Color Daily Wheels

Insurance Industry Picks Safest Cars of 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 23:51:00 +0000

Ford, Subaru, Volkswagen receive most awards in annual insurance industry tests for car safety. "The absence of Toyota among the top safety picks is a bit of a surprise. They had 11 of these for 2009 and none this year."

The private Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has released its list for what it considers the safest cars of 2010; 19 passenger cars and eight sport utility vehicles received top honors. Ford, Subaru and Volkswagen lead the pack. Fewer cars made the list this year, largely because the insurance group has added a new test to determine overall car safety.

For safety conscious car buyers, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's annual list of the safest new vehicles provides a few surprises.
U.S. automaker Ford and its Volvo unit received the most with six awards -- followed by Subaru and Volkswagen with five safety awards each.
Another big winner was Chrysler.
"Chrysler this year has four top safety picks," said Insurance Institute President Adrian Lund.Lund says in all - 27 cars and sport utility vehicles received top safety awards for 2010 models. Other winners included Honda and G.M. But in a surprise twist this year, Toyota, the world's largest automaker, came up empty.

"The absence of Toyota among the top safety picks is a bit of a surprise," Lund said. "They had 11 of these for 2009 and none this year."

Part of the reason, is that apart from the obligatory front end crash tests, side impacts, and rear-end collisions, this year, car roofs also had to be strong enough to withstand rollovers.

The Volkswagen held up well. But many new vehicles failed.

"Well, a lot of vehicles missed this list because of the new roof strength rating," Lund said. "Their roofs aren't quite strong enough to get a good rating in our test."

To make the list, new vehicles must also come equipped with electronic stability control, or ESC, which helps drivers maintain control in a skid.

"It's very interesting to see manufacturers build safer and safer cars. And the real winner is the consumer," said Karl Brauer, editor for online car advisor Edmunds.com..
The Insurance Institute attributes the additional tests for the smaller number of awards issued this year. Last year, more than 90 vehicles received the coveted safety awards.

FORD POSTS Q3 2009 NET INCOME OF $1 BILLION

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 14:02:00 +0000

DEARBORN, Mich., Oct., 1, 2009 – Ford, Lincoln and Mercury third quarter sales were 5 percent higher than a year ago in the U.S., making Ford the only full-line manufacturer to report a sales increase in the period.
In September, Ford sales were 6 percent lower than a year ago. This followed a 2 percent increase in July and a 17 percent increase in August, marking the first time in four years that Ford is reporting a quarterly sales increase.
Ford estimates it gained over 2 points of market share versus last year in September and the third quarter. September marked the 11th time in the last 12 months Ford has gained retail market share.
“Our balanced new lineup of high-quality, fuel-efficient products helped us navigate through an exceptional period in industry sales,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “With its volatile sales peaks and valleys and dramatic segment shifts, the third quarter was a great test of our One Ford Plan – building a range of vehicles from small cars to hard-working trucks.”
Ford’s third quarter market share gains were paced by the Ford Focus small car, Ford Fusion mid-size car, Ford Escape small utility and Ford F-Series trucks. Internal and external studies continue to show a positive trend in favorable consumer opinion about Ford, and a growing number of consumers are considering the purchase of a Ford vehicle.
Source: Ford Motor Company

Chrysler decides to accept responsibilty for pre-bankruptcy buyers

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 22:26:00 +0000

Image via Wikipedia

When Chrysler went through Chapter 11 bankruptcy earlier this year the federal bankruptcy court granted Chrysler's request to prevent current owners from suing the new company if they were injured by a safety defect in the future. Chrysler’s argument was that it was unfair to burden the new company with suits and the costs resulting from safety defects produced by the old Chrysler.

The New York Times is reporting that "Chrysler has had a change of heart. It will accept responsibility if consumers who bought Jeeps, Chryslers or Dodge vehicles prior to its bankruptcy filing are injured by safety defects."

2010 Ford Mustang: Have It Your Way

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 14:46:00 +0000

Image by digicla via Flickr

Color Daily Extra

DEARBORN, Mich., Aug 24, 2009 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/The 2010Ford Mustang - America's favorite muscle car for 45 years straight - is ready to be customized. In fact, as one of the most customized cars ever, Ford is making it easier forpony car lovers to create the virtual Mustang of their dreams. With never-before-used digital technologies, Ford has created a customizer site within the car's microsite at www.fordvehicles.com/the2010mustang The site's design is meant to reflect what the Ford Mustang is all about: a classic design and a hard attitude, coming together to create a revolutionary automobile. One week after launch, almost 52,000 cars have been built with more than 16,000 of those saved into the site gallery. And more than 30 forums and blogs are sharing their own creations - all without a single dime put toward advertising.
Please click headline to continue

'The Goods' set to irritate car dealers

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 23:46:00 +0000

Image by Getty Images via Daylife

AutoWeek Magazine

Stephen Cole Smith reviews the movie, The Goods in AutoWeek Magazine. Smith says "Auto dealers take a beating--again--in The Goods: Live Hard, Sell Hard.... Whether they will be outraged or merely annoyed will depend on their sense of humor.

You've probably seen the commercials: “Blind man, I don't know how you found your way onto this lot, but you aren't leaving without a car!”

Actually, that clip didn't make it into the final edit, possibly as the lone nod here to political correctness."

Please click headline to read more.

Chevrolet Volt Expects 230 mpg in City Driving

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 01:25:00 +0000

First mass-produced vehicle to claim more than 100 mpg composite fuel economy. Plugging in daily is key to high-mileage performance
WARREN, Mich. - The Chevrolet Volt extended-range electric vehicle is expected to achieve city fuel economy of at least 230 miles per gallon, based on development testing using a draft EPA federal fuel economy methodology for labeling for plug-in electric vehicles.
The Volt, which is scheduled to start production in late 2010 as a 2011 model, is expected to travel up to 40 miles on electricity from a single battery charge and be able to extend its overall range to more than 300 miles with its flex fuel-powered engine-generator.

"From the data we've seen, many Chevy Volt drivers may be able to be in pure electric mode on a daily basis without having to use any gas," said GM Chief Executive Officer Fritz Henderson. "EPA labels are a yardstick for customers to compare the fuel efficiency of vehicles. So, a vehicle like the Volt that achieves a composite triple-digit fuel economy is a game-changer."
According to U.S. Department of Transportation data, nearly eight of 10 Americans commute fewer than 40 miles a day http://tinyurl.com/U-S-DOTStudy .
"The key to high-mileage performance is for a Volt driver to plug into the electric grid at least once each day," Henderson said.
Volt drivers' actual gas-free mileage will vary depending on how far they travel and other factors, such as how much cargo or how many passengers they carry and how much the air conditioner or other accessories are used. Based on the results of unofficial development testing of pre-production prototypes, the Volt has achieved 40 miles of electric-only, petroleum-free driving in both EPA city and highway test cycles.

Under the new methodology being developed, EPA weights plug-in electric vehicles as traveling more city miles than highway miles on only electricity. The EPA methodology uses kilowatt hours per 100 miles traveled to define the electrical efficiency of plug-ins. Applying EPA's methodology, GM expects the Volt to consume as little as 25 kilowatt hours per 100 miles in city driving. At the U.S. average cost of electricity (approximately 11 cents per kWh), a typical Volt driver would pay about $2.75 for electricity to travel 100 miles, or less than 3 cents per mile.

2009 Tire Shipments Revised to Drop Sixteen Percent

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 21:37:00 +0000

"Sharper Decline In Original Equipment Tires Cited"

WASHINGTON, PRNewswire-USNewswire -- Tire shipments are projected to drop by approximately 16 percent in 2009 mainly as a result of a nearly 45 percent decline in Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) passenger tires and almost 43 percent drop in OEM Commercial truck tires, according to the Rubber Manufacturers Association.

Total 2009 tire shipments are projected to decline approximately 45 million units to 237 million units. This level is approximately 84 million units less than the peak of 321 million units in 2000. The decrease in tire shipments reflects the recent struggles of automotive manufacturers, low consumer confidence, high unemployment, and depressed home values.

eBay Motors and General Motors Team up to Sell New Vehicles Online

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 17:25:00 +0000

Shoppers now have online access to the new car showroom and can ask questions, negotiate price and make buying arrangements online from participating dealers

Image via Wikipedia

SAN JOSE, Calif. and DETROIT, Mich. August 10, 2009 - In a move to help simplify the car-shopping process, eBay Motors and General Motors Company today announced the launch of a first-of-its-kind promotion that enables consumers to 'click and buy' new cars, crossovers and trucks online from participating California Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Pontiac dealers at outstanding values. The new car shopping website - gm.ebay.com - will be available to consumers from August 11 through September 8, 2009.

Consumers will be able to browse hundreds of California dealer online showrooms, ask questions, negotiate prices, and arrange financing and payment to purchase a new 2008, 2009 or select 2010 car, crossover or truck online. With more than 225 GM dealers in California participating, shoppers can at any given time expect to see a wide selection of up to 20,000 new GM vehicles at very competitive prices. Vehicles will be offered through eBay Motors' traditional formats such as "Buy It Now" (where shoppers agree to pay the advertised price) and eBay's innovative "Best Offer" option (where buyers indicate the price they are willing to pay and can negotiate online with the dealer for the vehicle).
The site also incorporates features that will allow consumers to compare pricing across models or participating dealerships, get tips and advice with a Buyer Checklist, and determine the value of their trade-in or whether their current vehicle may also qualify for government funded 'Cash For Clunkers' incentives.
"Together with eBay Motors, GM and our dealers are reinventing the car-buying experience for our California customers," said Mark LaNeve, GM vice president of U.S. sales. "As the dealer showroom expands from the parking lot to the laptop, this makes it easier for a customer to browse available new-car inventory, make an offer, buy it now, or send a message asking for more information from a dealer - all at the customer's convenience."
Complete program details including participating GM dealer inventory available through individual GM brand websites that can be found at gm.ebay.com, chevrolet.ebay.com, buick.ebay.com, gmc.ebay.com, and pontiac.ebay.com.

Cash For Clunkers Program Expanded; Carfax Reports Help Consumers Prove Vehicle Eligibility

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 19:17:00 +0000

Carfax Reports Help Consumers Prove Vehicle Eligibility

CENTREVILLE, Va., July 31 /PRNewswire/ -- The federal government has made it easy for car buyers to help prove their current vehicle is eligible for trade-in under the Cash for Clunkers program. According to rules published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a Carfax Vehicle History Report and current registration document satisfies the proof of ownership requirement.
Consumers should bring the Carfax Report, registration and any other required documents with them to the dealership. To obtain a Carfax Vehicle History Report, visit http://www.carfax.com/

Ford introduces 2010 Taurus

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 18:37:00 +0000

Image by Getty Images via Daylife

ASHEVILLE, N.C., PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Ford Taurus - the car that changed America's view of sedans - is all-new for 2010, with an expressive design, impeccable driving dynamics, class-leading technologies and unsurpassed value.

"This new sedan completely redefines expectations of what Taurus stands for - and what Ford is capable of delivering - quality, fuel-efficient vehicles featuring the latest technologies and head-turning design," said Mark Fields, president of The Americas.
Available this summer, the 2010 Taurus will start at $25,995 - the same as the 2009 model - but with more class-leading features, new technologies and craftsmanship that rivals premium-priced sedans. Taurus available technologies - 10 of which cannot be found on any other cars in its segment - deliver on consumer needs and wants by enhancing the driving experience.

Click headline to read more

Cadillac unleashes hyper expensive Escalade Platinum hybrid

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 00:11:00 +0000

DETROIT – Press Release - Cadillac has launched the 2009 Escalade Platinum Hybrid, the most technically advanced large luxury SUV yet, blending the exclusive features of the Platinum model with the fuel-saving powertrain of the Escalade Hybrid. It delivers 20 mpg in city driving – a 50-percent city mileage improvement over non-hybrid models.

"This is the ultimate Escalade, combining the luxury features of the Platinum with the world's first hybrid on a large luxury SUV," said Mark McNabb, North America vice president, Cadillac/Premium Channel. "Along with the upcoming CTS Sport Wagon and SRX crossover, the Escalade Platinum Hybrid represents an opportunity for the changing priorities of luxury consumers who want dramatic design and technology combined with fuel efficiency and functionality."

The Escalade's two-mode hybrid system allows it to return exceptional fuel economy, while delivering the capabilities of a true luxury SUV. The limited-edition Escalade Platinum model includes other advanced technologies, such as light-emitting diode (LED) headlamps and Cadillac's advanced Magnetic Ride Control system.

Escalade Platinum Hybrid is available in 2WD and 4WD configurations. It delivers up to 5,800 pounds (2,631 kg) of usable towing capacity on 2WD models and 5,600 pounds (2,540 kg) on 4WD models.

GM's patented two-mode hybrid technology

GM's patented two-mode hybrid system consists of an advanced electrically variable transmission (EVT) and 300-volt nickel-metal hydride Energy Storage System (ESS). These systems work in concert with the standard 6.0L V-8 Gen IV gasoline engine with Active Fuel Management (AFM) and late-intake valve closing (LIVC) technology.

The key to Escalade's two-mode hybrid system is that the electric power used to propel the vehicle is generated by the hybrid system itself. When the brakes are applied or the vehicle is coasting, the electric motors within the hybrid system create electricity that is stored in the 300-volt battery. This stored energy is used to move the vehicle and the regenerative braking cycle is renewed.

Providing power to the hybrid's electrically variable transmission's (EVT) two electric motors is a 300-volt nickel-metal hydride Energy Storage System (ESS). This battery pack is located under the second-row seat, where it takes up virtually no additional space and does not interfere with second- or third-row ingress/egress.

Additional features of the hybrid powertrain and supporting systems include:
* Fully blended regenerative braking to capture energy that would otherwise be lost during vehicle deceleration
* A 6.0L V-8 engine with Active Fuel Management and late intake valve closing (Atkinson-cycle combustion process) for reduced pumping losses and better overall fuel economy. It is rated at 332 horsepower (248 kW) and 367 lb.-ft. of torque (498 Nm) and runs on regular unleaded fuel
* Auto Stop mode. Once the vehicle reaches 0 mph, the gasoline engine automatically shuts down, leaving the engine off and allowing the vehicle to move only under electric power, such as during city driving or heavy stop-and-go traffic
* An exhaust system and resonator specially tuned for the 6.0L LIVC engine's Active Fuel Management operation. It ensures comfortable interior acoustics and a pleasant exhaust note during both V-4 and V-8 operation
* An electrically driven, 300-volt air conditioning compressor reduces vibration and allows the HVAC system to cool the passenger compartment even when the gasoline engine is shut off. It includes the standard tri-zone climate system
* An electrically driven, 42-volt variable-assist power steering system reduces vibration and provides up to a 0.5-mpg fuel economy improvement by reducing parasitic losses common in belt-driven hydraulic systems
* The Energy Storage System cooling system's internal fan is tuned to be quiet at low vehicle speeds, when the fan could more easily be heard by the occupants

The Escalade Platinum Hybrid's battery pack durability and reliability are maintained via optimized charge and discharge cycles, as well as a dedicated cooling system that draws air from the passenger compartment. As part of the vehicle's emission control system, the energy storage system is warranted for eight years/100,000 miles.

Exclusive package of luxury, style and technology
In the new Escalade Platinum Hybrid, the hybrid system's efficiency is complemented by an exclusive package of luxury, style and technology, including:
* A distinctive front fascia and grille patterned after Cadillac's acclaimed CTS sport sedan
* Unique 22-inch wheels
* Magnetic Ride Control technology
* LED headlamps
* Exclusive interior appointments with Aniline leather
* DVD entertainment system with screens integrated in front-seat headrests

Inside the Escalade Platinum is the latest example of Cadillac's 21st-century return to handcrafted luxury details. The instrument panel, center storage console and door trim are wrapped and stitched by hand. They feature decorative French seams that convey an elegantly tailored look and feel. Materials include rich leather on the instrument panel, with unique wood inlays and aluminum trim.
Aniline leather is unique to the Escalade Platinum and is used to trim the first- and second-row seats. Contrasting-color stitching is used on the French seams for a distinctive, luxurious appearance and the seatbacks feature embroidered Cadillac wreath and crest insignias. The leather-covered seats are comfortable and convenient, with the industry-exclusive power fold-and-tumble second-row seat feature that eases access to the third-row seat.
Additional standard interior features include Platinum-specific door sills and floor mats; a heated steering wheel; and heated and cooled cupholders and a power liftgate that opens and closes with the touch of a button. Also, the DVD entertainment system adds screens integrated into each front-seat headrest, in addition to the existing roof-mounted screen.
Each front-row headrest screen has its own driver and input controls. The headrest units can be operated independently or in tandem. This system enables passengers in different seats to watch or listen to different entertainment choices. Also including is the acclaimed Bose 5.1 Digital Surround system, as well as the eight-inch touch screen for DVD-based navigation and control of the DVD, CD, MP3 and XM Satellite Radio entertainment.

Ford Looks Forward to 45th Anniversary of Mustang, Takes Nostalgic Look Back at American Icon

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 00:25:00 +0000

Image via Wikipedia

A number of pony cars have galloped in and out of the American automotive scene throughout the past four and a half decades, but none have enjoyed the lasting appeal of Mustang. And none have inspired the same degree of passion among car owners.
On Friday, April 17, 2009, Ford and the Mustang Club of America will commemorate the 45th anniversary of an American icon - the Ford Mustang - with a four-day celebration in Birmingham, Ala.
During the four weeks leading up to the Mustang's 45th anniversary, Ford will take a nostalgic look back at five historic generations of its longest-running nameplate, beginning with the early years, 1964 to 1974.

The First Generation of the Ford Mustang
Flash back to the spring of 1964. The mood of the country is still sullen, following the 1963 assassination of John F. Kennedy. Lyndon B. Johnson is leading the nation forward as president of the United States. "Beatlemania" is sweeping the country, with hits like "I Want to Hold Your Hand" and "Can't Buy Me Love" at the top of the Billboard charts. The price of gas is 30 cents a gallon, and it costs 5 cents to buy a postage stamp. "The Beverly Hillbillies," "Bonanza" and the "Dick Van Dyke Show" are among the most popular shows on television, and "From Russia with Love," starring Sean Connery as James Bond, is playing at U.S. theaters.
On April 17, 1964, the Ford Mustang, with its long hood, short rear deck and sporty features, caused a sensation when it was introduced to the public at the New York World's Fair in Flushing Meadows, Queens.
"When the Mustang was unveiled, the reaction was so positive that there was no doubt it was going to be a success," recalls Joe Oros, chief designer of Ford's original pony car - dubbed the 1964 1/2 because it was launched at an unusual halfway point in the year.
Don Frey, product planning manager for the original Ford Mustang, says he knew the car was going to be a hit months earlier when the design team gave Ford employees a sneak peek at one of the prototypes.
"We built the first prototype in an experimental garage, and employees flooded the place to see it," he said. "Their reaction was spectacular, and it was very revealing to us. We knew the car was going to be roaring success from the start."
And what a success it was.
The 1964 1/2 Mustang debuted at a price of $2,368 - a bargain even in 1964. Ford expected annual sales of about 100,000 units. But 22,000 Mustang orders were taken on the first day, and sales reached an astounding 417,000 in the car's first 12 months on the market. Within two years, Mustang sales reached one million.
Frey says he believes the car had such dramatic appeal because the styling was very unusual for its day.
"The design was very European, particularly the front end," he said. "There was no other car like it in North America at that time."
Another facet of Mustang's appeal was that it could be any vehicle the customer wanted it to be. The original Mustangs were available in three body styles - convertible, hardtop or fastback - with the most extensive list of options Detroit had ever offered. The Ford Mustang could be an economical "base" car, a macho high-performance car or a luxury car.
"Mustang was designed to be designed by you," one of the original print ads declared. And it was true. Everyone who owned a Mustang believed no one else had a vehicle like theirs, and the vehicle had broad appeal.
"We were told to design a car that the ladies would love that the men would love just as much, and that's exactly what we did," said Oros.
Marketing studies conducted at the time showed that women bought as many Mustangs as men.
"They loved the styling, and the car was very affordable," said Frey. "Women bought it by the thousands."
Frey, now 86, is the proud owner of one of the original Mustangs - built in June of 1964. It's a red hard top with a white interior, and he keeps it parked in his home garage.
"I have a driver who comes by, and we take it out," he said. "To this day, people stop us and ask if it's an original Mustang."
At age 92, Oros says he's still as passionate about the Mustang as he was 45 years ago.
"He wants me to stop in the middle of the freeway whenever he sees a Mustang, and I tell him that we can't do that," said Oros' driver and caregiver Violeta Orlanda. "When we do stop somewhere, he searches the parking lot to find the Mustangs, and he insists on checking them all out in detail from front to back."
Oros says his fascination and fondness for the pony car he helped create will never end.
"It makes me feel proud every time I see one," explained Oros. "After all of these years, Mustang has never lost its luster."
Frey is equally as proud.
"We created an icon," he said. "And I had a hand in it."
Web site: http://www.ford.com/
Dearborn, Mich., March 18 /PRNewswire

A World of New Cars: the New York Auto Show

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 23:53:00 +0000

For over a century, the New York International Automobile Show has ignited the passion and stirred the souls of car lovers with its mix of futuristic concept cars and all-new vehicles, and 2009 is no exception. The Show has already received press conference requests from more than twenty automakers wishing to unveil 33 new vehicles to the media during this year's press preview on April 8 and 9. This year's lineup of world and North American debuts will come from companies such as Acura, Bentley, BMW, Chrysler, Ford, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Jeep, Kia, Land Rover, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Porsche, Saleen, Scion, Subaru, Volkswagen, and Volvo.
"The tremendous number of new vehicle launches and the overwhelmingly positive feedback that we've had from all the automakers taking space at this year's Show is very encouraging. It is not only testimony to the global importance of North America's oldest auto show as one the most effective marketing opportunities for exhibitors, but the fact that we are at the heart of the nation's largest DMA for most automobile brands," said Mark Schienberg, president of the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association, which owns and operates NYIAS.
"We know that the majority of visitors come to make car buying decisions and that auto shows are the only place that they can really compare and research every new vehicle on their own without interruption or pressure to buy," Schienberg added.
There is also no better place to explain new technology or safety equipment
"I know that during the 10-days of the Show, we will see hundreds of thousands of people comparing models, folding seats down, checking trunk space and looking under the hood of their next new car," said show chairman John LaSorsa. "In our exit surveys, a majority of those who have previously attended the New York Auto Show say the show has influenced a vehicle purchase they've made."
NEW YORK, March 18 /PRNewswire

Controversial designer Chris Bangle leaves BMW

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 23:54:00 +0000

Image via Wikipedia

AutoWeek Magazine

One of the most controversial designers in recent memory, Chris Bangle, is leaving BMW this month to pursue interests outside of the car business.

Obama's limousine has come a long way

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 15:38:00 +0000

Chicago Tribune

Franklin Roosevelt frequently traveled in an open touring car nicknamed the 'Sunshine Special.' Barack Obama's new limo is more like a hardened missile silo on wheels.

Can the new Taurus save Ford, again?

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 14:12:00 +0000

Los Angeles Times

The sedan once redefined the automaker and claimed the top-selling spot year after year. Now it's back, redesigned and aiming to do the same.

New Lexus RX is better than ever

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 00:07:00 +0000

AutoWeek

The Lexus RX makeover for 2009 is no mere facelift. It looks similar to the outgoing model, but there's much more going on. It is bigger and wider, increasing interior volume to benefit shoulders, knees, hips and heads.

Bush leaves CAFE decision for Obama

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 23:13:00 +0000

AutoWeek Magazine

The Bush administration has decided to punt its promised decision on new fuel economy standards to the Obama administration.

For December, automobile sales dropped 35%

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 16:36:00 +0000

New York Times

The historic collapse of the new-car market dragged on in December, raising questions of whether the auto industry will ever again have sales levels that it took for granted just a few years ago.

All comments are moderated

Auto sales for '08 may have plunged 3M vehicles

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 02:26:00 +0000

USA TODAY.com

Auto sales likely dropped a breathtaking 3 million vehicles in 2008, the largest decline since 1974, said Ford Motor's head of sales analysis Friday.

Ford Fusion Smokes Camry Hybrid on Fuel Economy

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 19:15:00 +0000

Business Week

The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid scored a sizable improvement in fuel economy over the Toyota Camry hybrid. The Fusion, on sale in March, has been certified at 41 city/36 highway, compared with 33/34 for the Camry.

Chevy builds car without power windows and door locks

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 00:49:00 +0000

New York Times

You cannot buy a base Cobalt XFE (Xtra Fuel Economy) LS model with power windows and locks. Perhaps this is a sign of our austere times. In 2006, the American International Automobile Dealers Association predicted that buyer expectations would result in the total demise of the hand-cranked car window. They were wrong.

Gas Misers in Disguise

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 14:59:00 +0000

New York Times

The unlikely dozen: The New York Times has compiled a list of fuel-saving models that are compelling for reasons that go beyond fuel economy.

Deaths of Motorcyclists on the Rise

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 03:34:00 +0000

New York Times

The number of motorcyclist deaths jumped in 2007, accounting for nearly one in eight motor vehicle deaths, government safety officials said on Thursday.

Lightning GT: Electric Super Car

noreply@blogger.com (Color Daily) — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 14:11:00 +0000

MSN Autos

The Lightning GT uses four hub-mounted electric motors, providing direct drive to the wheels. Combined with just 30 battery packs, these deliver the electric equivalent of "700 horsepower+" and each motor can be individually controlled.