Tata Motors plans 'deluxe' Nano by 2012  
MUMBAI: It may have been pitched as the cheapest car on road, but Tata Motors is looking to launch a fully-loaded deluxe version of the Nano on Indian roads by 2012. The deluxe Nano would not only have a more powerful engine at its heart, but would also sport comfort and safety features like power steering, air bags and ABS.

The deluxe Nano comes as Tata Motors works on an advanced version of its budget car for the European markets, called 'Nano Europa' , that was also displayed at the Geneva Motor Show last year. The company is looking at launching the same car in India when it gets ready for its debut in Europe. “Yes, there is a chance of Tata Motors launching the Nano Europa in the Indian market as well,” Tata Motors' India operations MD PM Telang told TOI.



The Europa is being developed keeping in mind the requirements of international markets and thus will be a step above the existing Nano retailed in India. Telang said the car will be advanced, and enhanced , to the existing model. "It will have several additional features like a more powerful engine, power steering, airbags, ABS as well as higher structural strengths," he said.

Tata Motors has said that the Europa will have a wheelbase longer than the existing Nano and will have redesigned interiors. Also, the car will be powered by a 3-cylinder sporty all-aluminium MPFI engine with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The company has targeted that the petrol engine will be highly fuel efficient and will have low CO2 emission of less than 100 gm/km.

Source : Economic Times (9/2/2010)

Maruti, Tata Motors & Skoda set to drive into MUV Segment  
NEW DELHI: The country’s largest carmaker Maruti Suzuki India, largest automaker Tata Motors and Volkswagen’s Skoda Auto India plan to enter the crossover market, the fastest growing segment in the passenger vehicle market.

It is one detail that you may have missed out in a booming market where every carmaker seems to be reaching a new milestone every month, but clearly our big carmakers are alert even when they party. They can cross over in no time.

Tata Motors will roll out its Tata Aria, developed from the Xover concept, in the last quarter of 2010, while Maruti’s first crossover based on its R3 concept and Skoda Roomster will hit the Indian road next year, according to industry executives familiar with company plans.

Crossovers, or multi-utility vehicles, are positioned between larger sports utility vehicles and smaller hatchbacks, mixing the silky comforts of a car with the rough and tough built of an offroader.

“As the market shifts towards compact cars, MUVs are gaining ground with their higher utility and lower cost of operations,” says Sundeep Singh, deputy MD (marketing) at Toyota Kirloskar Motors, maker of Innova crossover.

The segment, dominated by Innova and Mahidra & Mahindra’s Xylo, grew 41% to 1.5 lakh vehicles, or close to 10% of the country’s passenger vehicle market, last financial year.

Industry analysts point to increased incomes, higher aspiration levels, more young buyers and multi-purpose utility as factors boosting crossovers. Also, crossovers are priced lower, Rs 6-11 lakh, than SUVs coming at Rs 8-25 lakh and more.

“There is a complete transformation with MUVs generating a huge demand off late with changes in urban demography and the emergence of rural markets,” says Anjali Jajoo, auto analyst at Mumbai-based Angel Broking. “Its growth is also helped by the buoyant economy as a high number of these vehicles are used for commercial operations.”

Automakers expect the demand to soar, driven by nucleus facilities looking at bigger crossover vehicles that can change into outstation wagons.

All three new vehicles — Maruti’s R3 concept, Tata Aria, built on the new Xover platform, and Skoda’s Roomster MUV, based on its Fabia hatchback platform — were showcased at the Delhi Auto Expo earlier this year.

Tata Aria, which will take off later this year, may have a ready market as both Toyota and M&M are struggling to meet the demand for Innova and Xylo.

“We are facing huge customers discontent as waiting for the Innova go up to three months in many regions now,” says Toyota’s Sundeep Singh. The company plans to increase Innova production to meet rising demand, he adds. Mahindra Xylo, priced at the entry level, also enjoys a two-month waiting for delivery. Tata Aria will be bigger and roomier than both. It is 4.85-meter long and will have flexible seating that can comfortably accommodate seven adults and offer ample cargo area.

Sources in the component industry say that Volkswagen also may enter the crossover segment in the country with a vehicle built on the Suzuki SX4 platform and that the unnamed vehicle could hit the market next year.

Source : Economic Times (9/2/2010)

Ferrari recalls 458 Italia supercars after fires  
ROME: Ferrari says it is recalling 1,248 of its 458 Italia supercars after reports of fires breaking out in five of the luxury vehicles in several countries.

The Italian carmaker today said it wants to replace an adhesive that in some circumstances can melt due to overheating and possibly ignite.

Fires in the car that sells for euro197,000 ($253,000) have been reported in California, Switzerland, China and France.

Ferrari spokesman Stefano Lai says the company will be asking the owners of 1,248 cars produced before July 2010 to bring them in to have the glue replaced with mechanical fasteners.

Source : http://economictimes.indiatimes.com (9/2/2010)

2011 Subaru WRX 5-door Review  
Subaru's WRX changed the face of high-performance driving in this country when it debuted back in 2001. Before that time, "sports sedan" (or coupe) meant, for the most part, "influenced by road racing". Meaning front engine, rear-wheel drive preferred, front-wheel drive if you must.

Enthusiasts in Europe and Asia knew better, as manufacturer participation in the World Rally Championship (WRC) from the late 1980s required rally cars to be based on road-legal cars.

Unlike track racing cars, which are ultra-specialized for speed on the smooth, even pavement of purpose-built road circuits, rally cars run on closed public roads, sometimes indifferently-paved, and dirt and gravel forest roads. In any and all weather conditions, from warm sunshine to snow and ice. While there is (usually) time between stages to change suspension settings, a rally car is, almost by definition, much less specialized in its habitat than a circuit racer. Full-time all-wheel drive was and is the order of the day, for maximum traction on all surfaces, in all conditions.

And that makes a rally-replica a much better proposition on dubiously-paved American roads, and better still when the weather turns bad.

The Impreza-based WRX was Subaru's WRC entry from 1992 in Japan, sold there at that time and a bit later in Europe. By the time it made it to the US, in 2001 as a 2002 model, the WRX was legendary. The US-spec WRX was initially offered with a 2.0-liter, 227-horsepower turbocharged boxer four-cylinder engine. When the factory-tuner STi model appeared in mid-2003, it had a new engine, with 300 horsepower out of 2.5 liters. That power plant found its way into the rest of the WRX line, in de-tuned form, in 2005, offering similar horsepower, 230, to the 2.0-liter and more peak torque, 235 lb-ft to 217, with stronger low- and mid-range power as well. Chassis tuning was incrementally dialed in over the years, all the better for day-to-day life.

The first major change to the WRX came in 2008, when the entire Impreza lineup was renewed. Styling was vastly different, and the longer wheelbase of the new unibody added interior space. It was offered in sedan and five-door hatchback body styles. The new structure didn't add weight, so performance was not adversely impacted. Still, in a performance car, more is better, and 2009 saw some engine upgrades -- as in 265 hp and 244 lb-ft. The STi was a five-door hatch only, with the 305-hp version of the 2.5-liter boxer engine.

The STi got the wide-fenders look last year, and that is adopted by all WRX variations for 2011. And if you fancy an STi sedan, it's now available.

But that's not the car I've been driving for the past week. No complaints, as the 2011 WRX 5-door is hardly deficient in power, and is a very easy car to live with. Yes, it has acceleration and cornering abilities that would had landed it in the "supercar" category when its first ancestor debuted. But it is a Subaru at heart, meaning practical, comfortable, and easy to live with -- the very antithesis of "exotic". Trim levels are standard, Premium, and Limited, and my test car is a Limited. Meaning HID headlamps, moonroof, and leather upholstery, and an available navigation system, which was fitted.

APPEARANCE: "Dare to be different" could be the Subaru styling motto. Rarely have their cars been bland and mainstream in looks, and the latest Impreza will not be mistaken for anything else, especially in 5-door form. Unlike most hatchbacks, it's all rounded masses, offset by sharply-creased character lines on the hood and shoulders. The new-for-11 "wide body" fender flares are almost a return to the racer add-on look of 1980s performance cars, and are well-integrated into the front and rear bumper fascias in addition to the sides. The contemporary Subaru grille is flanked by low, wide smoked plastic-covered headlamps, with a prominent and functional scoop in the middle of the hood. At the rear, the sloping backlight/hatch is topped by a largish visor-type spoiler, and complex LED taillights are integrated into the wide fenders. The overall look is cohesive, and says "performance" in no uncertain terms.

COMFORT: It may look like a rally car, and it may have great performance, but the WRX is easy to live with on a day-to-day basis. It's likely to be its owner's only car, and lucky owner. No sacrifice necessary. The increased size means more interior space, and the high-backed manually-adjustable front sports seats provide support and comfort even in the absence of adrenaline. The dual-cockpit instrument panel features a well-shaded instrument cluster in front of the driver, with the tach the most prominent of the electroluminescent main instruments. The driver gets a leather-wrapped tilt- and telescope-adjustable steering wheel, well-positioned shift lever (and good linkage), and metal-and-rubber covered pedals and left foot rest. The navigation system has a simple hard button and touchscreen interface, which also controls the AM/FM/Sirius/CD/auxiliary audio system. Climate control is by simple knobs. Rear doors make access to the rear seat easy, for passengers or, when folded 60/40, cargo. The hatch is much better than a trunk lid if cargo duty is ever in your plans!

SAFETY: Like all Imprezas, the WRX is built around the "Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame" unibody structure, with strong side and rollover protection and front and rear crumple zones. Four-wheel antilock disc brakes are standard, with electronic brake-force distribution and Brake Assist. Front, front seat-mounted side, and side curtain airbags and Vehicle Dynamics Control with all-speed traction control are also standard equipment.

RIDE AND HANDLING: The recipe for WRX roadholding? Take the Impreza's strong, rigid unibody structure, widen the track and increase standard wheel size from 17x7 to 17x8 inches, with 235/45 W-rated sticky tires, stiffen the rear subframe bushings, and tune the MacPherson strut/double wishbone suspension moderately firmly, for good compliance on poor surfaces and minimal body roll and hence weight transfer. Then add the Continuous AWD version of Subaru's Symmetrical AWD (all-wheel drive) system, with a static 50/50 front/rear torque split and a viscous-coupling locking center differential that sends torque to the wheels with the best traction. The result? Excellent roadholding, great traction for acceleration, and, thanks to large strong brakes and increased contact patches, even better braking than before. Good suspension compliance means comfort, too - making the WRX a fine car for everyday use.

PERFORMANCE: The additional bodywork required for the widened fenders, and the larger wheels have raised the WRX's weight -- by all of maybe 35 pounds. Not even noticeable… The additional power and torque, and fatter torque curve of the 265 horsepower (at 6000 rpm) 2.5-liter twincam alloy boxer four-cylinder intercooled turbomotor are very welcome, especially as in normal (or even moderately hard) use fuel economy is unaffected. 0-60 in five seconds or less, cornering ability and fun-to-drive factor galore, and 22 mpg overall (EPA 19/25)… what's not to love? Subaru knows turbos as well as it knows AWD, which is to say as well as anyone on the planet. Throttle response is instant and lag is nonexistent. Although it works best above 3500 rpm, there's no reason to become acquainted with the rev limiter. The only transmission choice is a five-speed manual, perfect for the car's character.

CONCLUSIONS: Yes, it's gotten a bit larger, but the 2011 Subaru WRX has lost none of its rally-replica-for-the-real-world character.

SPECIFICATIONS

2011 Subaru WRX 5-door

Base Price $ 28,995

Price As Tested $ n/a at press time

Engine Type turbocharged and intercooled aluminum

alloy horizontally-opposed

DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder with

variable cam phasing

Engine Size 2.5 liters / 150 cu. in.

Horsepower 265 @ 6000 rpm

Torque (lb-ft) 244 @ 4000 rpm

Transmission 5-speed manual

Wheelbase / Length 103.3 in. / 173.8 in.

Curb Weight 3208 lbs.

Pounds Per Horsepower 12.1

Fuel Capacity 16.9 gal.

Fuel Requirement 91 octane unleaded premium gasoline

Tires 235/45R17 94W Dunlop SP Sport 01

Brakes, front/rear vented disc / solid disc,

ABS, EBD, BA, VDC standard

Suspension, front/rear independent MacPherson strut /

independent double wishbone

Drivetrain longitudinal front engine,

full-time all-wheel drive



PERFORMANCE

EPA Fuel Economy - miles per gallon

city / highway / observed 19 / 25 / 22

0 to 60 mph 4.7 sec



OPTIONS AND CHARGES

Navigation system n/a at press time

Destination charge $ 725

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/2/2010)

New Oil Rig Explosion in Gulf of Mexico  
NEW ORLEANS - September 2, 2010: One person is missing after a rig explosion in the Gulf of Mexico, about 80 miles south of Vermilion Bay, the U.S. Coast Guard said.

It happened around 9 a.m., and as of 10:15 a.m., the rig was still burning, the Coast Guard said. Rescue crews from New Orleans and Houston are responding.

Officials said there were 13 people aboard the rig, and all but one are accounted for.

Two helicopters from Houston and three from New Orleans are responding to the blast. Two other fixed-wing planes and two cutter ships are also responding, the Coast Guard said.

The rig is owned by Mariner Energy.

Oil Spill Reignites Argument for Flex Fuels

DETROIT - June 30, 2010: As the largest oil spill in U.S. history continues to leak into the Gulf of Mexico, the argument for domestically produced alternative fuels, like ethanol (E85), is back on. Manufacturing plants continue to research and develop biofuels from a variety of unique sources. In fact, scientists are now converting materials like grass and woodchips into cleaner burning biofuel at a similar cost to that of producing a gallon of gasoline. Although Brazil leads the way in flex-fuel vehicle production, the U.S. is not far behind with over 7 million vehicles to date; giving Americans something to think about at the pump. Today, General Motors is the leading producer of E85 FlexFuel vehicles, with 18 different models available in the U.S. in 2009, each capable of running on E85.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/2/2010)

MINI Countryman in Full Flow  
MUNICH - September 2, 2010: MINI will release an innovative TV spot produced with cutting-edge film technology in September as part of its launch campaign for the new MINI Countryman. Under the campaign motto “MINI Countryman. Getaway”, this impressive piece of cinema showcases the versatility of the vehicle concept, and takes the viewer on a ride through the heart of Milan and around Lake Como. The MINI Countryman’s journey along every imaginable route is quite an adventure…

The new MINI Countryman commercial breaks the mould for traditional film advertising. New high-tech film technology mixes real cars with computer-generated images to produce unique, previously unseen effects.

The commercial was filmed in collaboration with well-known American director, Brian Beletic, and Sway Studios of Los Angeles, on location in Italy. The creative agency was BSUR, Amsterdam.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/2/2010)

Progressive Insurance Automotive X PRIZE to Award Up to $10 Million on September 16 in Washington, D.C. Ceremony  
Awards Ceremony Culminates Multiyear Challenge to Deliver Production-Capable, Super, Fuel Efficient Vehicles; All Finalist Vehicles will be on Site

Progressive Insurance, the country's fourth largest auto insurance group, and The X PRIZE Foundation, an educational nonprofit prize organization, will announce the winners of the Progressive Insurance Automotive X PRIZE at a special awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. Up to $10 million will be awarded to as many as three teams that proved their entry vehicle could meet the competition's strictest requirements, including the ability to achieve 100 miles per gallon or the energy equivalent (MPGe) and to survive grueling real-world safety, efficiency, emissions, durability and range tests.

WHO/WHAT:

The ceremony, which is open to the public, will be hosted by Arianna Huffington, Co-Founder and Editor- in-Chief of The Huffington Post; Jim Gianopulos, Chairman and CEO of Fox Filmed Entertainment; Glenn Renwick, President and CEO, of Progressive Insurance; and Dr. Peter H. Diamandis, Chairman and CEO of the X PRIZE Foundation. Attendees will have an opportunity to meet the winning and finalist teams and get an up close look at the vehicles and technologies that will shape the future of the automotive industry.

WHEN/WHERE:

Thursday, September 16 at 10:30 a.m. EDT (media registration begins at 10:00 a.m.) Historical Society of Washington, D.C. 801 K Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20001

WHEN/WHERE:STREAMING VIDEO: The Progressive Insurance Automotive X PRIZE Winners Announcement will be broadcast live at http:/// www.progressiveautoxprize.org/live.

PRESS CREDENTIALS: Credentials are required for all qualified journalists who wish to attend the ceremony. Credentials may be requested at www.progressiveautoxprize.org/ credentials.

ABOUT THE PROGRESSIVE INSURANCE AUTOMOTIVE X PRIZE

The goal of the Progressive Insurance Automotive X PRIZE is to inspire a new generation of viable, super fuel-efficient vehicles that offer more consumer choices. Ten million dollars in prizes will be awarded to the teams that win a stage competition for clean, production-capable vehicles that exceed 100 Miles per gallon or energy equivalent (MPGe). The Progressive Insurance Automotive X PRIZE will place a major focus on efficiency, safety, affordability, and the environment. It is about developing real, production-capable cars that consumers will want to buy, not science projects or concept cars. This progress is needed because today's oil consumption is unsustainable and because automotive emissions significantly contribute to global warming and climate change. The ten million dollar purse and partial funding for prize operations was provided by Progressive Insurance. Additional major funding for education, outreach, and technical operations was provided by $9 million in grants from the U.S. Department of Energy. Additional funding for prize operations was provided by Cisco and private donors. For more information about the Progressive Insurance Automotive X PRIZE, please visit www.progressiveautoxprize.org or email progressiveautopress@xprize.org.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/2/2010)

Mazda MX-5 Hits 100,000 Sales Milestone in the UK  
DARTFORD, UNITED KINGDOM – Sept 2, 2010: Twenty years since it first arrived in the UK, the Mazda MX-5 has achieved another significant milestone with sales of the iconic sports car hitting 100,000 units.

Attributes that include wind in the hair motoring, the joy of driving, outstanding handling, affordability and unadulterated fun, have encouraged 100,000 British motorists to buy a Mazda MX-5 over the last two decades. Despite the climate the Mazda MX-5 has proven to be the UK’s most popular sportscar, with British motorists accounting for over 10 percent of global sales and 40 percent of European sales since the MX-5’s introduction in 1990.

When Mazda unveiled the MX-5 at the 1989 Chicago Motor Show, it single-handedly resuscitated the small and affordable roadster market. Arriving when a huge motoring audience was crying out for the return of fun, and affordable roof-down driving, the perfectly proportioned roadster was brilliantly conceived and engineered to deliver undiluted driving pleasure. It was an instant hit, its record-breaking sales success underline the Mazda MX-5’s global appeal.

Today, its core design has remained untouched for three generations, the chassis retains its classic front engine, rear wheel-drive layout and its 50/50 weight distribution ensures that drivers feel at-one-with-the-car when driving at any speed.

The car was an instant sales success here in the UK – arriving in mid March 1990, it racked up 2,246 sales by the end of its first year. It combined affordability, outstanding reliability, and residual value performance with an unprecedented degree of driver engagement, ensuring that the love affair with the MX-5 was destined to be an enduring relationship. It was as much a joy to drive as it was to own, creating a vast and loyal band of owners who relished its ability to turn every journey into a special event.

While the MX-5 enjoyed success in the UK it was also well received across the globe. It entered in the Guinness Book of World Records in 2000 as the best-selling two-seater sportscar in history and racked up over 178 awards with more than 880,000 sales across two decades. Fifty eight of those awards were won by the current third generation Mazda MX-5 including Japan Car of the Year 2005-2006 and Top Gear Magazine’s Roadster of the Year 2006.

In the UK, MX-5 earned the title of ‘Best Sports Car’ in its class in the 2010 JD Power vehicle ownership satisfaction survey and has won the ‘Best Roadster’ title for the fifth time-in-a-row at the 2010 Auto Express New Car Awards.

For over 20 years the Mazda MX-5 has embraced the true British sportscar heritage following on from the classic roadsters produced by domestic brands from the 50’s and 60’s. With 37 special editions alongside the impressive range, the Mazda MX-5 enjoys consistent sales success in the UK with almost 40 percent of European sales coming from British motorists. Annual UK sales hit an all time high in 2007 with 9,234 sold, going on to culminate in the 100,000th sale to Dr Helen Jones recently.

“The legendary Mazda MX-5 is the car most people associate with Mazda,” said Mark Cameron, sales director, Mazda UK. “It is a car that people not only aspire to, but can afford to run and enjoy driving on a daily basis. This iconic sportscar’s handling has been voted as the best by motoring magazines. It is a fun car that makes each journey an enjoyable experience – a car that encompasses Mazda’s soul.

“To hit 100,000 sales in the UK is a significant milestone for Mazda. We are the biggest market for this car due to our love of open-top two seat sportscars. The Mazda MX-5 finds its roots in the British heritage of soft top sportscars and has been loved by British motorists since the day it arrived on these shores.” concludes Cameron.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/2/2010)

Parents Must Brush Up Before They Teach Their Teens to Drive  
TEDDINGTON, UNITED KINGDOM – Sept 2, 2010: Parents should take a driving lesson or two before teaching their teenagers to drive, says the What Car? Driving School. This would give parents an updated understanding of the Highway Code, and knowledge of the skills required by the new test.

The financial crisis has prompted many parents to shun professional driving lessons with driving instructors and play the teacher role themselves, but in the majority of cases parents’ knowledge is out of date.

What Car? Driving School is the only national driving school that encourages parents to participate in initial lessons or to take guidance sessions with their teenager’s instructor.

‘With over 45% of UK drivers likely to fail the current driving test it is all too clear that these drivers need a refresher driving lesson or two to ensure they do not pass on their bad habits to their teenagers,’ said Paul Atkinson, What Car? Driving School managing director.

Parents’ typical bad habits

Approach junctions too quickly

Rush observations

Incorrect use of speed

Drive too close to the vehicle in front

Don’t use mirrors enough

‘What Car? Driving School recommends that every teenager learning to drive gets as much road experience as possible with their parents when they are safe to do so, but this should be supplementary to professional driving lessons with the highest-quality ADI driving instructors,’ said Atkinson.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/2/2010)

Kinghorn Volkswagen In Nowra Joins Dealer Network  
BOTANY, AUSTRALIA – Sept 2, 2010: Kinghorn Volkswagen in Nowra is now part of the growing Volkswagen dealer network in Australia and has recently commenced operations in their purpose built dealership.

Kinghorn Volkswagen is a family owned dealership established and owned by Geoff O’Connell, who prides himself on personal service and dedication to his customers.

Geoff O’Connell, Dealer Principal, is enthusiastic about adding Volkswagen to his brand portfolio. “The addition of the Volkswagen brand to the Nowra area will introduce a great level of European prestige and innovation to the local automotive market. Our experienced dealership team will ensure that local Volkswagen customers will experience the great service that we are renowned for. We are excited to be part of a successful brand with such a well established dealer network.”

Volkswagen Group Australia Managing Director, Anke Koeckler, is looking forward to this promising relationship: “Geoff O’Connell and his team have operated an award-winning business for a long time and we are certain that this expertise will benefit our customers in the Nowra region greatly. Volkswagen is renowned for its technical innovations and acclaimed products which are sure will be embraced by the local community. This partnership is an important part of our strategic growth plans for Australia and we are looking forward to a very successful collaboration over the coming years.”

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/2/2010)

Nissan North America Announces Agreement With State of Hawaii for Electric Vehicle Development  
HONOLULU, Aug. 31, 2010; Nissan North America and the state of Hawaii announced a partnership to advance zero-emission mobility by promoting the development of electric vehicles, and an electric-vehicle charging network, throughout the state. The partnership, which was announced at the Asia Pacific Clean Energy Summit and Expo in Honolulu, marks Nissan's first definitive agreement in the United States and will help to foster the adoption of electric-vehicle technology. The Nissan LEAF, the world's first affordable, zero-emission, all-electric vehicle for the mass market, will be available in Hawaii beginning in January 2011.

"Nissan is a global leader in electric vehicles, and the state of Hawaii has shown similar leadership through its progressive policies and focus on clean energy," said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing, Nissan North America. "Hawaii's drivers share that commitment, as demonstrated by their strong interest in the Nissan LEAF, the first affordable, zero-emission vehicle, which arrives in Hawaii in January."

Hawaii has demonstrated policy leadership through the creation of a $4,500 state tax credit towards the purchase of an electric vehicle and a $500 state tax credit towards the purchase and installation of a home charging station. The state tax credit, paired with an available $7,500 federal tax credit, could bring the price of a Nissan LEAF, which carries a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $32,780, to as low as $20,780 for Hawaii consumers.

As part of the agreement, Nissan and the State of Hawaii will develop plans to promote a charging infrastructure for EVs, as well as the deployment, operation and maintenance of a charging network. The partners also will work to coordinate the establishment of policies and help streamline the deployment of an EV infrastructure. Nissan is committing to bringing a supply of Nissan LEAF electric vehicles to Hawaii and readying the dealer body to sell and lease them to consumers.

"I appreciate Nissan's confidence in Hawaii and recognition of our commitment to pursuing a clean energy future," said Hawaii Governor Linda Lingle. "By bringing the Nissan LEAF to Hawaii and working collaboratively with the State and our partners toward the electrification of transportation, Nissan is playing an important role in helping us achieve the goal of reducing our dependence on imported oil."

"This partnership personifies Hawaii's commitment to a future powered by clean, sustainable sources of energy. In order to change the energy consumption patterns of our population, we have to offer drivers alternatives to vehicles that rely on imported fossil fuels," said Senator Daniel K. Inouye. "More than 90 percent of the fuel and energy we consume in Hawaii is the product of imported oil. Given our unique access to clean, renewable, energy sources, Hawaii should serve as a model of what is possible when government and business collaborate to plan a path forward into an energy efficient future."

The Nissan LEAF is a five-passenger compact electric car that uses no gas, creates no emissions and has no tailpipe. It has a top speed of 90 mph and is powered by advanced lithium-ion batteries, which provide the car with a range of 100 miles on a single charge as tested on the LA4 test cycle, enough to satisfy the daily driving needs of more than 90 percent of Americans and to circle Oahu.

Nationwide, more than 18,600 consumers have reserved a Nissan LEAF. Nissan is continuing to take reservations through its website, www.nissanusa.com. Interested consumers are encouraged to place a reservation, which entails a $99 fully refundable fee to secure a spot on the list to place an order. Consumers who already have reserved the Nissan LEAF online will be invited to place orders through their dealer for the vehicle in advance of market roll-out timing, allowing time for consumers to select a dealer and assess home charging needs.

In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program 2010 and has been recognized as a 2010 ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. More information on Nissan in North America, the Nissan LEAF and zero emissions can be found at www.nissanusa.com.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/2/2010)

US August 2010 Auto Sales Fall from Last Year's Cash for Clunkers High  
Washington DC September 2, 2010; The AIADA newsletter reported that last August, Cash for Clunkers was in full swing, contributing to a heightened demand for small, fuel efficient vehicles. This August, in the absence of the federal program, automakers saw an equally dramatic sales decline. International brands that benefited during Clunkers were hit hard. Honda and Toyota were both down 36 percent from August 2009. Nissan (-31 percent), Subaru (-22 percent), Hyundai (-11 percent), and Volkswagen (-8 percent) all saw losses. Toyota sold the most of any international nameplate corporation in August, moving 148,388 vehicles, down from 169,224 in July 2010. General Motors led all U.S. sales with 185,105 units.

"When viewed in context, August's sales numbers are not as bad as they first appear," said AIADA president Cody Lusk. "Cash for Clunkers was a once in a lifetime event, and we can't expect sales to reach that level again, just one year later."

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/2/2010)

Peking To Paris - 10,000 Miles Against The Clock  
London, Sept. 1, 2010: The longest timed challenge for historic rallycars sets out on the third re-enactment of the first-ever rally on 10 September, when 106 vintage and classic rallycars drive out of China's capital, to be flagged off from the Great Wall.

Ahead lie some of the wildest roads on earth, and several days of no roads at all, in the wheel-tracks of Prince Borghese's epic drive of 1907. Mongolia will see over 200 competitors pitching their own tents for ten nights, Dakar-style, over 10,000 miles. Just getting to Mongolia involves a crossing of the Gobi Desert.

Oldest car is the 1907 six-litre Itala, of David and Karen Ayre, similar to the Borghese winner, who are among a dozen in the pre-1925 Pioneer Category, joining 80 entries in the Vintageant section, including ten Bentleys and five Chevrolet Fangio Coupes, and 20 Classics, including such rarities as the Turkish team with their locally made Anadol.

The route will spend 10 days crossing Mongolia, followed by two days in Siberia, before heading south through Kazakstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan for a crossing of northern Iran to Turkey. Once into Greece, the route pounds familiar rally roads from the Acropolis Rally of the 1960s, for a ferry to Italy, arriving in Paris on 16 October - survivors will celebrate with a parade through the streets of Paris to line up in Place Vendome, and a celebration prizegiving dinner.

The event is organised by the Endurance Rally Association. "This has been one of the hardest routes to make happen," said route-manager Kim Bannister this week. "It's been three years of negotiating to gain so much co-operation."

There are a number of Time Trial sections along the way and a team of 30 travelling marshals, timekeepers, results crews, doctors and mobile workshops will endeavour to keep the event together. Four trucks in Mongolia will keep crews fed and watered, while another team of trucks will leap-frog each other with fuel.

"I think this is possibly the hardest organisational challenge we have faced," said Rally Director Philip Young, who is generally credited with having kick-started the historic rally movement with the first international rally in 1988, the Pirelli Classic Marathon.

A number of drivers have their eye on outright victory, including American Garry Staples, a veteran of Baja events in Mexico, who has built an off-road VW Beetle, while former Australian rally champion Gerry Crown in a 1964 Holden can be expected to go well. Alistair Caldwell, former team-manager of the McLaren Grand Prix team (prior to Ron Dennis), is behind the wheel of a fragile 1939 Alfa Romeo 6C, which he says "will be lucky to get out of Mongolia." A total of 26 different nationalities are taking part, thought to be a record for any historic rally.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/2/2010)

2011 Ford Fiesta SEL Review  
SPECIFICATIONS: 2011 Ford Fiesta SEL



Model: 2011 Ford Fiesta SEL

Engine: 1.6-liter DOHC I4

Horsepower/Torque: 120 hp @ 6,350 rpm/112 lb.-ft. @ 5,000 rpm

Transmission: 5-speed manual

Wheelbase: 98.0 in.

Length/Width/Height: 173.6 x 67.8 x 58.0 in.

Tires: P195/50R16

Cargo volume: 12.8/20 (est.) (rear seat up/down)

Fuel economy: 29 mpg city/38 mpg highway/36.3 mpg test

Fuel capacity: 12.0 gal.

Curb weight: 2,758 lbs.

Sticker: $18,505 (includes $675 destination and delivery charge and $1,505 in options)

The Bottom Line: Ford's latest "World Car" is the Fiesta. While it may be on the small side for American Interstates, it is still a very good performer around town and, in a pinch, on highways as well. Fuel economy rivals the hybrids, which is always good.

Ford is resurging, and one of the reasons for this is that its cars are good and make sense. Take the new Fiesta for example. The old Fiesta was a standard squareish hatchback with minimal performance and not-that-great economy. But oh, how the Ford designers and engineers have worked on this new one.

The 2011 Fiesta looks good, has decent performance (for an economy car) and knows how to behave itself, whether on an Interstate or suburban roads.

We had the Fiesta as a vacation car in which we covered more than 1,100 miles. And despite Sync, which I have never been able to master, this is a fine small car.

The 1.6-liter engine "powering" the Fiesta seems small, but it does the job. Power is almost inadequate, but you can use the 5-speed manual transmission to gain the most from it. The engine is buzzy most of the time. But, economy is great at 36.3 mpg overall and more than 38 mpg on the highway. Kinda makes you forget about the noise.

At times, I felt the power was low, especially on Interstates. But then I learned to shift out of fifth and into third or fourth when I wanted to accelerate faster. Actually, cursing along isn't a problem most of the time. It's only when I want to think I'm in a Ford GT that it's a problem.

I liked the gearbox in general. I felt it could have been more precise, but when I shifted I was pretty sure I was going to hit the right gear.

Even under cruise control I was able to maintain the set speed except on tall hills, when the engine would labor.

The Fiesta will cruise all day at the speed limit and above. We found a speedometer error of about 5 mph. But when you need to accelerate, it's usually best to downshift. Staying in fifth just doesn't cut it.

Both my wife and I felt ride quality was decent for a small, light car. The Fiesta is one of the narrowest cars we have driven, coming in at 1.7 inches less than Elantra, 2.2 less than Jetta, 1.2 less than Mazda3 and 5.4 less than Maxima. It is a good four-seater.



We also felt the cargo capacity was huge for the size of the car. At 12.8 cubic feet, the trunk is big for the car, and it's useful. fold down the seat backs and you gain about 8 more cubic feet. The "hole" from front to back isn't total, but that made it practical to use as a stop, keeping interior luggage from migrating to the trunk.

My only complaint with the trunk is that the struts for the hood intrude into the cargo area. This is old technology that Ford can work around for the redesign.

The front seats are comfortable with decent side support. My daughter reported that the back seat was okay, but when I sat back there, my knees were firmly wedged into the back of the front seat.

Overall ride comfort is good. The manual seats can be adjusted for almost anyone, except if you're over 6-3 or so.

I liked the convex mirrors in the outer upper corner of the outside rearview mirrors. They're like an inexpensive version of a blind spot monitor, and gives about an extra lane of view.

I also love Ford's capless fuel filler, which is on the company's entire line for 2011. In addition, the Fiesta had a push-button start/stop and blue lights in the cup holders so you can find them at night.

The Ford Fiesta isn't a Taurus, but it is a solid, inexpensive economy car that delivers what it promises, and a little more.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/2/2010)

Tomtom To Provide Navigation Technology For Sony Xplod  
LONDON – Sept 2, 2010: TomTom and Sony revealed today a collaboration that will bring TomTom's expertise in the field of navigation and services technology to Sony's new Xplod AV Navigation Systems. This device comes fully connected providing unprecedented live knowledge of the road ahead.

"We are delighted that Sony has selected TomTom as their navigation services supplier in Europe", says Giles Shrimpton, Managing Director, TomTom Automotive. "This endorses our position as the leading location and navigation solutions provider. Combining the audio and video know-how of Sony with our navigational expertise has resulted in an excellent product range. Moreover, as the technology incorporates a flexible hardware design based on standard interfaces, it allows for easy updates in the future - a huge advantage in the automotive industry."

The LIVE services include award winning HD Traffic� built to get drivers through traffic quicker than any other traffic service. Drivers can stay ahead with up-to-date speed camera information on both fixed and mobile cameras en route, as well as live weather updates and local Google business address searches.

Along with these LIVE services drivers also get access to IQ Routes and MapShare. Only TomTom uses actual speed data collected from millions of users to accurately calculate the travel time of any given route. It allows for rush hour, traffic lights, and even shopping crowds when calculating journey times. So no matter what time it is, IQ Routes can be relied upon to give an accurate arrival time.

Combined, these services provide drivers with the latest information on the road ahead, ensuring a stress-free, enjoyable drive.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/2/2010)

Volkswagen: Van Mail Delivers News, Exclusive Offers And Competition  
MILTON KEYNES, UNITED KINGDOM – Sept 2, 2010: Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has introduced Van Mail, a new electronic newsletter designed to give owners and potential customers an insight into all the latest news, exclusive offers and competitions from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

Van Mail will be issued four times a year, the first issue launched this week features the chance to win a VIP tour of the Red Bull Racing factory, who have a fleet of Volkswagen vans working hard delivering parts for testing and racing.

A second competition offers the chance to win £5,000 for your business simply by taking a test drive of the latest Crafter, while other information includes details of the great value servicing Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles introduced with fixed prices across the country starting from £199 (excluding VAT), and a summary of the excellent press reviews the new Transporter has received since it launch earlier this year. More exclusive offers and discounts will follow in the next Van Mail due in October.

‘Van Mail is intended to be informative, valuable and rewarding,’ said David George, Head of Marketing, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

‘We already offer award-winning customer service, but want to be able to make our customers feel valued and well informed,’ he continued.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/2/2010)

Ford: FPV Announces Supercharged V8 Engine Program  
SYDNEY – Sept 2, 2010: Ford Performance Vehicles today announced a new range of supercharged V8 engines for its Australian-made performance car range.

To be launched in early October, the new FPV GS and GT model ranges will both be powered by all-new lightweight 5.0 litre supercharged Ford V8 engines producing 315kW and 335kW of power respectively.

Both engine configurations are more powerful, more fuel efficient and cleaner than any engines previously offered by FPV.

Developed locally by Prodrive in a $40 million program, the new FPV engines are based on the ‘Coyote’ Ford V8 first introduced in the American Ford Mustang at the beginning of this year.

“The new supercharged V8 engine program represents FPV's biggest-ever investment in the Australian market, and has been the most extensive and exhaustive development program we’ve ever undertaken,” Prodrive Asia-Pacific Managing Director Bryan Mears said today.

“The outcome is phenomenal … these engines are brilliantly responsive, their performance is sensational, and they will take our next generation of FPV models to a level that’s simply unmatched by anyone else.”

FPV’s first-ever supercharged engine, the new V8 is a sophisticated all-aluminium design with double overhead cams and 32 valves configuration, and is fully EuroIV compliant.

Its lightweight and compact size – the Coyote engine is 47kg lighter than the outgoing 5.4 litre Boss 315kW engine – also offers packaging benefits which enhance the handling performance of FPV’s new GS and GT ranges.

The base of the new FPV V8 engine is imported from America in component form and each one is hand-assembled locally by FPV, utilising extensive Australian-made componentry.

“It’s important to emphasise just how Australian these engines are,” Bryan Mears said.

“Although the basis of the engine is imported, all the components utilised in the supercharged configuration are locally sourced, and the engines are completely hand-made by the team at FPV in Melbourne.”

Heart of the Australian engine specification is a Harrop Engineering-developed supercharger utilising Eaton TVS technology.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/2/2010)

Tata Motors to roll out entry-level JLR models to drive up volumes  
MUMBAI: Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), the luxury car brands owned by Tata Motors, will launch a slew of entry-level cars including a station wagon and a roadster to boost volumes across markets.

The operations of JLR, which Tata Motors bought in 2008 from Ford Motor for $2.3 billion, have been profitable over the past two quarters, the company’s chairman said at its annual general meeting. “JLR’s performance has vindicated my confidence,” said chairman Ratan Tata at the company’s 65th annual general meeting. Tata Motors is looking at integrating platforms with JLR to bring in economies of scale.

Tata Motors is also ramping up commercial vehicle capacity at its Dharwad plant, especially for the Ace, a small truck, which is used as a passenger carrier, and bus models to meet the growing demand in the recent months. The auto maker plans to invest close to `2,880 crore for developing new products for the next three years.

Two years after the launch of the Nano — the cheapest car in the world — Tata Motors plans to launch more variants in the Indian markets which will include, the electric, diesel, a larger engined model and also models aimed at the UK and US markets.

Currently the company has sold close to 50,000 Nanos in the Indian market. Globally, Tata Motors is the 19th largest auto company by sales and the 15th largest commercial vehicle company, said Mr Tata. The company is stepping up its focus on international markets such as Africa, Russia, China and the Middle East for growth, Mr Tata said. “We hope to increase market share in these economies and widen the passenger car and the commercial vehicles range,” he said.

Tata Motors also intends to increase the number of executive directors on the board. This is in line with the arrangement at other companies in the Tata fold where three or four functional heads, who run strategic business units, have positions on the board. At present, the Tata Motors board comprises four non-executive directors, seven independent directors and two executive directors. R Gopalakrishnan, a director of Tata Sons, the group’s holding company, has stepped down as a director of Tata Motors

The maker of Nano cars in March had appointed Carl-Peter Forster, a General Motors veteran, as its CEO. His appointment was ratified by shareholders on Wednesday.

Source : Economic Times (9/2/2010)

Pamper Your 911 With A Complimentary Porsche Health Check  
READING, UNITED KINGDOM – Sept 2, 2010: With over three quarters of all Porsches ever sold still on the road, Porsche is celebrating the tenacity of its most iconic model, the 911, by inviting owners to a Service Clinic1 at their local Porsche Centre on Saturday October 16.

The national Porsche 911 Service Clinic provides owners with a complimentary inspection and the opportunity to accompany the technician and view their car in a state of the art Porsche workshop. Owners can experience first hand the passion and expertise of the technicians devoted to ensuring the cars continue to deliver maximum performance and driving pleasure.

In celebration of the 911 range and for customers to learn more about their model’s heritage and technical highlights, each Porsche Centre will showcase a classic 911 display, provide four wheel alignment demonstrations and invite visitors to enter a prize draw offering the chance to win a detailed 1:18 scale model of the Porsche 901 (1964) from the Porsche Design Driver’s Selection range.

The Porsche 911 Service Clinic follows the highly successful Boxster Service Clinic held earlier in the year, which serviced over 440 Porsche Boxsters around the country in one day

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/2/2010)

Hyundai's Next Generation B-Segment MPV Set For Paris World Premiere  
HIGH WYCOMBE, UNITED KINGDOM – Sept 2, 2010: At this year’s Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris on September 30th, Hyundai will celebrate the world premiere of its new B-segment MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle). To be presented as the Hyundai ix20, a sketch revealed today shows the new model as a striking departure from the boxy ‘minivan’ image typically associated with the segment, adopting a more dynamic, sportier profile in line with Hyundai’s reputation as a modern, progressive automaker.

Designed and developed at Hyundai’s European R&D centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany, the ix20 is the second European car, following the ix35, to adopt Hyundai’s new ‘fluidic sculpture’ design language. The name ix20 reflects the new model’s crossover-like versatility – a vehicle with the ability to simultaneously serve as a functional people-carrier while providing a dynamic, fun-to-drive experience.

Another model making its world premiere at Paris is the new i10. This upgraded version of Hyundai’s popular city car benefits from a comprehensive set of enhancements in terms of design, specification and competiveness – including a new 1.0-litre engine with CO2 emissions of just 99 g/km.

The international motor show will also afford Hyundai the opportunity to showcase the latest developments of its Blue DriveTM eco-focused program. The company is targeting global leadership in environmental technologies, and the new models look set to contribute further to reductions in emissions from new Hyundai vehicles sold in Europe.

Hyundai has extended its display area at this year’s show by 66%, in order to showcase the company’s broad product line-up and new technologies.

More news of Hyundai’s Paris star cars will be published in advance of the show and will be available on the stand. The company’s press conference will take place in at 16:15 (CET) on Thursday September 30th.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/2/2010)

Hyundai i30 CRDi Tames The Wild West  
SYDNEY – Sept 2, 2010: The Hyundai Motor Company Australia backed i30 CRDi has taken on the Quit Targa West 2010 rally to finish second in its class and fourth overall in a category filled with more powerful competitors.

The multi-award winning i30 CRDi turbo diesel competed within the ‘Challenge Modern’ category, up against performance cars such as an Audi RS4, Nissan GTR35s and a Ford Mustang Cobra.

Even with the category speed limited to 130km/h the smaller engine capacity of the i30 put it at a substantial disadvantage against cars with over twice as much power at their disposal. With final results of a second place in the class ahead of the RS4, and an overall fourth place in the Challenge Modern Category the feisty i30 CRDi proved it takes more than power to perform well in the west.

Australia’s most popular and highest selling diesel passenger car was the only diesel in the Quit Targa West 2010 rally and was also the most fuel efficient and economical in the line up. Despite the pressures of competition, the i30 achieved amazing fuel economy, recording an average of 7.1 l/100km over the course of the event.

i30’s quality and reliability meant no major service or repair works were completed during the 3-day event with only standard daily maintenance required.

“As always, the reliability and dependability of the i30 CRDi meant I could concentrate on the demanding course,” said Hyundai’s team driver Razvan Vlad. “The class was very competitive with the other drivers all in fast performance cars capable of much quicker acceleration than us, and they were pushing it.”

The rally took in some of the most picturesque countryside in the Perth region including the infamous Zig Zag stage which was run three times during the event. For the first time the race finished in the CBD with a spectacular stage run along the Swan River Foreshore and providing spectators with an opportunity to really get close to the rally action.

“We really enjoyed this rally. We also tried to put on a good show for the spectators and consistently set top three times in each stage over the entire weekend,” said Vlad.

Hyundai’s 2010 entry was a collaborative initiative between Hyundai Motor Company Australia, supplying the vehicle, and the Western Australian Hyundai Dealer network, which supported the event with technicians and a professional race support team.

“This year the class was very competitive and very fast, however, the i30CRDi again showed it is a performance powerhouse and that fuel efficiency, and reliability are what’s required to take on the wild west,” said Heinz Wiesner, Hyundai’s Regional General Manager.

Hyundai’s i30 CRDi has had strong results in the 2010 rally season with a class win and a Targa Trophy in Targa Tasmania earlier this year, and a string of excellent results throughout the 2010 Australian Rally Championship (ARC) series including consistent class wins at each event it has competed in. The i30 has firmly established itself as a tough and consistent performer.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/2/2010)

The New BMW X3: New Generation Replaces the Previous.  
MULGRAVE, AUSTRALIA – Sept 2, 2010: Production of the new Sports Activity Vehicle commences at BMW Spartanburg plant – After the sale of 614,824 units, the end of production of predecessor model was celebrated the previous day – BMW Group donates BMW X3 xDrive20d as an emergency vehicle.

The BMW Group favoured a smooth transition when carrying out the generation change of the bestseller BMW X3. The end of production of the first generation of the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) was celebrated at the plant of the Austrian production partner Magna Steyr in Graz yesterday. Production of the new BMW X3, which will be launched in Australia in early 2011, will begin today at the BMW Spartanburg plant in the US state of South Carolina. The new BMW X3 is a resolute continuation of the formula for success of the first SAV in its class.

Within the last 7 years, the first-generation BMW X3 has written an extraordinary success story. In Graz alone, 605,498 units of the agile all-rounder came off the assembly line during this period. Together with the vehicles produced within the framework of the CKD (Completely Knocked Down) assembly in Russia, Egypt and Thailand, the total figure adds up to 614,824 units. The last vehicle of the first model generation, a Vermilion red metallic BMW X3 xDrive35d, will remain with the Magna Steyr company, where it will be used in future as an executive car.

A BMW X3 xDrive20d with full emergency vehicle specifications that had left the assembly line shortly before, will be donated by the BMW Group to a non-profit making organisation. For many years, the BMW X3 has proven an ideal emergency vehicle for police and doctors. At the end of its model life, yet another vehicle will now take on this important task in the service of the general public.

As the first and, for some time, the only premium vehicle of its kind, the BMW X3 launched in 2004 and boasting intelligent four-wheel drive BMW xDrive, outstanding handling characteristics and a variable interior, gave reason for spontaneous enthusiasm and a lasting positive response on the international automotive markets. As a result, the concept of establishing benchmarks in the field of driving dynamics within the competitive environment of all-terrain vehicles, which had previously already been successfully pursued in the case of the BMW X5 in a higher segment, was endorsed yet again.

Driving pleasure, premium quality and, in addition, outstanding efficiency helped the BMW X3 become extremely popular and achieve excellent results in independent surveys. Experts have honoured the BMW X3 with several awards for outstanding safety, customer satisfaction, reliability and stable value. These included top rankings in the “Customer Satisfaction Index” (CSI) issued by the J.D. Power market research institute, as well as in the breakdown statistics kept by the Allgemeine Deutsche Automobilclub (ADAC). Twice in succession, the BMW X3 was voted both “Four-Wheel Drive Car of the Year” and “Off Road Vehicle of the Year” respectively by readers of the magazines “Auto Bild Allrad“ and “Off Road”.

The segment established by the first-generation BMW X3 is now also served by other premium vehicle manufacturers. The new BMW X3faces up to intensified competition with consistently optimised qualities in all relevant disciplines. The engines on offer for this Sports Activity Vehicle boast the best performance and, thanks to BMW EfficientDynamics, the most favourable fuel consumption and emission levels as well. The vehicle’s entirely newly developed suspension technology facilitates a clear advantage both in terms of agility and driving comfort. With a loading capacity that can be increased from 550 to 1,600 litres and 40 : 20 : 40 split-folding rear seat backrests, the new BMW X3 offers the largest amount of space and at the same time the highest level of variability in its segment. Moreover, there is a choice of innovative equipment features, driver assistance systems and mobility services by BMW ConnectedDrive that is unique within the competitive environment. For example, the new BMW X3 is the only model in its class to offer the options of a Head-Up Display and Internet access inside the vehicle.

With the model change, the production of the BMW X3 is being relocated to the BMW Spartanburg plant, a facility that has become the expertise centre for BMW X models. So far, the US American location of the BMW Group’s global production network has produced BMW X5 and BMW X6 models. Thanks to substantial extension work and with an investment of around $750 million, the prerequisites for the production of the new BMW X3 and the associated increase in the annual production capacity to around 200,000 vehicles have been created at Spartanburg.

The collaboration between the BMW Group and Magna Steyr also lives on within the framework of the new production structures. In the meantime, production of the MINI Countryman has started in Graz. The fourth model of the brand is not only the first MINI to feature four doors and a large tailgate, but can for the first time also be fitted with four-wheel drive technology. In this way, the Austrian production partner’s expertise in the field of all-terrain vehicles, which has already been demonstrated in the case of the BMW X3, continues to be comprehensively utilised.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/2/2010)

Mahindra & Mahindra to launch passenger vehicle variant  
CHENNAI: Auto major Mahindra and Mahindra would launch a passenger vehicle variant under the Maxximo platform over the next 12 months, a top company official said here today.

The company at its Chakan plant near Pune has already invested close to Rs 300 crore. With these investments the company would introduce a passenger vehicle variant under Maxximo platform, Mahindra and Mahindra Chief Executive (Automotive Division) Rajesh Jejurikar told reporters here.

"We have made investments of Rs 300 crore in our Chakan plant. This will be utilised for ramping up our facility.. That will be sufficient for us.. But we may require to make marginal investments as and when required (for introducing the new variant of the passenger vehicle)," he said.

Declining to elaborate on the variants, he said the company is "currently working" on introducing new vehicles.

The first variant would be introduced in the first 12 months which would be followed by the second variant, he said.

They were looking at ramping up their production facility by end of next month. "Currently it is producing about 2,000 vehicles per month after ramping up it would produce 3,000 units.. we expect that should happen by end of next month".

On their plans of setting up a tractor facility in South India Jejurikar said would be utilised by the "farm division".

"It is primarily for the factor (farm) division.. ", he said.

Rajesh Jejurikar was here to unveil the company's Maxximo mini-truck range in the Tamil Nadu market. "It is one of the biggest market for us.. this contributes about 20 per cent of the total sales (in the country)," he said.

On the launch of Mahindra Gio - the company's first four wheel 0.5 tonne compact truck which the company introduced recently, Mahindra and Mahindra Senior Vice-President Arun Malhotra said it has got a good response.

The company has already launched Mahindra Maxximo in other parts of the country and they have garnered 23 per cent of market share in the mini-truck category. "We hope to grow at 20 per cent this year", he said.

Source : Economic Times (9/2/2010)

Ashok Leyland sales jump 56 pc in August  
NEW DELHI: Hinduja Group flagship firm Ashok Leyland on Thursday reported a 56.35 per cent jump in commercial vehicle sales at 7,480 units in August compared to the same month last year.

The company had sold 4,784 units in the same month last year, Ashok Leyland said in a statement. Domestic sales stood at 6,705 units in August as against 4,233 units in the same month last year, up 58.40 per cent, it added.

Exports increased by 40.65 per cent to 775 units in the month compared to 551 units in the year-ago period.

The company also reported a 59.87 per cent increase in total domestic sales of medium and heavy commercial vehicles at 6,652 units from 4,161 units in the same month last year.

Source : Economic Times (9/2/2010)

Bajaj Auto's August sales up 55 pc at 3,29,364-units  
MUMBAI: Two-wheeler manufacturer, Bajaj Auto said that it has clocked an all-time high monthly sales of 3,29,364 units in August, a 55 per cent jump over the same month last year.

The company's total sales in August 2009 stood at 2,13,072 units.

Bajaj Auto's motor-cycles sales in August witnessed a 59 per cent increase at 2,98,176 units, compared to 1,82,441 units in the year ago-period, it said.

The company has sold the highest number of its Pulsar and Discover bikes last month, it added.

The company's three-wheeler sales in August 2010, stood at 40,188 units, up 34 per cent over 30,021 units of the same month in 2009.

Bajaj Auto said exports of both its two-and-three-wheelers during the month rose 31 per cent at 98,578 units, as against 75,164 units in the same month in 2009.

Source : Economic Times (9/2/2010)

Record Maruti sales drive August growth  
NEW DELHI: Indian carmakers maintained their high-speed sales growth in August despite heavy rains and water logging in several parts of the country, led by market leader Maruti Suzuki who reported its highest monthly sales ever.

Buoyed by availability of easy financing and several sleek models to choose from in a booming economy growing at a rate of 8.8%, Indian consumers are only expected to drive up car sales in the coming festival months.

Maruti Suzuki led the charge by selling close to 1.05 lakh vehicles including exports in August, a gain of 24% year-on-year, while Tata Motors reported a more impressive 45% jump in car sales at more than 25,000 units on the back of incremental sales of world’s cheapest car, the Nano.

Hyundai Motor India, the second-largest carmaker, too posted a 17% increase in domestic sales at 28,601 cars.

“Auto sales could have been higher but for the widespread rains across the country,” said Mahantesh Sabrad, auto analyst with Mumbai-based Fortune Financials.

He added that sales are expected to improve in the upcoming festive season.

The Indian passenger car market grew 34% in the April-July period, helped by the robust economy and flexible financial options. The growth rate is expected to stay high.

The Indian car market growth rate is matched only by China, the world's biggest auto market, which on Wednesday reported almost 60% jump in passenger car sales in August. While auto sales soared in Asian countries including Japan, sales in France and Spain fell as scrapping bonuses ran out.

In India, meanwhile, carmakers are expanding capacities as the car market is expected to double in the next five years to annual sales of close to 5 million cars with higher disposable incomes and growing urbanization pushing demand for newer cars rapidly.

Automakers are positive of coming months with huge incremental demand coming from secondary markets.

“We expect the sales to be even stronger in the coming months with demand pitching in from the traditionally buoyant festive season,” Hyundai sales director (Marketing and Sales) Arvind Saxena said. He said the Korean company, which reported a fall in August exports, is facing constraints in production due to short supply of components.

Maruti Suzuki was once again led by its army of small cars — Alto, WagonR, Estilo, Swift, A-Star and Ritz — that accounted for two out of every three Maruti cars sold in August. This segment grew 26% to 65,953 units in the month. Besides the Nano, which sold 8,103 units in August, Tata Motors reported major gain in the Indigo sedan family with 151% growth at 6,678 units.

Demand from the rural markets also remained positive with utility vehicle major Mahindra & Mahindra’s sales jumping 27% to 27,275 units.

Source : Economic Times (9/2/2010)

Dodge Brand Product Onslaught Begins: Introducing the All-New 2011 Dodge Durango, the Performance SUV With a Soul  
AUBURN HILLS, MI - September 2, 2010: Buckle in and hold tight. Dodge is jumping back into the sport utility (SUV) segment with the 2011 Dodge Durango, a three-row vehicle spacious enough to carry the entire crew and performance-tuned to thrill anyone who truly loves to drive. Durango will lead the Dodge brand's new product onslaught for 2011.

From its sleek exterior design to its modern, spacious interior, and intelligent, fuel-efficient and powerful powertrain options, the 2011 Dodge Durango is all-new from the inside out. And the changes are more than skin deep. The Durango's stiffened unibody structure is engineered with the driving enthusiast in mind. The end result is a vehicle that delivers premium driving performance combined with SUV capability and crossover versatility.

The all-new Durango features two engine options: the standard fuel-efficient 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine and the available 5.7-liter HEMI engine with fuel-saving, Multi-displacement system (MDS) four-cylinder mode. Both engines feature variable-valve timing (VVT) and are available with all-wheel drive. In addition to great efficiency, the engines provide exceptional V-6 and V-8 towing capability with standard trailer sway control (V-8 - 7,400 lbs. and Best-in-class V-6 - 6,200 lbs.). When equipped with the HEMI® V-8, the all-new Durango can tow more weight than a 24-foot boat and trailer.

The Durango's all-new interior is a surprise owners always deserved but never expected. Created by the same interior design studio that designed the much-lauded interior in the Ram trucks and the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Durango's luxurious interior materials and thoughtful touches will make owners and their crews want to jump in, hunker down and thoroughly enjoy even the longest drive. Everywhere they touch, Durango passengers will feel materials that are refined and soft to the touch. Not only is it a pleasure to behold, it is extremely functional and gives owners a first-class experience, regardless of the trim level. Durango's interior is also extremely comfortable for all three rows of passengers, and there's a surprising amount of interior flexibility. With 22 different seating configurations, there's plenty of room to store and move plenty of people and their gear.

The all-new 2011 Dodge Durango also offers consumers 45 safety and security features, including standard front seat-mounted side air bags and standard side-curtain air bags that cover passengers in all three rows, as well as all-new standard active head restraints. Electronic Stability Control also is standard. Other available safety and security technologies include Blind-spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path detection, Forward Collision Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control and Keyless Enter-n' Go.

The best part is, consumers will get all of the all-new Durango's capability, functionality and flexibility and still get excellent fuel efficiency. In fact, drivers can go more than 500 miles, that's the distance from San Diego to San Francisco or from Detroit to New York City, without having to stop for fuel.

Built at the Jefferson North Assembly Plant in Detroit, Mich., the new 2011 Dodge Durango arrives in showrooms in the fourth quarter of 2010.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/2/2010)

The Hashemite Kingdom Of Jordan And Nissan Motor Company Seal Zero-Emission Mobility Partnership  
AMMAN, JORDAN ¨C Sept 2, 2010: The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to promote zero-emission mobility in the Kingdom, heralding the first partnership of its kind in the Arab region.

The MoU was signed by His Excellency Hazem Malhas, Minister of Environment, and Nissan¡¯s Corporate Vice President Gilles Normand at a formal ceremony, in the presence of His Excellency Samir Rifai, the Prime Minister of Jordan, and several other Ministers of the cabinet. Also in attendance was His Excellency Tetsuo Shioguchi, the Ambassador of Japan to Jordan.

Under the MOU, Jordan and Nissan will undertake to promote electric vehicles as a sustainable mobility solution, which will help Jordan address the key issues of energy independence, CO2 emissions and environmental conservation.

According to H.E. Hazem Malhas, Minister of Environment: ¡°I firmly believe we have an obligation to our future generations to take the necessary actions towards a greener and better world. The introduction of electric cars offers many advantages, not only for the environment, but also from an economic, social and national security perspective.

¡°In taking this bold and visionary step, Jordan will position itself as a leader in zero emission mobility within the Arab region.

¡°For a country that enjoys 330 days of sun per year, such technology will provide an excellent alternative to the conventional automobiles,¡± continued H.E.

According to Gilles Normand, Nissan¡¯s Corporate Vice President: ¡°Nissan applauds the Kingdom of Jordan for its vision and strong commitment to sustainable mobility. We are pleased that Jordan and its peoples share in our vision to make zero emission mobility a reality.¡±

¡°With the Nissan LEAF, we have an electric car with the real technology to meet the needs and challenges of the 21st century mobility. It offers 160 kilometers of driving autonomy and superb handling without having to sacrifice on comfort and convenience of modern lifestyles,¡± added Normand.

The MOU will focus on ensuring all the necessary conditions for electric vehicle mass market are in place, particularly government incentives, charging infrastructure and public education. Jordan will also consider to purchase up to 300 units of Nissan LEAFs for its public sector. The Government is also working to finalize it electric vehicle standards.

A Working Group will commence to study the implementation of an Electric Vehicle Pilot Program, potentially within the Greater Amman Municipality and other stakeholders. Taking a holistic approach to zero emission, the partners will also explore renewable energy for electric vehicle charging using solar energy, the use of second-life batteries, as well as other new mobility concepts such as car-sharing.

The zero emission partnership marks another milestone in the long history of Japan and Jordan¡¯s strong bi-lateral relations.

Nissan LEAF, is the world¡¯s first affordable, 100£¥ electric, zero-emission vehicle. The vehicle¡¯s motor produces up to 80 kW of power and 280Nm of torque, enough for a maximum speed of 140 km/h. The electric motor is powered by a laminated lithium-ion battery with a power output of more than 90 kW.

A full charge delivers a range of 160 km (US LA4 mode) which will satisfy the daily driving demands of most customers. Global research indicates that the average daily mileage for 80 percent of the world's population is under 100 km.

Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/2/2010)

Hyundai Hope on Wheels Launches New TV Campaign to Fight Cancer in Kids  
FOUNTAIN VALLEY, CA - September 2, 2010: Hyundai Hope on Wheels, a partnership of Hyundai dealers across the U.S. and Hyundai Motor America, today marked the beginning of National Childhood Cancer Awareness month with a press conference to launch a new nationwide initiative to support the fight against childhood cancer and announce the donation of $6.8 million in “Hope Grants.” Hyundai executives, leading pediatric oncologists, families with children impacted by cancer, Hyundai dealers and elected officials gathered at the National Press Club in Washington D.C. to unveil the list of 68 hospitals and non-profit organizations that will each receive a $100,000 Hope Grant. The grants will be used to fund direct research projects and support meaningful initiatives undertaken by doctors, nurses, social workers, child life specialists and other professionals who work with children with cancer. Source : http://www.theautochannel.com (9/2/2010)