overall quality of the ownership experience.

Strategic Vision surveyed more than 64,000 new car buyers who purchased their vehicle between October 2005 and March 2006, asking an array of questions about their first 90 days of ownership. Components of Total Value include reliability, warranty, anticipated resale value and durability.

KIA Optima

"The Total Value Awards are a significant achievement because they are a direct reflection of the positive experience Kia owners are having with their new vehicles," said Len Hunt, executive vice president and COO, Kia Motors America. "The all-new Optima and Sedona offer high levels of comfort, convenience and safety at a tremendous value, and is further proof of the excitement our next generation products are delivering to the brand."

KIA Sedona

The Sedona minivan earned a five-star crash safety rating from the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and was awarded the Gold Top Safety Pick for its impressive performance with top ratings in frontal, side and rear impact crash tests by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Sedona combines great value with a high level of standard features and equipment, including class-leading horsepower, fold-in-the-floor third row seating and three separate climate zones. The first generation Sedona received Strategic Vision Total Value Awards in 2002 and 2004.

With six standard airbags, the new Optima continues Kia's commitment to offering the highest level of standard safety features in all of its vehicles, and the sedan received a "Good" rating - the highest possible - for the rear and frontal offset crash tests from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Completely redesigned in 2006, Optima offers consumers a generous list of desirable features and a distinctive exterior design, blending modern and sporty styling cues for distinctive character both inside and out.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

Examine the Manufacturing Strategies & Technologies of the World's Light Vehicle Manufacturers  
Research and Markets has announced the addition of Light Vehicle Manufacturing - October 2006 Issue to their offering.

Light Vehicle Manufacturing is a dedicated round-up of all the latest global happenings and analysis specific to the manufacturing activities of the world's light vehicle manufacturers.

It covers the following topics:

- Business models - Capacity utilisation - Design - Financial performance - Forward model programmes - Joint ventures - Labour - Logistics - Manufacturing processes - Materials - Mergers and acquisitions - Modularity - Motor shows - Plant investments - Platform architectures - Production results / forecasts - Purchasing - Research and development - Technology

Light Vehicle Manufacturing focuses on the top vehicle manufacturers in the world. The report covers all the facets of the automotive industry, from car and commercial vehicle manufacturers to their manufacturing strategies, technologies, model launches, future models and production planning. The report also sheds light on market news and analysis vis-à-vis the vehicle manufacturers. Also included in the report is the retooling of production units, plant shutdown and relocations.

Light Vehicle Manufacturing provides both broad macro-economic information as well as detailed focus analysis down to component or material level: there is no better way to stay informed on the latest developments in automotive manufacturing globally.

Who relies on this report?

- Vehicle manufacturers - Suppliers - Consultants - Investment Banks/Finance/Venture capital

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

Government and EPSRC fund £9 million ITS research programme  
Minister for Transport Stephen Ladyman and Lord Sainsbury, DTI Minister for Science and Innovation, announced £9m in new public funding for research into future intelligent transport systems at the World Congress on the subject in London yesterday.

The funding approach will allow a small number of consortia with wide-ranging expertise to work in collaboration to tackle transport challenges over the next decade. The Department for Transport, Department of Trade and Industry and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council will jointly provide £9 million of funding for research, with a further £3 million expected from industry.

The Future Intelligent Transport Systems initiative is intended to stimulate new ideas, concepts, products or services that will improve road safety, the reliability and accessibility of public transport, the efficiency of road freight, road network management, and travel information.

Stephen Ladyman said: “The UK government has today launched a major research programme on future intelligent transport systems, which together with industry contributions will make over £12 million available for innovative demonstration projects. This is just the start of a fruitful collaboration between government and industry.

“Our vision for this initiative is to support highly innovative and wide-ranging research and technology demonstrator projects, combining the best UK expertise in industry, Local Authorities, transport service providers and universities.”

Lord Sainsbury said: “This initiative will bring together UK industry and universities to address key research issues for the longer-term development of the UK transport system. This Innovation Platform, developed by DTI's Technology Strategy Board, builds on both the Office of Science and Innovation's Foresight work and DfT's own strategic thinking to address the transport challenges society faces.”

Source : http://www.autoindustry.co.uk (10/10/2006)

Honda China to recall almost 30,000 faulty vehicles  
The China venture of Honda Motor Co. Ltd. will recall 29,916 Odyssey sedans from Tuesday due to a windscreen-wiper problem.

Guangzhou Honda Automobile Co., a joint venture between Honda and state-owned Guangzhou Auto Group Corp., will recall the vehicles that were produced between Mar. 28, 2002 and Oct. 21, 2003, according to information from China's General Administration of Quality Supervision.

The recall will take place on the Chinese mainland from Oct. 10 to Apr. 10 next year, the company announced Monday.

According to reports, the problem lies with the wiper on the rear windscreens of the cars. Electric motors operating the wipers are discovered to be prone to short-circuits and this impairment may become a fire hazard.

However, the company has not received reports of this problem from car owners on the Chinese mainland so far.

Founded on Jul. 1, 1998, Guangzhou Honda now has two plants in the southern Chinese city, with about 5,100 employees and an annual output capacity of 360,000 cars; including the Accord, Odyssey, Fit, and City.

The Japanese carmaker recently invested US$277 million in a new factory, located in Zengcheng, near Guangzhou, which is expected to add 120,000 units to Honda’s China capacity.

Other than Guangzhou Honda, the Japanese carmaker has a joint venture in China's central Hubei province of Wuhan called Dongfeng Honda Automobile Co.

According to a company executive, Honda Motor is now capable of making 530,000 vehicles a year in the country, with 50,000 units catering for overseas markets.

In the first eight months this year, Honda Motor sold 193,582 vehicles in China, up 17.1% from 165,270 units in the same period last year. The company is maintaining its target to sell 353,000 vehicles in the country for the full-year, up from 257,000 units in 2005.

Source : http://www.chinaknowledge.com (10/10/2006)

200mph on a shoe string  
How do you make a 200mph radio controlled car? Nitro-power, a special vertical track and, er, some string.

This viral clip shows the pointless-but-compelling pursuit of ridiuclous speeds with a model car, using a 90-degree banked track and some wire in case things go really wrong.

Watch clip

Thing is, that 200mph is the alleged 'real' speed - not the usual scale speed these modelists talk about.

So what would it be in the land of Airfix? If it's a 1:24 model (which sounds about right - feel free to correct us if we're miles out), that means that its scale speed is about 5000mph. That may sound ridiculous - but watch the clip to the end and it's plausible.

Also spare a thought for the poor lad at the start of the clip who spins the wire before jumping out the way. One tiny slip when the car's at full speed and he'll be sliced up finer than pastrami in a trendy deli...

Source : http://www.topgear.com (10/10/2006)

Peugeot to close UK plant early  
Peugeot is to close its Ryton manufacturing plant in the UK six months earlier than planned.

The manufacturer will shut the plant in January, rather than the middle of 2007, because of an increasing number of workers are already leaving production lines.

The Transport and General Workers Union (T&G) accused Peugeot of callous cynicism, saying it had promised work well into 2007 if employees had wanted it.

The T&G continued its calls for car buyers to boycott Peugeot products, a move which the company said would jeopardise further jobs in the UK at dealerships.

Source : http://www.whatcar.co.uk (10/10/2006)

BorgWarner Joint Venture Honored with Nissan North America Quality Award  
AUBURN HILLS, Mich., /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- NSK-Warner USA and BorgWarner Transmission Systems in Bellwood, Illinois, have been honored with the Nissan North America 2005-2006 Quality Master Award.

"This award recognizes our achievement of Top-100 Supplier status, based on the evaluation of Nissan's North American engineering, manufacturing, product quality, purchasing and production control units," said Bernd Matthes, President and General Manager, BorgWarner Transmission Systems.

"It is prestigious recognition of our collaborative quality efforts on behalf of Nissan. Congratulations to the employees of NSK-Warner USA and Bellwood for this joint recognition."

BorgWarner Transmission Systems in Bellwood, Illinois, produces one-way clutches sold to Nissan through NSK-Warner USA, which handles sales and engineering support for all Japanese customers for NSK-Warner, a BorgWarner joint venture headquartered in Fukuroi City, Japan.

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.

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)

Get Concise Information about the Major Corporate Players Operating in the German Automobile Aftercare & Accessories Industry  
Research and Markets has announced the addition of Automobile Aftercare and Accessories in Germany to their offering.

The Automobile Aftercare and Accessories in Germany Major Market Profile presents an overview of the national market. Use this data to quickly establish market sizes and shares, pinpoint growth markets and trends and get concise information on the industry’s major corporate players. Forecasts to 2009 illustrate how the market is set to change.

With a network of over 600 analysts worldwide, we have a unique capability to develop reliable information resources to help drive informed strategic planning.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

Discounted Hybrid Vehicles Now Offered by Fox Rent A Car Through Its Corporate...  
LOS ANGELES, PRNewswire/ -- Fox Rent A Car, the nation's leader in discount car rentals, said it is discounting its selection of hybrid vehicles to business customers who rent through its new corporate account program.

Robert Rogener, Fox Rent A Car marketing director, said, "Starting today, all customers who sign up for the free corporate program through our company website will receive 5% off on all our cars, including our extensive fleet of Ford, Toyota, and Honda hybrid models." In many instances, he said, customers renting from Fox can save up to 40% off the rates charged by industry competitors. The company manages the largest hybrid fleet in the country through Fox airport locations in California and Arizona.

"This is a sensible program because it offers business renters who travel to California and Arizona a way to say 'no' to today's exorbitant car-rental rates, 'no' to high gas prices, and 'no' to harmful vehicle emissions," Rogener said. "This new program should appeal to any company interested in reducing travel expenses while being environmentally friendly."

Enrollment in the corporate account program is simple and can be completed online in a couple of minutes, Rogener said. "You will receive a corporate account discount number that will enable you to reserve discounted hybrid cars and other fuel-efficient vehicles at all of our corporate locations."

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)

Put Porsche Under the Tree This Holiday Season  
ATLANTA, /PRNewswire/ -- Struggling for ideas for that tough-to- buy for person? Gifts from Porsche Design Driver's Selection and the Porsche Driving Experience express the desire to give a little extra this holiday season to discerning friends and family members.

Imagine the surprise when a remote-controlled Porsche Cayman S toy model is unwrapped this year. This genuine reproduction of Porsche's newest two- seat coupe is one-twelfth the size of an actual Cayman S -- and comes complete with functional front headlights and brake lights, a horn, and the ability to go in reverse.

Streaking across the floor with GT Silver Metallic exterior and Terracotta interior, the Porsche Cayman S is truly a memorable gift for kids -- and kids at heart (priced at $155).

For other distinctive gift ideas, Porsche Design Driver's Selection offers a wide range of highly stylish items to brighten the eye of every recipient, from classic accessories to fashionable apparel, key chains and cufflinks.

Porsche-branded items such as driving gloves, calendars, robes and desk accessories can be purchased exclusively at authorized Porsche Dealerships, online at www.porsche.com/shop (or 1-800-PORSCHE).

For friends, family members or business associates who would jump at the chance to enjoy a few fast laps with the pros, a trip to the Porsche Driving Experience offers the thrill of a lifetime. Located at the Barber Motorsports Park outside Birmingham, Ala., this state-of-the-art circuit is one of the newest and most challenging courses in the country, offering both off-road and race track instruction behind the wheel of Porsche's latest models.

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)

Timken Earns New Business from Telcon  
CANTON, Ohio, /PRNewswire/ -- The Timken Company announced today that it is supplying Telcon Construction Equipment Company with bearing products and application support for its JD-315V backhoe loader, EH600 dumper and TFC cranes. Telcon is a leading manufacturer of equipment used in major Indian infrastructure projects.

In addition to supplying Timken(R) tapered roller bearings, Timken also helped Telcon improve equipment performance and productivity through technical support, such as establishing proper bearing constraints and determining correct fitting practices. Timken's local supply of bearings also cut Telcon's costs.

"At Timken, our knowledge in friction management has positioned us as a total solutions provider in the global construction industry," said Rajesh Chowdhry, national sales manager - Industrial OE. "And with local resources in India, such as our global technology center in Bangalore and our manufacturing facility in Jamshedpur, we've been able to deliver world-class engineering and product support to Telcon quickly and efficiently."

Telcon is the largest supplier of hydraulic excavators in India, with more than 6,000 machines in the market. In addition, the company was the country's first construction equipment manufacturer to receive ISO 9001 certification. Telcon is one of 93 companies held by the Tata Group, India's largest private sector group.

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)

Flextronics Changes Time of Earnings Call on October 24, 2006 to 5:00 p.m. Eastern...  
SINGAPORE, PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Flextronics today announced that it has changed the time of its upcoming Second Quarter Earnings Conference Call to 5:00 p.m. eastern time on Tuesday, October 24, 2006, from 4:30 p.m. on the same day.

The call will be broadcast via the Internet and may be accessed by logging on to the Company's Web site at www.flextronics.com . A replay of the broadcast will remain available on the Company's Web site after the call.

Minimum requirements to listen to the broadcast are Microsoft Windows Media Player software and at least a 28.8 Kbps bandwidth connection to the internet.

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)

New Opel Corsa Targets Young Fun Generation  
Despite traffic jams, increasing gasoline prices and a lack of parking spaces, a car is still an important part of having fun. This was the opinion expressed by almost 75 percent of the twentysomething urbanites who took Opel's survey, and was analyzed closely during the new Corsa's development. With this latest successful model, Opel takes a huge step forward in its drive to rejuvenate the brand, putting the question of what fun means to young people today at the heart of the Corsa's design.

"Fun is the decisive factor for the twentysomething generation living in cosmopolitan cities," says Alain Visser, who developed the brand's architecture in his role as Executive Director of European Marketing. This statement is confirmed by the representative survey Opel conducted with 1600 twenty to thirty-year-olds in the major cities of eight European countries. As a car is seen as an important part of life, it must fulfill this expectation. The surprising outcome of the survey was that driving is by no means a lonely affair for young people. In fact, a car is more a place for friends to get together. 86 percent said they enjoy going on holiday by car with their friends, while 77 percent highly rate having romantic encounters in a car. For 57 percent of young men, it is a place to exchange affections, whereas 64 percent of women enjoy chatting with their best friend while behind the wheel.

When the car is so integrated into daily life, it is no wonder that three-quarters of those surveyed said the first thing they do in a new car is go for a spin with their friends. And as 44 percent said they would personalize it, the car itself must also reflect customers' desire for individualization.

With that in mind, new Corsa customers have the possibility to customize their car ex works with individual interior equipment details such as piano lacquer or heated steering wheel, and so put together a completely individual model variant.

Designers also put great emphasis on the feel-good ambience in the interior. The attention to detail is highlighted by the refined backlit turn buttons for the climate control, radio and light, as well as the colorful interior design.

As a leisure and holiday companion, Corsa engineers designed the newcomer with versatile storage and transport possibilities. There is an optional space in the doors for 1.5-liter water bottles, a spacious drawer under the front passenger seat and Flex-Fix, a pull-out bicycle carrier that is integrated into the rear bumper. Sporty variable direct steering and a dynamic chassis add to driving fun. But top speed was of less interest to a large number of the young people surveyed: 44 percent said that they did not have any fun by driving fast.

When it comes to the point made in the survey by three quarters of the young urbanites - that they would have even more fun if they had more money available - Opel has the answer: new Corsa prices start at 10,990 euros.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

New Slovenian components plant opened in Serbia  
Serbia’s President Boris Tadic last week officially opened a new €1.5m automotive components plant built by the Slovenian Grah Automotive on land donated free by the local municipality at Batocina, near Kragujevec. The 2,000 sq m plant will provide up to 250 jobs by the end of the year, supplying German export customers DaimlerChrysler, BMW, and VW Group.

Slovenia's Ambassador to Serbia who also attended the opening ceremony, took the opportunity to call on further Slovenian investors to invest in Serbia, which he described as a politically and economically stable country suitable for foreign investment.

Source : http://www.autoindustry.co.uk (10/10/2006)

I pity the fuel...  
There's a very particular sinking feeling specific to when you fill a car with the wrong fuel.

Put petrol in a diesel-engined car and you always realise after about 20 quid's worth has been dispensed and it's way too late.

But not for Range Rover buyers any more.

The British firm has devised a fuel filler that recognises the different sizes of nozzle and blocks the filler neck if you put the wrong one in.

It works because thinner petrol filler hoses go deeper into the fuel tank's filler neck. If the car senses the wrong filler, a shutter is closed and that embarrassing phone call to the garage is saved.

Source : http://www.topgear.com (10/10/2006)

Lamborghini could build 4x4  
Lamborghini will not be adding an Espada-style 2+2 front-engined coupe to its line-up, but is considering a luxury 4x4, says company boss Stephan Winkelmann.

There had been rumours that Lamborghini would be adding a large Ferrari 612 Scaglietti-rivalling GT to its portfolio, but Winkelmann indicated that any future Lamborghini sports car needs to be both mid-engined and four-wheel drive.

Instead, a third model in the line-up is much more likely to be a luxury 4x4. ‘An SUV would fit the brand. We’ve done one in the past [the LM002], but it’s not one of our priorities,’ said Winkelmann.

Winkelmann also said that Lamborghini had recently ‘reprioritised’ and decided that continued expansion was not the way forward, however.

However, Winkelmann didn’t discount making a special lightweight, rear-wheel-drive Gallardo. ‘There are a lot more derivatives coming and this is something we could do,’ he said.

Source : http://www.whatcar.co.uk (10/10/2006)

New service for young drivers  
Huntingdon-based motoring benefit specialists Marmalade have developed a new scheme for young drivers to help them into a safer more reliable car.

The scheme enables parents to get their kids into safe cars without paying a hefty premium for the insurance.

Linking to a unique insurance policy, the company are able to supply a brand new car to a 17 year old for as little as £300 insurance for a female or £700 for a male. Typical insurance premiums are over 5 times these amounts in a large town or city. Quotes for comparable insurance in London, Manchester or Liverpool could be as high as in excess of £5,000.

The older the new driver the cheaper the insurance, so for a 19 year old girl and 21 year old male, the insurance is free. After the initial period there is a no claims bonus of up to 40%, assuming they do not trouble the insurer.

Cars available on the scheme consist of new vehicles as well as a selection of low mileage 1 year old vehicles. Marmalade currently give subscribers a choice of the Citroen C2, Fiat Grande Punto or Punto, Panda, Ford Fiesta, Nissan Micra or Vauxhall Corsa.

To date Young Marmalade insurance claim stats have been a less than 1% accident rate for a sector that responsible for 1 in 4 of the accidents on the road.

Source : http://www.newcarnet.co.uk (10/10/2006)

Lord Montagu collects Meguiar's Award  
On September 30, Lord Montagu of Beaulieu was presented with the 2006 Meguiar's Award for 'Car Enthusiast of the Year'.

The ceremony took place at a gala dinner in the National Motor Museum that he personally founded 34 years ago.

The presentation was performed by Barry Meguiar, President and CEO of Meguiar's Inc., and the event was attended by 160 high profile members of the motoring fraternity and ably compered by the popular TV presenter, writer and race driver Tiff Needell.

This is the third time the UK Meguiar's Award has been presented. It is based on the company's successful American Award scheme launched 12 years ago and is designed to honour the person who is felt to have made the most significant contribution to the growth, visibility and quality of the car enthusiast movement in all its varied forms.

Enthusiastically applauding Lord Montagu's presentation were the two previous UK winners - Tom Wheatcroft, founder of the world-famous Donington Grand Prix Collection, and Mark Wilsmore, the re-creator of London's Ace Cafe. Also among the audience were representatives of some 30 UK car clubs, from the Vintage Sports Car Club to the Ferrari Owners' Club.

Aside of the museum, that has provided countless people with their first real exposure to historic vehicles, the Beaulieu estate stages the world-renowned Autojumble and Automart: not to mention innumerable car club meetings. It also houses image and film libraries, while Lord Montagu's personal commitment to the growth and survival of the global classic car movement over many decades is arguably unparalleled the world over.

Lord Montagu said, "I am delighted to be the recipient of the Meguiar's Award, an accolade which, whilst kindly acknowledging my own work in this field, also celebrates the immensely strong car enthusiast movement in the UK."

Like the American ceremony, the presentation to Lord Montagu was recorded for broadcast in the USA and Canada on Speed Channel, where Barry Meguiar hosts a popular weekly show called Car Crazy.

Source : http://www.newcarnet.co.uk (10/10/2006)

Iteris and Cargo Transporters Report a 90 Percent Reduction in Accidents after Deployment of Lane Departure Warning System  
Iteris, Inc, a leader in vision-based technologies and Intelligent Transportation Systems that optimize traffic flow and enhance driver safety, today announced that Cargo Transporters has achieved a 90 percent decrease in lane departure preventable accidents since deploying Iteris’ Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system. Lane departure preventable accidents include sideswipe, inadvertent lane change and run off road accidents which represent the single largest cause of injury and fatality crashes when heavy trucks are at fault according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

Cargo Transporters, based in Claremont, North Carolina, began upgrading the safety of its fleet of 420 trucks with the installation of Iteris’ LDW technology in January 2003. During the five years prior to installing Iteris’ LDW technology, Cargo Transporter’s fleet traveled a total of 235.4 million miles and had 56 lane departure preventable accidents which represents a rate of .2379 per million or one every 4.20 million miles traveled. Cargo Transporters’ trucks equipped with Iteris’ LDW technology have accumulated over 84.7 million miles of travel with just 2 lane departure preventable accidents resulting in a rate of .0236 per million or one every 42.35 million miles traveled. This represents a decrease of 90 percent, a significant number considering the substantial costs associated with heavy truck crashes.

According to studies conducted by the FMCSA, the average cost of an accident involving a large truck is more than $75,000.

“Cargo Transporters has always been on the forefront of technology when it comes to the safety of our drivers and ensuring our customers’ goods arrive safely and on time. We were one of the first fleets to install Iteris’ Lane Departure Warning technology because I believed it would have a significant impact on our company’s driving record and I was right,” said John Pope, CEO of Cargo Transporters. “We’ve seen more dramatic results after deploying LDW than from any other safety technology we have installed thus far.”

News of these results from Cargo Transporters comes on the heels of another national fleet reporting a 65 percent decrease in lane departure related accidents and the FMCSA’s recently released study results that found that over 32 percent of crashes where the truck was at fault were the result of departing from the roadway or crossing over the lane line, making it the single largest cause of large truck injury and fatality crashes.

“Iteris is extremely proud to see that another truck fleet has achieved such a significant decline in lane departure preventable accidents after deploying our LDW technology – we expect to see many more of these successes,” said Jack Johnson, president and CEO of Iteris. “Cargo Transporters was an early adopter of our safety technology and believed in the potential of LDW to help save lives and make our highways safer. In addition, we believe that with results like these our growing customer base will realize the positive return on investment that our LDW systems can provide.”

Cargo Transporters is a trucking operation with intrastate and interstate common and contract authority that specializes in truckload dry van freight with an emphasis on long term contracts with shippers.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

Indonesian auto industry expects boost from Chinese carmakers' entry  
The presence of Chinese carmakers in Indonesia is expected to spur growth in domestic industry and allow the development of related technology, a leading economic newspaper reported Tuesday.

Two Chinese car manufacturers, Chery Automobile Co. Ltd and Geely International Corp., have recently begun selling products or announced plan to establish an assembly plant in Indonesia.

Kukuh Kumara, analyst with the Indonesian auto manufacturers association Gaikindo, has said not only does the Chinese expansion aim to sell cars, it also brings investment and the technological development to Indonesia, reported Bisnis Indonesia.

"Seen from the industrial perspective, the presence of Chinese cars offers us an opportunity to grow. But the success of China's auto expansion here depends on their ability to convince buyers," he said.

"Motorcycles can be assembled anywhere, but not cars. They (Chinese manufacturers) must invest here, at least in assembly facility," said Gunadi Sindhuwinata, who chairs leading auto assembly and distribution group Indomobil.

Representatives from four Chinese auto industries have offered partnership with Indomobil, which finally accepted only Chery to sell small city cars in Indonesia, he said without elaborating.

Source : http://english.people.com.cn (10/10/2006)

Automobile mechanic course  
CHENNAI: Friendly Academy, a Maruthi authorised service station in Kodambakkam, has launched an automobile mechanic course in view of the growing demand for servicemen.

The service station has planned to admit 20 persons in a class. The one-year certificate course is being conducted in association with the Department of Employment and Training, which has framed the syllabus.

The Academy located on 50, Kodambakkam High Road, offers students a combination of theory classes and practical exposure. Admission is open till October 10.

Source : hinduonnet.com (10/10/2006)

New Corsa Targets Young Fun Generation  
A survey undertaken by Vauxhall's German counterpart, Opel, has found that a car is still an important part of having fun.

Almost 75 percent of the respondents to Opel's survey felt that way despite traffic jams, increasing petrol prices and a lack of parking spaces. The opinions of the twentysomething urbanites who were questioned was analyzed closely during the new Corsa's development.

"Fun is the decisive factor for the twentysomething generation living in cosmopolitan cities," says Alain Visser, who developed the brand's architecture in his role as Executive Director of European Marketing. This statement is confirmed by the representative survey Opel conducted with 1600 twenty to thirty-year-olds in the major cities of eight European countries.

The surprising outcome of the survey was that driving is by no means a lonely affair for young people. In fact, a car is more a place for friends to get together. 86 percent said they enjoy going on holiday by car with their friends, while 77 percent highly rate having romantic encounters in a car. For 57 percent of young men, it is a place to exchange affections, whereas 64 percent of women enjoy chatting with their best friend while behind the wheel.

When the car is so integrated into daily life, it is no wonder that three-quarters of those surveyed said the first thing they do in a new car is go for a spin with their friends. And as 44 percent said they would personalize it, the car itself must also reflect customers' desire for individualization.

Top speed was of less interest to a large number of the young people surveyed: 44 percent said that they did not have any fun by driving fast.

Three quarters of the young urbanites commented that they would have even more fun if they had more money available.

Source : http://www.newcarnet.co.uk (10/10/2006)

Chrysler Group Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle (CPOV) Sales Continue to Set Records in...  
AUBURN HILLS, Mich., /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Chrysler Group reported that its Five Star dealers sold a new September record of 9,451 Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle (CPOV) units, rising 9 percent above September 2005 sales of 8,650 units and posting new quarterly and year-to-date sales records.

Third quarter sales increased 5 percent to a record 27,861 units. Year-to- date 2006 sales totaled 88,514 units, establishing a new record and increasing 10 percent from year-to-date sales last year.

Chrysler brand sales rose 4 percent for the month, posting sales of 2,889 units and Jeep(R) brand sales accelerated 37 percent to 2,587 units. Dodge brand sales were flat at 3,975 units in September, yet, year-to-date sales rose 1 percent.

"Shifting consumer preferences are raising the profile of Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge CPO products in the marketplace and our customers are responding positively to our portfolio of products," said Peter Grady, Director - DaimlerChrysler Motors Remarketing. "As the certified-used vehicle segment continues to pick up momentum, our Five Star dealers are prepared to go full- speed ahead."

Chrysler Group offers one of the most comprehensive Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle programs in the industry. For a vehicle to be certified under the Chrysler Group's used vehicle program, it must be a 2001 through 2006 pre- owned, Chrysler Group vehicle with less than 65,000 miles and pass a stringent 125 point inspection. Chrysler Group's CPO vehicles are backed by an 8- year/80,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, a 3-month or 3,000-mile Maximum Care(TM) warranty, 24-hour, 365 days per year full roadside assistance and a $35 per day rental car allowance, in addition to a CARFAX Vehicle History Report(TM) and Buyback Guarantee.

Marketed as "Brand Spankin' Used(TM)," Chrysler Group's CPO vehicles are sold only through Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealerships which have earned the automaker's Five Star Certification. Five Star Certification is a comprehensive validation of the dealership's facilities, operational processes, salesperson and technician training accreditation as well as customer satisfaction survey ratings. Approximately 2,100 Chrysler Group dealerships in the U.S. are certified Five Star dealers.

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)

TK Aluminum responds to asset sale speculation  
The former Fiat Group subsidiary TK Aluminum Ltd. has issued a news release responding to press speculation in Italy with regard to a possible sale of some of its assets. The company confirmed only that it is exploring various asset sales and is in discussions with potential buyers.

Teksid Aluminum manufactures aluminium castings including cylinder heads, engine blocks, transmission housings and suspension components, at 15 manufacturing facilities in Europe, North America, South America and Asia.

Until September 2002, Teksid Aluminum was a division of Teksid S.p.A., which was owned by Fiat. Through a series of transactions completed between September 30, 2002 and November 22, 2002, Teksid S.p.A. sold its aluminium foundry business to a consortium of investment funds led by equity investors that include affiliates of Questor Management Company, LLC, JPMorgan Partners, Private Equity Partners SGR SpA and AIG Global Investment Corp. As a result of the sale, Teksid Aluminum is owned by its equity investors through TK Aluminum Ltd., a Bermuda-registered holding company.

Source : http://www.autoindustry.co.uk (10/10/2006)

Powerful: Details Emerge on 500 Horse BMW M6 Convertible  
WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. — BMW said its highly anticipated, 500-horsepower 2007 M6 convertible will arrive in the United States this fall with a sticker price of $105,095, including shipping charges.

The price includes an exclusive one-day M driver training course at the BMW Performance Center in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

The 2+2 M6 is powered by a 5.0-liter V10 engine with a redline in excess of 8000 rpm. The V10 is linked to a standard seven-speed sequential M gearbox with Drivelogic, which provides six shift modes for manual and five for the automatic mode. BMW said the M6 convertible goes from zero to 60 mph in about 4.5 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.

Because the driver may not need all of the power of the V10 in all situations, the M6 convertible has a P400 setting that is automatically activated when the engine is first started and offers 400 hp. To call up the full 500 horses, the driver punches the power button. A P500 sport mode is also available for what BMW describes as "more dynamic response."

The soft top on the M6 convertible is made up of three layers and can be raised or lowered while the car is traveling up to 20 mph. The top can be ordered in black or gray. The cabin features include an optional head-up display that offers the choice of a special M display that includes road speed, transmission gear and an engine speed graphic.

The interior can be accessorized with optional carbon-fiber trim and full leather. Special M exterior colors include Indianapolis red and Sepang bronze.

Source : http://www.edmunds.com (10/10/2006)

Lexus Boosts Price on Flagship LS Series  
TORRANCE, Calif. — Lexus said its redesigned 2007 LS 460 sedan will start at $61,000, while the new long-wheelbase LS 460L will be priced from $71,000.

Toyota's luxury brand hasn't announced pricing yet on a third variant, the LS 600h, the hybrid, which goes on sale in 2007. The 2006 LS 430 sedan starts at just over $57,000.

The two gasoline models for 2007 feature a 380-horsepower DOHC 4.6-liter V8 mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Despite its considerable size and heft, the LS 460 will canter from zero to 60 mph in a mere 5.4 seconds but will still deliver EPA fuel economy of 19 miles per gallon in the city and 27 on the highway. (The LS 460L gets one mpg less in city driving.)

The '07 LS fairly bristles with high-tech hardware, including a new Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system that integrates and manages the electronically controlled antilock brakes, electronic power steering and vehicle stability control. The car comes with eight standard airbags, including knee bags for driver and front passenger, and can be ordered with up to 10, as well as a pre-collision occupant-protection system.

Source : http://www.edmunds.com (10/10/2006)

Put Porsche Under the Tree This Holiday Season  
Struggling for ideas for that tough-to- buy for person? Gifts from Porsche Design Driver's Selection and the Porsche Driving Experience express the desire to give a little extra this holiday season to discerning friends and family members.

Imagine the surprise when a remote-controlled Porsche Cayman S toy model is unwrapped this year. This genuine reproduction of Porsche's newest two- seat coupe is one-twelfth the size of an actual Cayman S -- and comes complete with functional front headlights and brake lights, a horn, and the ability to go in reverse.

Streaking across the floor with GT Silver Metallic exterior and Terracotta interior, the Porsche Cayman S is truly a memorable gift for kids -- and kids at heart (priced at $155).

For other distinctive gift ideas, Porsche Design Driver's Selection offers a wide range of highly stylish items to brighten the eye of every recipient, from classic accessories to fashionable apparel, key chains and cufflinks.

Porsche-branded items such as driving gloves, calendars, robes and desk accessories can be purchased exclusively at authorized Porsche Dealerships, online at www.porsche.com/shop (or 1-800-PORSCHE).

For friends, family members or business associates who would jump at the chance to enjoy a few fast laps with the pros, a trip to the Porsche Driving Experience offers the thrill of a lifetime. Located at the Barber Motorsports Park outside Birmingham, Ala., this state-of-the-art circuit is one of the newest and most challenging courses in the country, offering both off-road and race track instruction behind the wheel of Porsche's latest models.

Gift certificates for the high performance driving course are valid for an entire year, with the choice of either a one-day ($1,795) or two-day ($2,995) course.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

Revealed: Euro Car of the Year Short List for 2007  
LONDON — The committee for the European Car of the Year award has confirmed a short list of eight contenders for its 2007 prize.

That's one more than the traditional seven because they couldn't agree on which car to drop from the list, according to an official press release issued today.

The nominees, in alphabetical order, are: Citroën C4 Picasso, Fiat Grande Punto, Ford S-Max, Honda Civic, Opel Corsa, Peugeot 206, Skoda Roomster and Volvo C30.

Of the carmakers represented, Fiat has proven the most successful in the competition through the years, with a total of seven victories — most recently with its entry-level Panda in 2004. Citroën has won the European Car of the Year title three times, with the GS in 1971, CX in 1974 and XM in 1990. Ford, Peugeot and Opel, meanwhile, have all won twice before. That leaves Honda, Skoda and Volvo as the only ones not to have tasted victory.

The winner will be announced on November 13.

Source : http://www.edmunds.com (10/9/2006)

Sub $14K: Hyundai Announces Pricing on '07 Elantra  
FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif. — Hyundai Motor America said the redesigned 2007 Elantra will range in price from $13,995 for the base GLS model to $18,295 for the top-of-the-line Limited model.

Prices include a $600 shipping charge. The Elantra goes on sale later this month.

The 2007 Elantra is powered by a 2.0-liter I4 engine rated at 138 horsepower and 136 pound-feet of torque. It is mated to a standard five-speed manual transmission. A four-speed automatic transmission is optional.

New standard features for the '07 Elantra include side-curtain airbags, antilock brakes, active front head restraints and a rear center armrest with cupholders.

Hyundai said its pricing strategy on the Elantra is aimed to undercut the Toyota Corolla LE by $1,585.

Source : http://www.edmunds.com (10/9/2006)

Mercedes-Benz E 320 BLUETEC begins the Diesel campaign in the USA  
To coincide with the conversion of up to 76,000 US filling stations to clean Diesel fuel with a sulphur content below 15 ppm, Mercedes Benz will be commencing sales of the E 320 BLUETEC in the USA and Canada within one week.

Ultra Low Sulphur Diesel (ULSD) allows the use of trail-blazing BLUETEC technology, making the E 320 BLUETEC the world’s cleanest Diesel car. The E 320 BLUETEC is the first and only Diesel vehicle worldwide able to better the American BIN 8 exhaust emissions standard, which is extremely stringent – particularly in terms of nitrogen oxide emissions. The E 320 BLUETEC will be available for sale in the USA (45 states) and Canada, and uses up to 30 percent less fuel than comparable petrol-engine vehicles in North America.

Owing to its enormous operating range of up to 1200 km on one full tank, the E 320 BLUETEC is exceptionally well cut-out for US driving conditions. The latest J.D. Power study "Global Outlook For Diesel" forecasts that Diesels will account for more than 15 percent of new registrations in North America by 2015. In the light of this, Mercedes-Benz will systematically expand its BLUETEC range. The company has announced that it intends to offer three further BLUETEC models in the R, ML and GL-Class - meeting the even more stringent BIN 5 standard - in all 50 US states as early as 2008.

BLUETEC is a modular emissions control system that reduces nitrogen oxide levels. These are the only exhaust components from Diesel engines which, due to the principles of Diesel engineering, still exceed the levels in petrol units. Mercedes-Benz has developed two versions of BLUETEC: in the E-Class an oxidation-type catalytic converter and particulate filter are combined with an improved, extremely durable NOx trap system and an additional SCR catalytic converter. The second BLUETEC version is even more efficient. Here, AdBlue, a non-toxic aqueous solution, is injected into the exhaustgas stream, causing ammonia to be released. In the downstream SCR catalytic converter the ammonia then converts up to 80 percent of the nitrogen oxides into the harmless natural products of nitrogen and water. The specific vehicle concept and weight as well as the deNOx requirements determine which BLUETEC system is used.

Beginning October 21 this BLUETEC technology will be subjected to an endurance test of a very special kind, when 33 E-Class cars including three E 320 BLUETEC models embark on a journey from Paris to Peking. Over the course of 26 days each of these vehicles will cover 13,600 kilometres under extreme conditions on a journey which will take them across eight national borders.

BLUETEC: Highly successful in commercial vehicles – the result of a clear strategy

The BLUETEC technology developed by Mercedes-Benz benefits from the company’s extensive know-how in building low-emission commercial vehicles, where this technology has already proved highly successful since early 2005 and is meantime available in all model series. A total of 33,000 Mercedes-Benz trucks and buses from the brands Mercedes-Benz and Setra have already been sold with BLUETEC.

Mercedes-Benz first demonstrated the potential of this new emissions technology for passenger cars in June 2005 in Washington when it displayed the Mercedes-Benz bionic car, a concept vehicle based on findings from bionic research.

Since January 2005, DaimlerChrysler began a public dialogue on the subject of this innovative technology when it introduced a total of 6 BLUETEC showcars in the E, CLS, R, ML and GL-Class, as well as a Chrysler Grand Cherokee BLUETEC. In 1936 Mercedes-Benz introduced the world’s first series production Diesel car into the market, and has continued to set standards in this field with numerous innovative Diesel technologies.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

BMW Reveals Long-Wheelbase 5 Series for Chinese Market  
MUNICH, Germany — In a signal of how seriously BMW is taking the Chinese car market these days, the German carmaker today revealed a new long-wheelbase version of the 5 Series to be produced and sold exclusively in China.

Distinguished from the standard model by a wheelbase that has been lengthened by 5.5 inches to 119.3 inches, the new China-market 5 Series stretches to 196.1 inches overall — or just 2.4 inches shy of the existing short-wheelbase 7 Series. The added length is concentrated wholly within the rear door, easing entry to the rear and extending rear-seat legroom, according to BMW. Trunk space remains unchanged at 18.4 cubic feet.

The move by BMW to introduce a long-wheelbase version of the 5 Series mirrors that of Volkswagen, which has offered a stretched version of the fifth-generation Passat in China for the past five years with great success. The decision was driven by the typical Chinese car owner's practice of employing a driver. "We wanted to create added space for rear-seat passengers," says BMW.

Three versions of the new long-wheelbase 5 Series will be offered for sale in China, each running its own version of BMW's classic inline six-cylinder engine. They include a base 177-horsepower 2.5-liter 523Li, 218-hp 2.5-liter 525Li, and the top-of-the-line 258-hp 3.0-liter 530Li.

Inside Line sources also say there is a chance selected V8 models could be added to the lineup in the future, as the company first wants to gauge reaction to the new car, then make a decision on how to proceed in the future.

Production of the long-wheelbase 5 Series will take place at BMW partner Brilliance China's plant at Shenyang in the province of Liaoning in Northeast China. That's the same site that currently turns out the BMW 3 Series for the China market. BMW has not announced any volume targets or whether there are plans to export the new car to other Asian countries.

Source : http://www.edmunds.com (10/9/2006)

Update: Retro Southern 358 Will Roll Out in 2008  
LIBERTY, S.C. — The good ol' boys at Southern Motor are ramping up plans to start making a limited-run vehicle inspired by the 1954 Chevrolet pickup.

They are already "pre-selling" the first 100 production models of the truck, which will be available in the second half of 2008.

The truck, called the Southern 358, is a two-seater that is powered by a 330-horsepower 4.6-liter Mustang V8 linked to a standard four-speed overdrive automatic transmission. A five-speed manual transmission is available as an option.

The truck bears a striking resemblance to a classic Chevy, but the company says its product has a unique style that is intended to capture the look of the big-fender trucks of the 1950s. Other features of the Southern 358 include 17-inch chrome Cragar S/S wheels and power four-way-adjustable bucket seats. The rear-wheel-drive truck rides on a 116.0-inch wheelbase. The company is also offering custom colors and says it can paint the engine compartment to match the exterior.

Southern Motor Co. said it is currently accepting $10,000 fully refundable deposits toward the purchase of the $55,000 truck on its Web site. At the time of production, buyers will be able to test drive the vehicle before purchasing it.

Source : http://www.edmunds.com (10/9/2006)

Hyundai Azera and Tucson Named Best-in-Segment in Strategic Vision 2006 Total Value  
October 10, 2006: The Hyundai Azera and Hyundai Tucson were each named winners in the Strategic Vision 2006 Total Value Awards. Survey results placed the Azera atop the large car segment, and Tucson in a tie (with the Saturn Vue) for the top spot in the small sport utility vehicle segment. The Strategic Vision poll surveyed more than 64,000 new vehicle buyers after 90 days of ownership. Results from this information spotlight vehicles that give drivers the best economic value paired with the highest emotional satisfaction.

Consumers were asked an array of questions about their ownership experience including buying, owning and driving their new vehicles, as well as questions about their economic expectations of the car. The Hyundai Azera and Tucson outclassed competitor vehicles with a combination of distinct styling, outstanding safety features, and the Hyundai Advantage, America's Best Warranty(TM).

Hyundai Tucson

"We're proud that the Azera and Tucson lead their segments in balancing economic value with emotional satisfaction," said John Krafcik, vice president of Product Development and Strategic Planning, Hyundai Motor America. "It's quite a feat to provide consumers with the best of both worlds, and the Hyundai model lineup offers the right mix of comfort and convenience features, paired with standard safety technologies and unbeatable value, to appeal to consumers on both an emotional and economic level."

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through 725 dealerships nationwide.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

Toyota Launches Completely Redesigned Corolla Sedan  
Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) announced today the Japan sales launch of the completely redesigned Corolla sedan—

Toyota Corolla Fielder

now known as the Corolla Axio*—and completely redesigned Corolla Fielder small station wagon through "Toyota Corolla" dealers nationwide.

Since its debut in 1966, the Corolla, through an automobile production approach that has anticipated the demands of the times, has gained the favor of millions of users, playing a key role in driving motorization forward. The Corolla is currently sold in more than 140 countries and regions, and cumulative sales have exceeded 30 million vehicles, making it a best-selling vehicle positioned to lead the 21st century.

The new Corolla Axio, as the 10th generation Corolla sedan, and the redesigned Corolla Fielder were developed with "car-making by a new measure" as their basic theme. Toyota focused on enhancing basic performance and deepening the sense of quality, which is the essence of the Corolla, by responding to customer needs without being trapped by existing notions of what constitutes a compact vehicle.

Some specific examples of the active adoption of features from the customer's perspective are improved driving-support functions, such as the rearview monitor that is standard on all Corolla Axio models and the convenience-enhancing one-touch double-folding rear seats that are standard on all Corolla Fielder models.

In addition, a new standard for compact sedans and for station wagons is created through a newly developed 1.8-liter engine and Super CVT-i (Super Continuously Variable Transmission-intelligent) transmission that provide outstanding cruising and environmental performance, as well as through the adoption of innovative and advanced equipment not previously seen on compact vehicles, such as a Pre-crash Safety System using millimeter-wave radar and an Intelligent Parking Assist system.

* The Axio name was created from the Greek work "axia", meaning "things with value".

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

Ford Employee Buyouts Offered Next Week  
Reuters reported that Ford Motor Co. said on Monday it will begin offering buyout packages next week to all its U.S. hourly workers under its previously announced plan to cut 30,000 blue-collar jobs by the end of 2008.

The buyouts will be made available from Oct. 16 to Nov. 27 to all of the more than 75,000 workers at Ford's U.S. plants, Marty Mulloy, Ford's vice president for labor affairs, told Reuters.

Ford, following a $1.4 billion loss in the first half, is cutting both salaried and blue-collar jobs as part of its second North American restructuring plan this year.

The automaker will begin meeting with employees on Tuesday to brief them on their eligibility for a range of early retirement incentives, Mulloy said.

Ford previously offered buyouts on a plant-by-plant basis unlike rival General Motors Corp.

Mulloy declined to say how many workers are expected to take a buyout package but said the buyouts will take effect next year.

"Most people will start leaving after the first of the year," Mulloy said.

All the workers who accept buyout packages are expected to leave by the end of September next year, Ford spokeswoman Marcey Evans said, adding that Ford expects to reach its targeted 30,000 factory job cuts partly through attrition too.

Ford, which plans to shut 16 factories, has been losing U.S. market share to Japanese rivals that are not burdened by high pension and health care obligations.

The sales and market share loss forced the automaker to step up its cost-cutting efforts to align its manufacturing capacity to weakened demand.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

Autoline eyeing global thrust  
Pune-based automotives manufacturer Autoline Industries Limited has planned expansion of its manufacturing capacities to be able to pitch for business from world automobile makers.

The company has signed strategic tieups for contract manufacturing for heavy vehicle maker Stokota of Belgium, has entered into a memorandum of understanding with Detroit Engineering Products to create a base in the US market and is planning a units in United Arab Emirates to make wheel rims and break shoes.

Autoline Industries director M Radhakrishnan told reporters on Tuesday that the company was planning to expand capacities at three of its units in Chakan near Pune to make a range of sheet metal components for the automobiles industry.

The company presently supplies about 400 different components for the auto industry including load bodies and door sub-assemblies. Its biggest customer is Tata Motors, followed by Mahindra and Mahindra and and Bajaj Auto.

Radhakrishnan said the company has planned an expansion programme with a finance outlay of Rs 104 crore to upgradae its facilities and modernise its tool room besides installing additional capacities by way of a new unit.

A part of the project cost is meant for acquisitions of units abroad as well as setting up of the unit in UAE, he said. The company has so far invested about Rs 3 crore and the rest will be raised from - among other sources - a equity issue of Rs 75 crore, he explained.

Describing “design to delivery” as the company’s principal strength, Radhakrishnan said the company is confident of winning business in the engineering process outsourcing area through its understanding with the Detroit Engineered Products, USA, who is a registered vendor with auto giants such as General Motors or Ford “The US partners will be the front end for us and we will provide concept to delivery services,” Radhakrishnan said.

Autoline has recently signed an arrangement with heavy vehicle manufacturer Stokota of Belgium to supply to its Indian subsidiary tippers, tipper trailers, tankers, cement bulkers and garbage extractors.

Source : Business Standard (Online Edition) (10/11/2006)

Ashok Leyland launches `Comet'  
Ashok Leyland has launched its 20-ft extra loading vehicle `Comet 1611' here. The new cab with fully built body options is aimed at meeting the growing demand in rated payload segments such as parcel, courier, white good and tankers, offering up to 10 per cent savings in fuel costs compared to existing models in this class of vehicles.

The additional loading span coupled with fuel efficiency is a boon to customers' profitability in the context of the Supreme Court indictment on overloading, Mr Ramji Narayanaswamy, Regional Manager (South), told presspersons.

With the ready-to-use vehicle, the customers can earn from day one, as the unladen weight of the vehicle is reduced through superior engineering and the payload thereby, increased up to one tonne. The truck is priced around Rs 8.6 lakh.

Source : Business Line (Online Edition) (10/11/2006)

Honda settlement `pledge' with union  
Honda Motors and Scooter India Ltd (HMSI) today signed a pledge with their labour union at a ceremony held at HMSI plant in Manesar.

This pledge was taken jointly in the presence of all workers and senior management.

The HMSI Labour Union and the management had signed a long-term settlement for a duration of three years on September 17.

Mr Yukihiro Aoshima, President and Chief Executive Officer, HMSI, said, "Our current market share is six per cent and in the years to come we intend to take it up to 10 per cent.

We are currently producing 12 lakh vehicles per year and we hope that with the co-operation of our workers we will be successful in increasing our rate of growth in the years to come and give our workers a brighter future."

Mr Suresh Gaur, President, Labour Union, HMSI, said, "This pledge is a symbol of renewed dedication and commitment from both the management and the workers.

We hope that the management and the union can work together to create new benchmarks in industrial relations and take the company to new heights."

HMSI was witness to one of the worst labour disputes last year after which it entered into an agreement with the workers.

The company was also troubled with another labour dispute last month when some of the contractual workers at the plant went on strike demanding regularisation.

Source : Business Line (Online Edition) (10/11/2006)

Goodyear rolls out new range of tyres  
Taking note of the rising income levels in the country, tyre maker Goodyear India on Tuesday rolled out its new range of tyres `Excellence' for the premium car segment in India.

The company will initially import the tyres from China, but might consider manufacturing the product in India after assessing the demand and volumes in the domestic market.

"We will import the premium car tyres from China, but depending on the volumes and the demand, we could make the product in India at our manufacturing facility at Aurangabad," the Goodyear India CMD, Mr Antonio Capellini, said.

Targeting corporate executives in the 35-65 years age group, the product will initially cater to luxury passenger car owners in metros such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and the mini metros, he said.

The series will be available for most luxury car models including Hyundai Sonata, Honda Accord, Honda Civic, Skoda Octavia, Mercedes E, C and S Class and Audi A4, A6 and TT among others and will come in 10 variants.

"A plethora of brands will be launched in the luxury car segment in India by major auto players, thus we see the demand only going upwards for our new product. Consumers today are willing to spend on luxury," the Goodyear India Sales and Marketing Director India, Mr Krishna Mahesh, said.

Source : Business Line (Online Edition) (10/11/2006)

Auto makers may stay on the fast lane on rising volumes  
MUMBAI: Driven by improved volume growth, automobile companies are seen posting a 24% growth in net sales and 21% rise in net profit in the July-September quarter, compared with the same period last year.

Analysts expect companies to report an operating profit growth of roughly 30-40% during the quarter. “We expect the auto companies to post strong financial performance for the quarter, mainly on the back of better realisations on sales,” Emkay Shares and Stockbrokers said in its earnings preview.

Earnings of four-wheeler companies are seen outperforming the two-wheelers with this quarter, analysts said. “The impetus provided by the ban on overloading had its positive spell continued in Q2FY07 and both the M&HCV (Medium- and heavy-commercial vehicles) and LCV (light-commercial vehicles) segment witnessed robust demand.

Demand for passenger cars also remained buoyant during the quarter as the segment saw introduction of new models and upgraded variants,” the Emkay note said.

Analysts said the earnings growth during the quarter would be strong, considering that sales were hit due to the heavy floods in several parts of the country. Operating profit margins, which measures a company’s operating efficiencies, for auto companies — mostly four-wheelers — are expected to improve this quarter, they said.

“Price hikes affected by OEMs (original-equipment manufacturers), better product mix and benefits of operating leverage are likely to offset the increase in raw material and freight costs, resulting in marginal Y-o-Y improvement in the EBITDA margin,” said ICICI Securities in its preview note.

According to ASK Raymond James, “Strong topline performance, softening of input prices and aggressive cost-containment measures to aid margin expansion on Y-o-Y basis for all four-wheelers.”

Analysts are positive on Tata Motors and Mahindra and Mahindra in the four-wheeler segment on expectations of surprises in earnings driven by forex gains. Among two-wheelers, Bajaj Auto is seen posting the strongest growth, while Hero Honda’s performance is likely to be sedate.

“We expect Hero Honda to report a marginal drop in revenues as it faced one of the toughest quarters with poor sales mix,” Emkay said.

Among auto component manufacturers, Bharat Forge is seen reporting a 23% growth in sales, driven by growth in exports. Analysts are seen keeping a close watch on the impact of the integration of the recent acquisitions with itself on the company’s operating margins.

“We expect the company to report 29% growth in EBITDA (operating profit) to Rs 120 crore, with EBITDA margins expanding by 40 basis points to 26.2%,”the Motilal Oswal Securities note said.

Source : Economic Times (10/11/2006)

Dodge Charger - "General Lee"  
Inspired by the Mk3 Ford Cortina in the Life on Mars TV series set in 1973, author Giles Chapman has collected all the famous cars from TV and featured them in this new book.

Hairstyles and cars date most TV programmes. But while old-fashioned hairstyles cause amusement, cars are more likely to evoke feelings of nostalgia. Old favourites featured include the Ford Zephyr from Z-Cars and the red Jaguar MkII of Inspector Morse. And not forgetting the Dodge Charger of the Dukes of Hazzard that gave Boss Hogg so much trouble.

TV Cars contains facts, anecdotes and photographs of the cars and their star drivers from the nation's favourite cop shows, dramas, sit-coms, sci-fi classics and documentaries. There's a brief biography of each car, detailing its history, why it was chosen for the series and modifications made for filming.

Regan and Carter fans will remember the Ford Consul, Ford Granada and Jaguar S-type used on The Sweeney. Only Fools and Horses had an infamous Reliant Regal, of course, plus a less well-known Ford Capri.

From America, The A-Team was always smoking the tyres of either a GMC van or a Corvette. The Knight Rider series used an all-back Pontiac Firebird.

However, can you remember the exact make and model of car that Basil Fawlty gave a "damn good thrashing" in an episode of Fawlty Towers? It was, in fact, an Austin 1100 Countryman.

Author Giles Chapman of Sevenoaks, Kent has been a motoring journalist for 20 years. He is former editor of Classic & Sports Car and Your Classic magazines and author of seven books.

TV Cars will be published on Thursday 19th October 2006.

Source : http://www.newcarnet.co.uk (10/10/2006)

Reverse charge  
Ask most drivers to reverse more than a few metres and they'll look at you with the sort of hatred normally directed at traffic wardens, estate agents or game show hosts.

But one Australian motorist tried to reverse 300 miles to get back home after his transmission failed.

When the 23-year-old's gearbox packed up just outside Kalgoorlie in Western Australia, he decided to drive all the way home to Perth in reverse.

Sadly, the valiant antipodean only managed to cover 12 miles before the police caught up with him. At the time he was doing 30mph, but explained to the bemused coppers that he'd had to slow down from 50mph because he was swerving too much.

Understandably, they breathalysed him. Though he was under the legal limit, he was still charged with reckless driving.

Source : http://www.topgear.com (10/10/2006)

100 Chrysler Group and Chrysler Financial Employees Take a Walk Through the Focus:  
What: Chrysler Group and Chrysler Financial executives and employees will join Focus: HOPE in Walk 2006 to raise money for educational scholarships. The scholarships will be awarded to students pursuing engineering, computer and technical careers. The scenic route will start at Focus: HOPE and include a path down Oakman Boulevard to Woodrow Wilson, to Livernois and back to Focus: HOPE for a total of three miles.

Who: Monica Emerson, Executive Director of Diversity Office -- Chrysler Group

William Jones, Vice President -- Chrysler Financial and Focus: HOPE Board Member

Chrysler Group volunteers Chrysler Financial volunteers

When:Sunday, October 8, 2006 1 p.m. -- Focus: HOPE Walk 2006 kick-off

Where:Focus: HOPE 1355 Oakman Blvd Detroit, MI 48238

Details: The walk will start and end at Focus: HOPE. Employees and community leaders will be available for interviews and photo opportunities.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

Mitsubishi Motors Debuts Interactive Microsite for New Outlander Compact SUV  
CYPRESS, Calif., /PRNewswire/ -- The 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander ad campaign aims to 'outbroadcast' the features of the all-new compact sport utility, as viewers are introduced to the new model on the just-launched microsite, www.outeverything.com. With the 2007 Outlander campaign, Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. debuts an updated advertising design theme to complement a new series of models to be introduced over the next 18 months. Outlander goes on sale in November.

The Outlander advertising campaign illustrates for consumers how the generously equipped SUV can "OutFast," "OutBlast," and "OutMusic" the competition, among other attributes. The full campaign, which will cover print, online and broadcast outlets, is set to launch Nov. 6 and was developed by Mitsubishi's national advertising agency, BBDO, with the online elements developed by Organic, Inc. Additionally, the Outlander ad campaign incorporates Mitsubishi's "Driven to Thrill" tagline as well as the "25 years in America" corporate logo, as part of the company's yearlong anniversary celebration.

"Mitsubishi is a passionate, purposeful company that delivers driving thrills, innovation and value in every vehicle it builds," said Mike Nash, director of advertising, MMNA. "This is always the underlying message of all our advertising and this campaign particularly underscores how the new Outlander outclasses and outperforms its competition. The Outlander has so many 'outstanding' features, it was a no-brainer to put the emphasis on the performance heritage of the company and the superiority of the model," Nash continued.

The microsite was designed to drive dealer traffic and create excitement among online car buyers and enthusiasts. As with the recently relaunched Mitsubishicars.com, Mitsubishi's new consumer Website, the Outlander site features dramatic styling and design elements with the car taking center stage. The site was also designed to emphasize each of the Outlander's key features not usually available in SUVs of its class, such as a new 220-hp aluminum MIVEC V-6 engine and six-speed Sportronic(R) automatic transmission, first-ever Hard Disc Drive (HDD) based Navigation system featuring 30 gigabytes of potential music storage, Bluetooth(R) cellular phone interface system, an underfloor-stowable compact third row seat and 650-watt Rockford Fosgate premium audio system. The print campaign will commence in the November issues of Road&Track, Car & Driver, Autoweek, Motor Trend and Automobile magazines, and complements the microsite with the "Out Everything" tagline.

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)

INCISENT Technologies Helps Fuel Chicago's Technology Renaissance While Enabling...  
CHICAGO, /PRNewswire/ -- INCISENT Technologies, a Chicago-based software firm, is revolutionizing the automotive industry by enabling dealerships across the country to make the best informed business decisions. INCISENT's business intelligence software, INSIGHT, delivers key information to automotive dealership managers and points each business unit to the best opportunities -- how to fix what is wrong and build on what is right -- for improving performance.

Just as his father, Pat Ryan, pioneered finance and insurance within the automotive industry more than 30 years ago, Pat Ryan Jr.'s vision for INCISENT is quickly being realized. The company has grown from five customers in one state in 2004 to more than 900 customers in 45 states today. The early success of INCISENT also serves as a springboard for Ryan's goal of increasing awareness of Chicagoland as one of the nation's leading and viable technology hubs.

"When relationships are built, partnerships are made and contracts are signed, we need to regularly celebrate and market Chicago's technology industry," said Pat Ryan Jr., CEO of INCISENT Technologies. "Chicago's central geographical presence, proximity to leading universities that are developing advanced technologies and the more reasonable cost of living compared to the Silicon Valley are just some of the advantages Chicago has to offer. We need to attract more technology talent to the Midwest and can do so by highlighting leading technology companies in the area. In addition, local companies need to encourage relationships with growing technology businesses and vice versa."

During the research and development stage, Ryan and his team of engineers received expert technology guidance from Northwestern University's Artificial Intelligence (AI) Dev Lab to develop INCISENT's Web-based INSIGHT performance management solution, which has the automotive world buzzing. The talented team at the AI Dev Lab, along with INCISENT's software engineers and analytics and industry experts, are all finding professional success -- proving that Chicago has the makings of an integral technology center.

Ryan will continue to focus on maintaining INCISENT's momentum through ongoing development of the product offering and adding advanced features to increase its value and ease-of-use. Simultaneously, as the firm grows so will Ryan's push to promote technology entrepreneurship in Chicago.

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)

Ohio Manufacturing Jobs Down 34,203; Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus Rank Among Top...  
EVANSTON, Ill., /PRNewswire/ -- Ohio continued to lose manufacturing jobs over the past 12 months, according to the 2007 Ohio Manufacturers Directory, an industrial directory published annually by Manufacturers' News, Inc. (MNI) Evanston, IL. MNI reports Ohio lost 34,203 manufacturing jobs and 384 plants since September of 2005, prolonging the severe losses seen in Ohio since 2001.

"Ohio's job losses echo those seen in Pennsylvania, Michigan, and New York," said Tom Dubin, President of MNI. "Rust Belt manufacturers continue to be lured by cheaper labor costs overseas, particularly in China, which is increasingly capable of handling greater production capacity."

Manufacturers' News reports Ohio is now home to 21,250 manufacturing companies employing 1,095,594 workers. MNI's survey profiles both large and small Ohio manufacturers, including start-up companies with just a few employees.

MNI's regional study shows Ohio ranks 3rd in the nation by number of manufacturing jobs, accounting for 5.8% of the nation's industrial employment. Ohio represents 20% of the Midwest's manufacturing companies and jobs.

According to MNI data, Ohio's top three manufacturing cities also rank among the top 20 U.S. industrial cities. Cincinnati tops the list and ranks 6th in the U.S with 1,589 plants and 99,700 jobs. Cleveland ranks 10th in the U.S. with 1,977 plants and 80,367 jobs while Columbus ranks 19th with 1,017 plants and 56,282 jobs.

According to the 2007 Directory, industrial machinery and equipment remains Ohio's top industry, accounting for 21% of the state's manufacturers. The automotive sector is Ohio's top industry by employment with motor vehicle parts and accessories accounting for 78,089 jobs.

Detailed information on all of Ohio's 21,250 companies can be found in the 2007 Ohio Manufacturers Directory, available in print for $198. The 1,952-page Directory provides an in-depth company profile of up to 30 facts, including addresses, phone/fax numbers, web/email addresses, product(s) manufactured, names and titles of key executives, area of distribution, annual sales, number of employees, brand names, year established and more.

MNI's Ohio data is also available on CD-ROM for $261 to $745. Users may select manufacturing companies using thirteen different criteria, including area or zip code, county, SIC, sales volume, number of employees, title and more.

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)

Integral ABS from Continental Automotive Systems is Successfully Launched in Eight BMW Motorcycles  
The Motorcycle Integral Brake System (MIB), jointly developed by Continental Automotive Systems and BMW, has been successfully launched in eight K- and R-series motorcycles. The smallest electronically controlled integral brake system in the world is now being offered as standard or at extra cost on the R1200 GS, GS Adventure, RT and R boxer models and on the four-cylinder K1200 S, R and GT models. Due to its innovative valve technology, the MIB is especially effective during reduced vibration of the brake lever. It also offers additional functions for improved driving safety.

Ideal brake force distribution, rear wheel lift-off protection and traction control

The MIB from Continental Automotive Systems generates pressure in the wheel brake without the need for a brake booster and therefore does not make a loud noise. The continuously variable (analogue-controlled) activation of the innovative valves allows a smooth and hence extra effective modulation of the brake pressure. Less brake fluid has to be pumped back and forth during ABS intervention than with conventional valves. The driver feels the difference immediately: the brake lever vibrates just enough to show that there is ABS activity. Originally developed for brake systems on passenger cars, this valve technology also enables the motorcyclist to obtain the maximum possible deceleration, even on poor road surfaces.

The MIB used by BMW is a partially integrated ABS system. The rider controls the rear wheel brake using the brake pedal alone. The pressure for the front wheel brake is generated using the hand lever, while the ABS electric pump specially adapted for this partially integrated system actively increases the pressure on the rear wheel brake. The integrated rear wheel lift-off protection (RLP) represents a further safety benefit. It briefly stops the pressure build-up or gently reduces the pressure in the front braking circuit whenever the wheel speed sensors indicate that rear wheel lift-off is imminent. This maintains the minimum load on the rear wheel necessary for lateral guidance and prevents an imminent rollover within the bounds of physical possibility. In addition, the MIB supplies data from the wheel speed sensors to the engine management system via the CAN bus. This means that BMW can provide an electronically controlled traction control system that reduces the engine output before lateral stability is lost during acceleration.

Compact, lightweight, advanced technology

The MIB is the smallest electronically controlled integral system in the world. Easily integrated into the vehicle, the system is made even more appealing by the use of components whose quality has already been proven in passenger cars and the fact that it weighs just 2.3 kg. In addition to this system, Continental Automotive Systems is also developing a fully integrated ABS and a conventional dual-channel ABS that weighs just 1.2 kg. The development of a family of 4-piston calipers for motorcycles in close partnership with the French company BERINGER S.A. is on schedule and the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is ready for production.

"We see great potential for our company in the motorcycle market," said Dr. Ralf Cramer, Head of the Business Unit Electronic Brake and Safety Systems at Continental Automotive Systems. "Together with our air spring damper units, our modular portfolio of brake systems and components will keep motorcyclists safer. With products such as these, we are contributing to the European Safety Charter to achieve its aim of halving the number of motorcycle accidents between 2004 and 2010."

The Continental group is a leading supplier of braking systems, chassis components, vehicle electronics, tires and technical elastomers to the automotive industry. In 2005, the company achieved sales of euro 13.8 billion and currently employs a workforce of roughly 80,000 throughout the world.

As a leading global technology and systems engineering partner to the automotive industry, the Automotive Systems Division of Continental AG combines comprehensive know-how and uncompromising quality in the areas of active and passive driving safety, telematics, hands-free communication systems, drive systems and comfort. In 2005, this Division generated sales of roughly euro 5.2 billion with a workforce of more than 24,000. Continental Automotive Systems develops and produces electronic and hydraulic brake, stability and suspension control systems, electronic pneumatic suspension systems, sensors, engine management and transmission control systems, hybrid drives, radiator fan modules and electronic devices for comfort and safety applications and is a leading global producer of telematics and communications solutions for the automotive sector.

In 2006, the Division can look back over a total of 100 years of successful automotive engineering. Its motto, "Forward Thinking," reflects its conviction that it will continue to exploit new aspects of automotive safety and driving pleasure for drivers of the future.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

J.D. Power and Associates Reports: Shoppers Increasingly Turn to Manufacturer and...  
WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif., /PRNewswire/ -- New-vehicle buyers are relying more on manufacturer and dealer Web sites throughout their shopping process at the expense of portals and many independent Web sites, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2006 New Autoshopper.com Study(SM) released today.

The study, which measures the shopping habits of 28,989 actual new-vehicle buyers, has shown a shift in the focus of online vehicle shopping over the years from finding the right vehicle price to finding the right vehicle. A record high of 87 percent of automotive Internet users (AIUs) are visiting at least one manufacturer site, and they are visiting a greater number of them. By comparison, only 77 percent of AIUs visit an independent automotive Web site -- down from the 2004 peak of 80 percent.

"Generally speaking, the independent Web sites that shoppers find extremely useful are increasing in visitation or at least holding steady," said Dennis Galbraith, executive director of digital marketing solutions at J.D. Power and Associates. "However, consumer expectations are increasing faster than many independent Web sites are improving. The result is lower satisfaction ratings for relatively stagnant sites in terms of new content and less visitation by actual buyers. Instead, consumers are visiting several manufacturer sites during the shopping process to gather the information they need."

The automotive sections of large portals all experienced significant declines in site visitation from 2005, although Yahoo! Autos remains one of the industry's most visited automotive Web sites. Some of the better-known shopping sites of the past, such as CarsDirect.com and Autobytel.com, are steadily declining in site visitation by actual new-vehicle buyers. At the same time, some of the most visited shopping sites, including AutoTrader.com, cars.com, Consumer Reports.org, Edmunds.com, and Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com are helping shoppers find the right vehicle and are attracting as many or more new-vehicle buyers than ever before.

"Many independent sites start by asking the shopper 'what make and model are you looking for?' in exchange for pricing information," said Galbraith. "The problem is that many shoppers need help determining which vehicle is right for them. Shoppers know that first-year depreciation is going to cost them many thousands of dollars. They know how important it is to buy the right vehicle -- one that is going to meet their needs for some time to come. The cost of buying the wrong vehicle is generally far greater than the cost of poor negotiating. It is not a surprise that shoppers are moving away from sites that want to turn them into request-for-quote leads with little or no help offered to find the right vehicle."

The study finds that shoppers are relying more on manufacturer Web sites for vehicle information, commonly visiting a number of manufacturer sites before they buy. Among AIUs, 74 percent rely on manufacturer sites the most for options and features information -- the highest percentage yet recorded.

With a record 67.5 percent of new-vehicle buyers using the Internet in their online shopping process, visitation to vehicle brand Web sites has become extremely important to manufacturers' marketing efforts. The study finds that online shoppers who visit a brand site are far more likely to purchase that brand than are AIUs who do not. However, the site's impact on the shopper's vehicle choice is not the only variable impacting this relationship. Vehicle image as well as online and offline advertising remain important. If the desire for the vehicle is strong enough that the brand site is the first site visited, the chance of that brand getting the sale roughly doubles.

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)

Car-nal knowledge  
Those hot-blooded Spaniards have come up with a telly ad that's just too damn sexy. So sexy that it has to be shown after the 9pm watershed.

Advertising the Altea, the ad shows how different people quantify their personal space, including one couple getting a little steamy.

The ad is showing throughout the whole of October, so if 9pm isn't past your bedtime, you might get an eyeful of the Seat Altea.

Source : http://www.topgear.com (10/10/2006)

Suresh Rana makes it a hat-trick of wins  
New Delhi, It was a great show by Himachal Pradesh’s Suresh Rana when he scored a hat-trick of wins in the Maruti Suzuki Raid-de-Himalaya Rally in the Xtreme category.

British national Damon I’anson won the two-wheeler category. Rajesh Chalana and Farhan Vohra won the Car and SUV category titles, respectively, of the Reliability trial of the eighth edition of the event.

Rana, in his Gypsy, collected 02:09:20 penalty points to beat his close rival Sunny Siddhu (02:16:32). Sqn Ldr Ashish Kumar of Indian Air force came third (03:20:31).

I’anson had 02:36:20 penalty points to beat Ashish Moudgil (03:32:27), with Yogesh Lakhani (04:16:19) came third, according to information reaching here.

Ninety two rallyists were flagged-off from Shimla on September 30 and covered 2139 km with 725 km in 16 competitive stages in seven days. They crossed six of the world’s highest mountain passes some well over 5500m.

En route they traversed through Gramphoo, Kaza, Dhankar, Patseo and Leh, ending at Manali. A total purse of Rs 6 lakh was given out.

The rally was organised under the aegis of Himalayan Motorsport and is co-sponsored by SBI Auto Loans and supported by Himachal Tourism, JK Tourism and Indian Army.

Source : Indian Express (Online Edition) (10/10/2006)

Ford says Jan-Sept China vehicle sales up 105.5 pct  
Ford Motor Co.'s (F.N) China vehicle sales surged 105.5 percent in the first nine months from a year earlier, the company said on Tuesday.

Total sales in China came to 114,685 vehicles in the first three quarters, the company said in a statement.

Source : http://www.washingtonpost.com (10/10/2006)

Review of Forbes' 2007 Mercedes GL450 Test Drive  
Taking a break from their usual financial banter and investment advice, the boys of Forbes recently decided to test their skills as automotive reviewers, positioning themselves behind the wheel of what is the unquestionable potentate of seven-passenger SUV's - the GL450.

Unsurprisingly, Forbes found that the GL 450 is everything you'd expect it to be - spacious, luxurious, quiet, well-mannered... it is, after all, a Mercedes.

So what was Forbes' final opinion?

Despite the aforementioned qualities, Forbes determined "the GL is hardly a fuel sipper, so you should weigh whether you really need this much room. As good as the GL is, we'd much rather drive the E- Class (or Audi A6 or BMW 5-series) wagons around daily."

A station wagon?

That's right Forbes, I'm considering a $60,000 seven-passenger SUV, but in an effort to save an extra 3 mpg in the city and 5 mpg on the highway, I think instead I'll opt for a station wagon.

The ability to tow; the ability to seat seven passengers comfortably without forcing them to endure backwards, bench-like seating; the ability to carry cargo even when the vehicle is at its maximum occupancy... none of these things matter.

Buy a station wagon. You'll save 3 miles per gallon.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

Toyota Loses Ground as Honda Thrives in Annual Value Survey  
SAN DIEGO — Toyota, which had seven segment winners in the 2005 edition of the annual Strategic Vision vehicle value survey, took only three categories in this year's study.

At the same time, Hyundai Motor gained ground: The Kia Optima snagged the top spot for a medium car, the Hyundai Azera won for larger car and the Kia Sedona ranked as the top minivan.

Honda retained its overall top ranking, taking top honors in the small-car category for the Civic and in the compact-pickup segment with the Ridgeline. Honda Motor was also named the best overall corporation. General Motors had segment leaders with the Chevrolet Corvette, Corvette convertible and Silverado. The Saturn Vue tied with the Hyundai Tucson in the small-SUV category. Survey results were released on Monday.

The Strategic Vision survey asked more than 64,000 new vehicle owners about their experiences and whether they believe they got their money's worth in the time period from October 2005 to March 2006. The study is somewhat unusual in that it includes "emotional responses" to vehicles.

Source : http://www.edmunds.com (10/10/2006)

Refueling Can Cause Static Fires, Experts Offer Safety Tips  
I think this is a bullshit story. After nearly 40 years of putting gas in vehicles I've never seen or heard of this happening to anyone. But I guess someone at API had some extra money in their budget and they didn't want to lose it, so they commissioned the production of this videotape. Well, maybe I'm wrong and it is an important subject. Give it a look-see, it couldn't hurt, and perhaps it will save your life. MJR

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

BMW Individual Allows Customization of any 2007 7 Series  
MIAMI, Fla. — In an effort to aid customers with vehicle personalization, BMW announced the launch of the 7 Series by BMW Individual. BMW Individual is the brand's customization arm, which originally started with a design from fashion icon Karl Lagerfeld, and puts a premium on special interiors and paint colors.

The BMW Individual offer is available on all models of the BMW 7 Series and can be ordered through dealerships. Customers get a choice of three leather colors and three trim choices for $11,000 on the 750i/Li or $10,000 on the 760i/Li. Unique paint finishes are available for an additional $3,000.

BMW Individual includes Merino full-leather upholstery, Alcantara headliner and unique interior trim, including piano varnish wood trim. Also included are illuminated BMW doorsills, 20-inch special BMW Individual wheels and a storage net in the front passenger's-side footwell.

Source : http://www.edmunds.com (10/10/2006)

Report: Saturn/Opel To Share Platforms by 2014  
PARIS — General Motors' top executive in Europe says the Saturn and Opel brands will be virtually interchangeable by 2014 following a seven-year consolidation of product portfolios.

"From now on, whenever we develop a vehicle, we have to make sure we can export it to the U.S. and vice-versa," Carl-Peter Forster, president of General Motors Europe, told Ward's Auto.

GM already has said the 2008 Saturn Vue will be the same as the new Opel Antara, and the new Opel Astra will replace the Saturn Ion.

According to Ward's, the Saturn Astra will go into production in fall 2007 at GM's plant in Antwerp, Belgium. The line will include three- and five-door hatchbacks, but no sedan is planned.

The Opel Antara will be imported from South Korea, while the '08 Saturn Vue will be assembled in Mexico, supplier sources told Inside Line. Both models were developed initially in Korea by GM-Daewoo.

Saturn won't get the new Opel Corsa compact, which is just being introduced in Europe. But GM executives told Automotive News that the next-generation Corsa, due in about five years, likely will be rebadged as an entry-level Saturn in North America.

Likewise, the midsize Opel Vectra sedan and Saturn Aura will be consolidated on a common platform, with common sheet metal, but probably not until 2009 or later. The Aura is just rolling into U.S. showrooms as a 2007 model but is expected to be redesigned for model-year 2010.

Source : http://www.edmunds.com (10/9/2006)

Blank Canvas: 2007 Chevrolet HHR Panel Van Debuts  
DETROIT — Perhaps Chevrolet was thinking of the quirky Scion xB, or maybe the division's designers had in mind some of those snazzy SEMA derivatives of the early Chrysler PT Cruiser.

Whatever the inspiration, the new 2007 HHR Panel is aimed at drawing additional traffic when it begins arriving in Chevy showrooms in early 2007.

Chevrolet says the HHR Panel is designed for both commercial and private users, with windowless side panels, rear cargo doors in place of conventional rear doors, and a flat load floor, plus additional under-floor storage.

"It's great for delivery companies and other small businesses, but we think auto enthusiasts will love it, too, as it gives them a large canvas on which to express their individuality," says Chevy boss Ed Peper, with his usual understatement.

The HHR Panel goes into production in the first quarter of 2007 and will be marketed in LS and LT trim levels with a choice of 2.2- and 2.4-liter four-cylinder engines.

Steel inserts replace the side windows on the HHR Panel. In the rear, cargo doors open wide via a dashboard release button. Because it is intended as a delivery vehicle, the HHR Panel comes with standard seating for two.

Source : http://www.edmunds.com (10/10/2006)

New Diesel Fuel Hitting Pumps Nationwide on October 15 Cuts Pollution  
The Natural Resources Defense Council and the Diesel Technology Forum issued the following statement today as EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson showcased the nationwide availability of ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel.

Starting Sunday, operators of more than eight million diesel-powered trucks and buses plying America's streets and highways will be able to fill up with a new, ultra-low sulfur fuel that is 97 percent cleaner than the old formulation it replaces. The new fuel, combined with innovative engine technology, will reduce diesel tailpipe pollution dramatically, with far- reaching clean air benefits, say both industry and environmental organizations.

Cleaner diesel fuel will immediately cut soot emissions from any diesel vehicle by 10 percent. But when combined with a new generation of engines hitting the road in January, it will enable emission reductions of up to 95 percent, according to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and the Diesel Technology Forum (DTF).

"Diesel is the invisible force that moves the American economy, but until now it has also been a big polluter," said Richard Kassel, head of NRDC's Clean Fuels and Vehicles Project. "Combining the new fuel with cleaner and more energy-efficient engines will mean healthier air and help reduce our dependence on oil."

Diesel trucks move 94 percent of the nation's goods -- more than 18 million tons of freight each day. Half a million diesel buses take 14 million people to work and school. The new fuel opens the door for auto companies to begin offering cleaner diesel cars that deliver greater fuel economy.

"Diesel vehicles have always been 20 to 40 percent more energy efficient than comparable gasoline engines," said Allen Schaeffer, DTF executive director. "With the switch to cleaner fuel, consumers will see more fuel- efficient diesel cars, pick-ups and SUVs on showroom floors in the years to come."

Improvements in both the fuel and the engines are required under new federal rules adopted by the Clinton administration and subsequently endorsed and implemented by the Bush administration. The policy was almost a decade in the making, and involved close collaboration between regulators, oil refiners, engine manufacturers and public health advocates to achieve a cost-effective solution.

The diesel clean-up rivals the removal of lead from gasoline a generation ago. "This is what can be achieved when all sides agree to buckle down and hammer out real solutions," Kassel said.

A new 2007 diesel truck will emit just one-sixtieth the soot exhaust of one produced in 1988. And thanks to the new fuel, owners of existing diesel vehicles will have the option to install new emission controls that can reduce soot emissions by more than 90 percent. Together, the new diesel technologies -- cleaner fuel, advanced engines, and new emission controls -- will play a leading role in helping cities and states meet new federal air quality standards over the coming decade.

"Getting industry, environmentalists and regulators around the table together produced better, faster results for everyone involved," Schaeffer added.

Clean, ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel is important because sulfur tends to hamper exhaust-control devices in diesel engines, much the same way lead once impeded the effectiveness of catalytic converters on gasoline cars. Removing the sulfur from diesel will help usher in a new generation of clean diesel technology applications across all vehicle types.

The Natural Resources Defense Council is a national, nonprofit organization of scientists, lawyers and environmental specialists dedicated to protecting public health and the environment. Founded in 1970, NRDC has 1.2 million members and online activists nationwide, served from offices in New York, Washington, Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

Q2 Watch: Auto firms to see margin expansion  
The automobile sector is expected to do well during the quarter ended September 2006 with Tata Motors and Maruti Udyog expected to report strong results, according to an earnings preview released by Sharekhan.

"While Bajaj Auto's sales grew 27%, Hero Honda reported a marginal rise of 1.3% in motorcycle sales. Maruti Udyog reported 12% rise in car sales, Mahindra & Mahindra's tractor sales rose 29.7% and Tata Motors' commercial vehicle sales (including exports) grew 39%," the report said.

With the softening of raw material prices, especially steel and copper, coupled with strong volume growth in the quarter should lead to margin expansion as compared to the fall in the margins in Q107. Product prices have been increased by around 2-3% across categories during the quarter, which should further cushion the margins, the report added.

"Tata Motors is expected to deliver a good Q2FY07 performance with an overall growth of 31%. The light commercial vehicle segment was on its high growth path recording an increase of 44.5%, the utility vehicle segment has recovered due to the successful re-launch of Safari, the car segment done well on account of Indica Xeta, and commercial vehicle segment has also witnessed growth - albeit at a lower rate.

"Ashok Leyland marked a strong growth of 33.4% in Q2FY07. The goods carrier segment, contributing about 81% of the total sales, led the growth with a YoY increase of 62%. However, sales of the passenger carrier segment declined 21.8% to 3,771 units.

"TVS Motors is expected to report a topline growth of 32.7% and improvement in operating margins due to the reduction in raw material prices and a price hike of about 1.5% effected towards the end of the last quarter," the report said.

Source : Business Standard (Online Edition) (10/10/2006)

LoJack For Motorcycles Leads Police to Recover More Than $1 Million in Stolen Bikes in the Month of September  
LoJack Corporation , the leading provider of tracking and recovery systems for stolen mobile assets, today announced that in the course of only one month (September), its LoJack For Motorcycles stolen motorcycle recovery system helped law enforcement recover more than $1 million in stolen bikes and accessories. The LoJack system has enabled police to uncover a wide variety of motorcycle-focused, organized crime rings, including several that involved chop shops selling stolen bike parts online. In total, the system has led police to discover nine organized theft rings, recover 82 stolen bikes, as well as stolen vehicles, bike parts, wheels, tools and electronics, and arrest 15 suspects during the month of September.

"Now that LoJack For Motorcycles is available in 25 states nationwide, we're seeing a tremendous increase in the number of recovered motorcycles and related theft rings the system is helping police uncover across the country," said Richard T. Riley, LoJack's President and COO. "With theft rates rising at alarming levels and motorcycle riding experiencing a surge in popularity, we're pleased to provide owners with such a powerful solution that is proving to be an integral part of helping police crack down on bike theft."

Emerging Trend of Chop Shops Selling Stolen Motorcycle Parts Online In the month of September, law enforcement discovered four chop shops in which the thieves were suspected of selling stolen motorcycle parts on online.

Here are the details: * 13 Harley Davidson motorcycles recovered in a Monterey, CA chop shop -- total value of recovered items $370,000.Chop shop was involved with selling stolen parts online; two suspects were arrested. * Metric bike chop shop uncovered in Pacoima, CA that was selling stolen bike parts online.Chop shop included six stolen metric bikes, a stolen BMW 528I, and large boxes containing components for Yamaha, Honda and Kawasaki bikes, six front ends, wheels, 12 mufflers, eight gas tanks, six rear wheel assemblies, numerous tools, parts and engines.Two suspects were arrested for chop shop violations and another for selling stolen goods online. * Motorcycle chop shop in Alhambra, CA with a garage full of motorcycle frames and parts, as well as lap top computers -- all in boxes marked for sale online.Arrested one suspect and investigation in ongoing. * Sport bikes chop shop in Elgin, IL that uncovered 26 sport motorcycles, motorized racing equipment, motorcycle frames, and tools used to "chop" up the motorcycles and stolen vehicles worth nearly $260,000.

Theft Rates Rise a Full 135 Percent in Past Five Years

According to motorcycle theft statistics release this past July by The National Insurance Crime Bureau, more than 70,000 motorcycles were stolen in 2005, representing a loss of more than $430 million to consumers and insurance companies. While theft statistics for 2005 were relatively flat when compared with 2004, the jump in bike theft is dramatic over the past five years, climbing from approximately 30,000 in 2000 to more than 70,000 in 2005 -- a full 135 percent increase.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

Celeb Watch: Martha Stewart Has Eyes on Car Design  
NEW YORK — Martha Stewart's post-prison aspirations include automotive design, according to the latest edition of Life magazine.

The domestic guru tells the publication that her fantasy vehicle would be a "large car."

"I have a [Chevrolet] Suburban," she said. "I live in my car. I have all these beautiful homes, but I actually live in my car. I commute because I like to go home to my farm. I like to see my animals every day, to take walks, to look at my gardening."

Stewart's automotive musings were triggered by the question: What hasn't she created yet that she'd like to? "Many things," replied the 65-year-old entrepreneur. "We haven't designed a car yet."

No word on whether any automakers have signed her up yet.

Source : http://www.edmunds.com (10/10/2006)

Reed Sorenson, No. 41 Target Dodge Lowe's Motor Speedway Advance...  
Sorenson is building an impressive resume at Lowe's Motor Speedway. He has competed at the 1.5-mile speedway in a number of different series' including; NEXTEL Cup, Busch, ARCA and ASA. Sorenson's first start at the track came in the May 2004 ARCA race where he started third and finished fourth. Later that same year he scored his first-career ASA victory in October. Sorenson has three starts in Busch Series competition with a career high fifth-place finish (May 2005) and his only points awarded start in NEXTEL Cup competition in May of this season resulted in a 10th-place finish.

Lysol on the Quarter Panel: The Lysol logo will adorn the upper-rear quarter panels of the red and white Target Dodge this weekend. Lysol Brand surface and air sanitizer products are manufactured and distributed by Reckitt Benckiser, No. 1 in household cleaning. For more information on Lysol and the family of Reckitt Benckiser products, please visit www.reckitt.com, www.reckitt.com.

Chassis: Crew Chief Jimmy Elledge and the No. 41 Target Team have selected chassis #206 for this weekend's NEXTEL Cup event at LMS. This car has been the busiest of the Target team's fleet this season, competing in a total of six events (California, Las Vegas, NEXTEL Open, Pocono 1, Indy, Dover 2). Its best performance of '06 came in the second Dover race where Sorenson led a total of 39 laps and ran in the top five for a majority of the race. He went on to finish 11th after running out of fuel with just one lap remaining.

NEXTEL Cup Points Report: Sorenson and the No. 41 team dropped one position to 24th in the overall standings after engine woes sent the team to the garage early in the last event at Talladega. With a total of 2942 points, the team is only 91 points out of 20th.

Rookie Round Up: Sorenson is currently third in the Raybestos Rookie of the Year standings with 192 points. He trails leader Denny Hamlin by 73 points and second place Clint Bowyer by 28. Sorenson has captured rookie of the race honors in five of the 30 races run thus far in '06 (Atlanta - 10th, Martinsville - 12th, Michigan - fifth, Chicagoland - seventh, Michigan 2 - eighth).

Autograph Seekers Alert: Reed Sorenson and David Stremme will be signing autographs next Thurs., Oct. 12 from 10-11:30 am at Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates' Concord, N.C. location. Wristbands are required and can be picked up at the gift shop or can be reserved by calling 866.888.6388.

*Casey Mears and IRL driver Dan Wheldon will be on hand Fri., Oct. 13 from 11:30-1 pm to sign autographs. Wristbands are required and can be picked up at the gift shop or can be reserved by calling 866.888.6388.

Busch Series Update: Sorenson and the Discount Tire team took last weekend off, but Sorenson moved up one position to ninth in the overall Busch Series driver standings with his seventh-place run at Kansas on Sept 30. Sorenson is 242 points out of eighth with five races remaining.

Reed Sorenson on Lowe's...

"The last two weeks have pretty much been disastrous for us. It's not for lack of trying because the Target team has been preparing excellent race cars each week. It's more just bad luck. We've dropped three positions in the points and that's definitely not the direction we want to be headed in as the season comes to an end. Our goal is to finish inside of the top 20 in points, and that is a strong possibility, but we have to turn things around now for that to happen. There is no doubt in my mind this team is capable of doing so, we just have to have things go our way.

"Our goal this weekend, like every weekend, is to win. We're taking a car that we know will run up front, and the mile-and- a-half tracks have been our strong suit this season. We had a solid run at Lowe's in the Spring and we're hoping to improve upon that on Saturday night. I truly think we can win a race before this season is over. Maybe it will be this weekend."

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

Hyundai to invest Rs 7.5 cr in Assam  
Hyundai Motors India Ltd (HMIL) plans to invest Rs 7.5 crore over the next five years in Assam to supply training material to engineering institutes and update its instructors about the latest technology. The company's Managing Director, Mr H.S. Lheem, today met the Assam Chief Minister, Mr Tarun Gogoi, and discussed the company's plan for the State.

Mr Lheem promised HMIL's help for supporting engineering institutes in Assam by supplying training material and providing job opportunities for the students. This plan had been discussed during the course of discussions between Hyundai Motor Company (HMC) Chairman and the Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, last month. Under the plan, certificates will be issued by the company to graduates from 2008 onwards. An estimated 200 jobs per year will be created by 2011.

Source : Business Line (Online Edition) (10/11/2006)

Car sales up 22 pc in Sept  
Though the month of September is traditionally considered to be sluggish in North India due to the inauspicious `shradh' period, the domestic passenger car sales have maintained the sales momentum.

Sales grew a healthy 22.4 per cent in September this year at 94,734 units against 77,384 units in the same month last year.

Nine of the 11 car makers saw sales going up in September, General Motors and Hindustan Motors being the exceptions, according to figures released by Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM).

Sales Surge

Companies witnessing a surge in sales included market leader Maruti Udyog, Hyundai India, Tata Motors, Ford India, Honda Siel and SkodaAuto India. Car sales in the first half of this fiscal have grown 22.8 per cent at 5,03,249 units against 4,09,681 units in April-September 2005 period, SIAM said.

Two-wheelers

In two-wheelers, Hero Honda and Bajaj Auto led the momentum as bike sales in September grew 24.8 per cent at 6,72,570 units against 5,38,889 units in the same month last year.

The growth rate was the highest for Bajaj Auto, which saw bike sales jump by a whopping 48 per cent at 2,45,759 units against the 10 per cent surge for Hero Honda.

Bike sales in the April-September period have grown by 18.5 per cent at 32,05,497 units against 27,04,466 units in the same period in 2005, SIAM said.

Scooter/scooterette sales in September dropped 15.9 per cent at 75,506 units from 89,866 units in the same month last year, pulled down by lower numbers recorded by segment leader Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI).

Overall two-wheeler sales, comprising bikes, scooters and mopeds, grew 18.8 per cent in September at 7,78,865 units against 6,55,210 units in the same month last year.

M&HCVs

Commercial vehicles sales in September were up 33.5 per cent at 42,400 units, led by segment heavyweights Tata Motors and Ashok Leyland.

While sales of medium and heavy commercial vehicles (M&HCVs) went up 34.2 per cent at 24,920 units, higher sales of Tata's light truck `Ace' resulted in a 32.5-per-cent jump in sales in the light commercial vehicle segment.

Source : Business Line (Online Edition) (10/11/2006)

Talk of stake sale speculative: Eicher Motors  
Action in the Indian commercial vehicle industry has been heating up with Daimler, Scania and Volvo looking at a larger footprint in India. Mr S. Sandilya, Non-Executive Chairman, Eicher Motors, said that talks of companies picking up stake in Eicher Motors are speculative. Excerpts from CNBC-TV18's exclusive interview:

Is this a rumour or are you in talks with any of these companies?

Whatever has come in the papers, regarding people picking up stake is all speculative rumours. We don't have any confirmation on that. It is just that the media likes to speculate and come out with something sensational.

No truth about the parties involved or no truth that you are looking out for a technology partner?

At any point of time in the commercial vehicle industry or any industry for that matter, there are global players who keep talking to people in various countries. The same is true in India also.

Almost all the world players will be talking to Indian companies. But this is not to say that XYZ is actually dealing with somebody and trying to finalise something.

As and when things get finalised, it will of course get reported. So to say that people don't discuss is not right. Many companies are discussing things, but who is discussing what, and at what stage nobody would know.

Do you feel the need for a technology partner?

It is not a question of we feeling the need, so far we have managed. We had Mitsubishi as a collaborator; they have given us technology. We had built on that technology and developed our own new products.

In the complete LCV, HCV range, we have come out with our heavy commercial vehicle totally indigenously developed. So in terms of capability for meeting the emission norms, and meeting with future technology, we do have the capability.

However, if there is an opportunity in the international market to tie up with people and if it is going to be a win-win situation for our company and the international company, then it is worth it.

What is the DaimlerChrysler stake in Eicher Motors at this point? Have they shown any interest in increasing that stake in your company?

Daimler does not hold any direct stake. Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has around 3.5 per cent stake in our company and that has been the case for quite sometime. They had started this collaboration in the mid 80's and that continues.

DaimlerChrysler owns a significant stake in Mitsubishi Motors and so obviously there is an indirect holding of Daimler in Eicher Motors. So whether they would be interested in taking up further stake or not is totally speculative.

In terms of business, what share does Eicher have at this point and what is your year-end target?

Eicher Motors is growing significantly. It has had a growth rate of 24-25 per cent so far in the first 5-6 months and it has been growing at par with the industry. In certain segments it has grown even above the industry, for example in the 7-11 tonne segment we have grown significantly higher than the overall industry growth rate in the LCV and medium commercial vehicle space.

Overall, the growth rate is reasonable. We are comfortable with the kind of growth and we hope that in the year-end we will have significant growth, either comparable or higher than the industry growth.

What is your market share at this point from the entire pie?

In the 7-11 tonne segment, our market share will be about 35 per cent plus, and in the entire CV segment, it will be around 9-10 per cent market share.

Where do you stand in the CV cycle - have things improved with a drop in oil prices?

Actually this CV industry cycle has been difficult to predict in the recent past. In 2006-07 we thought it could be moderate or negative, or marginally positive, but the first five months have proved totally different.

Growth has been significant, but I don't know how long this kind of high growth will last. But it will suffice to say that there is growth between 8-15 per cent per annum on a consistent basis. That will be good for the industry because it is in tune with the overall economic growth in the country.

With the focus on road construction and the Union Government promising to put more money and more private participation, I think the CV segment is going to have a significant future in the next 5-10 years.

Source : Business Line (Online Edition) (10/11/2006)

Haldex Commercial Vehicle Systems Announces Corporate Changes  
KANSAS CITY, Mo., PRNewswire/ -- Charles Kleinhagen has left his position as Executive Vice President and Head of Haldex Commercial Vehicle Systems Division, located in Kansas City, MO.

Mr. Kleinhagen joined Haldex in 1988 as General Manager of its operations in North America. He and the management team led the business to the number one market position for automatic brake adjusters. He was promoted to the position of President and Worldwide Division Manager with responsibility for all global activities of the Haldex Commercial Vehicle Systems Division and directed the expansion of Haldex into a full brake systems supplier. Mr. Kleinhagen has been reassigned to work on special projects, reporting to Joakim Olsson, CEO.

Jay Longbottom, Executive Vice President and Head of Hydraulic Systems Division, has been appointed Head of Commercial Vehicle Systems Division. Mr. Longbottom joined Haldex in 2002 and has successfully led the Hydraulic Division's growth and operational excellence initiatives. Jay has more than 25 years experience in the Commercial vehicle industry, beginning his career with the Truck Division of International Harvester Company. He also has significant international business experience, living abroad for over 10 years.

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)

High ssssecurity  
We've heard of Cobra car alarms, but one Serbian driver decided to use a real snake to protect his car from being pinched.

Belgrade pet shop owner Radovan Darkic left the snake in his Mercedes E-Class whenever he left the car.

However, leaving the window open was not the brightest move, and Darkic was arrested when the snake escaped.

Said serpent was later found snuggling in the warmth of the engine bay, but that didn't stop police prosecuting Darkic for endangering public safety.

Darkic remained defiant, saying: "I only wanted to make sure that if I could not take revenge on anyone who dared to rob my car, then at least the snake would do it for me."

Source : http://www.topgear.com (10/10/2006)

Taking Dealerships on an eBay Test Drive; Liquid Motors Demonstrates How to Enhance...  
DALLAS, /PRNewswire/ -- eBay is already the place to go for everything from collectible Pez dispensers to used Louis Vuitton purses, but the eBay Best Practice Summit, which occurred in Dallas, Texas, on Sept. 19, and is scheduled in three additional Texas cities, is out to change that perception. At the event, Mark Burack of Liquid Motors will demonstrate to automobile dealers how to achieve higher online sales rates, better margins and superior profitability using eBay.

"Many dealers, even the larger ones, don't realize that eBay is a legitimate marketplace for vehicles," said Michael Daseke, president and CEO for Liquid Motors. "The eBay Best Practice Summit really lets us introduce this concept to the dealers, and the feedback has been tremendously positive. People want to learn how to use eBay to enhance their dealerships; that's why we've had to schedule another Dallas presentation in addition to the Houston, San Antonio and Austin events."

The presentation covers the major ways that dealers can make eBay work for them. Burack, an eBay Education Specialist and eBay Power Seller, will discuss eBay as a marketplace, how to select the right vehicles to sell online, how to set effective prices, the importance of compelling listings, the effects of efficient listing management and how to sell to the unique eBay users.

Due to the overwhelming positive response to the Dallas event, sponsored by Dependable Auto Shippers (DAS), eBay Motors and ADESA Auto Auctions, Burack has been scheduled to speak at four additional summits, including another Dallas seminar. Burack will appear on Oct. 18 at the Wyndham Greenspoint Hotel in Houston; on Oct. 25 at the Crowne Plaza San Antonio Airport Hotel; on Oct. 26 at the Doubletree Hotel in Austin; and November in Dallas.

The eBay Best Practice Summit includes a Platinum Showcase where dealers will be introduced to tools, software, resources and a live eBay enhancement demonstration.

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)

Wright Express Extends Its Existing Fuel-Price Risk Management Program Through 4Q...  
SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine, PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Wright Express Corporation announced today that it has extended its existing fuel-price risk program through the fourth quarter of 2008. The Company initially began executing on its current program in July 2005.

On October 4, 2006, the Company purchased instruments to cover an additional 30% of its anticipated fuel-price-related earnings exposure for the second, third and fourth quarters of 2008. At this time, Wright Express has hedged 90% of its anticipated exposure through the second-quarter of 2008, 60% of the third-quarter 2008 exposure and 30% of the fourth-quarter 2008 exposure.

The Company intends to continue to hedge approximately 90% of its fuel-price-related earnings exposure in every quarter, on a rolling basis. The instruments are designed to enhance the visibility and predictability of the Company's future earnings. The program uses instruments that create a "costless collar" based upon both the U.S. Department of Energy's weekly diesel fuel price index and NYMEX unleaded gasoline contracts. The October 4 purchase locked in a fuel price range of approximately $2.47 to $2.53 per gallon. The following table states the approximate range of the collar and percentage of fuel-price-related earnings exposure:

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)

Superior Court Ruling Finds Evidence of Discrimination by California State...  
OAKLAND, Calif., /PRNewswire/ -- The following was released today by: The Law Firm of Gwilliam, Ivary, Chiosso, Cavalli & Brewer

An Alameda County Superior Court Judge denied CSAA's motion for summary judgment in an order filed late October 6, 2006. Defendant CSAA contended there was insufficient evidence to go to trial on the basis of their discriminating against insureds in a wrongful termination case filed by seven CSAA insurance agents who were fired in late 2004. Defendants contended that they had good reason to fire the agents because they allegedly manipulated mileage. The plaintiffs contended that the terminations of those agents were primarily because the agents were all minorities, save one, Wayne Deshera (whose clientele was 97% Chinese American). All of the agents served non-English speaking insureds. The plaintiffs further contended that CSAA had a pattern of discriminating against minority communities and non-English speaking people in the way they write their insurance policies.

The court agreed with the plaintiffs in a ruling that contained exceptionally strong language. The ruling said among other things:

"Plaintiff presents evidence sufficient to show such weakness,

implausibilities, inconsistencies, incoherencies, and contradictions in CSAA's preferred legitimate reason for its actions that a reasonable fact finder would rationally find those reasons unworthy of credence and could infer that CSAA was motivated to terminate plaintiffs because of their association with Chinese American clients."

The court also found evidence of discrimination against their Hispanic insureds.

The ruling further criticized CSAA for a poor investigation and said it "was designed to arrive at a pre-determined result." The court also found that "the discipline imposed by CSAA in this case was harsh and arbitrary, and not reasonably related to the conduct of which plaintiffs were charged."

The ruling further concluded "the fact that all seven of the terminated agents were serving primarily a non-English speaking client base also creates a reasonable inference that the decision to terminate all seven agents was motivated in part by a desire to discourage business with Chinese-American customers and other non-English speaking groups perceived as unprofitable."The court finally concluded that the evidence raised "a reasonable inference of discriminatory motivation such that a reasonable trier of fact could conclude that CSAA engaged in intentional discrimination."

The plaintiffs' attorney J. Gary Gwilliam stated as follows:

"This termination of seven hardworking, long time insurance agents of CSAA is particularly egregious. They were falsely accused of misrepresentation and dishonesty.The termination has caused them all significant economic loss and serious emotional distress.CSAA should be liable for significant punitive damages for its intentional violation of laws prohibiting discrimination against employees as well as against their own insureds and customers."

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)

Discounted Hybrid Vehicles Now Offered by Fox Rent A Car Through Its Corporate Account Program  
Fox Rent A Car, the nation's leader in discount car rentals, said it is discounting its selection of hybrid vehicles to business customers who rent through its new corporate account program.

Robert Rogener, Fox Rent A Car marketing director, said, "Starting today, all customers who sign up for the free corporate program through our company website will receive 5% off on all our cars, including our extensive fleet of Ford, Toyota, and Honda hybrid models." In many instances, he said, customers renting from Fox can save up to 40% off the rates charged by industry competitors. The company manages the largest hybrid fleet in the country through Fox airport locations in California and Arizona.

"This is a sensible program because it offers business renters who travel to California and Arizona a way to say 'no' to today's exorbitant car-rental rates, 'no' to high gas prices, and 'no' to harmful vehicle emissions," Rogener said. "This new program should appeal to any company interested in reducing travel expenses while being environmentally friendly."

Enrollment in the corporate account program is simple and can be completed online in a couple of minutes, Rogener said. "You will receive a corporate account discount number that will enable you to reserve discounted hybrid cars and other fuel-efficient vehicles at all of our corporate locations."

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (10/10/2006)

Baron Industries Opens New Automotive Parts Sealing Facility in Kentucky  
MADISON HEIGHTS, Mich., /PRNewswire/ -- Baron Industries recently celebrated the grand opening of a new processing facility in Henderson, Ky., where it intends to expand its successful track record in automotive parts sealing with Loctite(R) brand vacuum impregnation technology. The company plans to service its existing customer base and secure new customers in Kentucky and the surrounding states.

"We are thrilled to begin work in Henderson, and we're hopeful that the new facility will follow the success of our Michigan location," said Pete Steixner, vice president of sales, Baron Industries. "We've received a lot of support and gratitude from the community, and look forward to making our contribution."

Baron Industries is a leader in vacuum impregnation for automotive components and other leak-free metal parts. Vacuum impregnation technology reliably and permanently seals porosity and other potential leak paths in cast metal automotive parts. With the use of vacuum impregnation, parts such as cylinder heads, gearbox housings or transmission components are permanently sealed against the most aggressive automotive fluids. The process became popular when consumers stopped tolerating oil puddles on their garage floors. Baron Industries utilizes Henkel's Loctite(R) brand Impregnation Systems (LIS) for its services, and is considered an Authorized Process Center (APC) for Henkel. As an APC, Baron Industries, along with all Henkel APC's, receives R&D, technical sales and marketing support from Henkel.

"Baron Industries is an important, long-standing partner to Henkel. We're excited that their hard work and dedication to quality has translated into growth," said Rich Beck, market manager, North American automotive components, Henkel. "In fact, we're continuously working together with all our APC's to seek out and grow new business opportunities. Strong partnerships are critical to growing in today's competitive automotive marketplace."

The company leased an 18,000 square ft. facility in the Southside Industrial Park in Henderson, Ky. The new facility is Baron Industries' third in the United States.

Baron Industries is an automotive supplier based in Madison Heights, Mich. The privately held company has been in operation for nearly 15 years. Baron Industries is a Tier 1 or Tier 2 supplier for General Motors, DaimlerChrysler, Ford, Toyota, Honda and Nissan.

Henkel is the market leader in adhesives, sealants and surface treatments to the transportation industry. Backed by extensive design capabilities, a broad product range, specific application knowledge and technical expertise,

the company delivers solutions to all segments of automotive development -- automotive body, interior, chassis, electronics and powertrain production. Through powerful brands like Loctite(R), Teroson(R), Autophoretic(R), Bonderite(R), Frekote(R) and Multan(TM), Henkel provides significant economic and environmental advantages for today's vehicles, making them safer, more comfortable and extending vehicle value.

Source : http://www.automotive.com (10/10/2006)