General Motor's outsourcing agenda  
General Motors plans to enhance its outsourcing from its India through its Indian arm, General Motors India (GMI). This business is growing at an estimated rate of 10-12 percent annually and the company remains committed to outsourcing more and more parts from Indian OEM vendors, said Director and vice president, GMI, P Balendran.

He was talking to media persons during the launch of the Chevrolet SRV, its premium sportsback.

'Auto parts in India cost almost 25 percent to 30 percent less than in North America or Europe and around 15 percent cheaper than South Korea and Mexico. Nevertheless, quality wise, Indian OEMs are as good as their global counterparts.

Targets for 2008

GM now buys parts from about 110 Indian suppliers. The Detroit-based parent had recently announced that by 2008, it will source around $1 billion worth of auto parts from India each year which is more than eight times of $120 million the company currently spends on parts manufactured in US', Balendran said and added that the company has plans to have its full-fledged design studios in India in next three to fours years' time.

With regard to the Chevrolet SRV, Business Head - West & South Sumit Sawhney said, 'The SRV is global product reengineered for India based on extensive testing across the country to meet the specific needs of our customers and local driving conditions. Market research indicates that there is growing demand for this type of car, especially among design-oriented consumers. With its combination of modern Italian design, generous list of standard features and roomy interior, the stylish five-door SRV will appeal to young professionals and others looking for a vehicle that offers outstanding value for money. The main target would be the IT and BPO youth'.

Meanwhile, the company is keen to enter into a tie-up with the Indian Institute of Technology to develop a bio-diesel version of the Chevrolet Tavera. Our R&D division, and the Indian Institute of Science Laboratory, based out of Bangalore, will conduct this research. The research is already taking place on vivid areas including vehicle design, virtual manufacturing and automotive materials'.

The company also has plans to expand its entire range of cars substantially within the next three years and maker further inroads into the high-end 'D; and 'E' segment for which it will be looking at importing premium models and reengineering them to suit Indian conditions. The company is also increasing its dealership network from85 to 110 sales points.

'We are launching the first CNG Chevrolet Optra model. This model will cost Rs 50, 000 more than both the petrol and diesel versions and will further have an operating cost 60-65 percent lower than other fuel operated cars. We are targeting areas like Delhi and Gujarat, where CNG fuelling stations are aplenty. Though Vijayawada, in Andhra Pradesh has sizeable number fuelling stations, we would be entering the South only later. We are finding it difficult in places like Maharashtra, where the government has not provided such infrastructure. We will also be launching the diesel Optra by the end of the year', Balendran added.

Aveo sales

With regard to Chevrolet Aveo, launched last February, company sources said an estimated 5500 units have been sold. Going by its sales the company is targeting sale of 50, 000 units this year compared to 30000 units last year. Of this, around 25000 units would be contributed by the Tavera and the remaining by the Aveo, SRV and U-VA models.

When asked about the falling trends in sales of Chevy Optra, Balendran said, 'While the industry grew by five percent last fiscal, we grew by 18 percent. This fiscal, the expected growth of the industry is 10 percent; we are targeting a 50-55 percent increase in growth'.

The company is also upgrading its production capacity from 60,000 to 85,000 this fiscal. It is planning to add additional capacity this year in the form of a new manufacturing facility in addition to the existing plant at Halol. It is targeting 10 percent market share in the domestic car market.

Source : automonitor.co.in (8/27/2006)

New Driver for Volkswagen Pairing For "Dakar"  
The signing of Miller/Pitchford means that the third pairing of the Volkswagen factory team - alongside two-time World Rally Champion Carlos Sainz (Spain) and Michel Périn (France) as well as the South African Giniel de Villiers, the runner-up in this year's "Dakar" in the Race Touareg, and the German Dirk von Zitzewitz - has been confirmed. While 43-year-old Mark Miller, after claiming fifth place in January, will be contesting the upcoming 29th edition of the desert classic (06 to 21 January) for the Wolfsburg-based automotive manufacturer for the second time, his co-driver Ralph Pitchford (44) is a newcomer to the team.

"Mark Miller is an exceptionally fast and committed driver and, on top of that, a real team player," says Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen. "That's why we're happy to be able to continue working with Mark during the 2007 Dakar Rally. In the 2006 edition he truly added value and his co-driver Ralph Pitchford in his first competition for us will probably be doing the same. We've come to know Ralph's professional style of working during test drives in Tunisia and think that he, like all our drivers and co-drivers, embodies the determination of Volkswagen Motorsport."

For Mark Miller, who in the legendary hillclimb race at Pikes Peak (USA) in a production-derived Volkswagen Touareg clinched his first class victory in early July, this will be the second "Dakar" with Volkswagen Motorsport, and his fourth altogether. "Compared to last season, the team has improved yet again," says Miller, who calls Phoenix, Arizona (USA) home and has won the popular U.S. Rally Baja 1000 on several occasions. "Even more so than before we're all working towards the common goal of winning the most famous and most difficult desert rally for Volkswagen. Kris Nissen has put together a genuine team in which everyone is working to help everyone else. I'm happy to be part of this team and will try and contribute my part to the team's success through good performances."

During seven-day test drives in Tunisia - simulating the competitive conditions of the Dakar Rally - the Miller/Pitchford duo was able to get adjusted to one another. "Ralph and I not only speak the same language when it comes to words," says Mark Miller. "This facilitates communications. In upcoming tests we'll get even more used to each other and form a striking team." Ralph Pitchford, whose racing career started in motocross, finished in 15th place overall in the 2006 Dakar Rally as the co-driver of his compatriot Alfie Cox.

Source : Motor Trend (8/25/2006)

2006 TURKISH GRAND PRIX ISTANBUL PARK 27 AUGUST RACE  
Jenson Button ended today's Turkish Grand Prix in fourth position after a strong performance from sixth on the grid, securing a further five points for the Honda Racing F1 Team. His team-mate Rubens Barrichello finished eighth having started from 13th position. He enjoyed a tremendous race with four great overtaking manoeuvres, guaranteeing the team a two-car finish and a solid total haul of six-points.

Today's result again reduces the gap to third position in the Constructors' Championship, with the Honda Racing F1 Team now on 58 points with four rounds still remaining.

Hot on the heels of its own first win just a few weeks ago, the Honda team would also like to congratulate Felipe Massa on his first grand prix victory and wishes him a well-deserved celebration.

Formula One now resumes testing after the summer break, and the Honda Racing F1 Team heads to Monza in Italy next week with an extensive development programme in preparation for Round 15 of the Formula One World Championship.

JENSON BUTTON "It's been a great race for the team today and it's good to get both cars in the points. We just didn't have the pace of the Ferraris or Alonso in the Renault but we know where we're weaker and where we're losing out to them, so when we get on top of that we're going to be very competitive. The last stint was very strong for us. We had a lot less tyre graining and I was getting quicker and quicker. Not quite as good as my result in the last race but a good weekend nonetheless."

RUBENS BARRICHELLO "I'm really happy that we finished with two cars in the points today. We had a competitive car today so it was a shame that someone pushed me wide on the first corner which lost me a lot of time. Without that incident I could have been up there fighting closer to the front. We had the pace and we certainly had the will today, so I think that the team certainly deserved the result as well. It was really good to hear the Brazilian national anthem at the end of the race for my good friend Felipe Massa and I congratulate him on his first win."

GIL DE FERRAN - Sporting Director "What an exciting race! We are very pleased to have both cars in the points, which is a great result at the end of a generally satisfying weekend. Jenson was fortunate to not get caught up in the first turn incident and drove a faultless race from there, pushing very hard all the way. In the end though, we weren't quite quick enough to challenge for the podium today. Rubens was less fortunate in the first turn and lost quite a few places, however he showed excellent speed and determination as he drove back through the field, fighting until the very end. Both engines performed reliably in their second race, even though Rubens used all the revs possible throughout the race. In summary we leave Turkey happy but aware that there is still some improvement needed. Congratulations to Felipe Massa on his well-deserved first win!"

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

Capps, McCulloch bring "Revolution" history to Indy  
NHRA legend Ed "the Ace" McCulloch remembers his first trip to O'Reilly Raceway Park 35 years ago. He traveled from Portland, Ore., to Indianapolis with his Whipple & McCulloch Funny Car for the biggest drag race of the year and he left the Labor Day weekend with the most coveted trophy of his career.

That 1971 U.S. Nationals victory propelled McCulloch into national status and he returned a year later to win another Funny Car title at Indy. McCulloch is now the winningest Funny Car driver in U.S. Nationals history with five titles (plus one in Top Fuel) and he hopes to add another crown as a crew chief this year.

"We tried to go to Indy in 1970 but our trailer caught fire and burned," said McCulloch, who'll hope to tune Ron Capps and the BRUT Dodge Charger to their first U.S. Nationals title on Sept. 4 in Indy. "So we came back in 1971 and we won in our first appearance at Indy. That was special because we were a West Coast team and we beat the nation's best. Then we came back the next year and won again."

In 1972, McCulloch drove his now famous "Revolution" Plymouth Duster to five wins in seven national events but it was before a national point system like the current 2006 POWERade Drag Racing Series.

"We had the dominant car back then and everyone knew the 'Revolution' car," says a smiling McCulloch. "Indy is such a big race to win. I'm not sure the young drivers these days understand that. For a lot of them, Indy is another of the 23 national races. But back in the 1970s, there were not many national events and Indy was the big one."

McCulloch is seeking to repeat that "Revolution" car's performance with Capps at the controls this time.

"Ron is one of the best drivers out there," said McCulloch. "He is the complete driver. He is strong behind the wheel, great with the sponsors like BRUT, good with the media and he talks with the fans well."

This time Capps, a three-time Skoal Showdown winner at Indy, is after that elusive U.S. Nationals title that "Ace" speaks so fondly about.

"Man, Ace knows how to win at Indy, just look at his record," said Capps, who has a season-high five NHRA Funny Car wins in 2006. "I want to get him another win as a crew chief now. And you don't know how much I would like to win at Indy. It is drag racing's Indy 500. I want that U.S. Nationals trophy."

Capps, a 22-time NHRA national race winner, currently ranks second to John Force in the Funny Car points after leading most of the season. And he wants that point lead back now.

"We want to get back to the lead after the U.S. Nationals," said Capps, who says his BRUT team has a special setup for Friday's night qualifying session. "I know Ace talks about that 'Revolution' car from the past and I want to have our own 'Revolution' machine that dominates this year at Indy."

Capps and his BRUT Funny Car team have had their eyes on the U.S. Nationals for quite some time and their special setup.

"We all know how important Indy is to Ace and Don (Schumacher, team owner and 1970 U.S. Nationals Funny Car champion)," said Capps. "Our team has been pointing towards the U.S. Nationals for awhile and I know BRUT is very excited about the Indy race. We have a big surprise for the fans at Indy and I am really anxious to get the BRUT Dodge Charger out there and run hard."

Capps knows that the U.S. Nationals is a long, grueling event and that track conditions change dramatically on the racing surface at O'Reilly Raceway Park.

"Indy has so many cars that run down that track and the heat of the day can make the conditions extremely tricky," says Capps. "By the time we race on Monday at Indy, the track has taken a beating. The NHRA does a great job preparing the track, but it can only take so much from the high-powered cars. That is why we can really use Ace and Don's background and expertise on how the track surface will change."

And Capps hopes McCulloch can bring him a U.S. Nationals Funny Car title with his own "Revolution" machine.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

IRL's Dixon Posts Top Speed in Practice  
Target Chip Ganassi driver Scott Dixon posted the top speed on Friday in practice at the Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma at Infineon Raceway.

Dixon turned the 12-turn, 2.26-mile road course at 107.662 mph for the top spot and was followed by Marlboro Team Penske's Helio Castroneves (107.279 mph) and Andretti Green Racing's Dario Franchitti (106.907).

Dixon won the IRL IndyCar(r) Series' last road-course event at Watkins Glen (N.Y.) in June and placed seventh in the inaugural IRL event in Sonoma in 2005. Dixon now has the option of starting either first or last in Saturday's single-lap qualifying session.

The top six drivers from Saturday's qualifying session will compete in a 10-minute group session to determine the Firestone Front Six for Sunday's 80-lap feature in the Sonoma Valley (12:30 p.m.).

"We're pretty happy but there's still a ways to go to get through qualifying," said Dixon, who has won two of the five road/street course races since they were added to the IRL schedule in 2005. "We can't hold back anything; we have to win this race."

The Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma is the penultimate race of the 2006 season, which ends Sept. 10 at Chicagoland Speedway. Sam Hornish Jr. (Marlboro Team Penske) entered the race weekend leading Castroneves by seven points (418-411). Dan Wheldon (Target Chip Ganassi, 394) and Dixon (385) round out the top four.

"I think we're definitely competitive," Wheldon said. "We're just going to fine tune some stuff tonight so our Target Chip Ganassi cars will be quick tomorrow." Jan Magnussen (SunTrust Racing) was the top qualifier on Friday for Daytona Prototypes in the Sonoma 250 Grand American Rolex Sports Car Series, turning the 12-turn, 2.52-mile road course at 102.818 mph. Jorg Bergmeister (Krohn Racing) was second (102.451 mph) with American Patrick Long (Ruby Tuesday) third.

The Sonoma 250, which will span two hours, forty-five minutes, will begin on Saturday at 3 p.m. This marks the debut of the Grand American Rolex Sports Car Series in Sonoma.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

Global Automotive Transmission Systems Report 2006  
Research and Markets has announced the addition of Automotive Transmission Systems - Global Strategic Business Report to their offering.

This report analyzes the worldwidemarkets for Automotive Transmission Systems in Thousands of Units. The major product segments analyzed are Manual Transmission Systems, Automatic Transmission Systems, Automated Transmission Systems, Continuously Variable Transmission Systems and Infinitely Variable Transmission (IVT)/Toroidal Systems. The report provides separate comprehensive analytics for the US, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America and Rest of World. Annual forecasts are provided for each region and product segment for the period of 2001 through 2010. A ten-year historic analysis is also provided for these markets with annual market analytics. The report profiles 98 companies including many key and niche players worldwide.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com/ (8/27/2006)

I can still win the title, says Schumacher  
ISTANBUL, Reuters - Ferrari's Michael Schumacher believes he can beat Fernando Alonso to the Formula One title despite falling 12 points behind the Spaniard with four races remaining.

"Today I have lost two points in the drivers' championship, but I still believe I can win the title," said the seven times champion after finishing third in Sunday's Turkish Grand Prix won by Brazilian team mate Felipe Massa.

Renault's Alonso, the world champion, was second.

Ferrari did close the gap to Renault in the constructors' championship to two points, however.

"We remain confident," said technical director Ross Brawn. "All the elements are in place for us to win both titles and we will fight right to the very end to achieve that."

The next race is Ferrari's home Italian Grand Prix at Monza on Sept. 10.

"In Monza, and at the three races outside Europe, we will have many changes on the car and thanks to the great work being done by our technical partners...we will be in the best possible shape to try and win both championships," added team boss Jean Todt in a race review.

Source : Reuters (8/27/2006)

Exec Shuffle: Martens Resurfaces While Rubin Quits Ford Board  
TROY, Mich. - Former Ford Motor Co. product development chief Phil Martens will join auto supplier ArvinMeritor as president of its light vehicles systems unit.

Martens is charged with helping the supplier expand its business outside North America.

Martens most recently served as president and COO of Plastech Engineered Products. Previously, he was president of North American product creation at Ford - one of the most powerful men in the Detroit auto industry when it came to generating new cars and trucks.

In an unrelated move, former U.S. Treasury Secretary Robert E. Rubin has resigned from the board of Ford, citing a potential conflict of interest with his duties as a member of the chairman's office at the banking company Citigroup. In a letter to Ford Chairman and CEO Bill Ford, Jr., Rubin said he needed to step down as the board begins a review of the struggling company's strategic options.

"Citigroup's multifaceted relationship with Ford could raise a question whether my relationship with Ford and Citigroup creates an appearance of conflict," Rubin said, adding, "although no conflict currently exists."

Portions of the letter were released by Ford.

The resignation spurs speculation that Ford is seriously considering potential alliances with other companies. If other automakers want to purchase any Ford assets, they would most likely have to seek the assistance of an investment bank, thus raising concerns about Rubin's position.

Source : http://www.edmunds.com (8/26/2006)

Penske Truck Leasing Opens New Facility in Kansas City, MO.  
Penske Truck Leasing announced today that it opened the first of its newly designed, state-of-the-art facilities at 1111 N. Century Ave., Kansas City, Mo. The facility, which incorporates new design elements and advanced technology features to enhance and standardize the customer experience, will offer commercial and consumer truck rental services, full-service leasing and contract maintenance.

The new 24,118-square-foot facility, the result of a $6.5 million investment and the consolidation of two facilities into one, includes five service bays, one fully automated truck washing bay and a three-lane fuel island for diesel and gasoline refueling. Outfitted with state-of-the-art wireless technology, the facility will have the capability to integrate various vehicle diagnostic and repair software to provide first class maintenance services. Built on 11.5 acres of land, the new facility will employ approximately 50 associates in the Kansas City area and will have the capacity to maintain more than 1,000 vehicles onsite.

"We've proudly served the Kansas City area for more than 20 years with great success," said Paul Prang, Senior Vice President - North Central Region, Penske Truck Leasing. "The new facility is a clear indication of our commitment to our customers in the region and our confidence in the potential for growth in the future."

"The new design and features are a testament to Penske Truck Leasing's dedication to enhancing the experience that our customers have every time they walk into one of our facilities," said Jim Feenstra, Senior Vice President - Marketing, Penske Truck Leasing. "We've broadened our service capability and upgraded the size of our office and rental counter to include a driver waiting area with wireless Internet access and a flat screen television -- all with our customers in mind."

The new Kansas City facility will be open for service 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with rental operations open seven days a week at the following times: Monday - Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. to 2 a.m.; and Sunday, 9 a.m. to noon.

The facility will provide services to customers in Leavenworth, Wyandotte and Northern Johnson counties in Kansas, as well as Jackson, Clay, Northern Cass, Western Lafayette and Northwestern Johnson counties in Missouri.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

2007 2006 Wagons That Get 30+ MPG  
Wagon, or in Great Britain, estate car: A variation on the sedan, with its roof continued to the rear of the vehicle, replacing the sedan's separate luggage compartment with greater cargo space. In most recent examples, cargo ability can be further increased by folding the rear seatback flat. Some wagons have had a small third-row jump seat to carry two extra people. Like sedans, wagons generally have two passenger access doors on each side, although some early models, like the Chevrolet Nomad, had two. Cargo is usually loaded through the rear by way of a top-hinged liftgate.

Large wagons were once the vehicles of choice in the US for people with the need to carry people and large, bulky items, but that gave them the stigma of being boring family vehicles. In recent years the old wagon role has gone to minivans and SUVs. Wagons are still popular in Europe, where they don't have the "family car" stigma. The Germans have, in fact, made the sport wagon class their own with machinery like the BMW 3-Series wagon and Audi A4 and A6 "Avants". In the US, General Motors is testing the sport wagon waters with the Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS, but they don't call it a wagon.

With over 25 wagon models to choose from, it is important for potential buyers to “know before they try and buy

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

'Breaking' News: China To Begin Vehicle Crash Testing  
BEIJING - China will begin its first independent vehicle crash tests next week as the government adopts a new system described as "consistent with the international New Car Assessment Program [NCAP]."

News of the crash-test program was reported by Xinhuanet, which said the first vehicle to be tested will be the Nissan X-Trail, assembled locally by Dongfeng Automobile.

Crash tests previously were conducted by the manufacturers, who were under no legal obligation to publish the results. Under the new system, the China Automotive Technology and Research Center in Beijing will conduct official tests.

CATARC, which participates in setting national automotive standards, said it has tested 1,200 vehicles for various manufacturers since 1999. The center said it plans to test 10-15 vehicles each year.

Source : http://www.edmunds.com (8/26/2006)

2007 Ford Escape Hybrid 33 MPG Leads The Pack  
No class of vehicles has changed more in the past 15 years than SUVs. Up to 1990, they were utility vehicles, made from a thinly-disguised pickup chassis with a full-length body, more suited to carrying people than cargo. Utility vehicles were a niche market, used by people who needed rugged, often 4-wheel drive, transportation in areas where roads were merely a suggestion. Comfort and amenities were secondary to the ability to merely get through.

Fast-forward to today, and it's "sport-utility'' and more likely to be bought by a suburban soccer mom than an oil wildcatter. SUVs started to get fashionable in the early 1990s, with the Ford Explorer paving the way by being far more comfortable and civilized than anything before it. Offering more space than the last of the full-sized wagons by virtue of a higher stance, and with a rugged, outdoorsy look that said "I can go anywhere'' even though most never saw rougher duty than a stadium parking lot tailgate party, SUVs quickly dispatched wagons and then took on minivans as the family hauler of choice. Compared to a minivan, an SUV has better towing and cargo-hauling abilities.

SUVs come in small, medium, and large size, and vary from inexpensive and basic in specification to being as expensive and fully-equipped as any premium luxury sedan. Originally of body-on-frame construction and closely-related to pickups, an increasing number offer fully-independent suspension and unibody or semi-unibody construction. The Ford Explorer maintains its popularity, but there are plenty of other choices, from the small and inexpensive like the Kia Sportage, Toyota RAV4, and Honda CR-V through the large and expensive Range Rover line.

With over 50 SUV models to choose from it is important for potential buyers to "know before they try and buy"

If you want to know more (and we suggest that you do), The New Car Buyers Guide's exclusive Rank By Specs tool allows consumers to become experts and rank and then compare every vehicle sold in North America by every spec, dimension, capacity and performance criteria.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

2006 Ford Ranger's 26 MPG Leads The Pack  
What is more functional, or more versatile, than a pickup truck? Not only can one be used to haul whatever can fit in the bed, and to tow a trailer full of whatever can't fit in the bed, a modern pickup can be comfortable and well-appointed enough to be used as daily transportation as well as work. Because of this versatility, and use by everyone from utility companies to construction workers to people who just want something to tow their boat, full-size pickups are the best-selling vehicles in the US. Ford's F-Series has led the pack since seemingly just after the last Ice Age, with the Chevrolet and GMC equivalents right behind. Dodge added style to the once merely functional pickup equation a decade ago, and it hasn't been the same since.

Also adding to the pickup's versatility and appeal is the large variety of body styles available from the major manufacturers, from the simple two-door, regular-cab through extended cabs to long-wheelbase four-door crew cabs that are essentially an SUV with a huge cargo space. And the usually wide variety of engines and two- or four-wheel drive systems available also adds to pickup appeal.

Smaller pickups gained popularity after the 1970s fuel crises, but have slipped in recent years. The Toyota Tacoma is the benchmark in that class, with the Nissan Frontier, Chevy Colorado, and GMC Canyon filling it out. The Dodge Dakota has filled the gap between small and large since its inception, although it's now closer to a big truck in size.

Pickups, for the most part, are the most conservatively-designed vehicles on the road, with a basic specification that reads like something out of the 1930s: a separate body atop a ladder frame, with a solid rear axle located simply by leaf springs. About the only concession to modernity is independent front suspension. But this formula has been refined considerably, and makes for a very sturdy vehicle that can stand up to hard use and abuse in towing and hauling. It also provides a platform that, with little modification, can be used for a utility vehicle, although SUVs are diverging from their pickup origins.

An interesting new entry in the pickup class is the Honda Ridgeline, the first pickup designed more for personal use than work. It's also the first pickup with car-like unibody construction and four-wheel independent suspension. So far it's the only pickup so built, but it may not be the last.

With over 250 Pickup models to choose from, it is important for potential buyers to "know before they try and buy"

If you want to know more (and we suggest that you do), The New Car Buyers Guide's exclusive Rank By Specs tool allows consumers to become experts and rank and then compare every vehicle sold in North America by every spec, dimension, capacity and performance criteria.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

Monaco Coach Corporation Announces Cash Dividend  
Monaco Coach Corporation announced today that its upcoming quarterly cash dividend of $0.06 per share will be payable on September 15, 2006 to stockholders of record on September 1, 2006, and represents its 11th consecutive quarterly cash dividend since the Company declared its initial cash dividend on February 23, 2004. The Company's Board of Directors declared the dividend on August 24, 2006. Monaco Coach Corporation has approximately 29.7 million shares outstanding.

Dedicated to quality and service, Monaco Coach Corporation is one of the nation's leading manufacturers of motorized and towable recreational vehicles. Headquartered in Coburg, Oregon, with substantial manufacturing facilities in Indiana, Monaco Coach employs approximately 6,000 people. The Company offers entry-level priced towable RVs up to custom made luxury recreational vehicle models under the Monaco, Holiday Rambler, Safari, Beaver, McKenzie and R-Vision brand names. Monaco Coach maintains RV service centers in Harrisburg, OR, Elkhart, IN and Wildwood, FL.

Ranked number one in the manufacturing of diesel powered motorhomes, Monaco Coach is a leader in innovative RVs designed to meet the needs of a broad range of customers with varied interests. Monaco Coach Corporation trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "MNC," and the Company is included in the S&P Small-Cap 600 stock index.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

Toyota Strengthens Efforts to Develop Safe Vehicles  
Toyota Motor Corporation announced today its Integrated Safety Management Concept, an expression of the direction of Toyota's technology development for furthering the development of safe vehicles. TMC also announced new safety technologies based on this concept that are to be featured in the LS460, Lexus' new flagship sedan scheduled for launch this September.

As a part of its efforts to realize sustainable mobility, Toyota intends to strengthen its traffic safety initiatives in the future through:

1) The development of even safer vehicles and technologies.

2) Participation in the creation of a safe traffic environment.

3) Activities designed to educate people in traffic safety, thereby contributing to the complete elimination of traffic casualties, which can be viewed as the ultimate hope of a society that values mobility.

Toyota's safety technology and vehicle development aims to provide optimal driving support based on driving conditions, not only by integrating individual safety technologies and systems in the vehicle, but also by adopting an infrastructure- respondent system (road-to-vehicle) and using information obtained from vehicles other than the driver's (vehicle-to-vehicle), to enhance synergistic effects.

Higher levels of safety are being pursued in five types of situations categorized by the degree of risk of an accident: parking, active safety, pre-crash safety, passive safety and emergency response. By increasing such integration even further in the future, Toyota seeks to reduce dangers related to vehicle use in the pursuit of vehicles that do not cause accidents.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

Bizarre Fire Temporarily Sidelines Southard BMW-Riley at Infineon  
In a bizarre sequence of events the No. 3 Truechoice/PAP-Parts.com BMW-Riley sustained substantial fire damage in yesterday's first practice for the Grand American Rolex Sports Car Series presented by Crown Royal Special Reserve Sonoma 250. Due to the damage, the Southard Motorsports entry will miss the remaining practice sessions today as the team works to make repairs to the Riley chassis and Dinan-built BMW V8 powerplant. However, owners Steve and Martha Southard anticipate having drivers Shane Lewis (Jupiter, Fla.) and Craig Stanton (Long Beach, Calif.) back on course here at Infineon Raceway for this afternoon's qualifying session at 5:15 PM (PT). That is just over 24 hours after the devastating fire occurred.

The fire took place midway through Thursday's first practice session. As Stanton drove the car up the hill into turn-one of the 2.52-mile track, the left-rear wheel nut broke, throwing the 2005 Rolex Series GT Class Champion into a spin. With the loose rear wheel the car was unable to move once Stanton brought it to a stop in the grass just off the track. The car had suffered no damage due to the spin. However, a combination of dry conditions and the hot exhaust system caused the grass to ignite. The fire quickly spread to the carbon fiber bodywork of the car. Before corner workers could reach the red, white and blue machine, it had suffered serious damage from midway of the engine cover back. Stanton had exited the car before the fire started and no one was hurt in the blaze. Repairs to the No. 3 include a new engine and gearbox, new wiring, exhaust, several new rear suspension components, the replacement of the whole rear cowling/bodywork, undertray and rear wing. The front of the machine, including the cockpit area, was undamaged.

The team hopes to use today's 15-minute qualifying session to check the repairs and work on setup for tomorrow's 250-mile sports car race. Lewis, who has not raced at Infineon for several seasons, will drive in the qualifying session. Final corrections will be made in the last practice session at 8:45 AM on Saturday. The race is scheduled for 3 PM, Saturday afternoon. PEE Channel will air the race on Sunday, August 27 at 3 PM (ET).

The Southard team has earned two podium finishes this year in the Daytona Prototype class. The first third-place came at the Long Beach Grand Prix where Lewis was joined by Bill Auberlen (Redondo Beach, Calif.). Stanton joined the team for another third at Phoenix International Raceway.

Quote:

Shane Lewis, Driver: "This is so hard to believe. We came to this race with high expectations. For this to happen, well, it's devastating. While something like this can really bring a team down, I have never seen the Southard crew more determined. I'm not sure how this car can be put back together in time. But if anyone can do it these guys will. I'm just asking for all our fans and supporters to keep their fingers crossed. This is how fairytale endings start. right?"

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

Bajaj Auto displays the fuel-injected bike  
Four years after it launched the Pulsar, Bajaj Auto has taken the big technological leap forward and employed fuel injection systems on the model, one of its most successful motorcycle brands in recent years.

Unveiled at the 2006 Auto Expo the Pulsar DTS-Fi was the undoubted star of the show but back then the bike' specifications were not disclosed. At an exclusive preview last month, Bajaj finally lifted the veil of secrecy at its Chakan facility outside Pune disclosing the full technical details of the bike.

While the introduction of fuel injection is obviously the product's biggest talking point, Bajaj Auto has reworked the entire model from the frame to the engine, effectively making this an all-new offering.

The bike's engine capacity has been increased to 220cc, the absolute limit that this engine architecture can support, and the two-valve head incorporates Bajaj's trademark twin-spark plug technology. The carburettor has, naturally been replaced by fuel injection developed by Delphi with an electronic control module to ensure precise fuelling and also independent firing of the spark plugs. Incidentally, this is the first single-cylinder four-stroke engine in the world to employ both fuel injection and twin spark plugs.

In terms of its technical specs, the maximum power of the fuel-injected Pulsar offering gives 20bhp while max torque is 19.12Nm - class leading figures for an Indian four-stroke bike. This still is an air-cooled engine and in order to ensure longevity, an oil cooler has been employed which ensures the lubricating oil retains its viscosity in extremely hot conditions, thus preventing any engine damage. Bajaj's patented resonator in the exhaust, ExhausTEC, ensures a better spread of torque right up the rev range.

Moreover, Bajaj Auto hasn't skimped on anything with the DTS-Fi. There is a new half fairing with stacked headlights incorporating separate projector beams for low and high beams while the rear tailpiece is also new with LED tail lamps - both are firsts for an Indian bike. The digital instrument cluster has an analogue tachometer with a shift light and a digital speedometer. For the first time, non-contact back-light switches are used with self-cancelling indicators and mounted on clip-on style handlebars for that sporty feel. Security is taken care of by a pilfer-proof 3000 combination ignition key.

The DTS-Fi rides on 17-inch tubeless tyres, again an India-first, with a wide 120 section rear and 90 section front shod on alloys. To handle the increased power the brakes have been uprated to a 260mm front disc and 230mm rear disc brake, the latter an Indian first. The twin downtube cradle frame is also new with stiffness ratings while the elliptical section swingarm adds to the rigidity, not to mention looks. The 37mm diameter front forks are the largest in this segment and there are gas-charged shock absorbers at the rear - all contributing to much better handling, stability and ride quality.

On the track

Currently Indian motorcycles are tuned to run on a very lean fuel-air mixture so much so that they practically run on fumes. In this scenario fuel injection results in barely a 5 to 8 percent improvement in fuel efficiency; its main benefit is in better control of fuelling throughout the rev range and thus better emission compliance. That's the reason why all motorcycles will eventually have fuel injection to meet BSIV emission norms. While riding the primary benefit of fuel injection is clean, crisp, and jerk-free throttle responses. Of course with 20bhp of power the DTS-Fi is very powerful too, considerably faster than the Hero Honda Karizma that has a similar displacement, and has a claimed top speed of 130kmph.

The clutch and gearbox have also been re-engineered and is now on par with the best Japanese gearboxes. The engine too has a counter-balancer shaft to iron out vibrations while patents have been applied for a unique handlebar vibration damper.

Some time away

So when will the DTS-Fi hit showrooms? Bajaj Auto has hinted at a year-end launch, after the Diwali rush for the volume-generating 100cc and 125cc machines is exhausted. It will be priced in the region of Rs 90,000 which is excellent value for money considering she's so feature-laden. Of course the DTS-Fi will remain a niche product, one that will give a halo to the brand and do wonders for the Pulsar brand.

Bajaj Auto has big export plans for this bike for currently such a bike at this price point just doesn't exist. In any case more units of the Pulsar 180 are exported than sold in India and this machine could well add to those numbers in a very big way while doing wonders for the Bajaj brand and raising its image internationally. Looks like Bajaj is well on its way to international stardom.

Source : automonitor.co.in (8/27/2006)

India's bus market has potential for 16-metre offerings  
Demand for buses up to 16 meters is likely to grow with increased mobility and road infrastructure in the country. Jan Vandooren, head & vice president - Volvo Buses, South Asia said this in an informal interaction with the media at Volvo India's facility in Bangalore recently.

Volvo India currently sells buses around 12 meters in length and has not introduced the larger buses in India. This may, however, change depending on the future demand in the Indian market, Vandooren said.

The company recently delivered its latest range of city buses - B7RLE - to the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) for passenger transport within the city. The Rs 78 lakh, fully air-conditioned buses with automatic transmission were delivered by Vandooren, who took charge of Volvo India's bus division in April, after spending three years in the bus division at Volvo's China operations.

The Volvo B7RLE is the latest addition to Volvo's range in India and has been built on the '8700 chassis'. The bus comes with a slew of features including low-kneeling mechanism, which enables the bus floor to be lowered by 10 cms, tubeless tyres and disc brakes with EBS. The integrated retarder contributes to enhanced safety and drive comfort. The bus can accommodate 100 passengers inclusive ofsitting and standing, and has a small lobby in the middle while the engine is at the rear-end.

Better road network

'The development of the Indian market is similar to that ofChina but is still way behind given the better road network and infrastructure in China,' said Vandooren. China, in fact, is among the few countries in Asia where Volvo has a full-fledged manufacturing facility and a number of joint ventures for carrying out activities like bus manufacturing, truck manufacturing as well as components supply and sourcing for its global operations.

Volvo India, which launched its India operations in 1997 assembles the B7R bus series used in inter-city transportation and also has a major presence in trucks, tippers and construction equipment segments in India. The company' Hoskote facility near Bangalore can assemble around 1,200 trucks and buses on a single shift basis per year. Volvo India sold around 600 buses last year. It also exports buses to Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. As part of their sales package, the company runs a driver training school in its plant to train drivers on its vehicles.

Like many other international vehicle makers, Volvo India too has started sourcing components for its parent's global requirements, procuring components worth 50 million Euros last year. The company has also established a technology centre in Bangalore and operates a nationwide network of 50 sales and support points.

Source : automonitor.co.in (8/27/2006)

2007 2006 Sedans That Get 30+ MPG  
The sedan is the most popular car body style, and offers interior space and access through two doors on each side (or more rarely one) and luggage security because of a locking, covered luggage compartment separate from the passenger compartment.

Sedans come in all sizes. Small examples include the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. Midsize sedans are the best-selling, with the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord leading. And large sedans, once the staple of the American industry in the 1950s and 1960s, refuse to die, keeping limo drivers happy in their Lincoln Town Cars, and police officers in their Ford Crown Victorias.

With over 100 sedan models to choose from it is important for potential buyers to "know before they try and buy"

If you want to know more (and we suggest that you do), The New Car Buyers Guide's exclusive Rank By Specs tool allows consumers to become experts and rank and then compare every sedan sold in North America by every spec, dimension, capacity and performance criteria.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

Dunlop India commences production  
CHENNAI: Dunlop India's tyre plant at Ambattur in the city, which suspended operations in 1998 and was acquired by the Ruia Group in 2005, commenced production today, chairman of the Group, Pawan K Ruia said.

Speaking to reporters here, he said that production had begun earlier than expected due to the co-operation and commitment shown by the workers. In about three months, production would reach 130 tonnes per day, he said adding that he expected the company to break even by March 2007.

"The automotive sector is a growing industry and the demand for tyres keeps increasing," he said.

The products would hit the market by September 15 under the brand name 'Donin' in all countries. Already, enquiries about the launch of the product was coming in from Africa, Europe and Middle East, he claimed.

So far the money invested by the group on reviving both units of Dunlop was Rs 110 crore. Quality and consistency would be the two major factors the company would focus on, Ruia said.

"For the first four months, we will watch the quality of the product and experiment with different permutations and combinations," he added.

There are structuring issues which would be solved and funds would be provided so that not even a single day's production would be lost, he said.

Praising the workers, he said they knew the company's position and are co-operating well. They were optimistic that they would receive better wages when the company's posititon improved.

Source : Economic Times (8/27/2006)

NHRA Lucas Oil Drag RAcing Series-Saturday from Auto Club Famoso Raceway  
NHRA Pacific division Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series competitors are a step closer to the end of the 2006 season as they closed out the fifth of seven races in the region at Auto Club Famoso Raceway.Duane Shields took the win in Top Alcohol Dragster and Larry Miner scored in Top Alcohol Funny Car.

Shields, a former division champ from Boulder City, Nev., marked his second win of the season by beating current division points leader Sean O'Bannon of Alta Loma, Calif.Shields' put together his best run of the weekend in the final, a 5.341-second, 266.90 mph effort, which was more than enough to cover O'Bannon's 5.417-second run at 266.27 mph.

For Miner, who has only been to three races this year, this was his best showing to date.The Lodi, Calif., resident also put together his best run of the weekend in the final.He ran 5.720 seconds at 253.44 mph against No. 1 qualifier John Weaver, Newport Beach, Calif., who posted a 5.727-second, 251.74 mph pass.

Doug Lambeck, Northridge, Calif., scored his first win of the year in Comp Eliminator, beating local favorite Tom Mettler, Bakersfield, Calif., in the final round, and Super Stock racer John Calvert, Lancaster, Calif., drove his '68 Mustang to the winner's circle over Ryan McClanahan. In Stock Eliminator, Mike Williams, Hesperia, Calif., wheeled his '67 Camaro to the win, beating Don Forester, Riverside, Calif., in the final.Greg Boutte, Stockton, Calif., earned the win in Super Comp over Venice, Calif., racer Alexis Dejoria, while in Super Gas, John Ross, Misison Viejo, Calif., outpaced Chris Newman, Lancaster, Calif., for the win.The Super Street winner was Phoenix's Keith Manogue who held off Scott Kilbourn, Wittmann, Ariz., in the final.Trace St. Germain, San Jose, Calif., rode to the win in Sportsman Motorcycle, beating Greg Lisky in the final round while Super Eliminator racer Terry White, Half Moon Bay, Calif., was the winner over Mike Solina, Poway, Calif.Matt Hartzell, Atwater, Calif., got the win in Top Comp, beating Ryan Priddy, Chino, Calif., in the final round.

NHRA Pacific division competitors will head to Nevada for the next Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series event.Top Gun Raceway in Fallon, Nev., will host the meet September 8-10.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

Michelin 2006 Turkish F1 GP - Race  
Fernando Alonso (Renault/Michelin) finished second in today's Turkish Grand Prix to stretch his Formula One world championship lead to 12 points with just four races remaining. For 16 laps, the Spaniard resisted intense pressure from arch-rival Michael Schumacher to reinforce his season- long points lead.

Several leading Michelin runners were delayed by a multiple pile-up at the first corner, but five of the company's drivers still managed to score points at the end of a gruelling race. Jenson Button (Honda) was fourth ahead of Pedro de la Rosa (McLaren Mercedes, fifth), Giancarlo Fisichella (Renault, sixth) and Rubens Barrichello (Honda, eighth).

Nick Shorrock, Michelin F1 director "From a technical perspective I'm very pleased"

"To me those final 16 laps felt like the longest of the season. For the fans this has been a fantastic race from start to finish, but the battle between Fernando Alonso and Michael Schumacher was particularly outstanding. Fernando did an exceptional job to resist such pressure and strengthen his bid for a second consecutive F1 world title.

"From a technical perspective I'm very pleased with the way our tyres performed. We witnessed a little bit of graining during at the start of the stints, but generally our products held up very well in one of the season's most demanding races.

"We are now going to Monza for a one week test with a heavy program, looking at tyres choices for future Grands Prix but also looking at ways to improve our first lap performances. If successful this will open up new strategies for our partners."

Pat Symonds, executive engineering director, Renault F1 Team "Our Michelins held up brilliantly in testing conditions"

"Today's conditions were incredibly testing for tyres, with track temperatures in the mid -50s, and the long, long Turn Eight did its best to destroy them. Our Michelins held up brilliantly, not only to enable Fernando to beat Michael Schumacher but also to allow Giancarlo Fisichella to run a one- stop strategy.

"The F1 test ban is over now and we have some good ideas to try out before the next race at Monza."

Alain Dassas, Renault F1 Team president "Fernando Alonso did an exceptional job... and so did Michelin"

"The spectators craved a good show- and I believe they got one. This was a superb race. Fernando Alonso drove exceptionally and I'm really happy with this result. Michelin did a brilliant job, too, and our tyres performed perfectly during the race. Together, we have made huge strides forward in recent grands prix and I'd like to thank them."

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

Rocketsports Racing Montreal Report - Friday  
Track experience seems to be key here in Montreal as Antonio Pizzonia sits in the eighth spot after provisional qualifying while his teammate Nicky Pastorelli struggles to find a car that can help him excel on speed.

This morning was the first run for the two Champ Car rookies. Despite being of rookie status in a Champ Car, Pizzonia is no rookie to the 2.709-mile permanent road course at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. His past experience comes from running in Formula One, but despite that fact on his resume, he still had to get used to driving a Champ Car on this circuit. Pastorelli was a test driver in Formula One, but did not have the chance to run this circuit so he comes here completely green to the racetrack.

The morning did not offer much time to get used to the track. After running for about 30-minutes of green flag time, Pizzonia would be the first to cause a red flag. He was still learning the shifting mechanism of a Champ Car and spun in Turn Eight. He stalled in the gravel and Champ Car Safety had to go out and get him. The Brazilian had to serve an eight-minute penalty for causing a stop to the session, which ultimately hurt his run for the rest of the morning. With the addition of two other red flags, he did not get many more laps in for practice after his incident.

Pastorelli seemed to be on the right track and off to a good start in the morning. Taking to a road course track with ease, he maneuvered his way around Circuit Gilles Villeneuve for the first time and recorded a time that saw him sitting in the 14th spot as the fourth best rookie.

The afternoon held the first round of qualifying for Sunday's Grand Prix de Montreal. Pizzonia was confident that more time in the car and better track conditions would improve his overall time. That is exactly what happened, as he posted his fastest lap of 1:22.767 (117.830 mph) on his tenth lap of provisional qualifying. That time was good enough to stick him in the eighth spot on the provisional grid.

Pastorelli's good morning run failed to continue in the afternoon and he struggled with different problems with the car. The Italo-Dutch driver was able to improve his time slightly in the afternoon, but not enough to make him or the team happy. He posted his best time of the day with a 1:24.204 (115.819 mph) and sits 16th on the charts after day one in Montreal.

The team will have more practice time tomorrow with an hour-session beginning at 10:30 a.m. EST. Then they will head out for final qualifying at 2:00 p.m. to determine their starting positions on the grid for Round 11 of the Bridgestone Presents The Champ Car World Series Powered by Ford, which takes place on Sunday afternoon with the green flag scheduled to wave at 1:30 p.m. EST.

Notes

Antonio Pizzonia #18 Rocketsports Ford-Cosworth/Lola/Bridgestone "I am happy to be back in the Champ Car. It is taking a little time to get used to driving it again and driving a racecar overall because Long Beach was the last time I was in a racecar. Therefore, I know that there is more to come from me and the #18 Rocketsports car. It is interesting driving here in a Champ Car. It was three years ago when I drove here in a Formula One car, but I can immediately see differences between the two cars. It is a completely different driving line, so I have to attack the track in a different way than what I know. So that is something else I have to get used to, along with braking and reading the marks on the track. Overall, I am happy to have finished 8th today in provisional qualifying, we are on the right track and I expect we can do even better tomorrow."

Nicky Pastorelli #8 Curacao/Rocketsports Ford-Cosworth/Lola/Bridgestone "This morning we started out good and I was able to learn the track pretty quickly to feel comfortable. This afternoon we started having some problems and things started to go in the wrong direction. We will work on improving the car and solving those issues tonight and I feel that we can go out tomorrow and have an even better day."

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

KB Racing LLC: Will to make IHRA debut at Norwalk  
When qualifying gets underway at Norwalk Raceway Park this evening, the IHRA Skull Shine World Nationals will have a new look as Hillary Will, fresh from a final round appearance at the NHRA O'Reilly Mid-South Nationals in Memphis, Tenn., makes her IHRA debut in the KB Racing LLC-owned, Kalitta Motorsports-managed Top Fuel dragster.

Will, who finished runner-up at the Memphis event and is currently ranked No. 9 in the NHRA POWERade point standings, and her Kalitta Motorsports team led by crew chief Jim Oberhofer, chose the IHRA event in Norwalk because it is near their shop in Ypsilanti, Mich., and is one of the largest and most prestigious events on the IHRA circuit.

"I was really excited when my team said they wanted to race at Norwalk," said Will as qualifying for the Skull Shine World Nationals neared. "I would race my dragster every weekend if we could; however, I know it is a lot of extra time and effort for the guys who already work really hard.

"For us, it is the closest race to our shop in Michigan so it's hard to pass up the opportunity to go try and win some more rounds. Even though it's the first IHRA event for KB Racing, we have as good a shot as anyone to get our dragster into the Winner's Circle. There are a lot of good competitors in IHRA, as there are in the NHRA, so there is no way I think it will be easy. But we can't go to the race without our goal being to win.

"We're hoping that the momentum and confidence we gained from going to the finals in Memphis will carry through to the Norwalk race and then on to 'The Big Go' -- the NHRA Mac Tools U.S. Nationals -- at Indianapolis the following weekend."

Will made her professional Top Fuel debut at the NHRA Winternationals in February. The 26-year-old driver was born and raised in the Northern California town of Fortuna, but now resides in Ypsilanti, Mich.

Her first drag race was at her local track near her hometown -- Samoa Dragstrip. From there she graduated to Super Street, then to Super Gas and Super Comp. After attending Frank Hawley's Drag Racing School, Will moved to Top Alcohol Dragster before getting the call from Ken Black and his son, Kenny, Las Vegas businessmen, who specialized in framing for house construction, to drive their Top Fuel dragster managed by Connie Kalitta and his team at Kalitta Motorsports.

Mixed with her racing Will found the time necessary to finish high school and college. She attended Wheaton College in Norton, Mass., graduating in 2002 magna cum laude with a degree in Economics, winning the prestigious Wall Street Journal Student Achievement Award.

After graduating college, like most college students, Will tells that she had no idea what she was going to do. The one thing she did know was that she loved racing. Will found a job near her hometown that paid enough to get her by and still let her go racing. In April of 2005, Will decided that she wanted to go all or nothing and make racing her career. She took a big risk and left her job to try to devote 100% of her time to turn what was then a hobby into a career. The rest, as they say, is history.

Will and her KB Racing LLC-owned, Kalitta Motorsports-managed team begin qualifying when Top Fuel rounds out the "Friday Night Thunder" show which begins at 7 p.m. tonight, August 25, and concludes with two additional sessions tomorrow, August 26, the first beginning at 3 p.m. and then the "Night of Fire" beginning at 7 p.m., with Top Fuel once again rounding out the program. Will begins her quest for the IHRA Skull Shine World Nationals Top Fuel title on Sunday, August 27, with eliminations for Top Fuel scheduled to begin around 12:15 p.m. *All times are local Norwalk, Ohio time and subject to change at anytime. *

/KB Racing LLC is owned by Las Vegas businessmen Ken Black and Kenny Black. KB Racing LLC fields the Kalitta Motorsports-managed Top Fuel dragster driven by rookie driver Hillary Will. Autolite Spark Plugs, Calico Coatings, Findlay Automotive, Mac Tools, Red Line Oil, Summit Racing Equipment and the Technicoat Companies are associate marketing partners for 2006. In addition to Hillary Will's Top Fuel Dragster, KB Racing LLC also fields two Summit Racing Equipment Pro Stock Pontiac GTOs, driven by Greg Anderson and Jason Line on the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series. Anderson has won three consecutive POWERade Pro Stock Championships (2003-2005). Line finished third in the 2005 POWERade point standings and was honored with the 2004 Automobile Club of Southern California Road to the Future award, presented to the most outstanding rookie in a professional category.

Kalitta Motorsports (www.kalittaracing.com), owned by the legendary drag racer and successful businessman Connie Kalitta, will field, in addition to Will's dragster, three additional nitro fuel cars -- two Top Fuel dragsters and a Funny Car -- in 2006 in the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series. Doug Kalitta will drive the Mac Tools Top Fuel Dragster, David Grubnic will handle the driving duties on the StriVectin-SD Top Fuel Dragster and Scott Kalitta moves from Top Fuel to the Kalitta Air Funny Car for 2006.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

Former American Motors CEO Comments on Nasser/Jaguar Deal  
Gerald Meyers, CEO of American Motors from 1978 to 1982, offers some thoughts and insight on what's happening at Ford and why Jack Nasser (former Ford president and CEO) would be interested in trying to save Jaguar.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/28/2006)

Ford Focus Turns 30  
Although today's Fiesta is different in many ways from the original Fiesta that went on sale in 1976, it shares many of the fundamental attributes for which Fiesta has always stood.

"Fiesta's birthday gives us the opportunity to celebrate three decades of change," said John Fleming, President and CEO of Ford of Europe. "Fiesta represented change when it came on the automotive scene, and while it has moved with the times and fashions over the years, it has remained steadfast in its dedication to providing economical, practical and dependable transportation for people of all ages. That mission is just as relevant today as it was in 1976."

Introduced earlier in its anniversary year, the latest generation Ford Fiesta has a fresh new face that communicates likeability and fun and a bright new interior filled with colour. Its optional capabilities, like plugging an MP3 player into its audio system or Bluetooth voice control, would have been the stuff of science fiction three decades earlier.

Today's Fiesta has grown in size from the original model, reflecting trends in customer wants for more roominess and greater luggage capacity, traits in which Fiesta led at the time of its original introduction.

Sales of Ford's popular small car have increased year on year for the past five years. Annual car sales in 2005 of 358,931 units made it Fiesta's best sales year since 1998. Sales of the Fiesta between January and June 2006 were 205,200 units, up 10 percent versus the first half of 2005. More than 12 million Fiestas have been delivered into customers' hands in Fiesta's colourful 30-year history.

Starting in the early 1970s, Fiesta became a personal mission of Ford's Chairman, Henry Ford II. He was personally involved in every step of the long process that led to the grand opening of a new automotive assembly plant in Valencia with the attendance of the newly crowned King of Spain, Juan Carlos.

Fiesta didn't get its name until 1974, when Ford whittled down a list of 50 potential names to five: Bravo, Fiesta, Amigo, Strada and Pony. The final choice went to Henry Ford II. Production started in Valencia, Spain, in May 1976.

Today, the Ford Cologne Assembly Plan works around the clock in three shifts to product 1,800 units of Ford Fiesta, Fiesta ST, Ford Fiesta Van and the Ford Fusion in a fully flexible manufacturing environment. In 2005, Ford's Cologne works produced 403,349 units, among them 98,300 Fusion models.

Fiesta and Ford Fusion are exported from Cologne into more than 50 countries, including example to Angola, Australia, Brunei, Japan, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Singapore and South Africa. The farthest flung Fiesta export market is the Pacific island Tahiti.

Ford's original vision for the Ford Fiesta was to create a small car for the world, just like the Model T had been at the beginning of the 20th century. In many ways, Fiesta has achieved that goal, touching faraway markets but remaining firmly footed as a leader in the important European small-car segment.

Today, as the momentum builds for the latest and enhanced Fiesta -- sales up 10 percent on 2005 so far and aiming for its best sales year in seven years -- this iconic model is looking ahead to the old saying "life begins at 40."

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

Andretti Earns First Victory in NYSE Car at Infineon  
Marco Andretti conserved fuel in the #26 NYSE car when he needed and raced when he had to in earning his first IndyCar Series victory Sunday afternoon at the Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma at Infineon Raceway.In doing so, Andretti, at 19 years, five months and 14 days old, also became the youngest winner of a major open-wheel race. To cap off the day, he also clinched the 2006 Bombardier Rookie of the Year honors.

Andretti, starting the event from outside of the front row, hung close behind pole-sitter Scott Dixon in the race's early laps. He remained in second place through the midpoint of the event before pitting for fuel and fresh tires under yellow conditions on lap 45. Four laps later the caution flag again flew and the combination of pit stops cycling through combined with Dixon experiencing troubles in the pits, found Andretti in the lead. When the field went green on lap 52, Andretti was faced with the task of maintaining his lead while nursing 30 gallons of ethanol the remaining distance. He did just that, in taking a .6557 second victory over teammate Dario Franchitti.

Vitor Meira finished third, Dixon fourth and Helio Castroneves rounded out the top five. Through 13 events of the 2006 season Andretti stands seventh in the driver point standings with 313 points.

Andretti and the entire IndyCar Series conclude the 2006 campaign at the Peak Antifreeze Indy 300 at Chicagoland Speedway on Sunday, Sept. 10. The event will be televised live by ABC Sports, beginning at 12:30 p.m. (EDT). It can also be heard live by XM Satellite Radio subscribers by tuning into XM channel 145.

Marco Andretti, #26 NYSE Dallara/Honda/Firestone:

"We got it. I was trying all year for it. We knew this is one track we could have a shot at but we knew how tough it was going to be. I've got to give it to the team, though. My NYSE boys did an awesome job all weekend, just as they have all year long. Track position was huge. I love a track that you have to qualify well at and have to drive the thing."

Kyle Moyer, General Manager, Andretti Green Racing:

"This is a place that we felt we could do well at. Marco likes this place and just about put it on the pole. Leaving him out as long as we did was kind of a gamble, but we decided it was 'win or bust.' "(Scott) Dixon was better than us and we knew had to do something different to get around him, so that's what we did. Then it turned into a fuel mileage race, and I'll tell you - I don't how he made the mileage he did."

2006 Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma Results Pos. Name Laps Pos. Name Laps 1 Marco Andretti 80 10 Bryan Herta 80 2 Dario Franchitti 80 11 Tony Kanaan 80 3 Vitor Meira 80 12 Ed Carpenter 79 4 Scott Dixon 80 13 Kosuke Matsuura 79 5 Helio Castroneves 80 14 Scott Sharp 79 6 Dan Wheldon 80 15 Buddy Rice 75 7 Jeff Simmons 80 16 Ryan Briscoe 67 8 Danica Patrick 80 17 Tomas Scheckter 44 9 Sam Hornish Jr. 80 18 Jeff Bucknum 9

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, Friday from Heartland Park Topeka  
A hot and humid afternoon eventually led to an unstable atmosphere and quite a light show Friday during the first round of qualifying at the Lucas Oil NHRA Division V Heartland Championships presented by NAPA, Goodyear, and Kan Equip at Heartland Park Topeka.

As the afternoon gave way to early evening, race officials began calling Top Alcohol Dragster and Top Alcohol Funny Car classes to the staging lanes early in an effort to avoid the weather. With approximately half the field in Competition Eliminator already through their second qualifying session (and both Top Alcohol Dragster and Funny Car waiting in the lanes), the skies began to flash as intense lightning rolled into the area. Despite minimal precipitation, officials were forced to cancel the second qualifying session scheduled for Friday.

That leaves both fields of racers with just one remaining qualifying round Saturday to improve their position in the ladder.

After one session, Richard Putz of Earlville, Iowa, leads the Top Alcohol Dragster category, putting down a run of 5.603 seconds at 249.07 mph in Friday's afternoon session. Dave Heitzman out of Grand Rapids, Ohio, sits in second with a run of 5.637, 249.72 mph, Jeff Hamelink is third, and Lee Callaway rounds out the top half of the field with a pass of 5.695 seconds at 252.38 mph.

Vern Moats of Des Moines, Iowa is atop the Top Alcohol Funny Car field after one round, going 5.916 seconds at 248.39 mph in his only pass of the day. Fellow Iowa resident Kirk Williams, the 2003 Division V Top Alcohol Funny Car Champion, is second after going 5.937 seconds at 243.68mph. Roger Bateman sits in third, and three-time defending Division V Top Alcohol Funny Car Champion Cy Chesterman is fourth.

Scott Parks of Burlington, Kan., is No. 1 in Comp Eliminator with a pass of 7.032 followed by Tom Schmidt of Lindstrom, Minn. Overland Park, Kan., resident Bud Miller is fifth with a lap of 8.521 seconds.

The Super Stock field is led by Carroll Warling of Arvada, Colo., running 11.224 seconds and Bob Shaw is No. 1 in Stock Eliminator in his '79 Cadillac running 13.843 seconds.

In the Sportsman Motorcycle Series presented by Harley Davidson, Ken Niesen is on top with a perfect reaction time of 0.000 seconds followed by Tom Gilligan with a 0.003 second reaction time.

Qualifying for the Top Alcohol Dragster and Top Alcohol Funny Car classes continues with one round on Saturday at noon. Qualifying and time trial sessions for six other classes also continue Saturday beginning at 8 a.m.

Final round eliminations are set to begin at 1 p.m. Saturday, with eliminations for the eight-car Top Alcohol Dragster and Top Alcohol Funny Car classes scheduled for 6 p.m.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

Musgrave, No. 9 Team ASE Toyota Finish 3rd at Bristol  
Ted Musgrave opened the 2006 season with six consecutive top five finishes, including back-to-back third-place finishes behind Mark Martin and Germain Racing teammate Todd Bodine at Daytona and California.After a stretch of mid-season tough luck, Musgrave and the No. 9 Team ASE Toyota are back on track after picking up a third-place finish in the O'Reilly 200 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway.

After scoring six straight top-fives to start the year, Musgrave hit a rough patch starting in the seventh race of the season at Mansfield.From there though round 12 at Kansas, Musgrave could only muster one top-ten finish - a seventh-place effort at Texas.But a strong sixth-place run at Kentucky seemed to get momentum turned around.After a frustration night in Memphis that resulted in a 19th-place finish, Musgrave and his No. 9 Team ASE Toyota crew have strung together an eighth-place finish at Indianapolis, a fourth-place at Nashville, and now a third-place result at Bristol.

"We came here with new crew chief Rick Gay and the communication seems to be pretty good right off the bat," Musgrave said."We had a pretty good truck.We just rode around trying to stay out of trouble and be nice to Todd and Mark.Mark had the best truck tonight and Todd and I were right there with him, but I don't think we had anything for him. But that one-two-three finish sure does remind me of how we opened the season at Daytona and California.The truck was pretty tight.We made one little adjustment and had to live with it."

Musgrave's strategy for the night was simple: pit as early as possible and use track position to maintain a spot at the front throughout the race on the tight and tough 0.533-mile Bristol oval.

"The tires are so hard they last forever and you don't have to stop for tires," Musgrave said."It used to be that in 40 or 50 laps the tires were worn out and if you ran 80 laps you had the cords showing.Some guys would try to run the distance and others would come down and get tires and then blast through the pack and put on a show.We don't have that any more.You do what we did tonight, pit as early as you can and wait for everyone else to pit and gain track position and then hold it to the end.A longer race wouldn't help that situation, but tires that wear out after 50 or 60 laps would."

Musgrave now sits fourth in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series championship standings behind teammate Todd Bodine, Johnny Benson, and David Reutimann.Musgrave sits 244 points behind leader Bodine, and just 14 points behind Reutimann for third.

Next up for the No.9 Team ASE Toyota is the Sylvania 200 at New Hampshire International Speedway.Practice is scheduled for Friday September 15, while qualifying will take place at 9:30 A.M. Eastern on Saturday September 16.The 200-lap race will follow later in the day at 2:15 P.M. Eastern.Speed Channel will have the live broadcast with Motor Racing Network broadcasting the race on selected radio affiliates nationwide.TruckSeries.com will have complete event coverage online at www.truckseries.com.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

Electrical problems zap rallynotes team at Gorman  
Ten miles into stage seven, with three stages to go, the team was holding onto a second place in class when the Dodge Rally Neon's computer failed. At that point an overwhelming five out of the six P-Stock competitors had dropped out of the Gorman Ridge Rally. The problem was related to an oxygen sensor that ground out, stalling the car on the transit between stages two and three.

"Of course we're bummed, but it had to happen sometime. I'm happy we were able to at least finish all of the morning stages. It's disappointing that our problem was most likely due to something we could have easily replaced on stage - unlike the whole transmission locking for example - but I'm also thankful the failure was not caused by something more major. I'm looking forward to getting out to our next event," reported co-driver Christine Wittish.

"It's our first DNF (did not finish), but we still had an awesome time! The car ate up all the bumps and jumps. The new damping in the rear Bilstein struts kept the back end from popping up and we landed flat every time," said driver Kristopher Marciniak. "I didn't give up when the car stalled during the transit to stage three. I pulled out the rear O2 sensor plug and got the car going again. I tried everything when she died on stage seven, but I knew when we heard the fuel pump and cooling fans running even with the keys out of the ignition that we were done."

The Rallynotes.com Team finished all of the stages in the Hungry Valley ORV Park. These same stages were included in this year's X Games competition. The crew of four: Harry Bushling, Jake Walters, Colten Becker, and Kevin Patterson did an awesome job of checking and repairing the car while in service.

Looking forward to their next event, the team re-joins the competition of the USRC in October at the Prescott Rally in Arizona.

Kristopher is a computer technician and support analyst working for the Alteer Corporation in Irvine, CA. Christine is a molecular biology graduate student at the University of California, Irvine in the lab of Dr. Douglas Wallace.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

Hindustan Motors Uttarpara complex to be revived  
Hindustan Motors Ltd has prepared a comprehensive `Revival & renewal proposal' in order to bring its automotive industrial complex at Uttarpara in West Bengal back to profitability & financial health. This was announced by the company's Managing Director, Mr R. Santhanam.

The proposal envisages diversification and expansion into the auto component sector by developing a modern and large sized automotive forgings, automotive castings and automotive stampings business by cost effectively leveraging existing facilities and infrastructure.

Expansion plan

The proposal also envisages ways for sustaining the existing vehicle business by expanding range and upgrading technology. To achieve the competitiveness in quality, cost and delivery, the company has drafted a strategy to transform the work practices in line with best in the auto industry.

Mr Santhanam told newspersons here on Friday that McKinsey and Co and other reputed consultants had forecast auto component exports from India to grow manifold from current levels of $1.5 billion.

He felt that Uttarpara was well placed to ride this growth wave. The company, he said, had piloted this approach over the past few months and response from OEMs, both in India and Europe, had been heartening.

Plant history

He said that the company's Uttarpara facility was established in 1948 and developed as a fully integrated automotive industrial complex and township. For many decades this plant has been a significant contributor to West Bengal by bringing in technology and capital, generating direct and indirect employment and contributing through direct & indirect taxes.

Post liberalisation and opening up of the economy, this unit handicapped by legacy costs and systems, experienced a whole new set of challenges and sustained financial stress. Given this back drop, to fund the expansion and diversification program, HM had applied to the State Government seeking permission for alternative use of the company's 314 acres of used land.

Development plans

However, the company's application has envisaged development of 314 acres of land, over a 4-5 year period, into a World Class Integrated IT and ITES Township and auto ancillary park because IT, ITES and auto ancillary happened to be the fastest growing sector and such a development would also maximise socio-economic benefits to Uttarpara and the neighbouring belts.

Source : Business Line (Online Edition) (8/27/2006)

Nissan reaches milestone with 100 million vehicles  
MUSCAT - Nissan Motor Co. Ltd reached a new milestone in June with the production of its 100 millionth vehicle. Since its establishment in 1933, Nissan has produced about 76,640,000 vehicles in Japan and about 23,500,000 vehicles overseas.

As of the end of June, Nissan's total global production stood at an enormous 100,140,000 vehicles.

In December 1933, Nissan was first established under the name 'Jidosha-Seizo Co. Ltd' (Automobile Manufacturing Co. Ltd.) after taking over operations for manufacturing the small-size Datsun passenger cars from Tobata Casting Co. Ltd.

The first car produced by them was a Datsun Type 12. The company name was changed to 'Nissan Motor Co. Ltd' the following year. In 1935, Nissan began operations at its Yokohama plant, the first plant in Japan to mass-produce automobiles. From there it went on to play a pioneering role in Japan's early automobile industry.

Production capacity in Japan grew further with the start of vehicle assembly at the Oppama plant in 1962, the Zama plant in 1965, the Murayama plant in 1966 (after the company merged with Prince Motor Co. Ltd, a major Japanese automaker, that same year), the Tochigi plant in 1971 and the Kyushu plant in 1976.

Nissan first began producing vehicles overseas in 1959 in Taiwan. In 1966, the company began production in Mexico, followed by production in the US and Spain in 1983, the UK in 1986 and China in 1995.

"Nissan's manufacturing activities have been constantly growing, with global expansion plans for manufacturing facilities that have ranged from the Americas to Europe and Asia," commented Monal Zeidan, senior manager, marketing and corporate communications departments at Nissan Middle East.

"Nissan has a commitment to offer its customers the best products no matter where they reside. A true testament is the Sunny, with over 17.5 million units produced worldwide, many of them on the AGCC roads," Zeidan added.

Nissan entered Middle East markets in 1957, with the first Nissan vehicle sold in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. In 1994, Nissan Motor Co. Ltd set up a regional Middle East headquarters, based in Dubai, further strengthening Nissan's presence in the region, covering over 20 countries, making it the largest representation in the Middle East amongst all Japanese manufacturers.

The company's manufacturing plants, including the Sunderland plant in the UK, the Smyrna plant in Tennessee (US) and the Canton plant in Mississippi (US), are today among the most efficient vehicle assembly plants in the world.

Nissan led the North American auto industry in manufacturing efficiency in the 2006 Harbour Report, with an overall measurement of 28.46 labour hours per vehicle.

Some more highlights of Nissan's major global production are:

1942: 100,000 vehicles; 1962 (1,000,000), 1969 (5,000,000), 1972 (10,000,000), 1988 (50,000,000), 1992 (60,000,000), 1995 (70,000,000), 1999 (80,000,000), 2003 (90,000,000) and 2006 (100,000,000 vehicles).

Nissan continues its glorious growth and is fast-moving forward to many more exceptional standpoints in the future.

Suhail Bahwan Automobiles LLC is committed to supporting Nissan's growth in the Sultanate through great emphasis on customer satisfaction and by providing world-class after-sales services in Oman. With a national network of showrooms, service centres and parts outlets, Suhail Bahwan Automobiles has further built upon its legacy of trust, superior customer services and value for money.

Source : http://www.timesofoman.com (8/26/2006)

Honda Motor to invest Rs 3,000 crore over 10 years  
In India, to launch the much-acclaimed premium sedan Civic, President and CEO, Honda Motor Company, Takeo Fukui, announced a slew of initiatives to take Honda's business to the next level in the country.

Terming India as a market that would be more important than China in the future, he outlined an aggressive expansion strategy that includes capacity expansion and diversification of product portfolio in the country, which would see Honda invest Rs 3,000 crore over the next ten years.

The company, which started operations in India with a tie-up with the Hero Group in 1984 to manufacture two-wheelers has till date invested a similar amount in the past 20 years.

In yet another significant decision, Honda has announced that has established a new parts business company, Honda Motor India (Pvt) Ltd, to be headed by Masahiro Takedagawa, the incumbent president and CEO of Honda Siel Cars India and also head - South West Asia, Honda Motor.

Takedagawa will also co-ordinate Honda's different businesses in India - two-wheelers, automobiles and power products. Honda Motor India on its part would be part of an overall strategy to coordinate requirements for components for various Honda group companies.

The proposed investment will go into all of Honda's businesses in India - cars (Honda Siel Cars India), two-wheelers (Hero Honda and Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India), and power generators (Honda Motor Company).

Honda will also ramp up production capacities in both two-wheelers and cars in the coming years as it sees demand expand. 'By 2010, we will have a two-wheeler capacity of 7-7.5 million in a market of around 12 million while in cars we will raise production to 1,50,000 units, thrice what we have today,' Fukui said.

New plant for small car

Fukui alluded to Honda's intention to enter the small car market in India. He said the company plans to set up a new plant for bringing its small car to India but a final decision is yet to be taken.

Honda's interest in the small car has been boosted following Union Finance Minister P Chidambaram's announcement of excise sops for small cars in the budget. 'The government's recent policy has given clear indication towards what is a worldwide trend - that is moving towards the small car. We are very aggressively studying and evaluating options to enter the largest segment of car in India,' Takedagawa said.

As and when the company decides to bring in the small car, it would warrant a new plant, as existing facilities at Greater Noida can support production of only three products that the company currently makes - City, Civic and Accord. The company recently ramped up capacity to 50,000 units a year from the earlier 30,000 units, which it aims to double by end-2007.

India and China

Interestingly, Fukui said the Indian market holds a larger potential in the long run for his company in comparison to the Chinese market. 'In the future, India will be a more important market for us than China,' Fukui reiterated. Both countries have similar rates of growth and population, but India being a democracy gives it an edge, he said. 'I am not saying this because I am in India. There are some labour issues in India,' he said. He, however, did not reveal the company's proposed investment in China over the next 10 years.

Honda Motor, meanwhile, has offered to divest five percent stake with the Siel Group, its JV partner. It company plans to bring down its stake in HSCI to 95 percent from the current 99.9 percent percent by divesting equity in favour of the joint venture partner. Siel will be purchasing the stake for an estimated Rs 73 crore by the end of the year.

By 2010, Honda is targeting a 10 percent market share with sales increasing to 150,000 units from the current 50,000 units. Production too is expected to be ramped up to 150,000 units by 2010, when the overall car industry in India is slated to cross sales of two million car mark per annum.

Plans are afoot to increase capacities in the two-wheeler segment as well. Currently, both Hero Honda and HMSI together accounts for 3.6 million units of the total 7 million units sold in the country. This is the largest number of two-wheelers Honda sells in any single country in the world. Capacities are expected to increase to 4.3 million units this year and 5.2 million units next year. Fukui said company estimates suggest that 12 million motorcycles will be sold in India by 2010 and 'we intend to remain the dominant player in the market with a capacity of 7-7.5 million units per annum by that time'.

Source : automonitor.co.in (8/27/2006)

Eicher to hive off Royal Enfield as a separate entity  
Eicher Motors has announced that it would transfer its Royal Enfield motorcycle business unit to a new subsidiary that to be set up in the National Capital Region.

The company's board has approved the transferring of the motorcycle division by way of a slump sale. It also approved the setting up of new company to be incorporated as a subsidiary of Eicher Motors.

Eicher Motors said that it would look for strategic and financial investors in the subsidiary company to exploit the growth potential of the Royal Enfield business. The new subsidiary will be fully owned by Eicher.

Chairman, Eicher Group, S Sandilya said the company was looking at options to rope in a strategic investor in the subsidiary. Sandilya, however, denied the likelihood of a management buy-out (MBO) at the firm.

Market analysts are of the opinion that the decision to hive off the bikes businessdevelopment has not really come as a surprise and has been on the cards. Royal Enfield has never been in the numbers business and to that extent the hiving off makes sense given that the Eicher has been infusing cash into the business.

The Royal Enfield range is in the higher engine capacity segment and as per SIAM, the company sold 2750 units in March 2006. Cumulative sales for the year were 28,541 units, marginally above the previous fiscal's sales of 28,055 units. The company has however, done quite well in the exports segment and the decision to hive off the business could well be aimed at strengthening things on this front. The bike has been exported to the UK among other markets where it's a cult offering of sorts.

Third round of restructuring

The latest round of restructuring - the third- for the Eicher Group follows the demerger of group companies, Eicher Ltd and Eicher Motor Ltd in 2003. Last year, the Eicher Group sold its tractor unit to TAFE for an estimated Rs 330 crore.

In an interview with Auto Monitor some time ago, Sandilya said the company is keen to focus on the commercial vehicles business as also motorcycles, engineering solutions and components. The company is keen to focus on auto components and towards this end, has rechristened its gears unit, Eicher Demm. The company with units at Parwanoo in Himachal Pradesh and at Thane, near Mumbai, have been supplying parts to the Eicher's CV business. The company is now called Eicher Engine Components and will be a key part of Eicher's plans to make a foray into the component business in a big way.

Source : automonitor.co.in (8/27/2006)

Civic makes its India debut  
Honda Siel Cars India was able to enhance its localisation in the Civic to 68 percent from an earlier target of 60 percent, thanks to the higher prices for inputs, said president and CEO, Honda Siel Cars India, Masahiro Takedagawa.

He was speaking on the sidelines of a press event, where the company launched the Civic, its fourth offering in India. Sources said the company aims at increasing localisation on the Civic to 80 percent in two years' time.

Localisation gameplan

Honda Siel has been steadfastly working on indigenising components for the cars it makes in India. The Honda City already has 80 percent of its components procured locally, while the remaining 20 percent is imported from Thailand and other Asian countries, including Japan.The company mainly import stampings and engine parts from these countries.

In an earlier interview to this publication, Takedagawa had said it would take the company about five years to reach 95 percent local procurement levels and that would happen once HSCI starts manufacturing stampings and engine parts in India. The same levels of localisation would probably be developed on the Civic as well, Takedagawa had said. Takedagawa said, 'The Civic is a globally successful car and our very latest and advanced model.' Among other things, Takedagawa said the car's key attribute is its fuel efficiency.

The Civic, which has been launched in two variants - manual and automatic - will carry a price tag of Rs 10.75 lakh for the manual and Rs 11.45 lakh for the automatic, ex-showroom, New Delhi.

He said the company plans to sell over 10,000 units in the remainder of this fiscal, or make and deliver a thousand units a month. As far as sales go, the company hopes to increase total vehicle sales by 50 percent to 63,000 units. Last year, the company sold 43,000 units.

The Civic will primarily take on the Toyota Corolla in the lower D or premium sedan segment, and it remains to be seen how the vehicle will fare in a market segment that is estimated at about 12,000 units or so. Experts believe the Civic would expand this segment, which also has players like the Chevrolet Optra, Skoda Octavia, Mitsubishi Cedia and the Hyundai Elantra competing against each other.

Head, Product & Sales Planning, HSCI, Sujan Roy said, 'The new offering will expand the lower D segment.' He said the company will attempt to sell the car to existing owners of the Honda City and use the internet and test drives as part of a strategy to sell the vehicle.

Chairman, Honda Motor Company, Takeo Fukui said the Civic is made in North America, Europe, Asia and South America, spread over 160 countries. The car, now in its eighth-generation avatar, has sold an estimated 160 million units since its debut in 1972 and is arguably the company's most popular product.

On the fast track

With regard to Honda's outlook on India, Fukui said India is the preferred destination for global companies and 'holds much promise for Honda'. Honda entered India 20 years ago in the motorcycle business and now the company's 'auto business is on the fast track'. While reiterating that Honda is very upbeat on India, Fukui said the company added an estimated 42,000 new buyers to its Indian clienetele, which now numbers at about 160,000.

Takedagawa said the company has been working on its facility and dealership and has increased capacity to 50,000 units last year. The company, he said, has brought forward its plans to increase capacity to 100,000 by 2007 as against the earlier deadline of 2010.

'With the launch of the Civic, our aftersales will be enhanced to take care of the new requirements,' Takedagawa said.

In his presentation on the features of the Civic, Roy said the India launch of the Civic has taken place seven months after its global debut. He said the company had increased the suspension of the vehicle to take Indian road conditions and that, among other features, the car offers 17 percent more glass area for the wipers. Roy also said the Civic's many features also include roominess and comfort.

He also said that the Civic offers a litre and half of extra fuel efficiency than the Honda City Vtec, and that its five-speed auto transmission is a first in India in the segment. The Civic is also ethanol - E10 - compatible. In his presentation, Roy also said the new gearbox in the Civic is part of the company's strategy to move customers towards opting for the automatic transmission variant. Traditionally, because of their fuel-guzzling nature, automatics haven't been able to make the kind of impact in the Indian market. In addition, the Civic has a pedestrian safe design, which has been tested in real conditions, and its front and rear suspensions are completely independent.

Source : automonitor.co.in (8/27/2006)

Dunlop's Ambattur unit to restart production  
Dunlop India Ltd will recommence commercial production of automobile tyres at its Ambattur plant from tomorrow (Sunday), according to official sources.

Dunlop Factory Employees Union representatives said the formal launch of production will start on Sunday and the factory will work two shifts from Monday. Initially the plans are to start with manufacture of light commercial vehicles.

Dunlop's factory here starts production nearly a decade after it suspended operations in 1998. Union leaders said over 325 workers would be inducted in the first phase and as production is ramped up over the next one month, another 325 workers would be involved in production. When the factory commences operations at full capacity early in 2007, the total workforce would be about 1,000.

The average salary, after a 20 per cent cut that they agreed to, would be about Rs 6,500 a month. According to officials, the initial production will be about 40-45 tonnes a month and the factory will reach its full capacity of about 140 tonnes in three months. It may be recalled that the Kolkata-based Ruia group acquired Dunlop last December from the Jumbo Group.

Source : Business Line (Online Edition) (8/27/2006)

Honda Begins Automobile Operations in Vietnam  
HANOI, Vietnam, August --- Honda Vietnam Co., Ltd. (HVN), Honda's Vietnamese subsidiary, announced that it has begun automobile operations in Vietnam with launch of the new Civic, produced at its new automobile plant in the suburbs of Hanoi in Vinh Phuc Province. HVN will hold the opening ceremony for the new plant tomorrow, August 25.

The new plant has an annual production capacity of 10,000 units. In addition to welding, painting and assembly of complete vehicles, engine assembly will also be conducted at the plant, a first for an automobile plant in Vietnam. By 2010, the cumulative investment for the automobile operation is expected to reach approximately US$60 million, including the plant and the new sales network. The automobile operation is expected to create direct employment of approximately 250 new associates at HVN, with an expected total of more than 700 new jobs including dealers and parts suppliers.

About 250 guests, including the vice ministers of the Planning and Investment Ministry and the Ministry of Industry of Vietnam along with news media, were invited to the new Civic press conference held in Hanoi today, along with Honda President & CEO Takeo Fukui. HVN has begun auto sales with the Civic 4-door sedan, available with either a 1.8-liter or 2.0-liter engine, both featuring i-VTEC technologies. The Civic is priced in the range of 495 - 605 million Vietnamese Dong(VND), and HVN plans monthly sales of about 300 units.

Honda auto sales will begin at four dealers that have been established in the largest cities (two in Hanoi and two in Ho Chi Minh City), with a plan for further expansion in line with increased demand. Each dealer has a spacious showroom and service operation.

Since beginning motorcycle production in December 1997, HVN has offered excellent convenience and value to the customers in Vietnam through its motorcycle products. Annual sales reached 617,000 units in 2005, a 20% increase from the previous year. Although the automobile market in Vietnam is still in its infancy with about 35,000 units sold in 2005 according to the statistics from VAMA (Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers Association), HVN has constructed the new automobile plant with permission for production and sales from the Government of Vietnam, with a vision for market growth in line with the expected growth of the country's economy. Through the production and sales of the new Civic, which has proven popular in many countries around the world, Honda hopes to offer excellent new value to Vietnamese customers.

Takeo Fukui commented, "By deepening the ties cultivated through our motorcycle operations with customers in Vietnam, we were able to enter the automobile market with its high potential, a major step forward for us at Honda. Through our products manufactured at the new automobile plant in Vietnam, we look forward to offering world-class quality and state-of-the-art technologies to our Vietnamese customers."

Source : http://www.autospectator.com (8/25/2006)

Maruti mulls over price hike  
Maruti Udyog is contemplating an upward price revision in line with rising input costs and is in the process of working out the details for the same across its model range.

The company is gearing itself to have a significant chunk of the market share in diesel car segment in India. It may be worth a mention that Maruti's biggest competitor Hyundai Motor India recently hiked prices across all its models.

'We have to be present in the diesel segment, which constitutes around 18-20 percent of the passenger car market currently and is growing,' said Jagdish Khattar, Managing Director, Maruti Udyog adding that company's decision was prompted by the delayed dismantling of Administered Price Mechanism (APM) by the government.

He added there was a significant difference between petrol and diesel prices at retail level, which has led to growth of demand for diesel cars from 11-12 percent five years back to around 20 percent now. The share of diesel cars within the passenger car market is also growing, he said. He was speaking on the sidelines of a press meet called to inaugurate the New Mumbai showroom of SK Wheels, the largest Maruti showroom for new and used cars in Mumbai

New dealerships

The company is setting up two new facilities and could expand the production capabilities further as it implements the production tie-up with Japan's Nissan Motors to cater to the latter's requirements for small cars for the Indian market. Khattar also said that the company is working on the common rail fuel injection technology on one of its existing models.

The company has launched four new dealerships in Mumbai in the past two to three years. An estimated 10 percent of its vehicles are financed by the State Bank of India.

Khattar also handed over the keys to the first few customers of SK Wheels, which is located at Turbhe in New Mumbai. The 100,000 square feet showroom is manned by 40 salespersons and is among the largest Maruti showrooms in Mumbai. It also deals in used or pre-owned cars under the 'True Value' brand. SK Wheels currently operates a two-wheeler dealership for Bajaj Auto located in the vicinity.

Source : automonitor.co.in (8/27/2006)

Korean Manufacturers Strengthen Grip On Europe  
EurotaxGlass's, Europe's leading provider of automotive data, comments on how Korean manufacturers continue to strengthen their position within the European car market.

For many years the Korean manufacturers were marketing vehicles in Europe that were primarily designed for the Asian market and their appeal in Europe proved to be limited. For most European consumers not even the low prices could compensate for the perceived lack of quality and unappealing design.

In recent years the Korean manufacturers have worked hard to redress these issues and are now producing attractive, high quality products that specifically target European buyers. Total Korean car sales are up 5.2 per cent year-to-date in Europe compared to last year and sales in Europe have been climbing steadily since the turn of this century.

"The combination of high specification, improved quality and designs that appeal to European tastes, have made Korean products more attractive," says Martin Verrelli, Head of the EurotaxGlass's Market Intelligence Unit. "The economic advantages associated with Asian manufacturing allow for very competitive pricing, and the established European volume manufacturers are really feeling the pressure."

Recent models from the big two manufacturers have been extremely well received. Models such as the Kia Sorento and Hyundai Sonata have been able to compete head on with the established European competition in their respective segments. There is an increasing demand on the used car market which has a positive effect on residual values.

"If Korea continues to produce desirable vehicles at prices that undermine European brands, we may see the complexion of Europe's car market volume segment change significantly over the next few years," says Verrelli.

Korean products now account for 3.85 per cent of the European car market compared to 2.88 per cent in 2002.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

Honda factory to spice up car market  
Models promote Honda Civic at its debut in Ha Noi on Thursday. The sedan, now is in its eighth generation, is designed for customers aged between 30 and 40, said Honda. - VNS Photo Truong Vi

VINH PHUC - Honda Viet Nam yesterday inaugurated a new automobile assembly plant in Vinh Phuc Province, where the company plans to build one of its best-selling sedans, the Honda Civic.

The 17,000sq.m US$60 million plant is designed with an annual production capacity of 10,000 units, the Japanese-invested firm said.

"Honda Viet Nam has became the first auto maker in Viet Nam to have an engine assembly section in compliance with the nation's automobile industry development strategy," said Deputy Industry Minister Do Huu Hao at the opening ceremony.

The new factory coincides with Thursday's introduction of the eighth generation Honda Civic in the domestic market, which industry watchers noted could inject some life into the underwhelming car market.

A Viet Nam Auto Manufacturing Association spokesman earlier this month said many potential buyers had postponed buying cars in the past several months to wait for the new Civic to go on the market.

However, widespread rumours about the model being priced in the $25,000 range were proven groundless when Honda Viet Nam announced the new sedans were priced at VND495 million (US$31,000) for the 1.8 litre Civic MT, VND515 million ($32,187) for the 1.8 litre Civic AT and VND605 million ($37,812) for the 2.0 litre Civic AT.

"Prices should be in line with the price ranges throughout the market," said a senior Honda Viet Nam's official.

The Honda Civic, recently named "2006 Car of the Year" by Motor Trend Magazine in the US, yesterday went on sale at the company's four dealerships in Ha Noi and HCM City, the company said.

Source : http://vietnamnews.vnagency.com.vn (8/26/2006)

FII purchase in M&M capped at 35 pc  
The RBI has informed that investment by FIIs in M&M would be up to 35 per cent of its paid-up capital, as the company's board of directors has passed a resolution to this effect. FIIs can purchase equity shares and convertible debentures of Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd up to 35 per cent, Opto Circuits (India) Ltd (40 per cent) and S. Kumars Nationwide Ltd (49 per cent) through stock exchanges and primary markets in India under Portfolio Investment Scheme, said a press release by the Reserve Bank of India.

Source : Business Line (Online Edition) (8/27/2006)

Nikkei opens flat as Pioneer falls, Honda gains  
TOKYO - The Nikkei share average was little changed on Monday, rising 0.09 percent as losses by some high-tech stocks such Pioneer Corp. were offset by advances by Honda Motor Co. Ltd., which found support on the weaker yen.

The Nikkei was up 31.65 points at 15,976.31 as of 0008 GMT. The broader TOPIX index was up 0.18 percent at 1,622.76.

Source : Reuters (8/28/2006)

2006 Mazda ZOOM-ZOOM Live Tour  
Mazda North American Operations is once again taking its Zoom-Zoom Live tour across the country, feeding passion for power and performance in one spectacular event. With nearly 50,000 car lovers expected to take to the tracks in a Mazda vehicle in one of 10 different cities, the Zoom-Zoom Live Tour is one of the most exciting driving events in the world. Kicking off August 12 in Washington, D.C., consumers will blaze around the track and experience the fun-to-drive lineup of Mazda vehicles on four different courses.

Now in its second year, the 2006 Zoom-Zoom Live tour promises to be a thrill-a-minute ride-and-drive experience designed to let adults unleash their inner child. Attendees will have the opportunity to experience four fantastic driving challenges, compete against the clock for points and prizes and interact with a wide variety of properties and displays that will bring a unique perspective to Mazdais design and engineering processes.

2006 Mazda Zoom Zoom Tour Front View

Each driving course will showcase the dynamic handling, technology, performance and design elements that are distinctive in Mazda vehicles. Experience the all-new CX-7 crossover SUV on the iTarget Hunti Course. On this course, drivers will attempt to pilot the CX-7 within a predetermined time range and hit all targets for a chance to win prizes. Drivers will also have the opportunity to experience the all-new MAZDASPEED6 on a specially designed iChallenge Course.i On the iSports Course,i drive the award winning MX-5 and RX-8 sports cars. And, finally, drivers can try for their best time on the iMatched Time Gymkhana Course.i Prizes for best times and performance will be awarded throughout the day.

2006 Mazda Zoom Zoom Tour Map

With the addition this summer of the all-new CX-7 crossover SUV, Mazda now has a full-line of truly thrilling vehicles,i said Bill Gordon, Marketing Director of Mazda North American Operations. iThe Zoom-Zoom Live Tour is a great way to showcase our product line and to allow consumers to experience the true meaning of Zoom Zoom.

Last year's Zoom-Zoom Live Tour proved to be a huge success. Thousands of people had the opportunity to personally experience the excitement of Mazda's line-up of vehicles. Interest in the events were largely generated by word of mouth and internet "buzz", culminating in more than 340,000 visits to the Zoom-Zoom Live Web site.

Source : Motor Trend (8/25/2006)

China to start vehicle crash testing  
BEIJING ¡ª China will begin its first independent vehicle crash tests next week as the government adopts a new system described as "consistent with the international New Car Assessment Program [NCAP]."

News of the crash-test program was reported by Xinhuanet, which said the first vehicle to be tested will be the Nissan X-Trail, assembled locally by Dongfeng Automobile.

Crash tests previously were conducted by the manufacturers, who were under no legal obligation to publish the results. Under the new system, the China Automotive Technology and Research Center in Beijing will conduct official tests.

CATARC, which participates in setting national automotive standards, said it has tested 1,200 vehicles for various manufacturers since 1999. The center said it plans to test 10-15 vehicles each year.

Source : http://www.chinadaily.com.cn (8/26/2006)

2006 Honda Odyssey Minivan Ranked First At 23 MPG  
Chrysler Corporation created the first new vehicular genre in years when it invented the minivan in the mid-1980s. Smaller and easier to drive and park than a regular van, and much more economical, the minivan proved to be the death of the full-size station wagon.

Minivans have grown considerably over the years, and few are truly "mini'' anymore. They offer excellent space utilization, but have lost ground in popularity to SUVs.

The Chrysler and Dodge minivan entries are still at the top of the popularity charts despite efforts by Ford, GM, Toyota, Honda, and even Kia to overcome their sales lead. With over 55 minivan models to choose from it is important for potential buyers to "know before they try and buy"

If you want to know more (and we suggest that you do), The New Car Buyers Guide's exclusive Rank By Specs tool allows consumers to become experts and rank and then compare every vehicle sold in North America by every spec, dimension, capacity and performance criteria.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

Addressing eco-friendly transportation  
The Viet Nam Automobile Manufacturers Association hopes the 2006 Viet Nam Motorshow, the leading exhibition in the nation's auto industry calendar, will provide a forum to discuss alternative fuels and environmental protection.

Dr. Udo F. Loersch, general director of Mercedes Benz Viet Nam and VAMA chairman:

Alternative fuels and environmental protection are a hotly debated topic in the global auto industry, especially in the context of the Middle East situation and increasing oil prices. Alternative fuels will be a certainty in future, including in Viet Nam.

However, at present, the automobile industry in the country is still small with tiny production volumes. This limits efforts by manufacturers to bring in the latest technologies.

Jung In Kim, general director of GM Daewoo Vidamco and vice chairman of VAMA:

Most of the 18 VAMA members, especially the joint ventures, are able to introduce latest models with modern technologies that protect the environment and use alternative fuels.

But we need to answer a question why the industry still applies Euro 2 environmental protection standards and not Euro 3 like in neighbouring nations or Euro 4 like in Europe. The reason is very simple. It needs a co-ordinated effort by the State, manufacturers, and society.

Auto manufacturers can bring in technologies to meet Euro 4 standards but how about the infrastructure facilities and fuel? We can't do it by ourselves.

Timothy D. Tucker, general director of Ford Viet Nam Limited:

We have already introduced the five-door Ford Focus that can run on ethanol, a kind of alternative fuel. But can owners of Ford Focus buy ethanol in Viet Nam? The answer is 'no' because in Viet Nam support industries for the auto industry are still very small, while the alternative fuel industry is non-existent.

Manufacturers can introduce automobiles that are environment-friendly and run on other fuels. But will customers be willing to pay high prices for functions that cannot be used yet? And when will Viet Nam produce alternative fuels?

Source : http://vietnamnews.vnagency.com.vn (8/25/2006)

Formula One World Champion Mika Häkkinen is Ambassador to MobileKids  
Mika Häkkinen is ambassador to DaimlerChrysler's worldwide road safety initiative MobileKids. The two time Formula One World Champion announced this on the occasion of the DTM Race at the Nuerburgring. As MobileKids ambassador, Häkkinen intends to show commitment to the objectives of this initiative: "As a father of two children, I know how much depends on the implementation of the MobileKids idea. My dream is that all children, wherever they may be in the world, can move safely and without danger in road traffic. That's why I'm becoming involved in MobileKids."

Why MobileKids?

Mobile Kids Safety Program Mika Hakkinen

According to a study by the World Health Organization (WHO), accidents in road traffic are the most frequent cause of death among children in Europe. On a worldwide scale, too, injuries in road accidents are one of the greatest threats to the well-being of young people. WHO warns that this type of accident could become the world's most frequent "preventable cause of death" by 2020. To counteract this trend and to strengthen the position of these most vulnerable participants in traffic, especially of the already highly mobile 10 to 15-year-olds, DaimlerChrysler in 2001 developed the worldwide concept "MobileKids" in cooperation with international road safety experts. This initiative sets out to arouse enthusiasm for road safety among children throughout the world.

With the online city "Mokitown", the TV series "The Nimbols" and experience roadshows, MobileKids intends to sharpen children's awareness of appropriate behavior in road traffic in an entertaining manner. The boys and girls learn in a playful way howto better assess their own situation, recognize hazards in good time and avoid them through careful behavior.

Source : Motor Trend (8/25/2006)

Goldman-led Investors Fuel Chinacars' Future  
Chinacars Inc, which provides an online community to auto consumers, received a US$25 million funding from an investor group led by Goldman Sachs, the Beijing-based company said in a statement.

Investors' confidence in the Website (chinacars.com) is due to the perfect combination of the two hottest sectors in the country - Internet and cars, industry insiders said.

The Website, founded in 2001, provides a stream of products and services, including a purchase guide, ranking of repair shops, car accessory information and other services that help drivers with vehicle decorations, insurance, repair service and a real-time map online, to attract 1.5 million registered users.

Following the latest investment, David Chou of Goldman Sachs will join Chinacars' board of directors, according to the statement released late on Friday. US-based venture capital fund Granite Global Ventures, which injected US$8 million into Chinacars in a previous investment, is also among the investors this time round. China Renaissance, a Beijing-based investment advisory firm, acted as the exclusive financial adviser and placement agent to Chinacars, the statement said.

"We believe in the potential of combining the cost advantage of Internet technology and the market size of China's post-sales auto services market," Chinacars' Chief Executive John Zhang said in the statement.

In 2005, the Website posted a revenue jump of 50 percent year on year to more than 100 million yuan (US$12.5 million). Auto advertising and commission fees from partners like insurance and car repair firms mainly fueled the rise, the Website said.

China is set to have more than 200 million Internet users from the current 123 million, said iResearch Inc, a Shanghai-based Internet consulting firm.

In the first half, venture capital investment in the Internet sector was US$276 million, surpassing the level in the whole of 2005. Internet-related VC investment accounted for 35 percent of total VC investment in China in the period, ranking it as No. 1, Zero2ipo Inc, a Beijing-based VC advisory firm, said in a report.

Besides the Internet boom, car sales in China also boosted the Website's revenue.

Source : http://www.china.org.cn (8/25/2006)

Forecast: Six-Speed Automatics To Dominate U.S. Market  
FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. - General Motors and Ford are leading the shift to more fuel-efficient six-speed gearboxes, while three-quarters of new GM models will be equipped with the newer automatics by 2012, according to research firm CSM Worldwide.

Ford has previously said it plans to convert half its fleet to six-speed systems by 2015.

The latest powertrain forecast from CSM Worldwide predicts an aggressive ramp-up for the six-speeds, a revision of its forecast last year, when it anticipated a 40-percent penetration for six-speed gearboxes by 2010.

Chrysler Group, Toyota and Hyundai are also planning new six-speed automatics. CSM points out that virtually all four-speed manuals have been phased out.

North American output of continuously variable transmissions is expected to rise from about 1 percent of the market now to 5 percent by 2012.

Automakers, of course, are starting to offer seven- and eight-speed automatics, but these systems are typically produced in Europe and Japan. The first eight-speed is being introduced on the 2007 Lexus LS 460 sedan.

Source : http://www.edmunds.com (8/26/2006)

Honda Readies Civic Si Sedan for SEMA Debut  
DEARBORN, Mich. - Honda said the new 2007 Civic Si sedan will make its debut at the upcoming SEMA show and will go on sale November 1.

Specific prices for that model weren't announced, but Honda estimates it will be priced around $20,000 to $22,000. Annual production of the Civic Si sedan will be around 15,000 units.

The Civic Si sedan was shown earlier this year as a concept at the Chicago Auto Show.

Honda insiders said that the 2007 Honda Fit will be showcased at the 2006 SEMA show as well. Honda is in the final stages of determining which customizers will get the nod to display their products at the Honda booth.

Source : http://www.edmunds.com (8/26/2006)

French Maker PSA Reportedly Set To Build Assembly Plant in Russia  
MOSCOW - According to a report in Russian business daily Vedomosti, PSA Peugeot-Citroën will launch construction of a new assembly plant by 2007. Production should get underway in 2009.

According to the paper, the new company will assemble the Peugeot 307 and Citroën C4 for the local market. However, representatives of the French carmaker have denied the report, saying that although a plant is under consideration there's nothing set in stone yet.

Lately, caution has been the watchword when it comes to new investments in the fast-growing Russian automotive market. Two Chinese carmakers, Chery and Great Wall, have recently postponed or scrapped plans to set up plants in the country.

Source : http://www.edmunds.com (8/26/2006)

Ten Emergency Kit Essentials for a Safer Road Trip  
No matter how much attention you lavish on your vehicle, there is a good chance something could go wrong out on the road. To avoid major headaches when unforeseen mishaps do occur, Hagerty Collector Network suggests 10 important items that smart drivers shouldn't leave home without.

• Tool Kit - Include flat and Phillips-head screwdrivers, channel lock pliers, an adjustable wrench and a good-quality lug wrench.

• Spare Tire - Check tire pressure and tread wear on all tires, including the spare. Keep a quality tire gauge and jack in your vehicle at all times.

• Flashlight - Necessary for nighttime emergencies. Make sure to check batteries periodically.

• Cell Phone - Check the battery life and bring the phone's adaptable charger.

• Fire Extinguisher - Essential protection for your family and your car, buy an ABC-rated, UL-listed model, such as a common 2A:10BC extinguisher.

• Jumper Cables/Fuses/Bulbs - These items can solve many issues like a dead battery, blown headlight fuse or taillight bulb.

• First-Aid Kit - One from the store or general pharmacy should do just fine. You can add items according to your family's needs.

• Blanket, Food and Water - Water not only keeps you hydrated, but it's essential for an overheated engine. A blanket and food will help if you're stranded for a lengthy time period.

• Spare Fluids - Two quarts of oil and some coolant will do. You may want to bring along an empty gasoline container, just in case you run out of gas on the road.

• Flares/Caution Signs - It's always safer to ignite flares for evening and nighttime breakdowns. Chevrolet Corvette Trunk View

"This is a standard list that every driver should consider," says McKeel Hagerty, CEO of Hagerty. "Travelers will want to customize their emergency kits based on specific problems to which their vehicle might be more susceptible, as well as the length and location of their trip, and the season of the year. Certainly wire cutters, duct tape, extra fan belts, hoses and hose clamps are also great items to have at and."

Source : Motor Trend (8/25/2006)

Union Members Reject Pact  
Ssangyong Motor Co's workers rejected a tentative agreement reached with management to end a strike that has caused South Korea's fourth-largest automaker to lose production of about 15,100 vehicles.

Of 4,994 union members who cast ballots on Friday, 62.9 percent voted against the accord reached by union officials and management earlier in the day, the company said in a statement in Seoul.

"This is a result of union members not fully understanding the severe instability in the business environment from intensifying competition and unfavorable market conditions," the company said in the statement.

The provisional agreement reached between union officials and management called for a wage freeze and a pledge not to fire workers, Bloomberg News reported. Ssangyong workers began a partial strike on July 14, followed by an all-out strike from August 14.

Ssangyong Motor's workers are unhappy that the agreement didn't include bonuses on performance and other benefits, which they had in previous years, the labor union said in a statement posted on its Website.

The automaker's workers last year ended a strike after the company agreed to increase salaries by 6.8 percent and pay a bonus of 1 million won (US$1,040) each when they returned to work, as well as three months salary as a performance bonus.

The workers have been demanding the company withdraw plans to fire 554 workers. They have also said the Chinese parent is taking Ssangyong Motor's technology to build engines and vehicles.

SAIC Motor Corp, China's biggest carmaker, bought Ssangyong Motor in October 2004 to help it build sport-utility vehicles for China, the world's fastest-growing major automotive market.

"We have said the company will have no choice but to go ahead with plans to fire workers because the present critical circumstances makes it hard for us to provide further proposals," the company said.

The automaker's workers have also challenged the company's Chinese management to keep pledges to increase production and build new models, demanding detailed investment plans.

Ssangyong Motor on Wednesday said it would invest 1.2 trillion won by 2009 to develop three new models and improve its after-sales services. It sells five sport-utility vehicle models and one luxury sedan.

Demand for diesel SUVs made by Ssangyong Motor and other automakers weakened after the government last year raised taxes on the fuel.

Source : http://www.china.org.cn (8/25/2006)

Chevrolet Rolls Out Chip Foose Tahoe for MTV Awards  
NEW YORK CITY - A 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe concept customized by Chip Foose will make its red-carpet debut on August 31 at the 2006 MTV Video Music Awards.

The concept showcases what General Motors describes as "classic Foose details," including a black powder-coated billet grille. Foose lowered the Tahoe and applied a two-tone paint job of silver birch and black with a thin Tangier orange stripe along the top of the door cladding.

Exterior features include Foose badging, dual stainless steel exhaust tips and chrome side molding. Inside, the Tahoe includes a stainless steel instrument panel and the Foose logo stitched into the headrests and stamped onto the door sill plates.

The event will also feature a customized fleet of 60 E85 SUVs. The fleet includes 2007 Chevrolet Tahoes, Suburbans and Avalanches. The vehicles are decked out with a custom billet grille, 2006 MTV Video Music Awards badging, Chevy wheels with Goodyear Eagle tires and chrome center caps, and a special cover trailer hitch receiver (on Tahoes and Suburbans only).

The vehicles will go on sale after the show at Chevrolet dealerships in the New York area. A commemorative plaque will be included with each sale.

Source : http://www.edmunds.com (8/26/2006)

Paris Preview: Porsche Readies Four Newcomers  
STUTTGART, Germany - Porsche will unveil four new models at the Mondial de l'Automobile in Paris, including the 911 Targa 4S and the 911GT3 RS. In addition, the Cayman and the Boxster S will get new engines for the show.

The new wide-body 911 Targa 4 models get permanent all-wheel drive and panoramic glass roofs with foldaway rear windows. The Targa 4S, which will reach European customers in November, makes 355 horsepower.

The GT3 RS, which goes on sale in Europe in October, gets a 3.6-liter flat-six engine that makes 415 hp.

The Boxster and Boxster S are being upgraded this fall as well. The base car's 2.7-liter engine now makes 245 hp and 201 pound-feet of torque. The Boxster S gets a larger 3.4-liter six that delivers 295 hp and 251 lb-ft of torque.

Paris will also be the first official public outing for the base Cayman, which joins the Cayman S. The standard model shares its 245-hp 2.7-liter engine with the base Boxster - a new addition to the Cayman nameplate.

Source : http://www.edmunds.com (8/26/2006)

Nada 'Til 2007: Nissan Offers Delayed Payment To Spur Sales  
DETROIT - Nissan resurrected an aggressive incentive program on Friday that allows customers to buy a vehicle now and not make a payment until 2007.

"We do it every year around this time, and we've extended it to 130 days deferral as part of a Labor Day special," said Angela Coletti, Nissan spokeswoman. "This has been in existence since 1999. It's not a response to any trends, but more of a renewal of a program."

The program is not available in Michigan, Maine and Pennsylvania, however. The offer is good on all 2006 and 2007 Nissan models, including the Versa. It allows customers to make their first payment 130 days after purchase, so the earliest a payment would be due is January 2, 2007. The offer ends October 2.

Demand for Nissan cars and trucks is off 8 percent in the U.S. this year. The automaker hasn't posted a monthly sales gain since February.

Source : http://www.edmunds.com (8/25/2006)

Turkish Grand Prix team by team  
ISTANBUL, - Team by team analysis of Sunday's Turkish Formula One Grand Prix (listed in championship order):

RENAULT (Fernando Alonso 2, Giancarlo Fisichella 6)

Alonso stretched his lead to 12 points after getting past Michael Schumacher at the first pitstop during a safety car interlude. His Ferrari rival had to queue up behind team mate Felipe Massa. Fisichella sacrificed his race at the first corner, skidding off to avoid hitting Alonso.

FERRARI (Felipe Massa 1, Michael Schumacher 3)

Schumacher heads to Monza knowing he cannot now take the championship lead until China at the earliest. Massa converted his first pole position into a first grand prix win.

MCLAREN (Pedro de la Rosa 5, Kimi Raikkonen retired)

De la Rosa started 11th but a one-stop strategy helped him into the points. He missed the first corner mayhem that accounted for Raikkonen. The Finn's left rear tyre was punctured when he was hit from behind by Toro Rosso's Scott Speed. The drive back to the pits then damaged the car and he hit the tyre wall at turn four on his first lap out again.

HONDA (Jenson Button 4, Rubens Barrichello 8)

Button lacked the pace of the Ferraris and Renaults but fourth was a solid drive after starting sixth. Barrichello was pushed wide at the first corner, losing time.

TOYOTA (Ralf Schumacher 7, Jarno Trulli 9)

Ralf lost his front wing at the first corner and had to pit for a replacement. He then made one more stop. Trulli was hit from behind in the same first-lap incident.

BMW SAUBER (Robert Kubica 12, Nick Heidfeld 14)

BMW failed to translate their best starting positions of the year into points. Kubica was the victim of a poor tyre choice while Heidfeld was caught by Fisichella in the first corner chaos and had to pit for a new front end.

RED BULL (Christian Klien 11, David Coulthard 15)

Klien started 10th and lost a place. Coulthard retired with a gearbox problem but was classified.

WILLIAMS (Mark Webber 10, Nico Rosberg retired)

Ninth race in a row without a point for the former champions. Webber's strategy was wrecked by the safety car, Rosberg's car lost water pressure half way through the race.

TORO ROSSO (Scott Speed 13, Vitantonio Liuzzi retired)

Liuzzi went from 18th to seventh but then brought out the safety car when he spun, stalled and was stranded on the track. Speed lost his front wing at the first corner.

MIDLAND (Tiago Monteiro and Christijan Albers retired)

Monteiro broke his front suspension at the first corner and retired on the spot. Albers ran as high as ninth but crashed into the guardrail with 11 laps to go. He owned up to the error.

SUPER AGURI (Takuma Sato and Sakon Yamamoto retired)

Sato did 41 laps, returning to the track after repairs to first corner damage. Yamamoto got past the first corner for a change but spun and stalled the engine on lap 23. He has yet to finish a race.

Source : Reuters (8/27/2006)

Fuel economy most important to car buyers  
NEW YORK -- Fuel economy is at the top of the list of factors shoppers consider when looking at a new vehicle, according to a new survey by Consumer Reports.

When asked what factors they considered most important in a new car, the largest number of respondents - 27 percent - said "fuel economy." That was slightly higher than the responses for "reliability," which was the top consideration for 25 percent.

"Purchase price" was most important to 14 percent of shoppers and "safety features" were most important for just 12 percent of shoppers.

Incentives were top-most for only five percent of car shoppers.

"Manufacturers have used car-buying incentives so frequently in recent years that shoppers are beginning to look beyond rebates at fuel economy, reliability and safety," said Rob Gentile, director of Consumer Reports Auto Price Service.

Most car shoppers have trouble understanding incentive offers, the survey found. For example 63 percent said that every customer is eligible for the same incentives and most also believe that multiple incentives can be combined.

In fact, many incentive deals contain words like "for qualified buyers" and they often include restrictions that prevent buyers from taking advantage of more than one incentive program for a given purchase.

When asked what kind of incentive they would be most likely to respond to, the largest number - 32 percent - were most attracted by low-rate financing deals.

Cash rebates were interesting to only 14 percent of respondents. But 20 percent said they would be lured by free gas for a year.

After low-rate financing, free extended warranties were most popular, with 23 percent saying they would be attracted by that incentive.

Source : CNNMoney.com (8/23/2006)

2006 Lamborghini Murcielago Roadster "The Worst" MPG that is  
Convertibles

At the beginning of the automotive age, all cars were convertibles. Like the carriages from which they descended, they were basically open vehicles. If they had tops at all, the tops were made of folding cloth to offer some protection from the elements to passengers in bad weather. In 1910, Cadillac introduced the first closed-roof car, but convertibles continued to be popular for their open-air driving experience and often sportier nature.

Proposed U.S. Government safety regulations in the 1970s nearly saw the demise of the convertible here, and in fact the 1976 Cadillac Eldorado was touted to be "the last convertible in America". Rumors of the genre's demise were, however, premature. Changes in construction and additional safety equipment including extra-strong windshield frames and pop-up roll bars behind the seats allowed convertibles to meet all safety standards. On the endangered species list through the 1980s, convertibles came back in a strong way in the 1990s and continue to gain in popularity today.

Chrysler Sebring Convertible. TheMazda MX-5 Miata takes the honors in the two-seat category. Convertibles are also available from Audi, BMW, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Ford, Pontiac, Nissan, Lotus, and other manufacturers.

There are a number of sub-genres of convertible, and today use of those names is more to marketing whim than anything else. Four-seat convertibles are more likely to be called cabriolets in Europe. "Phaeton" was a term, derived from horse-drawn carriages, commonly used in the early 20th Century, but now discarded. "Roadster" and "Spyder" have been used for two-seaters, as has "Barchetta", in Italy at least.

When cars were commonly made with body-on frame construction, making a convertible version of a sedan was fairly simple. Little more than replacement of the metal top with a convertible one was necessary, as the body was not structural. Even then, though, four-seater convertibles usually had two, not four, doors for better rigidity. With modern unit construction, the top is a vital structural component. When it is removed, extra reinforcement of the lower section of the car is necessary. Because of this, convertibles often weigh more than their sedan or coupe counterparts.

In the beginning, all convertible tops were sturdy canvas cloth. Later cloth-backed vinyl became an alternative. Rear windows (backlights) were originally plastic, which quickly became translucent and impaired visibility. When better top-stowage mechanisms, and stronger glass, became available, glass backlights became more common, and are now universal.

The most recent development in convertible technology is the folding and disappearing metal top. Although the concept debuted in the Chrysler Thunderbolt show car in 1941, and reached production in 1957 in the Ford Skyliner, it was the Mercedes-Benz SLK, first released in 1997, that paved the way toward extinction of the cloth top. Now most premium convertibles have folding metal tops.

With over 175 convertible models to choose from it is important for potential buyers to "know before they try and buy"

If you want to know more (and we suggest that you do), The New Car Buyers Guide's exclusive Rank By Specs tool allows consumers to become experts and rank and then compare every vehicle sold in North America by every spec, dimension, capacity and performance criteria.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

Tata Motors to tap Fiat's Ranjangaon facility  
Tata Motors and Fiat will see an exchange of services to jointly manufacture products at the latter's Ranjangaon plant, said Chairman, Tata Motors, Ratan Tata.

He was answering a shareholder's question at the 61st AGM of the company. Tata said, "It would be a strategic alignment without being subordinate, and will retain our identity; and in a broad-based venture."

Tata was asked several questions on the tie-up with Fiat and whether this would have tarnish the company's reputation to which the chairman said that while Fiat's reputation has been impacted by the perceived quality of services, he expressed confidence that the arrangement with the company will result in more robust, vibrant products.

Rubbishing the claims that will the alignment with Fiat tarnish Tata Motors' reputation, the chairman said, "It is we who are promoting Fiat vehicles and not the other way round." He said, "Fiat will resurrect itself, it will be a company of international status."

The meeting saw several questions regarding the Rs one-lakh car. Tata then revealed that the company is likely to tap the expertise in plastics of General Electric. The chairman has already provided some specifications in the annual report for 2005-06.

The car is slated to make its debut in 2008 and with regard to the pricing of the car, Tata said, 'We hope we will hold to our price. Our endeavour is to bring a car, which will easy to operate and afford." He added that the small car initially will petrol-based, but hoped that the car will also run on diesel. Tata said, "We are looking at alternative means of fuel be it hybrid or biofuel.'

The annual general meeting began with a reflection on the Tata Motors performance by the chairman. He raised the concerns about the pressures the auto industry will undergo due to hikes in steel, copper and aluminium prices but cautioned that it is a cyclical sector.

Top priorities

He spoke about India becoming a major auto hub by asserting that the country is now the base for most global auto companies in one form or the other. He identified reducing costs, improvement in product standard as the main priority of the company along with exports markets such as South Africa (the strong performance area of the company), Latin America, South-East Asia and North America as one of the chief focuses of the company.

The chairman also spelt out the company future plans. He said the company has plans to bring out LNG-based Xeta model, which will compete with Volvo. He said that the company is cashing in on the sales ofthe estimated 30,000 Ace vehicles that have been sold in 300 outlets and to meet the growing demand of the vehicle (it is estimated to be 50,000-60,000 units) it plans to ramp up its capacity from 30,000 to 60,000 units.

The chairman also spoke about the company's Centre for engineering in Pune, UK, Seoul, South Korea and Jamshedpur. He said the company is looking for a facelift to Indigo and it plans to bring in new Indica. It also plans in West Bengal and Uttaranchal.

In the commercial vehicle segment, the company sold 2,45022 vehicles, an increase of 16.9 percent while in the passenger vehicle segment, it sold 2,09107 vehicle, an increase of 10 percent. The total vehicles (including the exports) sold by the company registered a growth of 13.6 percent with the sales of 4,54129. The company's export volumes grew by 64 percent at 50,000 units sales. The board has recommended a dividend of Rs.13 per share.

Source : automonitor.co.in (8/27/2006)

Honda's new self-start version of the 'Shine'  
Four months after launching the 'Shine' in the 125cc segment, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) is all geared up to introduce a self-start version of the bike by the end of July. The Shine currently is available in kick-start version with the option of both disc and drum brakes.

Speaking to Auto Monitor exclusively on the sidelines of a recent Honda Motor press conference, Yukihiro Aoshima, president and CEO, HMSI said the company is excited with the response the bike has got from the market. 'The Honda Shine has been well received by Indian commuters. We hope to do better with the self-start version of the bike,' he said.

Competition in the 125cc segment is warming up with most two-wheeler manufacturers being bullish on the prospects this segment offers. Aoshima is confident of making a mark in this segment with the Shine, even as market leaders Hero Honda recently introduced the fuel injection (FI) technology for the first time in the country in its 125cc offering Glamour. He said HMSI is evaluating the FI option but did not specify a time frame.

Brisk sales

Dealers in New Delhi have been doing brisk business with the Honda Shine in the past few months. The disc version comes at an on-road price in New Delhiof Rs 47,100, while the one with drum brakes comes at Rs 45,139. With the introduction of the self-start version, the price of the bike is expected to go up by around Rs 2,000, which would roughly put the bike in the Rs 49,000-50,000 price band, dealers say.

HMSI had positioned Shine as the company's first mass market motorcycle in India. A new 125cc 'Optimax' engine, especially developed by Honda's R&D, was introduced to bring the best balance of pickup and mileage for 125cc riders in India. The company also claimed the new 'Ergo Tec' design will enhance riding comfort and ease of handling.

Earlier at the Shine launch, the company had announced aggressive future plans to increase its dealership network to 281 from the current 253 by the end of the current fiscal.

In an effort to take the company closer to the customers, HMSI also started a new initiative called branches (sales, service, stockist set-up), where over 281 3S branch outlets would be established over the next financial year. Further, during the current fiscal, the number of authorised HMSI service centres will increase to 460 from the current 425 while the number of stockists would go up to 40 from the current 34.

Set-up in 1999 as a wholly owned subsidiary of Honda Motor,HMSI clocked a turnover of Rs 1,520 crore last year. The company is today the fourth largest manufacturer of two-wheelers and the largest manufacturer and exporter of scooters.

Source : automonitor.co.in (8/27/2006)

From Showcase To Showroom - How Mercedes-Benz Puts Concept Car Technology Onto The Road  
Mercedes-Benz has an enviable reputation for building and exhibiting show vehicles, and then installing the "fantasy ideas" into its passenger car range. Indeed, the latest S-Class Saloon and CL-Class Coupé bristle with world-first innovations that first appeared in a research car only three years ago.

Night View Assist, a new system that uses infrared technology to display an image of the road ahead, is one of several cutting-edge innovations in the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class and CL-Class. This night-vision system was first seen in the F500 Mind research car of 2003 and can improve the driver's night time visibility by up to 125 per cent, compared with traditional halogen headlamps.

F500 Mind

These luxury models also feature a programmable multivision dashboard display, developed from the F500 Mind, as well as DISTRONIC Plus, an adaptive radar-guided cruise control system derived from the 1991 F100 research car. This uses a radar sensor in the front grille to keep the car a safe distance from the vehicle in front - even in stop-start traffic.

This long tradition of transferring the technology showcased in its research vehicles to the real-world in production models gives Mercedes-Benz customers the benefit of the very latest in world-leading, cutting-edge technology, often years before the innovations feature elsewhere.

F100

The F100 research vehicle showcased several Mercedes-Benz innovations including a sandwich floor, designed so that in the event of a frontal impact the engine would effectively be forced under the floor to avoid injury to the driver and passengers. Six years later, the revolutionary sandwich floor was integral to the design of the 1997 A-Class.

The 1995 S-Class Saloon also featured technological advances adapted from the F100 research car,

Vario research cars

including gas-discharge (xenon) headlights, which give clearer and brighter light projection, and a rain sensor, which automatically activates the windscreen wipers when needed. The S-Class was also the first production car to feature the Mercedes-Benz navigation system, showcased in the 1995 Vario Research Car. Initially restricted to central London, current COMAND navigation systems cover the whole of western Europe.

Xenon headlights, auto wipers and satellite navigation have been fitted as standard to a number of Mercedes-Benz models, and are now becoming commonplace in other vehicles.

C112

In the same year as showing the F100, Mercedes-Benz also unveiled the high-performance C 112 research car, with Active Body Control (ABC), first introduced to a production vehicle - the CL-Class - in 1999. The active suspension system uses a network of sensors around the car to measure and control body motion to make the ride smoother and virtually eliminate body roll whilst cornering, accelerating and braking. The latest version of ABC made its debut in the New Generation SL-Class Roadster earlier in 2006, and will also feature in next year's CL-Class.

F300 Life-Jet

The radical F300 Life Jet three-wheeler of 1997 was not only a departure for Mercedes-Benz in proving that its designs are not limited to four-wheels, but was also the first vehicle to feature a sensor to automatically turn on the headlights, which was used in the 1998 S-Class, and is now standard on most Mercedes models. The system constantly monitors and adapts to the ambient light conditions, activating the headlights accordingly.

F200 Imagination

Mercedes-Benz continues to offer its customers world-leading technology in its production vehicles, with the new CL-Class and S-Class models featuring two of the very latest developments. The new Intelligent Light System has five different lighting functions and is derived from the system in the 1996 F200 Imagination concept car. The previously unseen Brake Assist Plus, which is constantly monitoring for an impending collision, made its debut in these new models, just as Electronic Stablility Program (ESP(r)) was first seen in the 1995 S-Class. Such innovations demonstrate that Mercedes-Benz vehicles are still some of the safest and most technologically advanced in the world.

F600 Hygenius

The most recent research vehicle, the 2006 F600 HYGENIUS, features a fuel-cell drive system and the most advanced PRE-SAFE occupant protection system yet. With a range of some 250 miles and power output equivalent to 115 hp, the advanced fuel-cell system represents another ground-breaking Mercedes-Benz innovation that could become a production reality in the next decade.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

Lexus LS 460 Achieves World First In Preventive Safety  
Lexus is pushing the boundaries of passenger and pedestrian protection with the introduction of world-leading preventive safety technology in its new LS 460 flagship limousine.

The all-new LS, which will be launched in the UK early next year, benefits from substantial developments in the Pre-Crash Safety (PCS) system Lexus has already introduced in other models in its range. Engineers at the Lexus Development Centre have successfully incorporated more sophisticated and advanced features, which anticipate and react automatically to a wider range of collision-risk scenarios.

This advanced technology recognises when a collision is imminent, helps the driver to take action to prevent it happening, and, if the worst does happen, reduces the risk of injury to the car's occupants and to pedestrians.

ADVANCED OBSTACLE DETECTION SYSTEM

The new Advanced Obstacle Detection System can detect a wide range of obstacles ahead of the vehicle, including - for the first time - pedestrians. Depending on weather conditions, it will work during both day and night-time driving.

The system combines information gathered from a front-mounted millimetre-wave radar, as used in Lexus's established PCS system, and a twin-lens infrared stereo camera located on the top edge of the windscreen. The camera picks up near-infrared radiation, emitted from dedicated units built into the car's headlamp high-beam projectors, when it is reflected off objects directly ahead, up to 25 metres distant.

EMERGENCY STEERING ASSIST

The Emergency Steering Assist system improves the vehicle's response to driver steering input, selecting the best gear ratio for rapid evasion manoeuvres and increasing the chances of avoiding a collision. It works through close interaction between the car's Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS), Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) and Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) systems.

The VGRS actuator, which is attached to the steering rack, reduces the steering gear ratio to provide more direct steering and improve response to driver input. At the same time, the AVS adopts a stiffer damper setting to minimise body roll and optimise chassis balance, for better vehicle response. The VDIM governs selective brake control, to control the vehicle's yaw rate, allowing for quick changes of direction without threatening the car's overall stability.

DRIVER MONITORING SYSTEM

The new LS 460 is equipped with the world's first driver monitoring system, designed to warn of dangers ahead if the driver takes his or her eyes off the road.

A CCD (charge-coupled device) camera is mounted on top of the steering column cover with six built-in near-infrared LEDs, which enable the system to work accurately both day and night.

When the vehicle is started up, the system automatically plots the position of the driver's facial features - eyes nose and mouth - and measures the width and centre line of the face. This information is used as a reference as it monitors movement of the driver's head when looking from side to side.

If the driver turns his or her head away from the road ahead while the vehicle is moving and an obstacle is detected in front of the vehicle, the system automatically activates a pre-crash warning light and buzzer. If the situation persists, the brakes are briefly applied to alert the driver. And if this still fails to elicit action from the driver, the PCS engages emergency braking preparation and front seatbelt pre-tensioning.

Before being brought to market, the system has been tested with more than 100 drivers, covering more than 100,000km. As long as the driver's face is in the clear sight-line of the camera, it will function accurately regardless of the driver's seat position, facial characteristics, or if sunglasses are being worn.

PRE-CRASH SAFETY - OPERATING SEQUENCE

When the Advanced Obstacle Detection System identifies obstacles ahead, the Pre-Crash Safety system assesses the likelihood of collision based on the position, speed, and trajectory of the obstacle. If the collision probability is high, a warning buzzer and red BRAKE! Alert on the multi-function display are activated.

After testing the reactions of a number of drivers, Lexus engineers determined the best engagement timing for all PCS functions to improve the chances of the driver reacting in time to prevent the collision happening.

To help avoid an impact, PCS automatically activates a series of integrated safety systems:

Pre-Crash Brake Assist: system is put on stand-by to give maximum brake pressure the moment the driver presses the brake pedal. Emergency Steering Assist: improves steering response to driver input. Adaptive Variable Suspension: stiffens the dampers, controlling nose dive when pre-crash braking is engaged and increasing the car's responsiveness to evasion steering. If the system determines a collision cannot be avoided, it activates the Pre-Crash Seatbelt: the front belts are pre-tensioned, with any slack taken up to maximise initial restraint performance. Pre-Crash Brake Assist automatically engages the brakes to reduce vehicle speed at the point of impact.

Pre-Crash Seatbelt pretensioners are also activated if the vehicle's yaw rate goes above a certain threshold at speeds of more than 9.5mph (15km/h).

REAR PRE-CRASH SAFETY SYSTEM

LS 460 features the world's first Rear Pre-Crash Safety system, using a millimetre-wave radar set into the rear bumper. This constantly scans the area around the back of the car, both when the vehicle is on the move and parked.

If a collision is calculated to be unavoidable, the system activates the front seat Pre-Crash Intelligent Headrests. These move up to 60mm forwards and 35 mm upwards to cushion the head in anticipation of an impact, greatly reducing the risk of whiplash injury. The headrests are fitted with a sensor that measures the distance between the passenger's head and the headrest itself, so there is no risk of the emergency adjustment itself causing substantial contact. The system does not operate if the seat is unoccupied.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

Annual Forecasts to 2010 for the World's Automotive Radiators Industry  
Research and Markets has announced the addition of Automotive Radiators - Global Strategic Business Report to their offering.

This report analyzes the worldwide markets for Automotive Radiators in Thousands of Units. The major product segments analyzed are Copper/Brass Radiators, and Aluminum Radiators. The specific end-use segments analyzed are OEMs, and Aftermarket. The report provides separate comprehensive analytics for the US, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Rest of World. Annual forecasts are provided for each region for the period of 2001 through 2010. A ten-year historic analysis is also provided for these markets with annual market analytics. The report profiles 75 companies including many key and niche players worldwide such as Delphi Automotive Systems Corporation, Denso Corporation, Denso Manufacturing Michigan Inc., Modine Manufacturing Company, Setrab AB, Spectra Premium Industries Inc., Transpro Inc., Visteon Corporation, and Halla Climate Control Corp.

Topics Covered I. INTRODUCTION, METHODOLOGY & PRODUCT DEFINITIONS 1. Industry Overview 2. Automotive Radiators Overview 3. CuproBraze Technology 4. Technologies for Advanced Radiators 5. Raw Material Overview 6. Automotive Radiators Market by End-Use 7. Pricing and Distribution 8. Technological Developments/ Breakthroughs 9. Product Launch 10. Recent Industry Activity 11. Strategic Developments in Recent Past 12. Focus on Select Players 13. Global Market Perspective

II. MARKET 1. The United States 2. Canada 3. Japan 4. Europe 5. Asia-Pacific 6. Latin America 7. Rest of World

III. COMPETITION

Companies Mentioned

- Apex Radiators Pvt, Ltd (India) - Autokuhler GmbH & Co, KG (Germany) - Bashan Radiators Manufacturing Ltd (Israel) - Behr Group (Germany) - Berry Radiateurs SA (France) - Calsonic International Ltd (UK) - Clancy Radiators Ltd (Ireland) - County Radiators Ltd (UK) - DaimlerChrysler Corporation (USA) - Delphi Corporation (USA) - Denso Corporation (Japan) - Doowon Climate Control Co, Ltd (Korea) - Fiat Auto Alfa Romeo (Italy)- Ford Motor Co (USA) - FRAT Srl (Italy) - G & M Radiator Manufacturing Co, Ltd (UK) - Gallay Ltd (UK) - Genera Corporation (USA) - General Motors Corporation (USA) - Glasgow Radiator Co (UK) - Hangzhou Xingbao Automobile Fittings Limited (China) - Iria Srl (Italy) - Keystone Automotive Industries, Inc (USA) - Kooshesh Radiator (Iran) - KTM-Kuhler GmbH (Austria) - Lawrence Radiators (India) - MG Rover Group (UK) - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (Japan) - Modine Manufacturing Co (USA) - Natra Pty, Ltd (Australia) - Nissens A/S (Denmark) - Nissim India Pvt, Ltd (India) - Nordjysk K0lerfabrik A/S (Denmark) - Northern Radiators Limited (UK) - Pal Radiators & Oil Coolers (India) - Pramo (Russian Federation) - Proliance International, Inc (USA)- Prutex (Czech Republic) - RAAL (Romania) - Radac Corporation (USA) - Radev Radiators Limited (New Zealand) - Radiator Iran Co (Iran) - Radtec Racing Radiators Limited (UK) - Rahemo SL (Spain) - Readyrads Limited (UK) - Rettig ICC BV (The Netherlands) - Rising Sun Heat Exchanger Industry Co, Ltd (Taiwan) - Ron Davis Racing Products, Inc (USA) - Ross Heat Exchangers Ltd (UK) - Sabah Radiator Industries (UAE) - Samsung Climate Control Co, Ltd (Korea) - Schwarzwalder Metallwarenfabrik Albert Haugg GmbH (Germany) - Scotrad Limited (UK) - Serck Intertruck (UK) - Setrab AB (Sweden) - Specialist Heat Exchangers Limited (UK) - Spectra Premium Industries, Inc (Canada) - SRF Selgecen Radyator Fabrikasi Sanayi Ve Ticaret (Turkey) - Stant Manufacturing, Inc (USA) - Suomen Jaahdytintehdas OY (Finland) - Tata Toyo Radiator (India) - Thai Radiator Manufacturing Co, Ltd (Thailand) - Three Star Co, Ltd (Korea) - Toyo Radiator Co, Ltd (Japan) - TRN Otomotiv Dis Ticaret Ltd, Sti (Turkey) - Uni-Calsonic Corporation (Taiwan) - UWE Verken AB (Sweden) - Valeo SA (France) - Visteon Corporation (USA) - Volkswagen AG (Germany) - Wabtec Corporation (USA) - Weifang Hengan Radiator Co, Ltd (China) - WiniaMando, Inc (Korea) - Yetsan Oto Kalorifer Ve Radyator SanTic (Turkey) - Zhejiang Nabaichuan Auto Part Co, Ltd (China)

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

Dixon Takes Top Spot, Andretti Also on Front Row for Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma  
SONOMA, Calif. - Rookie driver Marco Andretti came up a little short on Saturday at Infineon Raceway in qualifying for the Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma as Target Chip Ganassi driver Scott Dixon took the top spot.

Andretti (Andretti Green Racing), who was shooting for his first-ever IRL IndyCar(r) Series pole, will start second in Sunday's 80-lap feature on the 12-turn, 2.26-mile road course. It is the first front-row start for Andretti, who posted a speed of 107.417 mph; his previous best start was third, at both Watkins Glen (N.Y.) and Milwaukee.

Dixon notched his first pole of 2006 and the sixth of his IndyCar career with a speed of 107.484 mph over the twisting circuit. The New Zealand native has been extremely strong on the road/street courses, with two consecutive wins at Watkins Glen. He also placed second on the streets of St. Petersburg (Fla.) earlier in the year.

"On any road course it's important to finish qualifying in the first two rows because you don't get a good run to pass," Dixon said. "Qualifying up front is a big advantage."

Andretti, an accomplished road-racer who won the Indy Pro Series(tm) event in Sonoma in 2005, is bidding for his first IndyCar win. He placed second in a memorable Indianapolis 500 this season.

"I definitely enjoy myself out there," said Andretti, 19. "I've had more success (at Infineon Raceway) than I've had anywhere else. You really have to drive and I enjoy the turns and challenges of the road course. We got what we need and that is good track position."

Sam Hornish Jr. (Marlboro Team Penske) entered the weekend leading the points but qualified 10th out of 18 drivers. Five drivers entered this penultimate race of the season within 79 points of Hornish. The season concludes Sept. 10 at Chicagoland Speedway.

"There are still 106 points left on the table, including most laps led, so there's plenty of opportunity and lots can happen," said Dixon, who entered the weekend fourth in points, 33 behind Hornish. "It's going to be exciting. Right now, I feel like we're racing Helio (Castroneves)."

Castroneves (Marlboro Team Penske, 107.236 mph), defending race champion Tony Kanaan (Andretti Green Racing, 107.209 mph) and Dario Franchitti (Andretti Green Racing, 107.130 mph) rounded out the top five. Danica Patrick (Rahal Letterman Racing) was 11th at 104.772 mph. The green flag will be dropped Sunday on the Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma at 12:30 p.m.

Sacramento's Scott Pruett and Luis Diaz teamed up to win the Sonoma 250 for the Grand American Rolex Sports Car Series in the Daytona Prototype class. It was the second consecutive victory for the No. 01 Comp USA Lexus team and their fifth win of the season. Butch Leitzinger/Andy Wallace (Boss Snowplow Pontiac) were second, with Adrian Fernandez/Mario Haberfeld (Lowe's Pontiac) third. The timed race spanned 2 hours, 45 minutes.

The victory keeps the title chances alive for Pruett/Diaz as the season concludes Sept. 2 at Miller Motorsports Park. Pruett/Diaz moved into second place in points with the win, just behind Jorg Bergmeister (Krohn Racing Ford).

"There's nothing like winning on your home court," said Pruett, who recorded his 12th career win in the series, a record for Daytona Prototypes. "I had a lot of friends, family and supporters here and Infineon Raceway is my home track. That all combined together makes this really sweet. We dug deep and pulled out a strategy that would put us in position to win and we did. It was a great day for Comp USA and the whole Chip Ganassi organization."

Robin Liddell/Wolf Henzler (NEC Porsche) won the GT class for the Grand American Rolex Sports Car Series. It was the first-career win in the Grand-Am Series for both drivers.

Wade Cunningham (Brian Stewart Racing) won the 30-lap Carneros 100 for the Indy Pro Series(tm), with Alex Lloyd (AFS Racing) second and Nick Bussell (Cheever Racing) third. Cunningham, the 2005 series champion, qualified on the pole and led wire-to-wire. The Indy Pro Series(tm) will compete in a second 30-lap feature on Sunday, the Valley of the Moon 100.

For ticket information to the Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma on Sunday, call 800-870-RACE.

IRL Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma

SONOMA, Calif. - Qualifying Saturday for the Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma IRL IndyCar Series event on the 2.26-mile Infineon Raceway, with starting position, car number in parentheses, driver, chassis-engine and speed:

1. (9) Scott Dixon, Panoz-Honda, 107.484

2. (26) Marco Andretti, Dallara-Honda, 107.417

3. (3) Helio Castroneves, Dallara-Honda, 107.236

4. (11) Tony Kanaan, Dallara-Honda, 107.209

5. (27) Dario Franchitti, Dallara-Honda, 107.130

6. (10) Dan Wheldon, Panoz-Honda, 106.708

7. (5) Ryan Briscoe, Dallara-Honda, 105.800

8. (4) Vitor Meira, Dallara-Honda, 105.746

9. (7) Bryan Herta, Dallara-Honda, 105.678

10. (6) Sam Hornish Jr., Dallara-Honda, 105.352

11. (16) Danica Patrick, Panoz-Honda, 104.772

12. (15) Buddy Rice, Panoz-Honda, 104.529

13. (55) Kosuke Matsuura, Dallara-Honda, 104.490

14. (17) Jeff Simmons, Panoz-Honda, 104.068

15. (14) Jeff Bucknum, Dallara-Honda, 103.376

16. (20) Ed Carpenter, Dallara-Honda, 103.065

17. (8) Scott Sharp, Panoz-Honda, 101.397

18. (2) Tomas Scheckter, Dallara-Honda, no speed

IRL Indy Pro Series(tm) Carneros 100

SONOMA, Calif. - Results Saturday of the Carneros 100 IRL Indy Pro Series event Aug. 26 at the 2.26-mile Infineon Raceway, with order of finish, starting position in parentheses, driver, chassis, laps completed, reason out (if any) and money earned:

1. (1) Wade Cunningham, Dallara, 30, Running $23,159

2. (2) Alex Lloyd, Dallara, 30, Running $17,045

3. (4) Nick Bussell, Dallara, 30, Running $13,636

4. (3) Jonathan Klein, Dallara, 30, Running $11,591

5. (6) Bobby Wilson, Dallara, 30, Running $11,250

6. (7) Mike Potekhen, Dallara, 30, Running $10,909

7. (10) Jaime Camara, Dallara, 30, Running $10,568

8. (8) Ryan Justice, Dallara, 30, Running $10,227

9. (11) Micky Gilbert, Dallara, 30, Running $9,886

10. (5) Jay Howard, Dallara, 29, Running $9,545

11. (9) Scott Mansell, Dallara, 29, Running $8,863

12. (13) Racer Kashima, Dallara, 29, Running $8,182

13. (14) P.J. Abbott, Dallara, 27, Running $7,841

14. (12) Daniel Gaunt, Dallara, 18, Mechanical $7,500



Race Statistics

Winner's average speed: 85.278 mph

Time of race: 48:32.8171

Margin of victory: 0.6018 of a second

Cautions: 3 caution flags for 4 laps

Lead changes: 0 lead changes

Lap leaders: Cunningham 1-30.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/26/2006)

Aero Exhaust, Exclusive NASCAR Performance Partner, Signs Exclusive Distribution Agreement With Rockford-Montgomery  
Aero Exhaust has reached an exclusive distribution agreement with Rockford-Montgomery, Inc. This agreement allows Rockford-Montgomery to exclusively distribute the Aero Exhaust product to the national big box retail chains.

"We are extremely excited to partner with Aero Exhaust, utilizing our seasoned sales team to bring their products to mass retail accounts and rapidly expand Aero Exhaust's automotive chain store and Internet sales. Aero has done an incredible job developing a product that will greatly serve the mass market, especially with today's gas prices and Aero products' capability to increase fuel mileage by up to 15%. We are prepared to immediately activate the Aero brand utilizing all of our marketing assets that are positioned exclusively for the NASCAR fan and retailers nationwide. There will be several announcements this week pertaining to what these assets are and how they will tie in to the Rockford-Montgomery stable of brands," said Michelle Shearer, CEO of Rockford-Montgomery Labs.

As an Exclusive NASCAR Performance product and with their new retail line of exhaust accessories, Aero Exhaust is a tremendous product to add to the Rockford family.

"Rockford-Montgomery has a proven track record of success in the area of distribution. We believe our relationship with them will bring a tremendous asset to our shareholders and we look forward to further expansion of that relationship," states Aero Exhaust CEO, Bryan Hunsaker. "The average NASCAR fan is automotive savvy and is interested in enhancing the performance of their personal vehicle. We'd like to assist them with that by replacing their muffler and exhaust tip with our performance products. Combining the marketing assets of Rockford-Montgomery and the retail products of Aero Exhaust is truly an incredible opportunity for both companies."

Aero Exhaust is the world leader in performance exhaust airflow technology, manufacturing and distributing the most technologically advanced muffler on the market. The patented Aero Turbine muffler line consists of a number of different universal styles that fit nearly every car, truck or SUV on the road and significantly improve fuel economy, engine horsepower and torque. A second line called the Stealth is an economy line of several additional styles that will service the everyday consumer looking for an inexpensive replacement product. Within each of these lines is a retail-style bolt-on tip product line. This tip line is a retail-oriented product that will be sold in most automotive retail outlets nationwide. The bolt-on tips allow any consumer to purchase the NASCAR-licensed Aero Exhaust product directly from the retailer and install it themselves.

Developed in 1996, the NASCAR Automotive Licensing Program builds awareness for the sport by creating marketing alliances with an expanded base of leading manufacturers and corporate partners under the NASCAR Performance and NASCAR Officially Licensed brand names. Together with a fully integrated marketing and media program, NASCAR is leveraging its assets to address the automotive needs of the sport's 75 million fans. Today, more than 35 companies are part of NASCAR's Automotive Licensing Program.

"It's companies like Aero Exhaust that make the wheels go 'round on the track and on the street," says Odis Lloyd, NASCAR managing director, automotive licensing. "Their commitment to producing a high-quality consumer vehicle muffler line, along with their involvement as a major team sponsor in our sport, makes us proud to welcome Aero Exhaust as a strategic partner in our automotive program."

Aero Exhaust exploded onto the NASCAR scene in January 2006 when it secured the endorsement of racing legend Rusty Wallace and the exclusive rights as a NASCAR Performance Partner. Their stainless steel products are also used exclusively by many of the NASCAR Elite division and Rolex Series Grand Am Daytona Prototype teams. These team relationships have yielded several victories to include the SunTrust / Riley 2005 Rolex Series Team and Driver Championship and more recently, the CompUSA Chip Ganassi with Felix Sabates/ Lexus Riley 2006 Rolex 24 Champions at Daytona.

The same technologies behind those winning performances are now available to the consumer and car enthusiast.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)

Unions Approve New Labor Agreements With Tower Automotive  
Tower Automotive today announced ratification of contract agreements with the United Auto Workers union (UAW) and the United Steelworkers union (USW) covering approximately 1,000 employees at Tower facilities in Michigan, Ohio and Tennessee. The agreements, when combined with agreements reached earlier with Tower's Milwaukee unions and its retirees, along with the closing of the Greenville, Mich., plant later this year, will result in total annual cost savings of more than $31 million. Achieving a reduction in labor costs has been a key element in Tower's plan to improve its competitiveness and allow it to emerge from Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The agreements must be approved by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court overseeing Tower's Chapter 11 case in order to take effect.

As part of the contracts announced today, Tower plants in Elkton, Mich., and Bluffton, Ohio, agreed to increased health care contributions, labor wage reductions and fewer holidays.

"The issues addressed in this agreement, while very difficult, were strong and necessary steps for these plants to assure their future viability," said Kathleen Ligocki, president and chief executive officer of Tower. "The result will give us cost savings critical to Tower's reorganization plan. I want to thank our Tower colleagues for all their hard work and dedication that are so important to our reorganization process."

Approval of the contract by the Bankruptcy Court will keep Tower on track to file its Plan of Reorganization later this year. The company intends to emerge from Chapter 11 before the end of 2006.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (8/27/2006)