RANGER MAX SHOW TRUCK DELIVERS MAXIMUM IMPACT, MAXIMUM VERSATILITY AND MAXIMUM STYLE

Renowned for its genuine toughness and strength, the Ford Ranger takes a confident step forward with the debut of the high-impact Ranger Max show truck at the Thailand Motor Expo.
Ranger Max pushes everyone's expectations of Ranger to the max. Visually bold and muscular, it takes to the stage at the Ford stand with confidence, sophistication and craftsmanship. No doubt the Ranger Max extends Ranger's reputation as the best all-around compact truck on the market.
"We know Ranger is tough and durable, and Ranger Max adds to those qualities. The concept does not follow a trend; it sets a new 'tough style' direction for compact pickups," says Paul Gibson, the chief designer of the Ranger Max concept. "Ranger Max is genuinely tough and it is a truck that gets the job done. This high-impact show truck also has the bold visual presence that looks great on the urban scene." It is not aggressive; it is 'tough style'.
Ranger Max was created by Ford truck experts in Thailand, working with Ford's Australia-based Asia Pacific and Africa design team, led by Gibson. Collectively, the Ford team creating Ranger Max also incorporated design cues that could be seen in future-generation Ranger products.
"The Ranger Max is not just about creating show excitement," Gibson said. "We have a great opportunity to test design themes that will make their way into production. Ranger Max says exciting things about what's coming for truck fans in Ranger's future."
Thailand International Motor Expo 2008 starts Nov. 28, at the Muang Thong Thani exhibition center.


"The tough style of Ranger Max is based on the capability, versatility and style that make Ford Ranger the choice of the most demanding truck owners," said Mr. Saroj Kiatfuengfoo, senior vice president, Ford Thailand. "We believe Ranger Max is going to be a real attention-getter at the show for truck enthusiasts thanks to its high-impact appeal and appealing design."
Delivering Tough Style
Genuine truck toughness comes from great design and engineering, which means the production Ford Ranger is the ideal foundation for creating Ranger Max. No under-skin modifications were needed with Ford Ranger to produce Ranger Max.
Gibson and his team of designers instead concentrated on exploring the limits of 'tough style'. "Ranger Max wasn't meant to be elegant or pretty. The robust nature of Ranger means that it is the dependable workhorse, and with Ranger Max we wanted to create a concept that is cool as hell."
They took inspiration from things many truck owners know and appreciate. The distinctive contrast between Ranger Max's hardcore orange paintwork with matte black accents is inspired by the functional design found in some modern power tools – just like those used by many Ranger owners every day. Ford designers recognize how absolute function and durability inspire these industrial tools and make them more appealing.
Industrial shapes such as the cog-like detailing in the body accents and wheel arch mouldings extend Ranger Max's theme of tough style as the ultimate power tool.
Pushing the 'power tool' inspiration a step further, the Ranger Max design team noted how power tools and similar objects incorporated words into their design to convey instructions or warnings. Ranger Max uses 'words' in this same style to accentuate its robust 'industrial feel'.
Ranger Max is full of details like this, such as the word GRAB‚ imprinted subtly on the bold, black grab handle in the side of the sportsbar linked to the cab. Every letter is precisely shaped in a 'truncated' font that complements the toughness and utility the overall truck design communicates.
Black & Decker is one of the power tool brands that inspired Ford designers. Other inspirations for Ranger Max come from active sports, like rock climbing, and the tough, technical products used by active sportsmen, such as G-Shock watches.
Just like Ford Ranger, the robustness of these products is affordable and their designs are purposeful. People buy these products because they know they can depend on them to get the job done.
"Ranger is respected," Gibson says, "and Ranger Max amplifies that identity, which gives it a modern and youthful character that's really suited to sporting and social activities, too."
Taking Ranger to the Max
With its character as the ultimate power tool, Ranger Max concept exudes confidence and purpose. It's up for the job – work or fun – and its design says so. It features full surfaces that convey the power and strength of its tough-truck backbone. The detail of its design demonstrates this show truck has been designed by people who know trucks and love them.
Like a power tool, it's ready for rough use. This means purposeful matte black plastic accent features and trim items, not fussy, fancy chrome.
It has innovative features such as a remote-controlled power tonneau cover for the cargo bed and a distinctive sportsbar that visually extends the length of the well-proportioned Ford Ranger side-access cab.
And Ranger Max is poised on distinctive, deep-dish, 18-inch alloy concept wheels and custom technical-look tyres that finish its extreme looks.
This is a Ranger and proud of its tough-truck heritage. RANGER is boldly embossed in the hood and sidestep shapes of the Ranger Max.
Dynamic Profile
Ranger Max's high impact establishes a powerful presence wherever it goes. Its profile exudes power and dominance as well as balanced proportion. The flexed 'power dome' shape of its hood communicates the pulling power and high torque of the engine. The power dome shape carries through to influence the design of the hard tonneau cover at the rear of the vehicle. These two overt muscular design elements give Ranger Max power and solidity. It's enough to scare the typical pickup into the gym for serious weight training.
Adding even more dynamism to the profile is the exclusive Ranger Max sportsbar, which attaches to the pickup bed and arches across the vehicle. This unique crossbar is shaped to create the visual impression that Ranger Max is always on the move – or ready for action.
"The sportsbar makes a big statement," explains Max Tran, a Ford designer who played a key role in developing the vehicle. "It adds a feeling of movement and dynamic character, and incorporates some great design details, including twin air scoop shapes on top."
Built into each side of the crossbar is an integral grab handle. Finished in matte black plastic, the grab handle design is all about purpose. The dark shape of the grab handle visually extends the perceived shape of the Ranger Max side window shape, accentuating the feel of functionality and space of the Ranger side-access Open Cab – a functional feature which Ranger debuted in 2002 in response to feedback from tradesmen.
The grab handle is labelled – like instructions on power tools and on aircraft – with the word GRAB‚. Similarly, the side door of the Ranger Max is distinctively yet discretely labelled AXCESS. These functional callouts also extend to the Ranger Max fuel inlet, which is designed to intersect one of the bold wheel arches, labelled FUEL.
"There's no mistaking the purpose of labels like these on power tools," Tran explained. "On Ranger Max, they fulfil the same role. It's the style of purpose."
For example, the vent on each front fender uses hexagon-shaped grillework and discrete chrome badging with the word RANGER with appealing detail. The branding MAX adjoins this Ranger badge to communicate the concept's name.
Other design details in the Ranger Max profile include incorporating the side repeater lamp into the side mirror. The lower bodyside, whose two-piece, interlocked sidestep look was inspired by rock-climbing carabineers and other outdoor gear you trust with your life.
Ranger Max's stance communicates power, purpose and athleticism. The design team has crafted unique, 18-inch alloy concept wheels for Ranger Max. These deep-dish, six-spoke wheels – with black graphic funnel shapes to their centres – are must-have sporting accessories perfectly suited to Ranger Max. Featuring large offsets, the wheels build on Ranger Max's distinctive tough style.
Big P285/60R18 tires with a chunky tread pattern give Ranger Max the footware and traction it needs to accomplish any job or adventure.
The bold wheel arches with cog-shaped detailing reinforce Range Max's stance and its purpose. Explosive, dynamic side graphics on the fenders and lower doors are inspired by the high-impact of shattering glass.
A New Face of Possibilities
Ranger Max is about confidence without aggression. It has a go-anywhere, do-anything attitude as well as great design detail. "When you look at the front design, the three-bar grille, the overt nostrils and open mouth, you're looking straight into the face of Ranger's evolution," said Gibson.
"There are design elements we are developing and Ranger Max is one possibility. We've crafted the face of the Ranger Max to explore a new look. Elements of it could become our new identity of Ford Ranger."
The three-bar grille is a Ford hallmark design element, conveying strength and quality, integrated with a proud, large badge of the famous Ford blue oval. Ranger Max adopts dynamic, modern headlamps which angle at the top to communicate energy and movement.
More robustness cues abound in the front design. Here, the power-bulge hood is a dominating shape. Its leading edge features an integral hot-air vent and reinforces that Ranger Max is a tough, powerful machine.
Self-confident Ranger branding – embossed in the top of the front grille surround – is another proud aspect of the front design.
Two major design elements link together to form the dominant frontal look of Ranger Max. The corporate three-bar grille imbeds itself into the lower enlarge air intake. A distinct line starting from the headlamps follows around the nostril and borders the lower air intake. This signature line unites the major design elements to create the defined face of Ranger Max.
Powerful Pulling Away
Ranger Max has presence on the road. Its bold rear design is the combination of proportion and details such as the pronounced contours of the tonneau cover which emulate the power bulge on the bonnet. The distinctive sportsbar integrates the cabin area with the tonneau cover. Continuing rearward, Ranger Max is neatly finished off with a tailgate cladding embossed with RANGER and a pair of unique tail lamps designed by the concept team.
"We're really excited about the Ranger Max because we've been able to define a tough style and apply it to Ranger. It is credible and very believable. Ranger Max amplifies the reputation of our truck," said Tran. "There's nothing minimal about the Ranger Max."
Star at Thailand Motor Expo
The Thailand International Motor Expo 2008, with Ranger Max as the star attraction for Ford, runs Nov. 28-Dec. 10.
"We recognise that Thailand is the home of Ranger for Asia Pacific, and from Thailand we export Ranger around the world. We know Asia is a fusion of many cultures, and we look to Thailand as a wonderful blend of tastes, styles and emerging ideas. For this very reason, we decided to create Ranger Max in Thailand and show the high-impact truck to the world at Motor Expo as a global unveil," said Mr. Kiatfuengfoo.

GM Thailand Takes Proactive and Forward-Looking Steps

GM Thailand has announced various steps to adjust inventory the Thai market as well as across ASEAN region. The automobile industry isn’t immune to the current economic crisis, but GM Thailand sees this as a temporary setback.

Speaking to GM Thailand workers at a recent staff gathering, Steve Carlisle, President of General Motors Southeast Asia Operations Ltd. explained that GM Thailand has been in the process of building a winning auto company for the long term and it is continuing to focus on building sustainable success, not short-term results.

However, as the company faces the tough challenge of a global economic crisis, the drop in sales has resulted in the necessity to reduce production to avoid an oversupply problem.

“As everyone may know, our company like many others is facing very difficult and challenging times. As communicated previously, the impacts of the global financial crisis have spread to virtually every country around the world including Thailand. This has resulted in a marked cooling in consumer sentiment and tightening of credit which has in turn reduced sales both domestically and in our export markets. As a consequence, we have to look into reducing production and granting leave to some of our colleagues in the December to January timeframe,” Steve explained.

“Less than 2,000 staffs will be granted paid leave during the period, as the plant reduces production levels to avoid oversupply. As soon as the plant resumes its normal levels of production, staff will be reporting back for duty,” he concluded.

In the meantime, “An ever increasing intensity and focus on Safety, Quality and Cost will continue, as this is what is required to secure our future and enable us to emerge a stronger company from this crisis. There is a strong commitment to our plans – not just to survive but win.” Steve explained.

GM will also continue to forge ahead and consolidate its leadership position in the area of alternative fuels, despite the crisis.

“We are committed to being a global leader in advanced propulsion technology, and we will continue to pursue this course. This crisis is yet another economic cycle, something we can pull through. There are many things that we can and must do to reduce dependency on fossil fuels for transportation. Therefore, we will continue to roll out class-leading models that feature up-to-date alternative fuel technology, while pursuing further alternatives on this front,” Steve reassured.

“The potential remains strong in the long term, both for the U.S. and global economies but for the near term, the current set of circumstances will affect results for the global industry. Hence, GM, as a global player, will is also being affected and like most manufacturers, we are doing what we must to pull through this downturn,” he ended.

Volvo will show BioFuel Chic at Motor Expo 2008 Thailand

Fresh from thrilling the German media on the infamous Nürburgring (billed as the greatest and most challenging race circuit in the world) the outrageous E85-capable Volvo S80 T6 AWD HPC (High Performance Concept) and its sibling, the luxuriously powerful Volvo S80 2.5 FT production car, plus the sexy sport coupe E85-capable C30 1.8 F will be the undisputed highlights of the Thailand International Motor Expo 2008 at the end of this month. These FlexiFuel Vehicles (FFV) set to amplify Volvo’s “green” commitment as they can run on E85 fuel (85% bioethanol and 15% benzene blend) while delivering uncompromising power and refinement.

The Volvo S80 T6 AWD HPC (High Performance Concept) is one of the world’s most desirable tuning programme based on the fundamental qualities of Volvo cars. Modified by leading Volvo specialist tuning firm, Heico Sportiv, the car screams "look at me!!" in its specially formulated 7-layer gleaming aluminium paint, blue leather and sliver carbon-fibre interior sitting ion 20" rims. Its 3.0-litre compact in-line-six cylinder engine coupled to an auto six-speed transmission through all-wheel drive (AWD) has been tuned to an amazing 350-horsepower (5,500 rpm) and 549Nm of torque between1,500 - 4,000 revs while running on E85 bioethanol fuel.

Volvo will also premiere its new Model Year 2009 Volvo S80 2.5 FT at the event. It is powered by a FlexiFuel E85 five-cylinder 2.5-litre turbocharged engine with a power output of 200 horsepower and 300Nm of torque at 1,500 - 4,000 revs. In addition to the unrivalled driving pleasure, the powerful luxury sedan also helps lower greenhouse gas pollution with its E85 capability. The model will shortly be available in Thailand.

Flanked by its race bred partner from the Swedish Touring Car Championships (STCC) and also now available to buy in Thailand, another highlight at Volvo’s booth is the Volvo C30 1.8 F. Developed from the Volvo Safety Concept Car (SCC), the C30 now comes with the 1.8 F FlexiFuel four-cylinder unit and appeals to those craving a younger, more contemporary and dynamic appearance and lifestyle. With the Volvo C30 having won numerous design awards worldwide since launch, the sporty Volvo C30 1.8 F running on bioethanol E85 underlines Volvo’s commitment to the environment and personifies the "biofuel-chic" revolution alongside its larger stable-mate S80 2.5FT.

Mr. Paul Stokes, President of Volvo Car (Thailand) Ltd, said, “From race-to-reality, what Volvo showcases here is that high-technology; high-performance, high-style and environmental care can blend together in perfect concert. Both the S80 T6 AWD HPC concept car and the S80 2.5 FT will surely bring greater excitement to the market while giving Thai motor-fans a clue of what they can expect from us in the future.”

In addition to the two highlights, a full range of Volvo cars, both model year 2008 and 2009, will be showcased and booking orders at the Thailand International Motor Expo 2008 from November 28 – December 10, 2008 at Challenger Hall, IMPACT, Muang Thong Thani.

Hyundai HED-5 "i-mode" concept

Hyundai HED-5 "i-Mode" Concept Makes North American Debut at Los Angeles Auto Show with new Eco-friendly powertrain

2.0-liter, Four-cylinder Turbo Engine with Gasoline Direct Injection Approved for U.S. Market Intro in 2010

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 19, 2008 – Hyundai unveiled the HED-5 "i-Mode" concept at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show today, featuring an all-new, eco-friendly powertrain making its first-ever appearance for Hyundai. The six-passenger family crossover, which debuted at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year, combines visionary styling with future technologies and advanced eco-dynamics.

For its North American debut, Hyundai added a turbocharged 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine with state-of-the-art Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) that improves efficiency and reduces emissions. The HED-5 i-Mode concept and the new powerplant, called the Theta Turbo GDI, have been green lighted for the U.S. market. Variants of the engine will appear in various Hyundai models. Timing and specifications for a production version of a family crossover similar to HED-5 i-Mode are currently in development.

HED-5 "i-Mode" Concept Highlights

*Six-seater monocab design
*World debut of turbocharged 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine with Gasoline Direct Injection
*High-end materials and advanced eco-dynamics
*Unique Swivel Seat concept
*Futuristic communications and entertainment system


"The HED-5 i-Mode concept provides a glimpse into the future of travel, incorporating innovative weight-saving technologies, a modern fuel-efficient four-cylinder direct injection turbo, and a flexible interior package," said John Krafcik, vice president, Product Development and Strategic Planning, Hyundai Motor America.

All-new Theta Turbo GDI

For the U.S. market, the HED-5 i-Mode reveals a first-ever powerplant for Hyundai, the Theta Turbo GDI. The 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine uses gasoline direct injection technology. By injecting the fuel directly inside the cylinder in small, precise amounts, the performance and response of the engine improve thanks to the intake charge cooling. Both fuel efficiency and exhaust emissions improve due to the improved combustion. Combine GDI with turbo charging and the result is exceptional power output. The engine has capacity for up to 286 horsepower, greater than most six-cylinder engines on the market, while improving fuel economy by 15-20 percent. The Theta Turbo GDI includes Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) to further improve efficiency. This ultra-efficient, high-tech gasoline engine will be fitted in various Hyundai models in future model years.


HED-5 Cross-industry Collaboration Drives Packaging and Technology Advancements

Hyundai continues cross-industry cooperation to speed new technologies to market through such partners as Bayer MaterialScience AG, Keiper and LG Electronics. The cooperation with Bayer MaterialScience enabled the complex curvature and radical design of the HED-5 to be implemented sooner. The materials used are lighter and more adaptable than the metal and glass they replace. This, in combination with a light-weight body construction, reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. "Self-healing," water-based finishes from Bayer add another environmentally friendly twist to the vehicle and even let minor scratches appear to "magically" disappear, saving the need for costly repair.

Through the advanced multimedia and entertainment concept developed by LG Electronics, the vehicle becomes an extension of the digital home allowing passengers to stay connected, communicate, and interact in the car and beyond. Access to the Web, video games, movies or video phones are possible through the pop-down touch-screen displays and Webcams located in the overhead console. A wireless network, cable-free keyboards, game controllers, and headphones further personalize the entertainment experience.

Hyundai's engineering partner, Keiper, supported the HED-5 i-Mode project with the exclusive world premiere of its new and unique Swivel Seat concept. The first-row passenger seat flips to face second- and third-row occupants. Additionally, the second-row bench slides rearward to increase comfort and create a social space for communication.

The i-Mode Design

An innovative mechanism enables the sliding door to be free from conventional inner and outer guide rails. When the doors are opened, the lack of a B-pillar enables a feeling of space and remarkable accessibility to the generous interior.

The Hyundai design team worked extensively with new composite materials to enable unconventional and irregular shapes. The architecture of the HED-5 i-Mode is supported by an external frame protecting the space within, like a shell. In cooperation with Bayer MaterialScience, the HED-5 i-Mode is the first vehicle to feature the new "BayVision" glazing system and Collimator headlight lenses made from Makrolon®. This innovative glazing alternative enables extended transparent areas, further reducing weight.

Through the innovative door opening mechanism, the interior of the HED-5 i-Mode reveals an inviting landscape of softly sculpted shapes and advanced technology. The first step into the vehicle reveals the elegant application of natural materials. Soft, silky leather in warm and natural brown tones provides a level of comfort normally reserved for the home. Attention is immediately drawn to the seats, which offer first-class comfort combining a modern, floating look with innovative functionality, enabling the occupants to experience the lounge atmosphere without the limitations of a conventional automotive interior layout.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through almost 800 dealerships nationwide.

Honda Insight to Introduce Ecological Drive Assist System in Spring 2009

Driver feedback system designed for fun and economy

American Honda Motor Co., Inc., today announced that a new interactive, driver-focused fuel economy enhancement technology named the Ecological Drive Assist System (Eco Assist™) will debut on the new Honda Insight in spring 2009.

The Honda Insight Concept, making its North American debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show, provides a strong indication of the design and styling of the all-new gasoline-electric hybrid model from Honda.

Eco Assist combines multiple functions: the driver-activated ECON mode that optimizes control of the continuously variable transmission, engine and related powertrain components to conserve fuel; and a feedback function that uses speedometer background color to provide real-time guidance on environmentally responsible driving. An economy scoring function further provides feedback about current driving techniques, as well as feedback on cumulative, long-term driving style.

"Hybrid drivers enjoy trying to get the most fuel economy from their vehicles," said Dan Bonawitz, vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "The visual nature of Eco Assist is intended to help drivers improve their efficient driving skills by making the hybrid experience more fun and rewarding."

Honda developed the powertrain control, driver guidance and driver feedback functions of Eco Assist to help enhance real-world fuel economy. In particular, the scoring function provides cumulative, long-term feedback through graphic 'leaves,' which grow over time as drivers learn and implement driving practices that increase fuel economy.

Activated by a green "ECON" button on the instrument panel, ECON mode optimizes control of the transmission, engine and other powertrain elements to conserve fuel. ECON mode also adjusts air conditioner operation, increases the potential for engaging the idle stop feature sooner and increase battery charging during regenerative braking.

The guidance function uses the speedometer background's color-changing, three-dimensional appearance to indicate fuel efficiency in real time. Fuel-saving activities like smooth acceleration and braking make the meter glow green. Somewhat less efficient driving makes the meter glow blue-green. Aggressive starts and stops that consume extra fuel make the meter glow blue. By observing the speedometer background's response to driving practices and seeking to achieve a consistently green color, drivers can receive assistance in developing driving habits that typically enhance fuel economy.

The scoring function provides feedback about current driving practices, as well as cumulative, long-term feedback tracking progress. Located in the center of the instrument panel of the all-new Insight, the Multi-Information Display offers drivers a selection of informational displays, including the scoring function, in which the number of 'leaves' displayed indicates the level of environmentally responsible driving performance. When the ignition switch is on, the display scores driving practices in real time. When the ignition switch is turned off, the 'leaves' in the top line of the display score driving in the just completed cycle (startup to shutdown), while a horizontal bar in the lower part of the display scores cumulative lifetime performance.

The Multi-Information Display also allows drivers to view fuel economy figures for the past three trips, as well as instantaneous and average fuel economy statistics. The scoring function encourages drivers to take an interest in developing fuel efficient driving habits over the long term.

Going on sale in North America next spring, the all-new, purpose-built Insight will come to market at a price significantly below that of hybrids available today. From this unique position in the marketplace, the Insight will advance the affordability and accessibility of hybrid technology to a new generation of buyers.

With its affordable price, the new hybrid vehicle will represent the best value in its segment. Along with the Civic Hybrid, the new vehicle will be produced at an expanded hybrid vehicle production line at the Suzuka factory in Japan.
The Insight is expected to have annual global sales of 200,000 units per year -approximately 100,000 in North America. Following the launch of the new Insight, Honda also plans to introduce another unique sporty hybrid vehicle based on the CR-Z, a concept car first shown at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show.

The original Honda Insight was introduced in December 1999 as North America's first gas-electric hybrid car. The original Insight was designed from the ground up to demonstrate the ultimate potential for fuel-economy in a two-seater subcompact automobile.

A leader in the development of cleaner, more fuel-efficient mobility products, Honda was the first to market low-emission gasoline vehicles, a gasoline-electric hybrid car in North America, and the world's first EPA-certified hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle, the FCX. In 2007, Honda was named "greenest automaker" by the Union of Concerned Scientists for the fourth straight time.

For more information and downloadable high-resolution images of the Insight Concept and other Honda vehicles, please visit www.hondanews.com. Consumer information is available at www.honda.com.

Maruti Suzuki all set to introduce A-Star soon

Even as the auto industry is struggling to meet its sales target, India’s largest auto-manufacturer Maruti Suzuki is all set to excite the market with its latest offering, A-Star, promising a green vehicle with fuel efficiency.
To be launched within a fortnight, the five-door hatchback, equipped with all-new KB series engine, will be rolled out of Maruti Suzuki’s Manesar (Gurgaon) plant. The new-generation 998-cc engine offers 67 BHP power and has been designed to meet even future environment norms. Claiming that the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI)’s tests reveal that A-Star delivers an impressive mileage of 19.59 km a litre, Maruti Suzuki’s Executive Officer (Marketing and Sales) Mayank Pareek said the new offering would give yet another choice to cost-conscious customers who can now select from a range of as many as seven of their products in the compact car segment.
Denying that A-Star would be pitched against Maruti Suzuki’s own small cars, thus hitting its sales, Mr. Pareek said: “In the fast-growing Indian passenger car market, sub-niche are emerging between various segments.
A-Star will be uniquely positioned that will appeal to altogether new customers. Initially, we plan to sell at least 50,000 A-Star in India every year.”
Though Mr. Pareek refused to disclose the price of the new car that will be available in three variants, A-Star is likely to be priced around Rs. 3.25-4 lakh.
The company has big export plans for A-Star which will be Suzuki’s fifth global model. A-Star will be made in 200 variants and exported to 150 nations across Europe, Asia, the Middle-East, Latin America, Africa and Australia. A-Star will fuel parent company Suzuki’s ambition of re-entering the European market stronger.
The export of A-Star is likely to begin early next year with around one lakh units; and later it will contribute half of Maruti Suzuki’s overall export target of 2-lakh units by 2010-11.
With A-Star, Maruti Suzuki is starting an all new-initiative of making all its car comply with ‘end of life vehicle’ (ELV) specifications, making it recyclable up to 95 per cent.

Hyundai in Talks Surrounding Chrysler Purchase

Though GM halted its conquest plans, Korean automaker Hyundai Motor Company is reportedly talking with management at Chrysler LLC about a possible purchase.
While GM's talks were about absorbing Chrysler as a whole, it's rumored that Hyundai is interested mostly in Chrysler for the Jeep portfolio. Although it's possible that brand could be sold off to an interested party, Chrysler's overseers at Cerberus Capital Management have repeatedly said they're not looking to sell off the company in part.Hyundai, which currently sells two subcompact cars and a micro-truck as Dodges in Mexico, is said to be a better merger partner than GM was. Should a merger occur, Automotive News hypothesizes Hyundai could keep more of Chrysler's existing infrastructure and employees than GM could.That angle could be enough to sell the U.S. Government on financing the transaction, a stumbling block that helped doom the GM-Chrysler talks. If it isn't, Chrysler could have another avenue via Renault-Nissan. Though the Franco-Japanese conglomerate halted negotiations for Chrysler once the GM proposal broke, Automotive News claims Cerberus plans to restart the dialogue in the coming days.

Nissan Debuts NV2500 Concept commercial for American

Nissan North America, Inc. today announced its Nissan NV2500 Concept, which makes its public debut in early January at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. One of the largest concepts vehicle ever created by Nissan, the innovative NV2500 Concept previews the company’s entry into the North American Commercial Vehicle (CV) market in 2010 and is designed to highlight multi-purpose utility solutions in the real world.

2009 F-150 put to the test

Ford Motor Co. brought journalists from across the country to its scenic, secluded proving grounds in Romeo today to put the all-new 2009 Ford F-150 pickup to the test against competitors.

Along the backdrop of fall foliage, the crowd drove the F-150 and rival trucks, such as the all-new Dodge Ram, through the paces, towing 7,300-pound trailers, getting muddy in off-road courses and maneuvering through a variety of obstacles designed to show off Ford’s engineering prowess.

Ford is hoping its F-150, the best-selling truck in America for the past 31 years, will continue to impress journalists, who influence the purchasing decisions of countless consumers.

But Ford was making a special effort with visiting journalists from Texas, who later this week are slated to vote on the Texas Truck of the Year award -- a prestigious honor that is used in marketing throughout the Lone Star State, which is No. 1 in full-sized truck sales in America.

The state is so important that most automakers usually launch their new trucks in Texas.

Alan Gell, who writes for the Daily Oklahoman and votes in the Truck Rodeo hosted by the Texas Auto Writers Association, said it was no accident that Ford hosted the launch of the F-150 this week.

“They’re worried about losing,” Gell said of Ford after testing an F-150. He declined to say who he favored in the contest, but noted that the new entries this year, the F-150 and the Ram, are both much improved and impressive. Harold Gunn, president of the Texas Auto Writers Association, said Chrysler LLC, which owns the Dodge brand, and Ford have been ramping up their lobbying efforts with the Texas journalists to promote their new trucks.

“The Ram is the best Ram ever built,” said Gunn, who received the extra attentions of Ford’s top engineers throughout the day.

However, he noted that the F-150 is clearly the front-runner.

“The F-150 has always been the truck to beat, and it still is,” he said after testing the model at the Michigan track. “It’s a wonderful truck.”

No matter who wins the Texas contests, Michael Levine, founder and president of PickupTruck.com, said the fight for truck buyers is more intense than ever.

In the past, that fight has been about who can tow or haul the most, and Ford’s new truck can pull an industry-leading 11,300 pounds and haul 3,030 pounds.

During the event, journalists from across the country were squabbling over which truck was the best, focusing on specific areas, such as the rear suspension system.

The F-150 uses a leaf spring system that Ford said is superior, while the Ram has moved to a coil spring system that Dodge said provides a smoother ride. Despite those debates, Levine said, the F-150 distinguishes itself with innovative new features, such as steps to assist entry into the pickup bed, and smart technology such as Ford Works. That is a technology suite that helps drivers keep track of their valuable equipment with sensors, to secure property with a Master Lock cable, to access the Internet from the cabin of their truck and to manage a fleet of trucks, among other features.

“That’s a game changer,” Levine said, noting that nobody offers anything like it. “I’d be willing to give up some comfort and capability for that.”

Ford, which has posted an $8.6-billion loss through the first half of the year, could definitely use an edge.

Sales for the F-Series pickup line are down 26.9% through September as consumers seek out more fuel-efficient models, and the vehicle remains a critical one for Ford. More than a quarter of the company’s sales are from the F-Series.

Ford to tout vehicle quality on par with Toyota, Honda in new ad campaign

Set your TiVos: Ford Motor Co. can say in advertising again this year that its quality is on par with the world’s best.

The Ford, Lincoln and Mercury brands combined to score nearly as well on a Ford-funded study of new-car quality as Toyota Motor Corp.’s three brands and Honda Motor Co.’s two brands.


Honda led the way with 1,241 defects per 1,000 vehicles. Toyota was second at 1,265 and Ford’s traditional domestic brands combined for a score of 1,273. The industry average was 1,347.


Ford declined to release additional results.


The gap was small enough that Ford can say with 95% statistical certainty that its quality is essentially equal to those Japanese rivals.


That is the threshold Ford must meet under federal regulations to advertise its claim of quality parity, said Mike Hardie, director of global quality and productivity.


Ford has commissioned its own study of new-car quality — called the U.S. Global Quality Research System study, conducted by RDA Group of Bloomfield Hills — for years, but has only made the results public in recent years since they have been so positive.


Ford is “pretty excited that now we do have the numbers” to show quality is first-rate, said Hardie.


The results have generally been replicated in the closely watched J.D. Power and Associates study of new-car quality.


Quality is a key dimension in which American auto brands suffer in the eyes of consumers, so it has been a consistent focus for Ford and its rivals.


This summer, for instance, Bennie Fowler, Ford’s group vice president in charge of quality, said he expects the 2010 Ford Focus to launch with no more than no more than 800 things gone wrong per 1,000 vehicles in the first 90 days of ownership.

Chevy Volt will bring 550 jobs to Detroit

Construction of the Chevrolet Volt electric car would bring 550 jobs to the city, General Motors Corp. officials told a Detroit City Council committee today.

General Motors is seeking a $136 million tax abatement over 25 years to build the car at the Detroit/Hamtramck Assembly Plant.

“It’s important because it introduces new technology for General Motors,” said Blake Watkins, tax abatement manager for Detroit’s Planning and Development division. “The electric car is very big to their existence.

“We will be evolving this technology here involving the residents of the city of Detroit…. and moving GM’s technology forward, at the same time moving the city of Detroit forward,” Watkins said GM has proposed $336 million investment into the plant to build the car. The plant currently employs 1,944, he said.

GM officials made their presentation to the city council Planning and Economic Development Committee. Only two members, Kwame Kenyatta and Barbara-Rose Collins, were at the meeting, and both seemed receptive to the abatement idea.

Council's fiscal analyst Irv Corley said the company would still generate an additional $4.6 million a year in tax revenue for the city and Detroit Public Schools even with the possible tax break.


The full city council must still approve the tax abatement and a vote could come as soon as next week.


GM has said the Volt expected to be ready by late 2010.

Japan firms committed to eco-cars

Japanese automakers insist they will move forward with eco-car manufacturing as planned despite their failure to obtain changes in some specifications.
According to an automotive industry source, the Japanese carmakers expressed disappointment that Industry Ministry officials had turned down their requests, but confirmed the project would continue.
"The first eco-cars will be introduced into the market as planned," he said.
The manufacturers had asked the ministry to relax some of the strict and potentially costly environmental conditions set by the Board of Investment (BoI) when it approved their investment privileges.
"Even though the board approved privileges for the six automakers last year for their eco-car manufacturing projects, some of the firms were lobbying to see if some conditions could be altered," said the source.
Representatives from Toyota, Nissan and Mitsubishi discussed their request with Chakramon Phasukvanich, the permanent secretary for the Industry Ministry, last week.
But the source said Mr Chakramon turned them down, saying that the cabinet had already approved the conditions for investment promotion.
The Japanese companies also asked if their eco-cars allocated for export need to abide by BoI requirements.
The eco-car programme stipulates a maximum engine size of 1.3 litres for petrol engines and 1.4 litres for diesel engines. The cars must also have fuel consumption of no more than five litres per 100 kilometres, meet Euro 4 emission standards or better and emit no more than 120 grammes of carbon dioxide per kilometre. The cars must also meet or exceed UNECE 94 and 95 safety standards.
If automakers did not have to follow the requirements for export, the lower production cost per unit would result in higher margins.
The manufacturers are also concerned that they might not be able to meet the BoI requirement that they produce 100,000 units within five years, so they asked if this target could be extended.
They are also seeking clarification on whether the special 17% excise tax imposed for engine imports would be applicable for all models of engines.

Honda announced All New City 2008 generation to sporty driving performance and looking

Honda Automobile (Thailand) Co., Ltd. (HATC), Honda's automobile production and sales subsidiary in Thailand, today began sales of the all-new CITY.
The design of the new CITY is based on the total pursuit of a compact, yet dynamic form with road presence. In addition, class-leading*1 interior space was achieved to create a cabin that surrounds the occupants with an open and secure feeling. The new CITY is equipped with a 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine, which is further advanced in every way, including greater output and fuel consumption. Furthermore, with Honda's unique commitment to provide both advanced safety and environmental performance, the new CITY achieves the highest levels in every area in the effort to become the new bench mark for subcompact sedans.

The first generation Honda CITY was introduced in 1996, quickly responding to the growing needs for automobiles in Asian markets associated with economic growth in the region. Today, CITY is produced in seven countries*2 and enjoyed by customers in 39 nations around the world. CITY also is becoming one of Honda's core models, along with Civic, Accord, CR-V and Jazz (Fit), with cumulative sales passing the 1 million unit mark in late May 2008.
The sales of this third-generation CITY will begin in Thailand from today and expand successively to other existing markets. Honda also envisions further expansion of CITY sales, in order to meet growing customer needs, especially in emerging markets.

Regarding production of the new CITY, HATC will support the startup of production in developing countries including ASEAN markets, India and China. Honda's automobile production capabilities in Thailand have grown continuously for more than 20 years, which is helping accelerate the advancement of automobile production in the region as a whole by providing technical support for other production operations in neighboring countries. Honda has been strongly promoting local autonomy by transferring more production and procurement functions from Japan to Thailand with the goal of strengthening Honda's production strategy and to increase local parts sourcing. In addition, increased coordination with local R&D and production engineering functions (production equipment and tooling) is supporting the advancement of Honda production operations in Thailand as the leader plant in the region. As a result, the local content of the new CITY has now reached 93% from 83% of current model.
The second HATC plant will begin operation in late October of this year, expanding the total annual production capacity to 240,000 units. HATC will also expand auto exports and technical support to other operations to enhance its role as the leader plant, and strengthen it's competitiveness in the world.
*1 1.5-liter subcompact sedan category
*2 Thailand, Philippines, Malaysia, India, Pakistan, China, Turkey

New Mitsubishi Pajero Sport SUV to be unveiled at 2008 Moscow Motor Show

Phatumtanee: July 17,2008: Mitsubishi Motors Corporation will unveil its new Pajero Sport SUV model at the Moscow Auto Salon 2008 (The Moscow Motor Show) to be held at the Crocus Expo in Moscow between August 26 and September 7 (opens to the public on August 29). The new Pajero Sport will be phased in selected regions such as- Russian, the ASEAN area, the Middle East, Latin America and Oceania markets starting from September this year while MMTh is going to introduce the vehicle in Thailand this October.

The new Pajero Sport will be available in Thailand both 4WD and 2WD and be powered by a choice of two engines which all deliver outstanding motive performance and fuel economy: 2.5-liter and 3.2-liter common rail direct injection diesel unit.

The new model features dynamic and sporty exterior lines, complemented by stylish and vast interior space that engenders a sense of comfort, purpose and safety. This cabin, available in 3-row (7-passenger) seating configuration is also very practical, ideal for leisure use.

In terms of architecture, the body of the Pajero Sport is mounted on a newly developed ladder frame to realize high levels of durability and reliability, consistent with the needs of its target markets.

Mitsubishi’s All Wheel Control philosophy, forged through its participation in the Dakar Rally and other contests, informs all of the company ‘s 4WD systems. The new model will use the Super Select 4 WD system, also used in the Pajero SUV, which transmits drive torque effectively to all four wheels on all types of surface. The body, frame and driveline not only give Pajero Sport outstanding off-road performance but allow it to deliver excellent drive dynamics over all surfaces.

MMTh schedule to introduce Pajero Sport to Thai market in this coming October with confident that the new model will make a strong addition to its SUV rage, which also includes the Pajero Exceed , the comfortable and luxurious SUV that just launched to Thai market last March, and will assure further growth for the company in Thailand.

Hello! Chevrolet Cruze is global compact car names.

While General Motors' US-based global media centre has issued only a short statement announcing the name of the replacement for Chevrolet Europe's Daewoo-built Lacetti, a spokesman for GM UK's media relations department has revealed exclusive details of the car's global significance to AutomotiveWorld.com.
Some sources had, until now, suggested that 'Ultra' would be the new vehicle's name, following the debut of a Lacetti-sized hatchback concept with that badge at the Paris show two years ago. While the Cruze is likely to share certain styling cues with that design study, the Cruze at Paris will be a four-door sedan. A larger car than the Lacetti (Nubira in some European markets), it will run alongside the existing five-door hatchback, sedan and wagon series "for about 18 months", according to Chevrolet UK's product manager for Communications, Craig Cheetham.
GM says the Cruze was developed by a global design and engineering team and will be built "in multiple locations around the world". The Cruze "approaches an overall length of 4.6 metres and offers ample interior space and cargo capacity for five passengers".
Cheetham confirmed that the new model will be the first production application of GM's Delta 2 architecture and that the Cruze for Europe would be on sale from January. The UK importer at least, will offer GM and Motori Moderni's existing 1.6-litre gasoline and 2.0-litre turbodiesel I4 engines respectively but a 1.4-litre gasoline unit may follow for other regional markets.
The car itself is vital for GM as it will bring all its lower medium-sized vehicles onto one architecture and see the Cruze and its derivatives built in plants in Europe, Mexico, the US, Russia, South Korea and Brazil. While cars for Europe will initially be sourced from GM Daewoo, Cheetham would not rule out future exports westwards from GM Europe's forthcoming St Petersburg manufacturing complex.
For North America, this is undoubtedly the new model that Rick Wagoner recently hinted would be the replacement for the (Ohio-built) Chevy Cobalt. Expect production to start in 2009 for the 2010 model year.
The Cruze model name was used by GM for a Chevrolet-badged version of the Suzuki Ignis sold in Japan between 2001 and 2006, while a version of the same vehicle, the Holden Cruze, was sold in Australia between 2001 and 2005. These cars were far smaller than the forthcoming Chevrolet Cruze, which will share nothing with these models.

Hyundai-Kia is world’s fifth largest automaker

The Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group has emerged as the world's fifth largest automaker with global sales of 3,961,629 units in 2007, moving up from sixth place in 2006, according to Automotive News' 2008 Global Market Data Book, says a release.

While quantitative growth has been an important objective in the past for the group, the company’s efforts are now focused on qualitative growth in terms of continuous improvement in corporate social responsibility, profitability, technological innovation and brand power. Hyundai-Kia has the momentum to keep on growing.

The group has seen remarkable growth in the four decades since Hyundai Motor Co was founded. It ranked as the world's eleventh largest automaker in 1999, the year Hyundai-Kia Chairman Chung Mong-Koo took over the helm as the CEO.

Counting the export sales of 185,114 complete knock-down kits which are assembled by overseas partners, the group's 2007 global sales reached 4,146,743 units. Automotive News’ methodology excludes CKD sales.


2007 Global sales rankings
Unit sales
Toyota Motor Corp.
9,366,000
General Motors
8,902,252
Volkswagen AG
6,191,618
Ford Motor Co.
5,964,000
Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group
3,961,629
Honda Motor Co. Ltd.
3,831,000
Nissan Motor Co.
3,675,574
PSA/Peugeot-Citroen SA
3,428,400
Chrysler LLC
2,676,268
Fiat S.p.A.
2,620,864

2008 Toyota fortuner facelift leaked pictures

Nissan's Remodeled Teana Sedan Gets Off to Strong Start

Nissan Motor Co. <7201> said Monday that orders for its fully remodeled Teana luxury sedan came to 5,034 units in some three weeks after its release on June 2.The figure is more than five times the Japanese automaker's monthly sales target of 1,000 units.Consumers aged 60 or older accounted for 50.2 pct of the overall sales, Nissan said.Nissan aims to sell 20,000 units of the Teana by the end of March 2009. It sells the 3,500-c.c. high-end model for 3,948,000 yen and 2,500-c.c. versions at prices ranging from 2,467,500 yen to 3,265,500 yen.

Mini Cooper grows lineup with all-new Clubman

It’s been about 6 years since the Mini Cooper first debuted in the U.S. market, and these cute little cars continue to ooze personality and garner head-turning looks wherever they go.
Thanks to its distinctive retro-styled exterior, uniquely designed cabin and long list of options (including more than 40 color combinations), the Mini Cooper is the most expressive car in its class.

One shortcoming, though, has been Mini’s backseat. It’s so short on legroom that it’s better suited for packages than passengers.
So, for 2008, Mini has launched a larger model called the Cooper Clubman. The all-new 2008 Mini Cooper Clubman is about 9.5 inches longer with a wheelbase that’s been extended by slightly more than 3 inches.
Rear seat passengers get more legroom – about 3 inches worth – but there’s still barely enough legroom when the driver and front seat passenger are tall and have their seats all the way back.
As was the case with the original Mini Cooper, the Clubman provides plenty of room up front for six-footers thanks to a long seat track and tilt-telescoping steering wheel. I’m 6-foot, 3-inches and have no problem fitting comfortably in Clubman’s driver’s seat. For me, the backseat is a totally different story.
From the outside, the all-new Clubman definitely appears longer and still looks true to the Mini brand but with a friendly wagonlike appeal. The Clubman is a five-door model with two coupelike front doors, an additional rear-hinged door on the passenger-side (called the “Clubdoor”) and two split-rear doors in the back.

Although the Clubman is longer than its Mini siblings, it’s still very fun to drive. Some may not care for the stiff suspension when driving around town, but you’ll be surprised at how well this car stays planted in tight turns and how little body roll occurs.

So Maxi Mini ...Sexy Mini

Audi Q5 to be China built in 2009

From concept car to Q5>>>

Audi, the premium unit of Volkswagen, has decided to build the new smaller SUV, Q5, in China next year. The Audi Q5 made its global debut at the 2008 Beijing auto show in April, when sources said that Audi would sell its locally made Q5 cars, rather than imported ones, in the Chinese market.
At this week's Shanghai auto-parts show, Hankook Tire has displayed its Optimo K415 tire for passenger cars. The Korean tire-maker's China company said that the Hankook Optimo K415 tire series will be used next year in the Audi Q5 cars made in China. The testing of various tires in this series specailly designed and upgraded for the Audi Q5 is being carried out. The Hankook Optimo K415 tire has been used in the Nissan Qashqai, Shanghai VW's Polo, and Skoda Octavia.
The Audi Q5 will be built using the new Audi MLP platform and will compete with the BMW X3, Infiniti EX, Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class, Saab 9-4X, Volvo XC60 and the upcoming Cadillac BRX. It will be offered with multiple engine configurations, including gasoline/petrol, TDI, and Hybrid gasoline/electric.
Earlier reports said that Audi has started building a new plant with its Chinese partner FAW in Changchun, northern China, to assemble the new compact SUV Q5. Local production of the vehicle for the Chinese market is due to start in August 2009.
The Audi Q5 is due to hit dealers in Europe later this summer and sales are expected to begin in the United States at the beginning of next year.

2009 Porsche 911 Carrera

It's time of Porsche 911......

In the race for change, the Porsche 911 could lose to an Icelandic glacier. But as with most evolutionary processes, it doesn’t stop. Such is the flow of new product from Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen. Less than one year since the GT2, the last variation of the 997—phase one—was launched, the next 911 is here. It's still called the 997, though, indicating that changes to the legendary sports car are modest.
The body remains unchanged, but Porsche apparently thinks the 911 needs daytime running lights so it won't be overlooked on the road. Admittedly, these LED units also look cool . . . maybe not as cool as those on the Audi R8, but cool nonetheless. The new LED rear lights look aggressive on the road, and their shape is slightly altered. The dashboard is also modified with redesigned knobs and buttons, which makes for a more rounded, less technical appearance.
No 911 ever feels underpowered—it is one of the lightest cars in its class—but Porsche is catching up with the competition in the horsepower department. The 911 Carrera's 3.6-liter engine jumps from 325 horsepower to 345 horsepower, the 3.8-liter unit in the Carrera S gets 385 horsepower, up from 355. Both engines are equipped with direct-injection technology, an expensive and complex technology that significantly improves fuel efficiency. The base 911 Carrera is rated at a remarkable 24 mpg in the European cycle.
New Seven-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission
More significant even than the bump in horsepower is the new seven-speed dual clutch transmission, which replaces the previous five-speed Tiptronic automatic. Known as “PDK” (Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe), the new transmission is the latest evolution of the same basic technology developed by none other than Porsche in the early '80s for racing applications, as it saves time by providing seamless upshifts and downshifts. It debuted in 1983 in the 956 and was subsequently used in the 962 race cars. The technology was then largely forgotten until, supposedly, Ferdinand Piëch thought of it again and launched it in a series of VW and Audi models.
Even Speedier than Before
Even though Porsche pioneered dual-clutch technology, this new unit is supplied by ZF. We predict that not every Porsche fan will be pleased that the dual-clutch unit accelerates better than a perfectly driven manual version. However, we do expect most to enjoy the 13 percent increase in fuel economy thus equipped.
Acceleration depends on the transmission: In the Carrera S coupe, 0–60 mph comes in 4.7 seconds with the manual transmission, but with the optional dual-clutch transmission, the figure improves to 4.5 seconds. And if you opt for the Sport Chrono Plus package, time drops further to 4.3 seconds thanks to Launch Control. Top speed for the 911 Carrera S is 188 mph. Not entirely coincidentally, that’s one mile per hour faster than the R8. Now that Porsche officially controls VW Group, and thus Audi, it seems that Porsche is establishing exactly who’s on top.
Sales of the upgraded 911 start in September, with prices ranging from $75,600 for the Carrera coupe to $86,200 for both the Carrera cabriolet and the Carrera S coupe to $96,800 for the Carrera S cabriolet. That's modest if you consider that the standard 911 Carrera now is almost as powerful as the previous 911 Carrera S. Just don't start adding options if you hope to hang onto any money.
With phase II of the 997, the inevitable launch cycle starts all over. A few weeks from now, the 4WD Carrera 4 versions will follow. Look for wide-body versions, Targas, and upgraded GT3, Turbo, Turbo Convertible, and GT2 models down the road.

( From : CAR and DRIVER )

2009 Porsche 911 Carrera

911 Carrera is coming.....!!!!!

In the race for change, the Porsche 911 could lose to an Icelandic glacier. But as with most evolutionary processes, it doesn’t stop. Such is the flow of new product from Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen. Less than one year since the GT2, the last variation of the 997—phase one—was launched, the next 911 is here. It's still called the 997, though, indicating that changes to the legendary sports car are modest.
The body remains unchanged, but Porsche apparently thinks the 911 needs daytime running lights so it won't be overlooked on the road. Admittedly, these LED units also look cool . . . maybe not as cool as those on the Audi R8, but cool nonetheless. The new LED rear lights look aggressive on the road, and their shape is slightly altered. The dashboard is also modified with redesigned knobs and buttons, which makes for a more rounded, less technical appearance.
No 911 ever feels underpowered—it is one of the lightest cars in its class—but Porsche is catching up with the competition in the horsepower department. The 911 Carrera's 3.6-liter engine jumps from 325 horsepower to 345 horsepower, the 3.8-liter unit in the Carrera S gets 385 horsepower, up from 355. Both engines are equipped with direct-injection technology, an expensive and complex technology that significantly improves fuel efficiency. The base 911 Carrera is rated at a remarkable 24 mpg in the European cycle.
New Seven-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission
More significant even than the bump in horsepower is the new seven-speed dual clutch transmission, which replaces the previous five-speed Tiptronic automatic. Known as “PDK” (Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe), the new transmission is the latest evolution of the same basic technology developed by none other than Porsche in the early '80s for racing applications, as it saves time by providing seamless upshifts and downshifts. It debuted in 1983 in the 956 and was subsequently used in the 962 race cars. The technology was then largely forgotten until, supposedly, Ferdinand Piëch thought of it again and launched it in a series of VW and Audi models.
Even Speedier than Before
Even though Porsche pioneered dual-clutch technology, this new unit is supplied by ZF. We predict that not every Porsche fan will be pleased that the dual-clutch unit accelerates better than a perfectly driven manual version. However, we do expect most to enjoy the 13 percent increase in fuel economy thus equipped.
Acceleration depends on the transmission: In the Carrera S coupe, 0–60 mph comes in 4.7 seconds with the manual transmission, but with the optional dual-clutch transmission, the figure improves to 4.5 seconds. And if you opt for the Sport Chrono Plus package, time drops further to 4.3 seconds thanks to Launch Control. Top speed for the 911 Carrera S is 188 mph. Not entirely coincidentally, that’s one mile per hour faster than the R8. Now that Porsche officially controls VW Group, and thus Audi, it seems that Porsche is establishing exactly who’s on top.
Sales of the upgraded 911 start in September, with prices ranging from $75,600 for the Carrera coupe to $86,200 for both the Carrera cabriolet and the Carrera S coupe to $96,800 for the Carrera S cabriolet. That's modest if you consider that the standard 911 Carrera now is almost as powerful as the previous 911 Carrera S. Just don't start adding options if you hope to hang onto any money.
With phase II of the 997, the inevitable launch cycle starts all over. A few weeks from now, the 4WD Carrera 4 versions will follow. Look for wide-body versions, Targas, and upgraded GT3, Turbo, Turbo Convertible, and GT2 models down the road.

( From CAR and DRIVER )

NISSAN ANNOUNCES NEW VEHICLE -Small Crossover-FOR SUNDERLAND PLANT

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., today announced that it will source an innovative all-new compact car from its Sunderland plant in the United Kingdom (UK), starting in 2010. Building on the success of the Qashqai, the all-new product will reinforce Sunderland’s role as manufacturer and exporter of high-value products.
The decision was announced following a visit today by the British Prime Minister, the Right Honorable Gordon Brown, to Nissan’s European Design Centre in central London where he met Carlos Ghosn, President and CEO, Nissan Motor Co.
The Prime Minister said, "Nissan is a global manufacturer with strong roots in Britain and I'm pleased to welcome Nissan's new investment in the UK. Today's announcement that a brand new car is to be designed and built in the UK is another important boost to our manufacturing industry, and builds upon Nissan's recent commitments to increase investment and jobs at its record breaking Sunderland plant.

"Sunderland's success shows what an innovative, talented and highly committed workforce can achieve, and reaffirms the UK's position as a strong player in the global car industry," he added.
Carlos Ghosn said, “By delivering on tough commitments, our employees at Sunderland have demonstrated our plant can be a globally competitive centre for the production of high-value products. We are encouraged by the proactive support shown by the British government to decide new products for the Sunderland plant.”
The all-new vehicle will be an addition to the current Nissan range and for the Sunderland plant, and it will take up the manufacturing capacity created when production of the current version of the Micra ends in 2010.


Next generation Micra
Nissan will compete in the entry-car market with a dedicated new A platform that will be used for at least three models, including the next generation of Micra, and will be built in five Leading Competitive Countries (LCCs).
Production sites for this family of compact cars will include the new plant in Chennai, India, being constructed by the Renault-Nissan Alliance. The development of a competitive A platform is one of several business breakthroughs announced as part of Nissan GT 2012, the company’s new five-year business plan.
The Nissan plant in Sunderland produced a record 374,000 vehicles in fiscal year 2007. Nissan is the largest vehicle exporter from the UK, with around 80% of

Honda City modelchange 2008 spyshots pics

Source : team-bhp.com

Honda Freed Gallery

Honda Begins Sales of New Compact Minivan: the Freed

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced that it will begin sales of a new compact minivan, named the Freed, in Japan on May 30, 2008. This new model fuses an easy-to-use and spacious cabin with stylish design. Special mobility assistive versions—Freed with side lift-up seat and Freed with passenger lift-up seat, also go on sale May 30, 2008—while a Freed wheelchair-accessible model will go on sale June 20, 2008.



Freed G (FF)

Freed Flex Aero (FF)Developed under the concept of “Freedom to create the perfect lifestyle,” the Freed features Honda’s original low-floor and low-center-of-gravity technology, to achieve a compact body size that makes it easy to maneuver through city streets as well as a spacious cabin that enables adults to sit comfortably in all three rows. Honda developed this vehicle with the goal of creating a minivan that is comfortable and easy-to-use for every passenger and that offers new value by enabling customers to fully and freely utilize this vehicle in activities that meet individual lifestyles ranging from daily transportation to leisure time trips.Three different versions are offered: the first seven-passenger vehicle in its class*1 featuring captain’s seats in the second row; the first eight-passenger vehicle in its class*1; and a five-passenger type which offers a large, best-in-class*1 cargo space. Moreover, for the first time in a registration-class Honda vehicle, wheelchair-accessible models are offered in addition to versions with a side lift-up seat and passenger lift-up seat. With the addition of these mobility assistive models, Honda positions Freed as a vehicle which fulfills the diverse needs of a wide range of customers.
*1
Compact minivan class (engine displacement: 1.5 litter)<>
·
A compact body with cabin space that allows adults to sit comfortably in all three rows
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A flat-floor, newly designed from the frame up, maximizes usable space from end to end
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The one-step low- and flat-floor and walk-through layout provideease of access for children and seniors <>
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Seven-, eight- and five-passenger seat configurations to respond to various lifestyle needs
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Spacious and well-lighted interior achieves liberated feeling with two-layer instrument panel design
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Large cargo space accommodate shopping and leisure activities
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Three mobility assistive versions share the freedom and fun of mobility <>
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Dynamic and stylish form creates eye-catching urban look
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Compact, easy-to-maneuver body and excellent field of vision provide driver with confidence
·
Powerful and smooth performance together with economical high fuel efficiencyWith the goal of making multi-passenger traveling more comfortable and to enhance the joy of driving, Honda has been adopting its low-floor and low-center-of-gravity technology as the foundation of its minivan technologies. With the addition of the Freed, Honda is further enhancing its low-floor, low-center-of-gravity minivan lineup.
Note:
The vehicle name “Freed” was coined from the word “freedom”. The name implies “a vehicle Honda pursued with completely unrestricted thinking unbound by conventional thinking or standard practices” as well as the combined meaning of “free” and “do” (to take action).
Key Features of the Freed
Packaging

·
A spacious interior and three rows of seats provide comfortable seating for up to eight adults.
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Compact dimensions: 4,215 mm L × 1,695 mm W × 1,715 mm H (FF vehicles) or 1,720 mm H for vehicles equipped with the Skyroof.
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Compact fuel tank and ingenious under-floor structure result in a low, flat floor.
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Unique hip-point layout that rises from front to back provides passengers a sense of spaciousness.
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Seven-passenger variation features captain’s seats in the second row and a walk-through layout that allows passengers to access any row from any door without having to operate a seat adjuster.
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One-step, low, flat floor layout with second-row floor height of 390 mm*2(standard on FF vehicles) provides easy access for children and seniors.
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Sliding rear doors on either side of the vehicle achieve a large (600 mm*2) door opening for easy ingress and egress even in cramped spaces. Also available with each variation are power sliding doors that open and close easily for added convenience.
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Owing to its 2,740 mm wheelbase and compact mechanical devices, the Freed has ample interior space while offering a minimum turning radius of only 5.2 meters.

*2
Honda calculations
Utility

·
The Freed comes in seven-, eight- and five-passenger configurations.
Seven-passenger:
Captain’s seats in the second row ensure that your passengers are treated to same comfort they’d have if they were in the front. The walk-through layout allows passengers to access any row from any door without having to operate a seat adjuster.
Eight-passenger:
A 60:40-split tumble seat in the second row creates a bench seat that comfortably seats three adults and makes the Freed the only minivan in the 1.5-liter class to offer eight-passenger capacity.
Five-passenger:
Seating for five passengers in two rows with ample cargo space, thanks to its low- and flat-floor layout.
·
The third row features 50:50-split seats that can be easily flipped up to make room for extra cargo.
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The Freed has enough space to easily stow a 27-inch bicycle*3 without removing tires or handlebars.
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An easily wipeable plastic mat that won’t attract pet hair or other debris is also available.

*3
Depending on bicycle model
Interior styling

·
Layered-design instrument panel highlights bright and spacious interior styling.
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Meter placement above the steering wheel enhances visibility and minimizes eye movement.
·
The Freed features relaxing and comfortable seats not usually found in compact-class vehicles.
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Tilt and telescope steering wheel provides optimal driving position.
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With front pillars designed to maximize visibility, side window sills that descend as they move forward and oversized quarter windows, the Freed offers confidence-building, unobstructed field of vision.
Exterior styling

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A wedge-shaped fascia melds into the rectangular cabin section to create the distinctive “triangle & square form” that embodies the concepts of thrilling dynamic performance and ample interior space.
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The front view is characterized by the rich curvature of the hood and the chrome finish of the oversized grille, giving the vehicle a strong sense of presence. Combined with the elongated and angular shape of the headlights, this conveys the impression of chiseled strength.
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Seen from the side, the character lines that sweep toward the rear and relaxed surfaces of the side windows convey movement, while the sculpted surfaces of the body panels give viewers the feeling that the car could break into a sprint at any time.
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From the rear, the protruding fenders fuse with the rich curvature of the body panels, emphasizing the vehicle’s low center of gravity and providing a feeling of stability.
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The finely sculpted three-lens rear combination lamps create a sense of depth.
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The addition of Premium Night Blue Pearl body color brings the number of available color schemes to seven.
Powertrain

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The 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine provides full-range power and fuel efficiency of 16.4km per liter. (Results for front-wheel-drive vehicle in 10-15 mode during fuel efficiency testing by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport andTourism.)
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The torque converter and continuously variable transmission provide powerful, smooth acceleration and exhilarating yet comfortable performance under a wide variety of driving conditions.
Body structure

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Optimal balance between forward and rear body rigidity as well as localized reinforcement of connecting members has resulted in greater dynamic rigidity. A light yet highly rigid body structure was achieved using lightweight but strong high-tension steel and larger cross-sectional areas in structural members, which reduced material thickness and provided the strength necessary to design large openings for the sliding doors and tailgate.
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Quiet operation during idling and acceleration has been achieved by enhancing structural rigidity throughout the body and chassis, which reduces noise-producing vibrations in the cabin’s interior. Also, noise-dampening/absorbing treatments are applied to key areas.
Chassis

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A MacPherson strut suspension on the front end provides firm yet responsive contact with the road.
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In the rear, an H-shaped torsion beam suspension provides stability and comfort.
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Honda’s Electric Power Steering enables easy maneuverability when parking or cornering, while on the highway the steering feels solid.
Safety performance

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Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering Body not only helps protect occupants, but also mitigates the damage incurred by other vehicles in the event of an accident.
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Pedestrian-injury mitigation technology helps protect pedestrians from injury in case of collision.
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To help protect against head injuries during side collisions, a side curtain air bag system is standard on some models and available on all.
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Honda’s Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system is a standard feature on 4WD, Gi Aero and Flex i Aero models and available on all others. In addition, engine torque control and DBW throttle control allow for precise control of the vehicle while driving.
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In addition to ISO FIX child seat bars, tether anchors are provided in both the left and right seats of the second row as standard equipment.
Environmental performance

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The Freed has been certified by the Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport andTourism as having emission levels 75% lower than those required by 2005 standards.
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All front-wheel-drive Freed variations exceed Japanese fuel economy standards for 2010 by 25%. All 4-wheel-drive Freed variations exceed Japanese fuel economy standards for 2010 by 5%.
Special - needs vehicles

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The Freed features a spacious interior with a low floor as well as oversized door and tailgate openings, which makes it particularly well suited for persons with special needs.
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Available in a wheelchair-accessible model as well as side lift-up seat and passenger lift-up seat models, the Freed provides caregivers and care-recipients outstanding utility. Special-needs Freed vehicles are produced on the same assembly line as the standard production vehicles, which ensures a steady supply.
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The rear of the wheelchair-accessible variation is lower than the standard Freed. It’s equipped with an easy-to-pull-out aluminum wheelchair access ramp with a sure-grip surface and a slope of just 11°. Used in combination with the wheelchair safety belt, care-providers will find it a safe and convenient means of enabling smooth ingress and egress for people in wheelchairs.
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The design of the second-row captain’s seats helps provide wheelchair passengers with an unobstructed view and helps caregivers easily keep track of all their passengers. There is also a specially designed 3-point ELR seat belt with independent chest and waist belts for the exclusive use of wheelchair passengers.
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Full operation of the passenger lift-up seat, including rotation and elevation, can be performed using a single passenger seat switch. The seat is of the same quality and offers the same level of comfort as the standard seat. It also comes with arm rests and a recliner.
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Full operation of the side lift-up seat, including rotation and elevation, can be performed using a single switch at the left side of the second row of seats. As with the passenger lift-up seat, the seat is just as comfortable and of the same quality as the standard seat. It, too, comes with arm rests and recliner. Also, this model includes a left-side power sliding door as standard equipment.