Hyundai Equus

2011-05-02T01:05:00.000-07:00

Earning top ratings from the IIHS’s evaluation, the luxury sedan scored good for front, side, rollover, and rear crash protection, and it also has electronic stability control (another requirement to winning the award). It also passed the roof strength test for rollover protection – it withstood a force equal to 4.87 times the car’s weight. To earn a good rating for the IIHS’s roof strength test, vehicles must have a strength-to-weight ratio of 4 or higher (in comparison, the current federal standard is 1.5 times weight).

Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

2011-03-29T23:21:00.000-07:00

To start, Hyundai Sonata Hybrid slightly revised its estimated fuel economy numbers for the Sonata Hybrid to 36/40 city/highway mpg -- down 1 city and up 1 highway. Against the likes of the Ford Fusion Hybrid and Toyota Camry Hybrid, the highway number is right at the top of the class. Then there's range. Given the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid 17.2-gallon tank, you could theoretically roll more than 680 highway miles between fill-ups. Vacationing families and business road warriors will enjoy blowing past all those gas pumps.
Improved fuel economy obviously doesn't materialize out of thin air. Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Direct Hybrid Blue Drive system earns its keep as a full parallel setup with an actual step-ratio automatic transmission, a departure from the continuously variable transmissions common in most hybrids. But the Sonata Hybrid's six-speed automatic is missing one key ingredient: a torque converter. In its place is the keystone of this hybrid's operation: an electric traction motor rated at 40 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque.

Porsche Panamera V6 PDK

2010-10-14T20:39:00.000-07:00

Porsche Cayenne V6 3.6 PDK First Drive
Body control is excellent and the ride is surprisingly good
What is it?

It is the cheapest route for Porsche Panamera property: the two-wheel-drive, 296bhp 3.6-liter V6-stop-start.

We have the V6 out smoothly with all-wheel drive on German roads.

This is our first opportunity to sample a V6 Panamera no description available here in the UK.

Photos of the first unit of the Porsche Panamera PDK 3.6 V6

With no options, will cost the car £ 61 461, while the version introduced here is brought to the PDK Porsche seven-speed automatic dual-clutch gearbox, the £ 2,338 to add the prices and the tare weight of 30 kg: reduces the 0-62 mph time 6.8 sec each to 6.3sec and the improvement of the combined mpg and CO2 emissions of 265g/km and 218g/km 30.4mpg and 25mpg.
How do you feel?

It's a mixed bag. As with all Panamera is the seating position and sense of inner are genuine Porsche variety, with excellent control and a new, nice car.

However, there is not the immensity of the car, we can see more in the car with the V6 engine.

The 296bhp is £ 295 m of the engine almost asthmatic, but the Panamera never feels that fast. E 'is smooth and clear, but the PDK "must be very busy with the engine up to speed when you press.

Although the absence of all-wheel drive eliminates the weight and complexity, he denies even more security and stability that the Panamera truly enjoy.

But in everyday life and all that up to seven or eight tenths, the car is as sure-footed rear-wheel drive offers extra grip and raw materials you might ask.

Body control is excellent, and the race, although 20-inch wheels suitable optional hampered our test machine is surprisingly good.

Yes, it is stable, and the consequences are more severe their way through the suspension and cab, but for the most part is fine and extremely well controlled.
Should I buy?

If you buy on a budget, sex, and just nothing is more than a Panamera, then yes, why not?

Although the performance of the V6 a mute button and the unit itself suffers under the restrictions by the mass of the vehicle may be imposed, it is always fun behind the wheel.

But as we have previously determined that the four-wheel drive V6, greater financial loss is the most convincing performer down safely, as the V8-powered Panamera.

On the other hand, the money will look like you in a more traditional super-sedan like an M5 or XFR, both of which offer a lot more driving pleasure and performance, while more able to carry four adults ensure comfort when needed.
Tim Dickson

Porsche Cayenne V6 3.6 PDK

Price: £ 63 799, maximum speed: 161 mph, 0-62 kmh: 6.3sec; economy: 30.4mpg, CO2: 218g/km; Kerb weight: 1760 kg Engine: V6 petrol engine, 3605cc, power: 296bhp at 6,200 rpm , torque: m £ 295 to 4250rpm, Transmission: Automatic 7-SPD clutch double

Cadillac CTS-V "Competition" commercial

2010-09-03T13:37:00.000-07:00

Cadillac CTS-V "Competition" commercial – Click above to watch the video after the jump

Recently, we showed you a behind-the-scenes look at Cadillac's newest commercial featuring the CTS-V sedan out on Germany's hallowed-be-thy-name Nürburgring. Now, after all of the editing and post-production work has been completed, we're left with a brand new television ad spot simply dubbed "The Competition," showing viewers that one of the world's fastest sport sedans will strive to be better and better. How can you improve on 0-60 miles per hour in 3.9 seconds and a 'Ring run in just 7:59.32? We're eager to find out.

Aside from the gloriousness of watching a CTS-V do what it does best out on one of the world's greatest road courses, we like this video because it makes mention of the BMW M5 and Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG – two vehicles that inspired Cadillac to raise the bar for its own sport sedan. Give credit where credit is due, after all. Still, we like stiff competition, and you can watch Cadillac's latest ad spot for yourself after the jump.

Air Filter - Cotton gauze, Panel, High flow

2010-07-30T16:49:00.000-07:00

K&N Air Filter - Cotton gauze, Panel, High flow
Part Number: K33332260
Manufacturer Number: 33-2260
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Read all 5 reviews
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K&N HIGH FLOW DIRECT FIT AIR FILTER, RED -- Provides 1 to 4 h.p. power gain; 96 to 99 percent filtration efficiency; 0.94 in. height, 12.56 in. outside length, 7.56 in. outside width; Oiled element; Panel style; Made of multiple interwoven layers of surgical cotton gauze; Increases horsepower and acceleration while providing excellent filtration; Custom designed to fit into existing air box and features a drop-in design which means adding performance is simple; Provides high air flow with excellent filtration; Economical and environment friendly; Works with OEM vehicle electronics; Will last the life of your vehicle; Washable and reusable; Lasts up to 50,000-mile before cleaning is required depending on drive condition.

2011 Audi Q7

2010-06-02T20:34:00.000-07:00

2011 Audi Q7 - Click above for high-res image gallery

If there's to be a singular automotive theme guiding us into this second decade of the 21st century, it's downsizing. If not in dimensions, then in displacement. Automakers, forced to adhere to higher government-mandated fuel economy standards and lower CO2 emissions, are beginning to collectively reduce engine size while attempting to maintain the thrust consumers demand.

The newest posterchild for this movement comes in an unlikely wrapper: the 2011 Audi Q7. Packing the same supercharged 3.0-liter V6 found in the S4 sports sedan, Audi bids adieu (or is that Auf Wiedersehen?) to the 3.6-liter V6 and 4.2-liter V8 for the 2011 model year and brings with it the 2011 A8's eight-speed automatic transmission. We tackled the congested highways and byways in and around Ingolstadt to see if the revised Q7 has the goods to placate both bureaucrats and buyers, while taking a deeper look into Audi's new powertrain strategy. Click through to the jump to see if we can make sense of it all.

Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Audi Q7

Volkswagen Touran MPV Confirmed for Leipzig Auto Show

2010-04-12T04:28:00.000-07:00

The next generation of Volkswagen's Golf-based Touran people carrier will have its world premiere at the forthcoming AMI motor show in Leipzig, Germany (April 9-18), the automaker (officially) announced today.

Although no photos were released, Volkswagen said that its Opel Zafira and Citroen C4 Picasso rival in the mid-size MPV segment will boast a new design DNA as well as a revamped engine lineup comprising of six new gasoline and diesel units with reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

The new Touran MPV will be joined in Leipzig by the facelifted Audi TT Coupe and Roadster as well as the new Sharan minivan, Touareg SUV, Polo GTI and Cross, the Amarok pickup truck and the T5 4MOTION.

Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Concept

2010-03-09T19:51:00.000-08:00

GM is about to try something new: making Chevrolet's Corvette appeal to international markets. The General is soliciting designs from all ten of its styling studios, meaning that more than just American-market brains are weighing in.

The goal is to bring in younger buyers from the States, while also help gain sales in the all-important European market, among others.

"We have challenges in the States with the Corvette," Welburn told journalists in an interview at the Geneva Salon. "The average age of the customer is really rising." According to J.D. Power and Associates, the current average age of a Corvette buyer is 54.

"It is a key time in the development of the Corvette," Welburn said. "There is a lot of debate and a lot of study on the bandwidth of Corvette."

However, Welburn added that the sports car "can't mutate into something that gets so far away from Corvette that it is no longer a Corvette."

One major problem, according to GM, is the Corvette's styling, which makes the car appear larger than it really is.

When the redesign hits the market within the next two to three years, GM hopes to have "trimmer, meaner [design] to go along with the incredible performance that the car has."

All together now: Stingray (although that split rear window would kind of block the rear view).

As for getting younger people looking at the Vette, apparently GM wants stereotypes to walk in off the street and make purchases. The fact that GM still thinks "young U.S. buyers...favor imports" is proof positive that the old white men running GM have yet to wrap their minds around who their customers are.

Case in point: Buick, a brand that turned itself around in a hurry and is getting more and more attractive.

Young consumers don't all want "Fast&Furious" Hondas and Guido'd-out Bimmers. It doesn't have to do with "imports", it has to do with good design and quality.

Lastly, the detail that everyone seems to agree on is the Corvette's interior: sub-par for the price bracket. GM Vice President of global design says, "The execution, materials selection--it's got to be a much better interior. Our customers desire that." Doesn't everyone?

- By Phil Alex

Via: Autoweek

Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Concept

Jaguar is looking to reinvent an old name to take the fight to German rivals such as the Audi TT

2010-01-07T22:52:00.000-08:00

World exclusive: If you thought 2009 was an eventful time for British manufacturers, just wait until you see what they have in store for 2010! Auto Express is kicking off the New Year by gathering together a home-grown crop of the coolest coupés and supercars around. And at the very top of this list is the sleekest big cat to emerge since the legendary XJS…

Jaguar XJ - See it: 2010
The dust has barely settled on the unveiling of Jaguar’s flagship XJ saloon. However, design director Ian Callum has already let slip that a two-door XJ Coupé has been drawn up by his team. Our exclusive renderings show for the first time how such a car might look.

Enthusiasts will recall the ultra-rare XJC, made from 1975 to 1978. This came with a 4.2-litre straight-six or a 5.3 V12, and was based on the Series II Jaguar XJ – and only 8,378 were built. The new car will revive the XJC’s badge and a selection of its distinctive design cues.

More steeply raked front and rear windscreens give a classic coupé profile, while a full-length sunroof adds to the flowing lines. Body-coloured B-pillars help to visually elongate the XJ’s already
substantial footprint on the road.

The car is likely to be offered with supercharged and naturally aspirated versions of Jaguar’s 5.0-litre V8, as well as the 3.0 V6 diesel producing 600Nm of torque. It will go head-to-head with Mercedes’ two-door CL-Class replacement – to be renamed the S-Class Coupé – when it goes on sale in 2011.

Lotus Esprit - See it: 2010
even though the firm’s new Evora has won plaudits for its laser-like handling and refined nature, bosses aren’t resting on their laurels. Lotus is developing a successor to the mighty Esprit – the mid-engined flagship sold between 1976 and 2004. And with a choice of six, eight and 10-cylinder engines, the model has the Ferrari 458 and Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 firmly in its sights.

The wedge-like styling is clearly inspired by the shovel-nosed original, but the similarities end there. Lotus plans to exploit its close links with Toyota and make use of three of the firm’s most powerful engines. Entry-level cars will have a 300bhp version of the Evora’s 3.5-litre V6. Meanwhile, V8 fans can opt for the 414bhp 5.0-litre from the Lexus IS F. The range-topper will use the 550bhp 4.8-litre V10 from Lexus’ LFA.

A longer and wider version of the Evora’s platform should preserve Lotus’ trademark agility and driveability. But with the V10 version scorching from 0-60mph in less than four seconds and on to more than 200mph, the new Esprit promises to be like nothing seen before from the brand when sales start in 2011.

MINI Coupé JCW - See it: 2010
The MINI plant in Oxford is already one of the success stories of the UK auto industry, churning out more than 1.4 million new cars since 2001. And with the introduction of a new Coupé in 2011, its workforce
is preparing to be busier than ever.

The MINI Coupé Concept wowed visitors to last year’s Frankfurt Motor Show with its dramatic floating roof, and the maker soon confirmed production of the two-seater will begin this October.

Its most potent format will be the John Cooper Works variant shown in our image above. Yet while the bonnet stripes and ground-hugging bodykit could have been predicted, there’s a surprise package under the bonnet.

Our sources say MINI might rekindle its engine supply partnership with Peugeot. And as the British firm jointly developed the new range of EcoBoost units with Ford, these powerplants could find their way into the MINI Coupé, too.

Expect a 1.6-litre turbo with around 250bhp to make the Coupé JCW the fastest MINI to date – but with lower emissions than any JCW before it. For fans of the Coupé, there’s even more good news on the horizon.

A Roadster is also on the way, with a production-ready version slated to appear in 2011. And let’s not forget the firm’s first 4x4, the Crossman, is due in showrooms in September, too.

Fenix - On sale: 2011
Like a ‘Fenix’ from the ashes, Lee Noble has left the company bearing his name to rise again at the helm of Fenix Automotive – and this is the first official picture of the firm’s new model.

The as-yet-unnamed supercar features a basic design that is, ironically, reminiscent of the Noble M600. However, where that styling is relatively simple, the Fenix gets aggressive and angular lines, similar to those of the fighter jet-inspired Lamborghini Reventón.

Under the bonnet is a choice of two Corvette engines, giving 480bhp and 638bhp. The latter is lifted from the supercharged ZR1, and is said to propel the Fenix from 0-100mph in just under seven seconds.

Noble M600 - On sale: 2010
although founder Lee Noble has moved on to an exciting new project (see above), the Brit maker’s latest model is aiming for the supercar elite.

Featuring a Volvo-sourced 4.4-litre V8 boosted by two turbos, the M600 produces a huge 650bhp. That’s enough for 0-60mph in three seconds and 225mph – leaving the Ferrari 458 trailing. Yet a £200,000 price could make stealing loyal customers from the Italian legend trickier than Noble thinks.

Jaguar C-type - On sale: 2012
It’s the big cat’s small car! In the new C-Type, Jaguar is looking to reinvent an old name to take the fight to German rivals such as the Audi TT, Mercedes SLK and Porsche Cayman. As with the XK, the new C-Type’s chassis will be a lightweight yet incredibly strong and stiff aluminium monocoque, which should make the model as nimble as its competitors. Power will come from the latest 380bhp 5.0-litre V8. A supercharged 500bhp R model is also likely to be built.

McLaren MP4-12C - On sale: 2011
While its F1 predecessor was the ultimate supercar, McLaren’s latest model is described as “the most efficient, driveable, high-performance sports car in the world”. With a 600bhp twin-turbo 3.8-litre V8 and carbon fibre monocoque, the MP4-12C should prove itself a worthy competitor to Ferrari’s upcoming 458 Italia. At £150,000, it’s £10,000 cheaper, too. Log on to www.autoexpress.co.uk to see US chat show host Jay Leno taking a ride.

Climax sport racer - On sale: 2010
Coventry-based Climax Cars has confirmed its stunning two-seater Ariel Atom rival, the Sports Racer, for 2010. It will have a 345bhp 4.6-litre V8, plus a hand-crafted aluminium body. There’s even a 450bhp supercharged version. Prices start from £92,000 – and with only 200 set to be built, exclusivity is guaranteed.

Aston Martin One-77 - On sale: 2010
The One-77 really is the Best of British; it’s the fastest, most desirable Aston ever, and with a limited run of only 77, it looks set to take a place in the supercar hall of fame. The intricately detailed body – which has already won an Auto Express design award – hides a 7.3-litre V12 that produces 690bhp. Weighing only 1,500kg, the One-77 will sprint from 0-62mph in around 3.5 seconds, and in a recent high-speed run it was clocked at more than 220mph. Owning Britain’s best comes at a price, though: the newest Aston sells for £1.2million.

Arash AF-10 - On sale: 2010
Britain’s answer to the Ferrari Enzo gives a choice of power outputs. A 550bhp version of the AF-10, costing £320,000, will be joined in 2011 by an 800bhp supercharged variant, at £450,000. Arash is also said to be considering a £1.6m Bugatti beater with 1,200bhp.

Inspired by the Qazana concept shown in Geneva last year

2010-01-07T22:01:00.000-08:00

Nissan has named the latest addition to its line up of quirky crossovers, as well as releasing the gloomy teaser shot you see here. Inspired by the Qazana concept shown in Geneva last year, and following in the footsteps of the hugely successful Qashqai, the 'Juke' is designed to offer customers a funky alternative to the traditional small hatchback.

From this dimly-lit photo it's clear that the concept car's swollen wheels arches have been carried over, along with the narrow, elongated headlights and oversize fog lights underneath. It appears the 370Z-inspired rear boomerang lights will also make production, while the windscreen and roofline have taken on a more angular profile.

Slotting in between the Note and Qashqai, the Juke will expand Nissan's broad range even further. And when it goes on sale in October, it should provide a welcome boost for the UK car industry too - it will be built alongside the Qashqai and Qashqai+2 at Nissan's Sunderland plant.

Full details on the newcomer will be realeaed at the global media unveiling on February 10th, but it's public debut won't be until the Geneva Motor Show in March.

The notion that GM may launch the Volt earlier than initially planned

2010-01-07T19:30:00.000-08:00

2011 Chevrolet Volt – Click above for high-res image gallery

We seem to know nearly everything there is to know about the 2011 Chevrolet Volt. Well, everything but one of the most important pieces of its environmentally friendly puzzle, that is: How much will it cost? Predictions vary widely, with the $40,000 mark widely bandied about as a likely target – though whether or not that figure arrives before or after a federal $7,500 tax credit is complete speculation. For its part, General Motors has said it won't set final pricing until late 2010.

Throwing a wrench into the Volt-price-guessing works is none other than GM's own head of global program management, Jon Lauckner, who has reportedly told The Wall Street Journal that the extended-range electric vehicle could hit the market for well under that preconceived $40K level. Fortunately, "We have until this summer to figure that out," he said. Perhaps we can create ourselves a Price is Right-style contest?

The notion that GM may launch the Volt earlier than initially planned – possibly as early as this upcoming summer or fall, well before the expected launch in November – is also reportedly being discussed by GM's top brass. Regardless of when the first few units hit the market, don't expect to see a national launch outside of a few carefully selected regions until well into 2011. Thanks for the tip, Berto!

2011 Chevy Volt

General Motors and Chrysler looking at slipping sales

2010-01-03T22:41:00.000-08:00

This just in from Hard Numbers News: From 2000 to 2007, an average of 16.8 million vehicles were sold in the States. In 2008, that figure dropped to 13.2 million. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the tally for 2009 is expected to put the sales needle somewhere around 10.4 million. According to Bloomberg, that would make last year the worst for new car sales since 1982, when there was not only a recession but also 25 percent fewer Americans.

The good news: sales began to rise at the end of 2009, having sustained themselves nicely after the revelry of cash-for-clunkers. The final data isn't in yet, but Bloomberg's survey of analysts suggests two months of gains in November and December. Predictions estimate that Ford, Toyota, Honda and Nissan saw increases, with General Motors and Chrysler looking at slipping sales.

The silver lining? Meager sales could "indicate significant pent-up demand." That kettle of demand is going to take some time to boil, but a rise in household spending is penciled in for late 2010, along with greater availability of credit, and a drop in unemployment numbers is in the forecast as well. The road to recovery will be a slow one, but hopefully with the turn of the calendar year will come a turn in fortunes for the U.S. economy.

Renault Pushes Ahead With EV Li-Ion Battery

2009-12-08T15:59:00.000-08:00

French auto maker Renault SA is developing electric-vehicle lithium-ion batteries with two new suppliers, despite its heavy reliance on the Nissan Motor Co. Ltd.-NEC Tokin Corp. joint venture, Automotive Energy Supply Corp.

Renault-Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn earlier this year declared owning battery technology is a core requirement for any auto maker.

"We are ready to sell the battery to whoever is interested," he said in October, referring to the batteries from the AESC. "We are making it a core business, because we think the battery is going to be an essential piece of technology for our century.”

Last month, AESC announced it was raising production capacity from 65,000 to 100,000 units annually in Japan.

The Renault-Nissan Alliance is building a 100,000-unit battery factory in France with support from the French atomic energy commission and the French Strategic Investment Fund.

In South Korea, Renault Samsung Motors Inc. is working with SK Energy Co. Ltd. and SB LiMotive Co. Ltd to develop Li-ion batteries.

At a press event to introduce the new SM5 sedan, Renault Samsung CEO Jean-Marie Hurtiger tells journalists Renault plans to build EVs in South Korea and is working on projects with the two local battery makers.

SK Energy is a petrochemical and energy company that began making Li-ion batteries for mobile devices in 2005. SB LiMotive is a 2008 JV between Robert Bosch Stiftung GmbH and Samsung SDI Co. Ltd. that recently announced its first contract with BMW AG.

Zoe 3-door hatchback concept one of four EVs Renault plans to build.

"We plan to produce Renault Group's electric vehicles in Korea,” Hurtiger says. “And once the government's plans are finalized, we will take our position as to when electric vehicles will be mass-produced in Korea."

The SM5 was unveiled at the Renault Samsung technical center in Giheung, where SB LiMotive also has its headquarters. Hurtiger says he expects South Korea to be a major supplier of EV batteries, thanks to a strong industry and strong support of the government.

The executive notes Renault will build the four EVs exhibited at this year’s Frankfurt auto show at four different plants, three of which have been announced.

Production is to begin in first-half 2011 for the Kangoo light-commercial EV in Maubeuge, France; Twizy 2-seater in Valladolid, Spain; Fluence sedan in Bursa, Turkey; and the Zoe, a 4-seat city car, in Flins, France.

SK Energy has developed six different Li-ion cells for hybrid, plug-in and battery EVs and was chosen in October to supply Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corp. HEVs – one of the projects of Daimler AG’s global hybrid center, which owns Mitsubishi Fuso.

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SB LiMotive has development operations in Giheung, Stuttgart and Orion Township, MI. In Springboro, OH, it makes nickel-metal-hydride batteries in an operation acquired from Energy Conversion Devices and is building a factory in Ulsan, Korea, for Li-ion battery production.

At the Frankfurt show, SB LiMotive President Young said he expects to begin series production of Li-ion batteries for hybrids in 2011 and EVs in 2012.

Renault invested $344 million to develop the third-generation SM5 midsize sedan, which uses many elements of the current Renault Laguna. Production began at the Busan, South Korea, plant in October, with domestic sales to begin in January.

The SM5’s 2.0L engines were developed by Nissan (gasoline) and Renault (diesel). Alain Diboine, who heads research and development at Renault Samsung, says the body of the new SM5 was developed at the local technical center for the first time.

Renault will sell the SM5 in Europe as a Renault, probably called the Safrane, which was the name of the car that preceded the first Laguna in the upper-medium segment. The auto maker currently sells the second-generation SM5 as a Renault Safrane in Middle Eastern markets.

The SM5 has 3-zone air conditioning, an air filter and perfume diffuser, bi-xenon adaptive front lights and a massage function for the driver that the auto maker says improves blood circulation and combats fatigue. In Korea, it will compete with the segment leading Hyundai Sonata.

Expect GM Europe to renew pursuit of government

2009-12-08T14:54:00.000-08:00

Expect GM Europe to renew pursuit of government aid for its Germany-based Opel/Vauxhall operations as it restructures under new management.

Nick Reilly, recently named president-GM Europe following Fritz Henderson’s sudden resignation as General Motors Co. CEO, says in a weekend conference call there is no truth to the belief GM has sufficient cash on hand to shore up Opel.
“Much of that money will be needed for Delphi and completing restructuring in the US.,” he says, referring to the auto maker’s commitment to support its former captive parts supplier that emerged from bankruptcy in October as Delphi Holdings LLP.

“We also have some of that money in an escrow account for disasters in the U.S., and we can’t touch that,” Reilly says. “Third, the U.S. market remains depressed, and we have to have some money to get us through 2011. We also need to pay back loans to the U.S. government.”

He expresses hope Germany’s government will be as receptive to supporting Opel under GM leadership as it was to the prospect of seeing Opel owned and operated by Canadian mega-supplier Magna International Inc. GM’s board scuttled Magna’s planned acquisition of Opel last month.

“We’ve prepared an application for the German government,” Reilly says. “They were willing to support the Magna deal, so we expect some support for our plan. Financial aid is no different from other car companies in the U.S. or Japan or other European countries.”

Opel needs €1 billion ($1.2 billion) to execute its restructuring and some €3.3 billion ($5 billion) to develop new products, he says, adding the auto maker will not see a profit next year.

Meanwhile, the search for a GM Europe CEO is called off, with Reilly assuming responsibility for both Opel/Vauxhall and Chevrolet Europe. Day-to-day operations at Chevrolet Europe will be managed by Wayne Brannon.
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The management shakeup seems to signal the resolve of Ed Whitacre, GM chairman and interim CEO in the wake of Henderson’s departure, to instigate change quickly.

Additional appointments are expected this week, Reilly says, adding development of a minicar is a “top priority” at Opel.

“I want to clarify that we will also need to continue with light-commercial vehicles; that is a reasonable share of our business,” he adds.

By the Numbers 2009: Green is Growing Edition

2009-11-07T00:34:00.000-08:00

Hyundai, Kia and Subaru all report +40% increase in sales

If you've been paying attention to recent editions of By the Numbers, you'll have noticed that the amount of green on our chart below is growing. Month after month, more and more brands and manufacturers are managing to produce sales numbers that exceed the same month last year.

For October 2009, the list is topped by three familiar players: Hyundai (+49%), Kia (+45%) and Subaru (+41%). The South Koreans and this lone Japanese brand have bucked the trend all year, and now that other brands are beginning to sell relatively well, they are distancing themselves from the pack even further.

Their success shouldn't overshadow the rest of the industry, though, which includes many players surprisingly high on our chart. All four "Core" brands of General Motors (Chevrolet, Buick, Cadillac and GMC) posted positive numbers, and GM as a whole, which still counts sales from "non-Core" brands like Hummer, Pontiac, Saab and Saturn, managed to post a 4.1% gain in sales. Likewise, the Ford brand (+3.6%) and Ford Motor Company (+3%) both reported sales gains versus October of last year. The rest of the big Japanese manufacturers, meanwhile, were close behind but didn't quite manage to earn a green cell this month, while the Chrysler Group LLC landed farthest off the mark with a drop of 30.4%.

Have industry sales turned the corner? Are we headed into a bright future of 14+ million sales per year and green cells for every automaker? Hardly, though it's increasingly clear that new product, being competitive in key segments, and creative marketing and incentives are the best recipe for climbing out of the red.

*Brands and companies are both displayed in descending order according to their percentage change in volume sales. There were 28 selling days in October 2009 and 27 selling days in October 2008, so the change in monthly sales volume will be different than the change in the average daily sales rate (DSR) for each brand/company.

Brand	Volume %	10/09	10/08	*DSR%**	DSR 10/09	DSR 10/08
Hyundai	48.92	31,005	20,820	43.60	1,107	771
Kia	45.26	22,490	15,483	40.07	803	573
Subaru	40.66	18,169	12,917	35.64	649	478
Cadillac	21.60	11,602	9,541	17.26	414	353
Mercedes-Benz	21.32	18,193	14,996	16.99	650	555
GMC	20.44	25,423	21,109	16.14	908	782
Lexus	19.77	19,502	16,283	15.49	697	603
Volvo	19.37	4,437	3,717	15.11	158	138
Buick	18.46	9,053	7,642	14.23	323	283
Porsche	15.07	1,642	1,427	10.96	59	53
Chevrolet	8.50	116,436	107,313	4.63	4,158	3,975
Nissan	7.69	53,664	49,833	3.84	1,917	1,846
Volkswagen	7.23	17,037	15,889	3.40	608	588
Ford	3.57	119,072	114,969	-0.13	4,253	4,258
Honda	-0.01	75,751	75,756	-3.58	2,705	2,806
Mercury	-1.14	6,676	6,753	-4.67	238	250
Audi	-1.14	7,358	7,443	-4.67	263	276
Toyota	-2.32	132,663	135,818	-5.81	4,738	5,030
Acura	-3.53	9,751	10,108	-6.98	348	374
Lincoln	-8.97	6,735	7,399	-12.23	241	274
Infiniti	-9.29	6,451	7,112	-12.53	230	263
Pontiac	-18.45	10,646	13,054	-21.36	380	483
BMW	-18.61	16,443	20,203	-21.52	587	748
Mini	-20.79	4,176	5,272	-23.62	149	195
Dodge	-22.21	26,265	33,763	-24.99	938	1250
Chrysler	-35.61	12,815	19,903	-37.91	458	737
Jeep	-36.80	13,500	21,360	-39.05	482	791
Mitsubishi	-48.34	3,867	7,486	-50.19	138	277
Suzuki	-49.89	1,745	3,482	-51.67	62	129
Saturn	-57.79	3,623	8,583	-59.30	129	318
Smart	-70.44	661	2,236	-71.49	24	83
Saab	-74.03	513	1,975	-74.95	18	73
Hummer	-77.56	307	1,368	-78.36	11	51
Mazda	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A

COMPANIES
General Motors	4.11	177,603	170,585	0.40	6,343	6,318
Ford Motor Company	3.07	136,920	132,838	-0.61	4,890	4,920
Nissan NA	0.28	60,115	59,945	-3.30	2,147	2,220
Toyota Mo Co	0.04	152,165	152,101	-3.53	5,434	5,633
American Honda	-0.42	85,502	85,864	-3.98	3,054	3,180
BMW Group	-19.06	20,619	25,475	-21.95	736	944

Well, except for the holders of new GM shares

2009-11-06T23:52:00.000-08:00

When General Motors entered into Chapter 11 bankruptcy over the summer, its bad assets were moved into a firm called Motors Liquidation Company (MLC). That company was capitalized with more than 600 million shares that were meant to be worthless; however, quite the opposite has happened: with its shares priced at $0.60 per, MLC now has a market cap of $370 million. How did that happen?

Investors engaged in "naked short-selling" is how it happened. Short sellers usually procure an actual 'tangible' stock from a broker or investment house – 'tangible' meaning a share unit comprising the finite number of a company's total shares – as collateral when they take a short position. The naked short seller doesn't borrow any shares, taking a position before it can be determined if there are any shares available. This allows them to essentially create a position that isn't beholden to the ideal of a "structured" market.

Earlier this year the SEC put the kibosh on naked short selling, and required investors who had done it to get the tangible shares they need to hold their position. Since there are fewer shares to be had, and those naked traders are trying to absorb anything available to cover their positions, the price has yet to decline. Quite simply, no one can make money off of it.

Well, except for the holders of new GM shares. The SEC regulations also called on naked short sellers to close out their positions if they couldn't get the tangible stocks to cover. The investors who can't get actual shares to borrow are having to buy stock from "new" GM shareholders – at much higher prices. Eventually MLC shares will be worth zilch. Until then, the wacky world of finance reigns...

BusinessWeek calls out 50 Ugliest Cars of Past 50 Years

2009-11-06T23:30:00.000-08:00

Beauty, as they say, is in the eye of the beholder. While some cars seem to be almost universally loved for their gorgeous lines and undeniable sense of style – the Lamborghini Miura and Shelby Daytona Coupe certainly come to mind. Others, such as the new Honda Accord Crosstour and even the latest Nissan GT-R, not to mention nearly everything currently wearing the Acura badge, sport more debatable duds.

And what of the car that's most commonly associated with the green movement? Of course, that would be the Toyota Prius, and we know that some happen to find the car rather attractive... whether that's for its slip-through-the-wind styling or fuel mileage – made possible in part by that styling – its owners happily enjoy. According to BusinessWeek, though, the second-gen Prius is one of the 50 Ugliest Cars of the Past 50 Years. Not a distinction any owner wants their car to carry.

Take heart, Prius owners. There are a number of questionable vehicles on the list. For instance, the classically boxy Volvo 240 isn't ugly at all... it's purposeful and practical. Neither are the Lamborghini LM002, 2002 BMW 7 Series, Tata Nano or Toyota iQ deserving of inclusion on this unflattering list. Lastly, does anyone really think the DeLorean is that unattractive? Unabashedly '80s sure, but ugly? Nah.

Hurst completes the muscle car trifecta with Mustang, Camaro

2009-11-06T23:11:00.000-08:00

2010 Hurst Performance Series Camaro - Click above for a high-res image gallery

We can't believe it's been just a year since Hurst unveiled its stunning white and gold Hemi Challenger. Since that time we've seen a few variations, including different color combinations and the Competition/Plus model, and we even got to see how the cars were built. Up to this point, all of Hurst's production models have been Challengers, but when the company showed off a one-off Camaro and Mustang convertible, we figured production versions wouldn't be far away. We were right.

Yesterday afternoon, Hurst pulled the covers off the new Performance Series Mustang and Camaro, each with a slightly different take on Hurst's classic color combinations. Both cars get the kind of performance upgrades you would expect from Hurst including a supercharger, Magnaflow exhaust system, Eibach suspension components, Hurst Competition/Plus shifters and 20-inch wheels and tires. Each car also gets Katzkin leather inserts, embroidered floor mats, and a dash plaque. Just 50 examples of each will be built, and judging by how fast the Challengers sold, you will need to put your order in quickly if you want one. Follow the jump for full details on both cars, and be sure to check out both of the high-res galleries below.

2010 Hurst Peformance Series Camaro

Hurst Peformance Series Mustang

Massa has also spent time on Ferrari's racing simulator

2009-10-13T08:01:00.000-07:00

Ferrari just announced that injured driver Felipe Massa could be back in the saddle as early as Monday. Massa hasn't been in an F1 car since July's Hungarian Grand Prix, when a spring from another car flew up and hit him above his eye, fracturing his skull.

The first time he has even been back on track was last week when he took the wheel of a kart. Because of testing bans in place this season in F1, Massa can't drive the current car he was running until Hungary. As he gets back up to speed, the FIA has granted him permission to drive a 2007-spec car fitted with GP2 tires.

Massa has also spent time on Ferrari's racing simulator. Word has it he's already mastered Barcelona and is working hard at beating the Interlagos circuit now. Before taking the wheel of the 2007 car, he still needs to pass an examination, but once he's cleared, he could be on track in Italy by Monday. This will be testing only as the driver isn't expected to compete for Ferrari any more this season.

Cars and Coffee roadshow headed for New England

2009-10-10T07:41:00.000-07:00

Cars and Coffee, the informal and inclusive wheeled hootenanny originated in Irvine, California has been spreading across the country faster than swine flu. There's no stage with bad cover bands, not a trophy in sight, but you're always likely to see some astounding vehicles.

Herb Chambers, New England dealership juggernaut, has thrown his support behind a New England gathering. "Herb himself is a super car enthusiast," says John Covell, Director of Marketing for the Herb Chambers Companies, "He thought that others would enjoy it." A new BMW dealership in Sudbury, MA, where the event is being held this Saturday, October 10th, is a supporting cast member.

Cynics may dismiss this as another ploy akin to inflatable dinosaurs, but when was the last time you were invited out by a car dealership to drink free coffee and ogle a McLaren F1 on a Saturday morning? Running from 7-10 AM, the inaugural event will be over before many people's days get under way. "Herb is passionate about cars and he's passionate about this business. If our customers understand that we share their passion, that's a good thing," sums up Covell. Hey, if he doesn't mind us drooling all over his McLaren, we'll agree.

New GM marketing boss Mark LaNeve apparently unaware that diesel is now cheaper than gas

2009-06-05T23:59:00.000-07:00

Over the last several years, we've heard a lot of excuses from many auto executives as to why their companies aren't offering diesel engines in their American market cars. Yesterday, General Motors' Mark LaNeve, the company's vice president of sales and marketing, made an appearance on C-SPAN's Washington Journal. The final question of the segment came from a viewer wondering why GM has failed to offer U.S. consumers the chance to buy some of the high-mileage diesel cars it offers in Europe.

It would appear that LaNeve might have done better to take a pass on the question. Instead of talking about the cost of making those diesels meet U.S. emissions regulations or the difficulty in helping Americans overcome the misconceptions about the fuel, he claimed that no one has successfully cracked the diesel passenger nut in the U.S. (which based on VW's May sales appears to be wrong). More startlingly, LaNeve went on to claim that diesel is $1.25 a gallon more expensive than gasoline. According to the Energy Information Agency, the national average for diesel this week is $2.35 / gallon while regular gas is $2.52 or $0.17 more than diesel. Admittedly, the fact that diesel is now cheaper than 87 octane gas is a recent development (a trend that nobody is sure how long it will last), but – going on national television and quoting outdated fuel prices as a reason for your bankrupt company's business decisions... well, that doesn't strike us as a terribly hot idea.

You can hear the question and response at 20:30 into the video replay over at C-SPAN.New GM marketing boss Mark LaNeve apparently unaware that diesel is now cheaper than gas

Hyundai Equus Sketches Hit The Web - 2010 Hyundai ...

2009-04-02T04:55:00.000-07:00

At the end of last week the Hyundai Equus has been launched on its domestic market. The company expects to sell 13,000 units of the Hyundai Equus in Korea this year, with the figure going up to 19,000 for 2010. The Hyundai Equus price for its home market ranges between 63.7 million Korean won to 105 million.

At launch, the Hyundai Equus is available with one of two engines, a Lambda 3.8-liter V6 with 213 kW and 358 Nm of torque, or a Tau 4.6-liter V8 with 269 kW and 439 Nm of torque. These two versions will be joined later by a Hyundai Equus 5.0L stretch edition.

The company also announced the Hyundai Equus price for the Australian market, which ranges between AUD $65,500 and AUD $108,000.
Hyundai Press Release:

EQUUS, Hyundai Motor Company's new flagship sedan has arrived in showrooms across Korea.

Representing the pinnacle of Hyundai engineering and design sophistication, the all-new HYUNDAI EQUUS will serve as an effective import fighter in the Korean luxury sedan market taking on the best from Germany and Japan.
As the replacement for the first-generation EQUUS which has been retired after ten years in the marketplace, the new successor was developed under the VI project codename over a period of three years and represents a total investment of 500 billion won (approximately AUD$513 million or US$337 million*).

Hyundai plans to sell 13,000 units in the Korean market this year, increasing that number to 19,000 units in 2010. The new flagship sedan will also make its way to overseas markets such as China and the Middle East starting in the second half of this year, competing with other world-class vehicles. Hyundai Equus Gallery: Hyundai Equus
Available in four trim levels, Hyundai Equus will be priced at 63.7 million won (approximately AUD$65,500*) for the entry level VS380 model and will top out at 105 million won (approximately AUD$108,000*) for the VS460 Prestige. Later this year, the range will be extended to include a long wheelbase edition which will be powered by a 5L V8 'Tau' engine.

POWERTRAINS
EQUUS comes with a choice of two sophisticated engines: The 'Lambda' 3.8 V6 and the award-winning 'Tau' 4.6 V8. To maximise power while minimising emissions and fuel consumption, both engines feature all-aluminum construction, continuously variable valve timing, variable air induction systems and are mated to six-speed transmissions. The 'Lambda' V6, good for 213 kW and a peak torque rating of 358 Nm, delivers an impressive fuel economy rating of 10.8 liters / 100 km. The 'Tau' 4.6 V8, named by Detroit-based Ward's Autos as one of 2009's 'Best Ten Engines', delivers 269 kW and 439 Nm of torque with a fuel economy rating of 11.4 liters / 100 km.

SUSPENSION
Front and rear, Hyundai Equus rides on 5-link suspension featuring lightweight aluminum control arms. Such a multi-link setup for both the front and the rear is uncommon in the industry but through a careful optimisation of the wheel geometry and bushing characteristics, stability and ride quality were optimised. To improve shock control over the wheels, Hyundai worked in partnership with ZF-SACHS to develop Amplitude Selective Dampers (ASD) which features an innovative relief valve, a design EQUUS shares with only one other car in the world, its luxury stable-mate Genesis. The air suspension is electronically governed to minimise body roll, nose-diving and other undesirable characteristics. Hyundai Equus also comes equipped with an Electric Parking Brake which is automatically released once the vehicle is put into drive gear and an Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering System which reduces fuel consumption.

SAFETY

EQUUS elevates driving safety to a whole new level with the introduction of Vehicle Stability Management which integrates the Lane Departure Warning System, Pre-Safety System, Third Generation Smart Cruise Control (SCC) and other sub-systems to provide unparalleled active and passive safety. Using smart optics, the Lane Departure Warning System issues an audible warning if the car deviates from the driving lane without signalling. SCC uses radar waves to automatically regulate the brakes and throttle and maintain a safe distance from the car ahead. If a collision danger is detected, the Pre-Safety System automatically applies the brakes, triggers a flashing warning light on the TFT-LCD which is followed by an audible alert and a vibration in the seatbelt harness. If a collision is unavoidable, full braking force is automatically applied and front seat belts are reeled in within a split second in order to maximise protection.

Another new safety improvement is the addition of a Knee Air Bag for the driver. With two front, four side and two side curtain airbags, this brings the total airbag count to nine.

Video cameras in the rear and front eliminate blind spots during parking and backing up manoeuvres, reducing the risk of accidents while the new Parking Guidance System provides a computer graphic overlay on the display screen to assist the driver. High Intensity Discharge Head Lamps with Adaptive Front Lighting System varies the angle of the light beam according to the steering direction for safer driving.

COMFORT and CONVENIENCE Gallery: Hyundai Equus

Whether driving or being driven, Hyundai Equus opens up a new realm in motoring luxury. Heating, for example, is to be found in unexpected places-steering wheel, seat cushions and backrests- providing a welcome touch on a chilly day. On hot summer days, the seat cooling system and glove box drink chiller will be appreciated in hot, sticky weather while the massage system in the rear seats relaxes and refreshes while en-route.

Hyundai Equus is also equipped with an advanced Driver Information System whose menus are accessible through touch-screen menus or jog wheel which has adjacent buttons for menu short cuts. DIS displays navigational maps, personal cell phone directories (downloadable via Bluetooth®) and serves as the central control of the 17-speaker Lexicon Sound System. Logic7.1 is able to transform the EQUUS cabin into a veritable concert hall with surround-sound wizardry.

A 3.5-inch display nestled between the speedometer and the tachometer provides a rich variety of information displayed in colorful graphics using the latest Thin Film Transistor Liquid Crystal Display (TFT-LCD) technology. From the tire pressure to the AV system and lane departure warning system, fifteen different vehicle functions can be monitored using this high-resolution color screen.

Hyundai Equus (VI) renderings released

2009-04-02T04:54:00.000-07:00

2010 Hyundai Equus -VI

Hyundai has released the first designer sketches of its next generation super luxury sedan. Codenamed VI, this all-new large sized Hyundai sedan will adopt the Equus name from its predecessor and is expected to hit the South Korean Hyundai showrooms in February 2010.

The new Hyundai flagship model is expected to showcase Hyundais most advanced and sophisticated safety, transmission and engine technologies. New Equus will benefit from latest safety equipment that will include goodies such as the second-generation Vehicle Stability Management System (VSM2), a Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) and a Pre-Safety Seatbelt System which on detecting an imminent front-end collision, automatically reels-in the safety belts to maximize the safety of the occupants. It will also feature LED technology equipped headlights -Hyundais first- and rearlights as well.

The 2010 Hyundai equus is also believed to be the first Hyundai vehicle to receive an in-house developed 8-speed automatic gearbox. The brand-new Hyundai tranny will be mated to the award-winning 4,6L V8 engine. About six months later, Hyundai also plans to roll-out even more potent engine unit with the displacement of 5,0L and approximately 400+ horsepower. Some rumours also indicate that both engines will also feature a gasoline direct injection technology and cylinder deactivation technology.

The 2010 Hyundai Equus -VI will replace the aging Equus sedan, that hit Korean market in 1998 and was the first Korean-made vehicle to feature gasoline direct engine technology (GDI) and a V8 powerplant. The old Equus sedan was a front-wheel-drive vehicle, while the 2010 Hyundai VI is adopting a new rear-wheel-drive architecture.

This is the first official teaser image (released by Hyundai in summer ‘08) that previews the upcoming Hyundai Equus sedan.

More spy shots: 2010 Hyundai VI

Hyundai Equus Sketches Hit The Web

2009-04-02T04:53:00.000-07:00

Hyundai’s follow-up to the much-acclaimed Genesis sedan leaked onto the web today and thanks to Hyundai-Blog we’ve got the official designer sketches as well.

2010 Hyundai Equus

Codenamed VI, the 2010 Equus is an all-new full-sized flagship sedan from the Korean manufacturer, Hyundai. The all-new Equus will ride on an extended-length version of Hyundai’s rear-wheel drive platform first seen on the Genesis Sedan and Genesis Coupe. It replaces the old Mitsubishi co-developed front-wheel drive Equus sold in Korea.

The 2010 Hyundai Equus will receive the first vehicle in the line up to receive the in-house developed 8-speed automatic gearbox and will be mounted to the 4.6-liter V8 engine already on duty in the Genesis Sedan. Six months after the Equus goes on sale, Hyundai will release a direct injection 5.0-liter V8 capable of putting out 400+ horsepower. For the sake of fuel efficiency, it’s rumored that Hyundai will include a cylinder deactivation system to the larger engine.

Along with the new 8-speed transmission and 5.0-liter V8, the 2010 Equus will feature many new safety technologies including a Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), Vehicle Stability Management System (VSM2) and a Pre-Safety Seatbelt System which predetects a front-end collision and automatically initializes the seat belt tensioners.

We’re not sure when Hyundai will first show the new flagship Equus Sedan, but it’s likely that it’ll hit South Korean showrooms in February 2010, with a U.S. release date shortly after. In the meantime, check out our gallery showing the first design sketches of the 2010 Hyundai Equus Sedan.

Hyundai Equus

2009-03-23T08:31:00.000-07:00