January 28, 2008
London celebrates the arrival of the Fiat 500 : GlobalGiants.com
On 21 January the British Airways revealed, in one of its 32 glass cabins, a glittering new Fiat 500. This highly-original initiative was organised by FIAT Group Automobiles UK Ltd to celebrate the launch of the new car on the UK market.
This performance could be followed via a live radio-television broadcast or from a specially dedicated area. It was here that the more than 2000 guests, together with a host of showbiz personalities including Kelly Osbourne, Jade Jagger, Eva Herzigova, Eddie Jordan and Leah Wood, enjoyed the show. But, according to Fiat, thousands of Londoners lined the banks of the Thames next to the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Bridge to see the car fly into the sky over the City.
Andrew Humberstone, CEO of FIAT Group Automobiles UK Ltd, said: «We are really delighted to have been able to give thousands of people a party to remember and the chance to be at the launch of our Fiat 500. We are sure that this car will find a place in everyone's heart with its fascinating style, fuel efficiency, impressive range of safety equipment and its respect for the environment».
Created by the Fiat Style Centre, the new 500 is a small 3-door car. It is 355cm long, 163cm wide, 149cm high, and has a wheelbase of 230 cm. It has been describe as a "cute, playful compact with soft rounded styling." |GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by Editor | 12:15 AM | Link to this Post
January 22, 2008
Jeep Renegade Concept 2008
Chrysler LLC unveiled the all-new 2008 Jeep Renegade Concept at the North American International Auto Show. With an electric motor powering each axle, the Jeep Renegade concept is a sporty, minimized two-seater designed for a 'hang on and have fun experience'. Jeep Renegade concept's advanced propulsion system starts with a 40-mile lithium-ion battery pack. A range extender - in Renegade's case, a small-displacement (1.5-liter, 3-cylinder) BLUETEC diesel engine - allows for journeys beyond 40 miles. Jeep Renegade concept boasts a 400-mile range. |GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by Editor | 11:13 AM | Link to this Post
January 19, 2008
Kochi in India to host Volvo Ocean Race for first time
Photo: The fleet line up on the start line of the Volvo Ocean Race In Port race in Portsmouth. (© Oskar Kihlborg/ Volvo Ocean Race 2005-2006)
Portsmouth (England) - 18 January, 2008 - Kochi, in the Indian state of Kerala, is confirmed as the host of the second stopover of the Volvo Ocean Race in December 2008. The Indian stopover will come at the end of the second leg of the race from Cape Town, South Africa. Kochi will be the first of three new ports in Asia.
The booming shipping port on the Malabar Coast is now one of India's foremost tourist destinations and the race stopover is sure to bring thousands of additional visitors to both Kochi and the State of Kerala. The Kerala State Tourism Department envisages the event will bring significant visibility as well as economic benefit to the region.
Photo: Race 2005-2006 In Port race Melbourne.Port Phillip Bay. Volvo Open 70 movistar and Ericsson round a mark during the In Port race. (© Oskar Kihlborg/ Volvo Ocean Race 2005-2006)
Glenn Bourke, CEO of the Volvo Ocean Race commented: "It has always been part of our vision to take the race to different and wider audiences and we are delighted that Kochi has become part of that vision. India not only presents huge opportunities for the development of the event, but this coupled with the daunting challenges the competitors will face when racing their grand prix yachts in unfamiliar waters, will make the visit to India even more exciting for everyone involved. India has hundreds of millions of enthusiastic sports fans and we know they will enjoy this challenging race, with its passion, teamwork, adventure and excitement."
The 2008-09 event will be the 10th running of this ocean marathon. Starting from Alicante in Spain on 4 October 2008, it will for the first time, take in ports in Asia. Spanning some 39,000 nautical miles, stopping at around 11 ports and taking nine months to complete, the Volvo Ocean Race is the world's premier yacht race for professional racing crews. |GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by Editor | 1:06 PM | Link to this Post
Green Car Summit: Auto Industry Rising to the Challenge
Leading Automakers and Industry Organizations to Discuss Advanced Technologies and Forward-Looking Strategies During Washington Auto Show's International Media Day
WASHINGTON -- Answers to some of the most serious challenges facing the auto industry will be explored January 22 at the Green Car Summit during The Washington Auto Show's International Media Day. Presented by the auto enthusiast magazine, Green Car Journal, the Summit will convene at 2:00 p.m. at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.
Leading auto industry executives will discuss such challenges as petroleum displacement, fuel efficiency and greenhouse gas reductions and probe the range of responses.
Photo: CHRYSLER ECOVOYAGER
Moderated by Ron Cogan, the editor and publisher of Green Car Journal and GreenCar.com, the auto industry panel will include Sue Cischke, senior vice president of Sustainability, Environment, and Safety Engineering at Ford; Gregory Cesiel, Fuel Cell Vehicles program director at General Motors; Reg Modlin, Director of Environmental and Energy Planning at Chrysler; Tom Strickland, director of Technical and Regulatory Affairs, Environment at Toyota; and David Geanacopoulos, director of Industry-Government Relations at Volkswagen of America.
Kicking off the Summit, a Green Car Parade featuring a lineup of eco-friendly cars will conclude at the convention center's L Street entrance at 1:45 p.m.
The Washington Auto Show, scheduled from Jan. 23 to Jan. 27, connects the auto industry with the public policy process by uniting Washington's political elite with auto industry leaders. |GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by Editor | 9:34 AM | Link to this Post
AutoWeek Editors Honor the Best of the 2008 North American International Auto Show
The magazine's Editors' Choice Awards recognize Best in Show, Best Concept, Most Significant and Most Fun
DETROIT -- The AutoWeek editorial staff announced Jan. 16 evening its Editors' Choice Award winners for the 2008 North American International Auto Show during the annual AutoWeek Design Forum, held in conjunction with the auto show.
For more than a decade, the editors of the weekly automotive-enthusiast magazine have scoured show floors in Detroit, Geneva, Paris, Frankfurt and Tokyo, selecting winners in four categories: Best in Show, Best Concept, Most Significant and Most Fun.
The 2008 AutoWeek Editors' Choice Award winners for the Best of Detroit are:
Photo: Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
BEST IN SHOW: Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 -- "We award Best in Show to the vehicle that we feel will be best remembered five years down the road. Simply put, the Corvette ZR1 is the baddest of the bad. The 620-horsepower machine with carbon-fiber body rightfully takes its place as Best in Show," said AutoWeek Editor and Associate Publisher Dutch Mandel.
Photo: 2008 Cadillac CTS Coupe Concept Sketch
BEST CONCEPT: Cadillac CTS Coupe -- "The vehicle named Best Concept is one we're most hopeful to see built. Almost unanimously, the AutoWeek editorial staff selected the CTS Coupe as most deserving of the award. It is the next iteration of the dramatic styling Cadillac has brought to the marketplace."
Photo: 2009 Ford F-150 Platinum
MOST SIGNIFICANT: Ford F-150 -- "Because Ford brought so many significant vehicles to this year's show, the decision of what vehicle to award Most Significant was a tough one. From the Explorer America, a unibody-constructed, friendlier sport/utility vehicle, to the Verve, the best-looking small car Ford has built for America in generations, the F-150 is Most Significant for what it means not only to the company but to the American ethic. The F-150 is Ford tough-and so was this decision among quite an impressive lineup of products Ford has on display."
Photo: Audi R8 TDI Concept
MOST FUN: Audi R8 TDI Concept -- "Who couldn't see themselves with a 6.0-liter V12-powered sex-mobile like this R8 supercar? With turbodiesel power and torque that could move not only houses but emotions, it's AutoWeek's choice as Most Fun."
The magazine's January 28 issue will take an in-depth look at the winners, and some of the finalists, from this year's Detroit show. |GlobalGiants.com|
Source: AutoWeek
Edited & Posted by Editor | 1:13 AM | Link to this Post
January 16, 2008
2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid at NAIAS
Photo: Cadillac Escalade Hybrid, the first large luxury SUV with fuel-saving hybrid technology.
General Motors will introduce several vehicles among its Cadillac, Saab and Saturn brands at the 2008 North American International Show. GM's NAIAS portfolio emphasizes design and technology that deliver capability and performance while reducing environmental impact. The show opens to the public on Jan. 19.
GM's auto show exhibit will feature several recently introduced models: Chevrolet's 2009 Silverado 2-Mode Hybrid, 2009 Aveo 5, Cadillac's 2009 Escalade Hybrid, 2008 Cadillac Escalade Platinum, Buick Riviera concept, Cadillac Provoq concept, Pontiac's 2009 Vibe, Saab's 2008 Turbo X, and Chevrolet's 2008 Malibu. |GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by Editor | 9:47 AM | Link to this Post
January 15, 2008
2008 Dodge ZEO (Zero Emissions Operation) Concept
Chrysler LLC unveiled the all-new 2008 Dodge ZEO (Zero Emissions Operation) concept vehicle at the North American International Auto Show January 14, 2008. One of three concept vehicles displayed by Chrysler LLC, Dodge ZEO is a four-passenger, all-electric, 2+2 sport wagon that embraces the bold, emotional characteristic of the Dodge brand. With its 23-inch wheels-to-the corners, heroic proportions and muscular forms, the ZEO is designed to break the paradigm of what an electric car should look like. The advanced propulsion system powering the Dodge ZEO concept is electric-only with a 64 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack capable of at least 250 miles. Resting in a rear-wheel-drive layout, Dodge ZEO's 200 kilowatt (268 horsepower) single-electric motor contributes to a 0-60 mph time in less than six seconds. (Source: Chrysler LLC) |GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by Editor | 6:56 AM | Link to this Post
January 14, 2008
World Premiere of the Volkswagen CC
Four-door coupe provides sports car dynamics and sedan comfort
DETROIT -- Volkswagen of America, Inc. introduces the all-new CC, a new coupe with sedan access and functionality. The CC features a muscular shoulder line.
The Passat CC will come standard in the U.S. with the 2.0 TSI engine with 200 horsepower and 207 lbs.-ft of torque, available with either a six-speed manual or six-speed Tiptronic transmission.
Newly developed for the CC is an electrically actuated Panorama power vent sunroof. Volkswagen's attention to detail is shown off in the interior of the Passat CC with four ergonomically formed sport seats with available climate control, new instruments, new door trim, new radio and navigation systems spokes on the steering wheel. The rear sport seats offer ergonomically optimized lateral support on the sides of the seatbacks and seat surfaces and optional heated seats. |GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by Editor | 1:16 PM | Link to this Post
Launch of the smart fortwo in the USA
Photo: Dr. Dieter Zetsche,Chairman of the Board Daimler AG and Dave Schembri, President smart USA Penske Automotive Group with the smart fortwo mhd at NAIAS January 13, 2008.
The smart fortwo is celebrating its launch to the world's largest automobile market in Detroit. The shortest and most compact automobile currently in production is scheduled to roll on the streets of America this month.
The smart fortwo is the right car, at the right time for U.S. Drivers. Americans are faced with volatile fuel prices, increased urban congestion and a mindset of environmental responsibility. The smart fortwo offers a high level of comfort, agility, safety and ecology. |GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by Editor | 1:07 PM | Link to this Post
January 13, 2008
Ford Reveals Small-Car Vision for North America
In the U.S., small-car sales are predicted to increase by more than 25 percent through 2012.
Small cars and crossovers are the only vehicles with projected near-term growth in the U.S.
Photo: North American Verve Concept Sedan.
DETROIT, Jan. 13 -- Ford Motor Company is revealing the Verve, a concept vehicle that makes clear the vision for the new small cars Ford soon will introduce in North America.
New Ford Verve small car concept showcases the style, technology, premium materials and more substantial content that will set it apart from other offerings when Ford's new small cars go on sale in North America in 2010.
Photo: Ford Verve Concept (European) Sketch
According to Ford, the Verve is bold and sophisticated -- to help it clearly stand out from other small cars on the road. Ford is building on decades of small car leadership in Europe as it develops new small cars for North America to appeal to increasingly savvy customers who value technology, design and fuel efficiency.
Both four- and three-door Verve body styles are being unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, as curtain-raisers to a new global family of small cars set to debut in Europe and Asia beginning later this year and in North America in 2010. The four-door is the basis for the production vehicle that will be sold in North America. The European three- door is being shown to test market reaction to the bodystyle -- as a possible additional small car for the North American market.
Photo: The Ford Verve Concept (European 3-Door) Design Team
The Verve concept has been developed with Ford's new global product development strategy that better leverages the company's global strengths. Globally, Ford is building on its European small-car expertise to stake a bigger claim in this critically important segment.
• Small Car Popularity Skyrockets in North America
Momentum in small-car sales is outpacing overall industry growth worldwide. Globally, small car sales would grow from 23 million units in 2002 to an estimated 38 million in 2012. That's nearly 45 percent of the total expected 85-million unit industry, a level never before achieved. In the U.S., sales of small cars likely will grow by 800,000, or 25 percent -- to a record 3.4 million units by 2012.
In fact, small cars and crossovers are the only vehicles with projected near-term growth in the U.S.
Driving the growth in the U.S. market is a group of young people aged 13 to 28 years -- dubbed "Millennials." Today, this group stands 1.7 billion strong worldwide and will represent 28 percent of the total U.S. population by 2010.
As a group, Millennials embrace eco-friendliness, stay in constant touch using modern technology and demand best-in-class products from around the world. This group will grow from representing 19 percent of the driving public in 2004 to amassing 28 percent in 2010.
Every day, 11,000 Millennials in the U.S. come of driving age. When it's time to buy their first car, nearly half of this group shops the small-car segment.
Ford Verve concept demonstrates that largesse is no longer the price of admission for a delivering a premium driving experience.
The North American Verve sedan, painted in Rouge Red, has been modified slightly from its European and Asian counterparts -- most notably in its front fascia. |GlobalGiants.com|
Source: Ford Motor Company
Edited & Posted by Editor | 1:08 PM | Link to this Post
ROAD & TRAVEL Magazine Announces 2008 International Car of the Year Awards Winners
Photo: Honda Accord Sedan
DETROIT -- ROAD & TRAVEL Magazine (RTM) announced its 12th Annual International Car of the Year Awards (ICOTY) winners at a black tie ceremony January 12. Held at the MGM Grand Detroit, RTM hosted more than 600 industry leaders and media on the eve of press week of the North American International Auto Show.
Photo: 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid
A jury of nationally-renowned automotive journalists selected the award- winning vehicles with ballots tabulated by J.D. Power and Associates. And the winners are:
• International Car of the Year: Honda Accord Sedan
• International Truck of the Year: Chrysler Town & Country
• Pick Up Truck of the Year: "Most Athletic" GMC Sierra Denali
• Sports Car of the Year: "Most Sex Appeal" Audi R8
• Sedan of the Year: "Most Dependable" Honda Accord Sedan
• Luxury Car of the Year: "Most Respected" Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG
• Minivan of the Year: "Most Compatible" Chrysler Town & Country
• Entry Level Car of the Year: "Most Spirited" Volvo C30
• Crossover of the Year: "Most Versatile" Buick Enclave
• SUV of the Year: "Most Resourceful" Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid
Photo: VOLVO C30
Photo: Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG
Opening remarks at the ICOTY event were made by Congressman John D. Dingell, the "Dean of the House of Representatives," and Chairman of the Committee on Energy and Commerce. In addition, U.S. Senator Carl Levin, RTM Editor-in-Chief Courtney Caldwell and Edmunds.com Editorial Director Kevin Smith co-presented the inaugural EARTH ANGEL Award, to General Motors Corporation as the most environmentally-friendly automaker. The award, sponsored by Bridgestone, was created to shine a spotlight on the positive strides automakers are making with global warming issues on a worldwide level.
RTM recognized veteran automotive journalist Thos L. Bryant, editor-in- chief of Road & Track, with its 5th annual Lifetime Achievement Award. RTM also presented its annual HEART STRING Award for best car commercial in 2007 for Dodge Caravan's "Rooms." |GlobalGiants.com|
Source: ROAD & TRAVEL Magazine
Edited & Posted by Editor | 11:29 AM | Link to this Post
January 12, 2008
Consumer Reports' 2008 Car Brand Perception Survey: Drivers See Toyota, Honda as Best Overall
But Perception is Not Always Reality
Photo: LEXUS 2008 IS F High-Performance Sport Sedan
Photo: Buick Riviera Concept
NEW YORK -- Consumers perceived Toyota and Honda brands to be best by a wide margin, followed by Ford, Chevrolet, and GMC, according to Consumer Reports' 2008 Car Brand Perception Survey. The survey also revealed that car buyers consider safety and quality as the most important considerations, followed by value, performance, environmental friendliness, design, and technical innovation.
The latest Auto Pulse survey conducted by Consumer Reports' National Research Center, the Car Brand Perception Survey, focused on how consumers perceive and rank car brands in the seven key areas mentioned above.
Photo: VOLVO XC90 R-DESIGN
Photo: Mercedes-Benz Vision GLK FREESIDE
Toyota and Honda topped overall rankings with scores of 189 and 146 points, respectively, and took a place in the top five in six of the seven categories. Ford finished third with 112 points, followed by Chevrolet with 110, and GMC with 102. Chevrolet and Ford are the only U.S. brands that rank in the top five in more than one category; each makes the cut in three areas. Among brands that fared worst, Acura finished with eight points, followed by Audi (14 pts.). Mitsubishi (21 pts.), Mercury (22 pts.), and Buick (25 pts.).
Dig deeper, though, and in many cases, consumers' views do not accurately reflect the automaker's recent track record. For example, Mercedes-Benz finished in the top five for quality. But the brand placed 33rd out of 36th in Consumer Reports' latest rankings for predicted reliability, a measure of quality over time. Toyota earned a top spot in this category. And while its vehicles have typically rated well in areas associated with quality, the brand slipped from first place to fifth in the same predicted reliability ratings.
"It is well worth doing your research before making a purchase," said Jeff Bartlett, deputy autos editor, ConsumerReports.org. "Depreciation, reliability, safety and other factors may be different from what you associate with a particular brand." ...
With a score of 77 percent in the Safety category, Volvo is clearly first in consumers' minds. No other category is so unilaterally dominated by one brand. But in another example of perception over reality, Subaru scored well in the Safety category, yet many lower-trim models don't include electronic stability control, a highly recommended safety feature. Other automakers consistently on the cutting edge of safety technology -- such as BMW, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz --- don't make it into the top five. Among new-car shoppers, 63 percent felt safety is the most important consideration.
When it comes to Value, Korean brand Kia finished well with 23 percent of consumers saying they think the brand is a good buy. While this could be a reflection of the make's low-cost models and long warranty, the predicted depreciation for some Kia models is poor -- not a good-value characteristic.
While some perceptions don't match reality, others do. BMW and Porsche led the Performance category with 28 and 25 percentage points, respectively. The vehicles from both brands have consistently earned high ratings in performance in testing at Consumer Reports' 327-acre Auto Test Center.
Coming in at 49 percent, Toyota dominated the Environmentally Friendly/Green category, likely due to the company's role as a pioneer in hybrid technology and its strong-selling Prius hybrid. The Prius is also one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles Consumer Reports has tested. Consumers consider environmental friendliness substantially more significant (35%) than styling (23%), and more than twice as significant as technology and innovation (15%).
In the Design/Style category, Mercedes-Benz and Lexus virtually tied (24%), with both holding a slim margin over Cadillac (23%). In general, car buyers in this survey rated styling low among purchase considerations, but it's easy to underestimate the sales potential of head-turning styling. This is the only category in which Toyota and Honda did not rank in the top five.
As for Technology/Innovation, Toyota (30%), Lexus (29%), Honda (20%), Cadillac (18%), and BMW (17%) rounded out the top five brands.
[Source: Consumer Reports] |GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by Editor | 7:11 AM | Link to this Post
GM Style Event: Fashion Models Compare Outfits During A Fitting Session
Photo: Fashion models compare outfits during a fitting session at the General Motors Design Center Friday, January 11, 2008 in Warren, Michigan. The models are preparing for the GM Style event that will kick-off the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. (Photo by Tom Pidgeon for General Motors)
Edited & Posted by Editor | 5:59 AM | Link to this Post
January 10, 2008
India's Tata Motors Unveils $2,500 Car
New Delhi, January 10, 2008 -- Mr. Ratan N. Tata, Chairman of the Tata Group and Tata Motors, today unveiled the Tata 'NANO', the People's Car from Tata Motors that India and the world have been looking forward to. A development, which signifies a first for the global automobile industry, the People's Car brings the comfort and safety of a car within the reach of thousands of families. The People's Car will be launched in India later in 2008.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony at the 9th Auto Expo in New Delhi, Mr. Ratan N. Tata said, "I observed families riding on two-wheelers - the father driving the scooter, his young kid standing in front of him, his wife seated behind him holding a little baby. It led me to wonder whether one could conceive of a safe, affordable, all-weather form of transport for such a family. Tata Motors' engineers and designers gave their all for about four years to realize this goal. Today, we indeed have a People's Car, which is affordable and yet built to meet safety requirements and emission norms, to be fuel efficient and low on emissions. We are happy to present the People's Car to India and we hope it brings the joy, pride and utility of owning a car to many families who need personal mobility."
The People's Car, designed with a family in mind, has a roomy passenger compartment with generous leg space and head room. It can comfortably seat four persons. Four doors with high seating position make ingress and egress easy.
Yet with a length of 3.1 meters, width of 1.5 meters and height of 1.6 meters, with adequate ground clearance, it can effortlessly maneuver on busy roads in cities as well as in rural areas. Its mono-volume design, with wheels at the corners and the powertrain at the rear, enables it to uniquely combine both space and maneuverability, which will set a new benchmark among small cars.
When launched, the car will be available in both standard and deluxe versions. Both versions will offer a wide range of body colors, and other accessories so that the car can be customized to an individual's preferences.
Tata Motors is India's largest automobile company, with revenues of US $ 7.2 billion in 2006-2007. With over 4 million Tata vehicles plying in India, it is the leader in commercial vehicles and the second largest in passenger vehicles. It is also the world's fifth largest medium and heavy truck manufacturer and the second largest heavy bus manufacturer. Tata cars, buses and trucks are being marketed in several countries in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, South East Asia and South America. |GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by Editor | 1:43 PM | Link to this Post
January 9, 2008
Subaru Debuts 2009 Forester in Detroit and Reveals New Brand Exhibit for the 2008 Auto Show Season
When the silk sheet is pulled off the all-new 2009 Subaru Forester at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, on January 13, it will be center stage in a new state-of-the-art Subaru exhibit.
Consumers will be welcomed by a new white sweeping archway that flows throughout the exhibit. A blue metal mesh backwall lines the display incorporating a turntable, technology area and a large video wall.
The featured vehicle on display will be the all-new, third-generation 2009 Forester. The new exhibit will also feature a three-piece cutaway of the 2009 Forester that allows customers to get up close and view inside the new vehicle's entire drivetrain. |GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by Editor | 9:42 AM | Link to this Post
Hyundai Unveils Genesis Premium Sports Sedan
Hyundai aims to shatter premium automobile paradigms with the North American International Auto Show introduction of its new flagship, the all-new Genesis rear-wheel-drive sports sedan on January 13. With capabilities and features comparable to $60,000 luxury sedans, Genesis will be offered at a starting price under $30,000 when it goes on sale this summer.
The 2009 Genesis is the most advanced Hyundai ever, featuring a Lexicon state-of-the-art audio system featuring LOGIC 7(R) technology, offered exclusively by Rolls Royce Phantom and now Hyundai Genesis. Standard is a soft-touch instrument panel with woodgrain accents, Bluetooth(R) hands-free mobile phone interface, and USB/iPod auxiliary inputs. A state-of-the-art navigation system with an eight-inch display and backup camera are available options as well. |GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by Editor | 9:21 AM | Link to this Post
January 7, 2008
Ford Explorer America Concept
Explorer America concept is a mid-size utility that embodies what customers love about the current Ford Explorer in a more modern execution. Explorer America delivers an approximate 20 percent fuel economy improvement while it provides room for six and their gear, along with moderate towing and off-road capabilities. The integrated three-bar grill, defined power dome hood and wrap-around rear glass panel window give Explorer America a unique appearance. According to Ford, its this smarter utility combines the best of Ford's safety, style and sustainable technologies. |GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by Editor | 9:07 AM | Link to this Post
January 1, 2008
Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG with new steering and striking appearance
Fine-tuning and more agility for the AMG eight-cylinder roadster
Photo: Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class: SLK 55 AMG with new steering and more striking appearance.
The SLK 55 AMG is now more dynamic: a new front apron and dark-tinted headlamps give this eight-cylinder roadster an athletic look even at a standstill. The handling dynamics of the SLK 55 AMG have also been sharpened. For the first time the car features the new direct steering with variable servo assistance, which makes the 265 kW/360 hp two-seater even more agile and responsive.
The sporty roadster now has redesigned front apron with a more pronounced arrow-shape, the modified Mercedes star, enlarged air dams and a black-painted transverse fin on the lower section, ensuring a distinctly masculine aura. Large, round foglamps with chrome surrounds are now positioned further outwards, enhancing the impression of width. |GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by Editor | 12:22 PM | Link to this Post
December 29, 2007
2008 North American International Auto Show Welcomes Industry Insiders
DETROIT, Dec. 29 -- Automotive industry insiders will converge at Cobo Center in Detroit for the 2008 North American International Auto Show on Wednesday, Jan. 16 from noon to 9 p.m. and Thursday, Jan. 17 from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
NAIAS 2008 Industry Preview, co-sponsored by the Detroit Auto Dealers Association, Michigan Economic Development Corporation and Business Week, offers a unique opportunity for automotive companies to invite their key contacts, suppliers and employees to preview the show. Industry Preview attracts thousands of industry professionals each year to the NAIAS for important meetings and networking events at the show and throughout metro Detroit.
"Each year we look forward to hosting this exclusive opportunity for industry professionals to get a preview of the many fantastic attractions at the NAIAS," said Carl Galeana, senior co-chairman for the NAIAS 2008. "Industry Preview provides a unique occasion for industry insiders to network, attend informative special events on design and automotive trends, and get a sneak peek of the show before it opens to the public."
Photo: Automotive suppliers and insiders view Ford products during Industry Preview day at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan 11 January 2007. (Courtesy of the NAIAS)
Featured events during the NAIAS 2008 Industry Preview include:
• 15th Annual AutoWeek Design Forum
Exploring the theme "Designed for Fun"
the daylong forum celebrates design as the ultimate
differentiating factor between products. Attracting more than 700
attendees, the forum also will feature the 2008 Editor's Choice Awards
and attendees will tour the show floor. The forum will be held in Cobo
Center's Riverview Ballroom on Wednesday, Jan. 16 from 8 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Jesse James of the Discovery Channel's Monster Garage and owner of West
Coast Choppers will be the keynote speaker.
• Inforum's Annual Auto Show Breakfast
Themed "Beyond Green: Unraveling Sustainability Mystique,"
the annual breakfast will focus on the
various environmentally friendly auto choices that are beginning to
emerge in the market. The breakfast will take place on Thursday, Jan.
17 at the Detroit Marriott Renaissance Center from 7:30 a.m. - 9 a.m.
NAIAS 2008 Official Dates
Press Preview will be held Sunday, Jan. 13 through Tuesday, Jan. 15. Industry Preview will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 16 and Thursday, Jan. 17. The annual black-tie Charity Preview will be held Friday evening, Jan. 18. Public Days will be held Saturday, Jan. 19 through Sunday, Jan. 27.
Entering its 20th year as an international event, the North American International Auto Show is among the most prestigious auto shows in the world and is one of the largest media events in North America. |GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by Editor | 8:46 AM | Link to this Post
December 25, 2007
North American International Auto Show Preview: Subaru Releases First Photos of All-New 2009 Forester Crossover SUV
Photo: 2009 Japanese Spec Subaru Forester.
Subaru of America, Inc. today released the first official photos of the all-new, third-generation 2009 Forester, a total re-design of the crossover utility vehicle (CUV) that will debut at the 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit in January. The 2009 Forester arrives in Subaru dealerships this spring. The new-generation 2009 model projects a bolder, more SUV-like design and making a major leap in safety technology, comfort, refinement and driving dynamics. As with all Subaru models, the 2009 Forester comes equipped as standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. |GlobalGiants.com|
Edited & Posted by Editor | 6:43 AM | Link to this Post
