Be the One to Drive it Home
The American Red Cross and Metropolitan Lincoln Mercury have joined forces to recruit blood donors this summer. A visit to a Red Cross blood drive this summer could mean driving home a Lincoln this September. Everyone who attempts to give blood at any participating American Red Cross Southeastern Michigan Blood Services Region blood drive between June 25, 2007, and September 5, 2007, can register to win a free two-year lease on a 2007 Lincoln MKX, the Luxury Crossover winner of Autopacific's Vehicle Satisfaction Award.
"The Red Cross is pleased to have the support of Metropolitan Lincoln Mercury," said CEO Diane Ward. "Their donation of the two year lease, along with hosting blood drives during this promotion will help play a part in boosting supply during what is typically a time of critical shortages. Our hope is that the chance to drive home a 2007 Lincoln MKX at the end of summer will entice current donors who haven't given in a while and new donors to schedule an appointment to give blood during the summer months. In addition, we appreciate the promotional support for this campaign that is being provided by Smooth Jazz V98.7 radio and WDIV-Local 4 TV."
To kick off the summer promotion, Metropolitan Lincoln Mercury will help prevent critical shortages during the 4th of July holiday by hosting two blood drives in their showroom located at 32000 Ford Road in Garden City. Make an appointment to give blood on Friday, June 29, 2007 between Noon and 6 PM or Monday, July 2, 2007 between 11 AM and 8 PM and see the 2007 Lincoln MKX that will be given away in September.
The Red Cross struggles to maintain a strong blood inventory during the summer months, when fewer people donate blood, and there is an increase in the demand for blood to treat trauma patients. In addition to accident victims, other patients such as those undergoing various surgeries or treatment for cancer and blood disorders need blood to survive.
Every presenting donor age 18 or older who donates blood at participating drives will be issued an entry ticket. At the end of the promotion, 25 finalists will be selected to participate in the final drawing for the 2007 Lincoln MKX on September 8th at Metropolitan Lincoln Mercury.
To schedule your appointment to give blood, call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE, or visit http://www.givelife.org/
Source: American Red Cross
The American Red Cross and Metropolitan Lincoln Mercury have joined forces to recruit blood donors this summer. A visit to a Red Cross blood drive this summer could mean driving home a Lincoln this September. Everyone who attempts to give blood at any participating American Red Cross Southeastern Michigan Blood Services Region blood drive between June 25, 2007, and September 5, 2007, can register to win a free two-year lease on a 2007 Lincoln MKX, the Luxury Crossover winner of Autopacific's Vehicle Satisfaction Award.
"The Red Cross is pleased to have the support of Metropolitan Lincoln Mercury," said CEO Diane Ward. "Their donation of the two year lease, along with hosting blood drives during this promotion will help play a part in boosting supply during what is typically a time of critical shortages. Our hope is that the chance to drive home a 2007 Lincoln MKX at the end of summer will entice current donors who haven't given in a while and new donors to schedule an appointment to give blood during the summer months. In addition, we appreciate the promotional support for this campaign that is being provided by Smooth Jazz V98.7 radio and WDIV-Local 4 TV."
To kick off the summer promotion, Metropolitan Lincoln Mercury will help prevent critical shortages during the 4th of July holiday by hosting two blood drives in their showroom located at 32000 Ford Road in Garden City. Make an appointment to give blood on Friday, June 29, 2007 between Noon and 6 PM or Monday, July 2, 2007 between 11 AM and 8 PM and see the 2007 Lincoln MKX that will be given away in September.
The Red Cross struggles to maintain a strong blood inventory during the summer months, when fewer people donate blood, and there is an increase in the demand for blood to treat trauma patients. In addition to accident victims, other patients such as those undergoing various surgeries or treatment for cancer and blood disorders need blood to survive.
Every presenting donor age 18 or older who donates blood at participating drives will be issued an entry ticket. At the end of the promotion, 25 finalists will be selected to participate in the final drawing for the 2007 Lincoln MKX on September 8th at Metropolitan Lincoln Mercury.
To schedule your appointment to give blood, call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE, or visit http://www.givelife.org/
Source: American Red Cross
* Production milestone in Wörth
* Hubertus Troska, Head of Mercedes-Benz Trucks: "Half-a-million vehicles manufactured underscores the outstanding success of the Actros, which combines reliability, economy, and comfort"
* French customer Star’s Service takes delivery of milestone vehicle
The 500,000th Mercedes-Benz Actros truck rolled off the assembly line at the production plant in Wörth on Friday. The arctic-white 1841 LS semitrailer tractor was handed over to Hervé Street, president of the French shipping company Star’s Service, by Hubertus Troska, head of Mercedes-Benz Trucks (Europe/Latin America), and Ulrich Bastert, head of Mercedes-Benz Trucks Sales and Marketing. The Actros is the Mercedes-Benz Trucks flagship model and the most widely-produced heavy-duty truck in Europe. It was presented for the first time by Mercedes-Benz 11 years ago, and the second generation of the model series has been on the market since 2003.
“With a 22 percent market share in Western Europe in 2006, and customers in more than 100 countries, the Actros is a truly global truck that reliably performs its services from the arctic cold of Siberia to the sub-tropic climate of central Africa,” said Troska at the ceremony in which the milestone vehicle was handed over to the customer. “Half-a-million vehicles manufactured underscores the outstanding success of our flagship model as a technology leader, which combines reliability, economy, and comfort at the highest levels.”
In 1996, the Actros revolutionized the truck world with the introduction of the first-ever electronically controlled braking system in combination with all-round disc brakes. Soon after, it was equipped with further safety and assistance systems, and its cab underwent a major overhaul in 2003. Two years ago, the Actros was used for the advance launch of a series of clean and economical diesel engines featuring BlueTec technology. Today, the Actros is setting standards again as the world's safest truck with the Active Brake Assist emergency braking system.
The customer for the 500,000th Actros, Star’s Service, is the market leader in the French regional freight-forwarding sector. The company operates a fleet of 1,700 commercial vehicles, including 420 Mercedes-Benz Actros, Axor and Atego trucks, and 1,000 Sprinter and Vito vans. Founded in 1987, Star’s Service posted revenues of €100 million in 2006.
The DaimlerChrysler Truck Group is a division of DaimlerChrysler AG and the world's largest manufacturer of commercial vehicles. The Truck Group and its five leading brands – Mercedes-Benz, Freightliner, Sterling, Western Star and Fuso – have more than 50 locations in Western Europe, Asia, the NAFTA region, and Latin America. The Truck Group sold 537,000 trucks worldwide last year.
Source: DaimlerChrysler
* Hubertus Troska, Head of Mercedes-Benz Trucks: "Half-a-million vehicles manufactured underscores the outstanding success of the Actros, which combines reliability, economy, and comfort"
* French customer Star’s Service takes delivery of milestone vehicle
The 500,000th Mercedes-Benz Actros truck rolled off the assembly line at the production plant in Wörth on Friday. The arctic-white 1841 LS semitrailer tractor was handed over to Hervé Street, president of the French shipping company Star’s Service, by Hubertus Troska, head of Mercedes-Benz Trucks (Europe/Latin America), and Ulrich Bastert, head of Mercedes-Benz Trucks Sales and Marketing. The Actros is the Mercedes-Benz Trucks flagship model and the most widely-produced heavy-duty truck in Europe. It was presented for the first time by Mercedes-Benz 11 years ago, and the second generation of the model series has been on the market since 2003.
“With a 22 percent market share in Western Europe in 2006, and customers in more than 100 countries, the Actros is a truly global truck that reliably performs its services from the arctic cold of Siberia to the sub-tropic climate of central Africa,” said Troska at the ceremony in which the milestone vehicle was handed over to the customer. “Half-a-million vehicles manufactured underscores the outstanding success of our flagship model as a technology leader, which combines reliability, economy, and comfort at the highest levels.”
In 1996, the Actros revolutionized the truck world with the introduction of the first-ever electronically controlled braking system in combination with all-round disc brakes. Soon after, it was equipped with further safety and assistance systems, and its cab underwent a major overhaul in 2003. Two years ago, the Actros was used for the advance launch of a series of clean and economical diesel engines featuring BlueTec technology. Today, the Actros is setting standards again as the world's safest truck with the Active Brake Assist emergency braking system.
The customer for the 500,000th Actros, Star’s Service, is the market leader in the French regional freight-forwarding sector. The company operates a fleet of 1,700 commercial vehicles, including 420 Mercedes-Benz Actros, Axor and Atego trucks, and 1,000 Sprinter and Vito vans. Founded in 1987, Star’s Service posted revenues of €100 million in 2006.
The DaimlerChrysler Truck Group is a division of DaimlerChrysler AG and the world's largest manufacturer of commercial vehicles. The Truck Group and its five leading brands – Mercedes-Benz, Freightliner, Sterling, Western Star and Fuso – have more than 50 locations in Western Europe, Asia, the NAFTA region, and Latin America. The Truck Group sold 537,000 trucks worldwide last year.
Source: DaimlerChrysler
The Fiat 500 Helping premature babies with "Un nido per Pollicino"
Every year, over 5,500 babies are born prematurely in Italy: babies that need special care in neonatology wards and neonatal intensive care units just to stay alive.
To mark the launch of the new 500, and to give these babies and their parents fresh hope, Fiat has teamed up with the nonprofit Albero della Vita Foundation in the latter’s project entitled “Un nido per Pollicino – Helping the little ones grow big”.
The initiative, whose promoter and scientific coordinator is Dr. Daniele Farina – chief of neonatology at the Sant’Anna hospital in Torino – is raising funds for building and improving neonatology and neonatal intensive care facilities in seven Italian hospitals, as well as for providing psychological support services for parents.
Donations can be made by sending a text message to the number 48586 from June 30 to July 15, 2007, or by direct deposit to Intesa Sanpaolo bank account 100050 (routing number: CAB 09400, ABI 03069) or postal account 32474264, indicating “Un nido per Pollicino” in the space provided for specifying the reason for the transaction. Donations can also be made on-line by accessing the 500 website (www.fiat500.com), the Fiat website (www.fiat.it) and the Foundation’s website at www.alberodellavita.org
In addition, you can show your solidarity with the project by purchasing the “Fischia 500” music CD or T-shirts offered for sale in thirty Italian cities on July 5 and 6, and at all Fiat dealerships during the Open House weekend on July 7 and 8.
The funds raised by the project will be distributed to seven Italian hospitals, each with a strong local tradition in its own area: Torino’s Sant’Anna, Mangiagalli in Milano, Careggi in Florence, Gemelli in Rome, Monaldi in Naples, the Policlinico of Bari, and the Azienda Universitaria Policlinico in Palermo. In addition to these hospitals, the ZeroTre foundling home in Milano will also receive funding.
“We decided to support this project – explains Luca De Meo, Fiat Automobiles CEO – because it’s very much in line with the values of the 500, a car that looks to the future, that transmits joy and hope, that can bring a smile to every face. Because that’s how we think of the 500: a little car with a big heart. And we’re very pleased to be able to put this extraordinary power at the service of an initiative as deserving as this ”.
“We’re proud that an enterprise as important to the entire country as Fiat has chosen us as a partner. – announced Patrizio Paoletti, chairman of L’Albero della Vita Foundation, an independent humanitarian organization that has been working to protect and safeguard the rights of children and teenagers for over ten years – The project fits right in with our goals: helping a child today to make an adult happy tomorrow. An important part of our daily work is building consensus and attracting resources that we can redistribute to help satisfy the primary needs of modern society, which are first and foremost the needs of children ”.
“Un nido per Pollicino” will be assisted by a radio campaign with appeals to the public’s generosity by some of Italy’s most popular entertainers, who have agreed to donate their time – and their voices – to the charitable initiative.
List of the open-air presentations of the 500 hosted by 30 Italian cities on July 5 and 6, where CDs and T-shirts will be on sale in aid of “Un nido per Pollicino”:
- Alghero, Lungomare Dante near Via Leopardi
- Bari, Piazza Ferrarese
- Bologna, Piazza San Francesco
- Brescia, Piazza della Loggia
- Cagliari, Marina Piccola
- Caserta, Piazza Vanvitelli
- Catania, Piazza Università
- Florence, Piazza in front of the Uffizi
- Genoa, Piazza de Ferrari
- Lecce, Piazza Sant’Oronzo
- Livorno, Terrazza Mascagni
- Milano, Piazza Duomo
- Naples Piazza Plebiscito
- Padova, Prato della Valle
- Palermo, Piazza Politeama
- Parma, Piazza Steccata
- Perugia, Corso Vannucci
- Pescara, Piazza della Rinascita
- Pisa, Piazza dei Cavalieri
- Reggio Calabria, Corso Matteotti
- Roma, Piazza del Popolo
- Terni, Piazza Tacito
- Torino, Piazza San Carlo
- Trento, Piazza Duomo
- Treviso, Piazza della Borsa
- Trieste, Piazza della Borsa
- Udine, Piazza Duomo
- Varese, Piazza della Repubblica
- Viareggio, Piazza Mazzini
- Vicenza, Piazza dei Signori
Source: Fiat
Every year, over 5,500 babies are born prematurely in Italy: babies that need special care in neonatology wards and neonatal intensive care units just to stay alive.
To mark the launch of the new 500, and to give these babies and their parents fresh hope, Fiat has teamed up with the nonprofit Albero della Vita Foundation in the latter’s project entitled “Un nido per Pollicino – Helping the little ones grow big”.
The initiative, whose promoter and scientific coordinator is Dr. Daniele Farina – chief of neonatology at the Sant’Anna hospital in Torino – is raising funds for building and improving neonatology and neonatal intensive care facilities in seven Italian hospitals, as well as for providing psychological support services for parents.
Donations can be made by sending a text message to the number 48586 from June 30 to July 15, 2007, or by direct deposit to Intesa Sanpaolo bank account 100050 (routing number: CAB 09400, ABI 03069) or postal account 32474264, indicating “Un nido per Pollicino” in the space provided for specifying the reason for the transaction. Donations can also be made on-line by accessing the 500 website (www.fiat500.com), the Fiat website (www.fiat.it) and the Foundation’s website at www.alberodellavita.org
In addition, you can show your solidarity with the project by purchasing the “Fischia 500” music CD or T-shirts offered for sale in thirty Italian cities on July 5 and 6, and at all Fiat dealerships during the Open House weekend on July 7 and 8.
The funds raised by the project will be distributed to seven Italian hospitals, each with a strong local tradition in its own area: Torino’s Sant’Anna, Mangiagalli in Milano, Careggi in Florence, Gemelli in Rome, Monaldi in Naples, the Policlinico of Bari, and the Azienda Universitaria Policlinico in Palermo. In addition to these hospitals, the ZeroTre foundling home in Milano will also receive funding.
“We decided to support this project – explains Luca De Meo, Fiat Automobiles CEO – because it’s very much in line with the values of the 500, a car that looks to the future, that transmits joy and hope, that can bring a smile to every face. Because that’s how we think of the 500: a little car with a big heart. And we’re very pleased to be able to put this extraordinary power at the service of an initiative as deserving as this ”.
“We’re proud that an enterprise as important to the entire country as Fiat has chosen us as a partner. – announced Patrizio Paoletti, chairman of L’Albero della Vita Foundation, an independent humanitarian organization that has been working to protect and safeguard the rights of children and teenagers for over ten years – The project fits right in with our goals: helping a child today to make an adult happy tomorrow. An important part of our daily work is building consensus and attracting resources that we can redistribute to help satisfy the primary needs of modern society, which are first and foremost the needs of children ”.
“Un nido per Pollicino” will be assisted by a radio campaign with appeals to the public’s generosity by some of Italy’s most popular entertainers, who have agreed to donate their time – and their voices – to the charitable initiative.
List of the open-air presentations of the 500 hosted by 30 Italian cities on July 5 and 6, where CDs and T-shirts will be on sale in aid of “Un nido per Pollicino”:
- Alghero, Lungomare Dante near Via Leopardi
- Bari, Piazza Ferrarese
- Bologna, Piazza San Francesco
- Brescia, Piazza della Loggia
- Cagliari, Marina Piccola
- Caserta, Piazza Vanvitelli
- Catania, Piazza Università
- Florence, Piazza in front of the Uffizi
- Genoa, Piazza de Ferrari
- Lecce, Piazza Sant’Oronzo
- Livorno, Terrazza Mascagni
- Milano, Piazza Duomo
- Naples Piazza Plebiscito
- Padova, Prato della Valle
- Palermo, Piazza Politeama
- Parma, Piazza Steccata
- Perugia, Corso Vannucci
- Pescara, Piazza della Rinascita
- Pisa, Piazza dei Cavalieri
- Reggio Calabria, Corso Matteotti
- Roma, Piazza del Popolo
- Terni, Piazza Tacito
- Torino, Piazza San Carlo
- Trento, Piazza Duomo
- Treviso, Piazza della Borsa
- Trieste, Piazza della Borsa
- Udine, Piazza Duomo
- Varese, Piazza della Repubblica
- Viareggio, Piazza Mazzini
- Vicenza, Piazza dei Signori
Source: Fiat
- Deal Pairs Chrysler Town & Country SIRIUS Backseat TV(TM) with Jimmy Neutron, and Extends to Multiple Platforms Including Nickelodeon and Nick at Nite Television, Print and Digital
- Chrysler Brand Signs on to Become an Official Sponsor of Nickelodeon's Slime Across America Summer Tour
Nickelodeon, the number-one entertainment brand for kids, has partnered with the Chrysler brand, in a brand new multi-million advertising and promotional multiplatform deal. The agreement was announced today by Jim Perry, Executive Vice President, 360 Brand Sales for Nickelodeon and MTVN Kids and Family Group, and Dave Rooney, Director, Chrysler Global Marketing & Communications.
"We are thrilled to welcome Chrysler to Nickelodeon as a first time advertiser," said Perry. "Chrysler is pairing up with one of our hottest TV properties on a variety of Kids and Family platforms, and is joining us on the ride to slime America. This collaboration is a great example of the custom packages that Nickelodeon and MTVN Kids and Family can offer marketers to get messaging out to target audiences in the kids and family space."
The partnership is part of the Chrysler brand's efforts to target families with its 2008 Chrysler Town & Country minivan. The deal will highlight the Chrysler Town & Country's SIRIUS Backseat TV(TM) which will, for the first time, broadcast Nickelodeon and Nicktoons Network.
"We are truly excited about this collaboration between Chrysler and a strong entertainment brand geared towards families as well as kids," Rooney said. "The Chrysler Town & Country minivan, featuring the SIRIUS Backseat TV(TM), is for the tech savvy family; so who better at Nickelodeon to partner with than Jimmy Neutron, the genius inventor."
Chrysler has signed on as the exclusive auto sponsor for Nickelodeon's Slime Across America summer tour, which launches in July. The Chrysler sponsorship package, which begins July 7, includes an interactive Chrysler Town & Country display where families can experience the SIRIUS Backseat TV(TM) on- site at each of the 20 tour stops. In addition, Chrysler will provide on-site photo opportunities with a Jimmy Neutron costumed character. Chrysler will also be featured in billboards on any of Nickelodeon's local cable affiliate spots geared around the tour.
"The Slime Across America tour was extremely successful in its first leg earlier this year. With Chrysler on board as a sponsor, it promises to be bigger, better and messier this summer. We couldn't be more pleased to be working with them on this campaign," added Pam Kaufman, Executive Vice President, Marketing and Worldwide Partnerships, Nickelodeon and MTVN Kids and Family Group.
"We were looking for a way to create awareness of the Chrysler Town & Country with families on a grassroots level, and the Slime Across America tour provides us with an amazing opportunity to do so," added Rooney.
The advertising campaign, which begins this Fall on October 1, will be divided between several Nick platforms including Nickelodeon and Nick at Nite television, and digital sites GoCityKids.com, Nickjr.com, Noggin.com, Shockwave.com and magazine ads in Nickelodeon consumer publications. Custom spots will be developed featuring Jimmy Neutron interacting with the new features of the Chrysler Town & Country minivan. Jimmy Neutron will also be featured in Chrysler's online advertising campaign on Chrysler.com and the previously listed Kids and Family Group digital sites, and his likeness, or a costumed character will make appearances throughout 2007-08 at auto shows, mobile tours, and in-theater ads where Chrysler products are featured.
The deal also features a Chrysler Town & Country and a vehicle specialist on-site at the Nickelodeon Family Suites by Holiday Inn in Orlando, Florida, from November through January 2008. Chrysler's custom spots will air on the hotel's in-house TV network. Nick Hotel branding will be featured on Chrysler.com during the promotional window.
About Chrysler's Town & Country Minivan
The Chrysler Town & Country minivan offers fresh ideas for consumers looking for the best vehicles to move people and cargo. This fifth generation of the Chrysler Group's industry-leading minivans has 35 new or improved features, including the all-new Swivel 'n Go(TM) seating system. Swivel 'n Go offer second row seats that swivel 180 degrees to face the third row with a removable table that installs between the two rows, covered storage bins in the floor of the second row, third-row storage bins and fold-in-the-floor third-row seating.
About Chrysler
Driven by award-winning new models, the Chrysler brand has seen a dramatic increase in sales, market share and brand image. Since 1990, Chrysler brand sales have more than tripled. No other American automotive brand has grown as much during the same time frame.
The Chrysler brand's succession of innovative product introductions continues to solidify the brand's standing as the leader in great design, purposeful technology and value. With the launch of the all-new 2007 Chrysler Sebring sedan and the 2007 Chrysler Aspen -- the first-ever full-size sport utility vehicle for the brand -- the momentum is sure to continue with the launch of the all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible and 2008 Chrysler Town & Country.
About Nickelodeon
Nickelodeon, in its 28th year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books, magazines and feature films. Nickelodeon's U.S. television network is seen in almost 92 million households and has been the number-one- rated basic cable network for 12 consecutive years. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) .
Source: Nickelodeon
- Chrysler Brand Signs on to Become an Official Sponsor of Nickelodeon's Slime Across America Summer Tour
Nickelodeon, the number-one entertainment brand for kids, has partnered with the Chrysler brand, in a brand new multi-million advertising and promotional multiplatform deal. The agreement was announced today by Jim Perry, Executive Vice President, 360 Brand Sales for Nickelodeon and MTVN Kids and Family Group, and Dave Rooney, Director, Chrysler Global Marketing & Communications.
"We are thrilled to welcome Chrysler to Nickelodeon as a first time advertiser," said Perry. "Chrysler is pairing up with one of our hottest TV properties on a variety of Kids and Family platforms, and is joining us on the ride to slime America. This collaboration is a great example of the custom packages that Nickelodeon and MTVN Kids and Family can offer marketers to get messaging out to target audiences in the kids and family space."
The partnership is part of the Chrysler brand's efforts to target families with its 2008 Chrysler Town & Country minivan. The deal will highlight the Chrysler Town & Country's SIRIUS Backseat TV(TM) which will, for the first time, broadcast Nickelodeon and Nicktoons Network.
"We are truly excited about this collaboration between Chrysler and a strong entertainment brand geared towards families as well as kids," Rooney said. "The Chrysler Town & Country minivan, featuring the SIRIUS Backseat TV(TM), is for the tech savvy family; so who better at Nickelodeon to partner with than Jimmy Neutron, the genius inventor."
Chrysler has signed on as the exclusive auto sponsor for Nickelodeon's Slime Across America summer tour, which launches in July. The Chrysler sponsorship package, which begins July 7, includes an interactive Chrysler Town & Country display where families can experience the SIRIUS Backseat TV(TM) on- site at each of the 20 tour stops. In addition, Chrysler will provide on-site photo opportunities with a Jimmy Neutron costumed character. Chrysler will also be featured in billboards on any of Nickelodeon's local cable affiliate spots geared around the tour.
"The Slime Across America tour was extremely successful in its first leg earlier this year. With Chrysler on board as a sponsor, it promises to be bigger, better and messier this summer. We couldn't be more pleased to be working with them on this campaign," added Pam Kaufman, Executive Vice President, Marketing and Worldwide Partnerships, Nickelodeon and MTVN Kids and Family Group.
"We were looking for a way to create awareness of the Chrysler Town & Country with families on a grassroots level, and the Slime Across America tour provides us with an amazing opportunity to do so," added Rooney.
The advertising campaign, which begins this Fall on October 1, will be divided between several Nick platforms including Nickelodeon and Nick at Nite television, and digital sites GoCityKids.com, Nickjr.com, Noggin.com, Shockwave.com and magazine ads in Nickelodeon consumer publications. Custom spots will be developed featuring Jimmy Neutron interacting with the new features of the Chrysler Town & Country minivan. Jimmy Neutron will also be featured in Chrysler's online advertising campaign on Chrysler.com and the previously listed Kids and Family Group digital sites, and his likeness, or a costumed character will make appearances throughout 2007-08 at auto shows, mobile tours, and in-theater ads where Chrysler products are featured.
The deal also features a Chrysler Town & Country and a vehicle specialist on-site at the Nickelodeon Family Suites by Holiday Inn in Orlando, Florida, from November through January 2008. Chrysler's custom spots will air on the hotel's in-house TV network. Nick Hotel branding will be featured on Chrysler.com during the promotional window.
About Chrysler's Town & Country Minivan
The Chrysler Town & Country minivan offers fresh ideas for consumers looking for the best vehicles to move people and cargo. This fifth generation of the Chrysler Group's industry-leading minivans has 35 new or improved features, including the all-new Swivel 'n Go(TM) seating system. Swivel 'n Go offer second row seats that swivel 180 degrees to face the third row with a removable table that installs between the two rows, covered storage bins in the floor of the second row, third-row storage bins and fold-in-the-floor third-row seating.
About Chrysler
Driven by award-winning new models, the Chrysler brand has seen a dramatic increase in sales, market share and brand image. Since 1990, Chrysler brand sales have more than tripled. No other American automotive brand has grown as much during the same time frame.
The Chrysler brand's succession of innovative product introductions continues to solidify the brand's standing as the leader in great design, purposeful technology and value. With the launch of the all-new 2007 Chrysler Sebring sedan and the 2007 Chrysler Aspen -- the first-ever full-size sport utility vehicle for the brand -- the momentum is sure to continue with the launch of the all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible and 2008 Chrysler Town & Country.
About Nickelodeon
Nickelodeon, in its 28th year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books, magazines and feature films. Nickelodeon's U.S. television network is seen in almost 92 million households and has been the number-one- rated basic cable network for 12 consecutive years. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) .
Source: Nickelodeon
The debut of the eagerly awaited drops the traditional limits of the commercial launch campaign to take on a symbolic value, much like what happened with its forebear in 1957. Some may remember, in fact, that on 4 July 50 years ago, Turin celebrated the arrival of the 500 with an unforgettable cavalcade of more than 150 cars; today its heir receives the same welcome with an extraordinary show that brings in the entire city on 4 and 5 July. In addition to local inhabitants, the event will be followed by more than 7,000 visitors from 63 countries, including 3,750 dealers, importers and big company representatives, more than 1,000 journalists, about 100 financial analysts, 200 suppliers and 1,000 guests including authorities, businessmen and personalities from the worlds of entertainment, fashion and sport. And then, on the afternoon of 5 July, Fiat’s top management will go to Rome to present the Fiat 500 to the President of the Republic. It should be mentioned that on the occasion of the launch of the new car, Fiat is lending its support to the project of the Fondazione L’Albero della Vita onlus “Un nido per Pollicino – Aiutiamo i più piccoli a diventare grandi” (Tree of Life Foundation “A home for Tom Thumb – Let’s help tiny tots grow up) in favour of prematurely born babies.
The arrival of this car is important not only for Turin but for the country as a whole. That is why on 5 and 6 July, in close association with the official launch, 30 other Italian cities will donate their most beautiful squares to allow the new car to be presented. These squares, for example piazza del Popolo in Rome, piazza Duomo in Milano, piazza Politeama in Palermo and piazza San Carlo in Torino are famous the world over. The stages set up in them will host entertainment, games and themed music but they will also be home to a great charity initiative: in fact on 5 and 6 July, the public will be able to buy the cd Fischia 500 or exclusive T-shirts to support the solidarity project “Un nido per Pollicino”. The initiative will be repeated on the 7 and 8 July at all Fiat dealerships during the Fiat 500 Open Doors campaign.
The event on the river Po televised live on Canale 5 and the Notte Bianca 500
The most eagerly awaited moment is most certainly the show planned for Turin on 4 July that will start at 10.00 pm in the Murazzi area down by the Po. The event has been produced by K-events/FilmMaster Group directed by Marco Balich, Italy’s most famous creative producer known all over the world for his inspired and imaginative spectaculars, including the opening and closing ceremonies of the Winter Olympics which last year attracted world attention to the city of Turin.
For the Fiat 500 Balich has organised an extraordinary kaleidoscope of lights, sounds, music and stunning performances that will enrapture the public present in the stands in corso Cairoli (in addition to the 7,000 guests already mentioned there will be 500 employees of the Fiat Mirafiori factory and 4,500 people who have taken part in the scratch card contest run by La Stampa) but also those who watch the show on maxi-screens in Turin’s finest squares (piazza Vittorio Veneto, piazza San Carlo, piazza Castello and piazza Emanuele Filiberto) or all those who decide to watch the live television broadcast on Canale 5. In addition, starting 10.00 pm, the event will be streamed to the website www.fiat500.com so offering viewers the chance to experience all the emotions of the celebration in Turin, wherever they might be in the world. The culmination of the presentation will obviously be the arrival of the car which, for the first time, will show itself off in all its beauty and originality to the public at large. But the party will continue with the Notte Bianca 500 and the participation of thousands.
Two days of entertainment in the Piedmontese capital
On 4 July, before the evening show, Turin’s finest squares will play host to numerous, original initiatives dedicated to the new Fiat: from piazza Vittorio Veneto to piazza San Carlo, from piazza Castello to the Quadrilatero Romano, as far as the evocative Borgo Dora (see detailed programme below). The event will also provide an ideal opportunity for visiting the Pinacoteca Giovanni e Marella Agnelli, which will remain open exceptionally till 9.00 pm, or one of the numerous museums in the city centre, some of which will be open until 2.00 am.
On the morning of 5 July, after the press conference at PalaIsozaki (which may be followed live on www.fiat500.com), 180 cars will leave the Stadio Comunale for the test drives of the international press while, in corso Traiano, some historic Fiat 500s will provide the framework for picnics, shopkeepers’ parties, street markets and animations. Collectors will be able to drive round the test track at Mirafiori and organise a photo to remember it by.
Programme of 4 July 2007
Piazza Castello
· from 9.30 am children from Estate Ragazzi, church parishes and private and public schools will be able to have a good time with the Great Children’s Party, the 500 Snakes and Ladders game and the Great Game of the 500 Week;
· from 7.00 pm the evening will become a music and entertainment get together for adults with the concert by the Orchestra di Ritmi Moderni;
· from 9.00 to 9.30 pm, the Orchestra of the Teatro Regio will pay tribute to the new Fiat;
· after 9.30 pm young hair stylists will interpret “500 brush strokes”…under the stars;
· from 11.00 pm Ugo Alciati will interpret the “Taste… of the 500”;
· from 12.00 am Guido of Pollenzo will prepare 500 kg of Gragnano pasta offered by Eataly while the games, entertainments and jazz continue.
Piazza Vittorio Veneto
· from 9.00 am display of 800 historic Fiat 500s belonging to the numerous European clubs;
· from 2.00 pm to 12 am 6 mobile post offices will be available to provide cancellations for a commemorative stamp dedicated to the Fiat 500 (the design reproduces the work called “Fiat Nuova 500”, done in 1968 by the painter Antonio Aimone);
· various animations and award ceremonies are planned throughout the day.
Piazza San Carlo
· from 7 pm to 7.30 pm a fabulous Aperitif party with Campari "Cin Cin Cinquecento".
· Photographic exhibition dedicated to the Fifties;
· at 12.00 am “midnight toast” with Asti Spumante served by Piedmontese sommeliers;
· from 12.00 am arrival of the “Band 500” on board 15 historic cars that will perform jazz, swing and evergreens.
Borgo Dora
· from 6.00 pm an exceptional street market of modern antiques dedicated to the Fifties;
· in the Cortile del Maglio the public will be able to taste a new beer created for the occasion by Teo Musso of the “Birrificio Le Baladin”;
· from 7.00 pm theatre with period scenes and ballroom dancing;
· from 7.00 pm to 12.00 am “The Theatre of Taste”, five Slow Food Osterie: the Antiche Sere, Con calma, Frà Fiusch, I Saletta and La Betulla, interpret the Fiat 500.
· at 12.00 am “Pinocchio’s risotto”.
Quadrilatero Romano
· from early afternoon, display of vintage cars;
· from 7.00 pm various restaurants will prepare aperitifs and themed dinners;
· thereafter Dj set and groups of jazz musicians will ride around in period cars.
Via Garibaldi
· from 9.00 pm to 2.00 am, stalls with Toscani cigars, Barolo Chinato and cakes.
Source: Fiat
The arrival of this car is important not only for Turin but for the country as a whole. That is why on 5 and 6 July, in close association with the official launch, 30 other Italian cities will donate their most beautiful squares to allow the new car to be presented. These squares, for example piazza del Popolo in Rome, piazza Duomo in Milano, piazza Politeama in Palermo and piazza San Carlo in Torino are famous the world over. The stages set up in them will host entertainment, games and themed music but they will also be home to a great charity initiative: in fact on 5 and 6 July, the public will be able to buy the cd Fischia 500 or exclusive T-shirts to support the solidarity project “Un nido per Pollicino”. The initiative will be repeated on the 7 and 8 July at all Fiat dealerships during the Fiat 500 Open Doors campaign.
The event on the river Po televised live on Canale 5 and the Notte Bianca 500
The most eagerly awaited moment is most certainly the show planned for Turin on 4 July that will start at 10.00 pm in the Murazzi area down by the Po. The event has been produced by K-events/FilmMaster Group directed by Marco Balich, Italy’s most famous creative producer known all over the world for his inspired and imaginative spectaculars, including the opening and closing ceremonies of the Winter Olympics which last year attracted world attention to the city of Turin.
For the Fiat 500 Balich has organised an extraordinary kaleidoscope of lights, sounds, music and stunning performances that will enrapture the public present in the stands in corso Cairoli (in addition to the 7,000 guests already mentioned there will be 500 employees of the Fiat Mirafiori factory and 4,500 people who have taken part in the scratch card contest run by La Stampa) but also those who watch the show on maxi-screens in Turin’s finest squares (piazza Vittorio Veneto, piazza San Carlo, piazza Castello and piazza Emanuele Filiberto) or all those who decide to watch the live television broadcast on Canale 5. In addition, starting 10.00 pm, the event will be streamed to the website www.fiat500.com so offering viewers the chance to experience all the emotions of the celebration in Turin, wherever they might be in the world. The culmination of the presentation will obviously be the arrival of the car which, for the first time, will show itself off in all its beauty and originality to the public at large. But the party will continue with the Notte Bianca 500 and the participation of thousands.
Two days of entertainment in the Piedmontese capital
On 4 July, before the evening show, Turin’s finest squares will play host to numerous, original initiatives dedicated to the new Fiat: from piazza Vittorio Veneto to piazza San Carlo, from piazza Castello to the Quadrilatero Romano, as far as the evocative Borgo Dora (see detailed programme below). The event will also provide an ideal opportunity for visiting the Pinacoteca Giovanni e Marella Agnelli, which will remain open exceptionally till 9.00 pm, or one of the numerous museums in the city centre, some of which will be open until 2.00 am.
On the morning of 5 July, after the press conference at PalaIsozaki (which may be followed live on www.fiat500.com), 180 cars will leave the Stadio Comunale for the test drives of the international press while, in corso Traiano, some historic Fiat 500s will provide the framework for picnics, shopkeepers’ parties, street markets and animations. Collectors will be able to drive round the test track at Mirafiori and organise a photo to remember it by.
Programme of 4 July 2007
Piazza Castello
· from 9.30 am children from Estate Ragazzi, church parishes and private and public schools will be able to have a good time with the Great Children’s Party, the 500 Snakes and Ladders game and the Great Game of the 500 Week;
· from 7.00 pm the evening will become a music and entertainment get together for adults with the concert by the Orchestra di Ritmi Moderni;
· from 9.00 to 9.30 pm, the Orchestra of the Teatro Regio will pay tribute to the new Fiat;
· after 9.30 pm young hair stylists will interpret “500 brush strokes”…under the stars;
· from 11.00 pm Ugo Alciati will interpret the “Taste… of the 500”;
· from 12.00 am Guido of Pollenzo will prepare 500 kg of Gragnano pasta offered by Eataly while the games, entertainments and jazz continue.
Piazza Vittorio Veneto
· from 9.00 am display of 800 historic Fiat 500s belonging to the numerous European clubs;
· from 2.00 pm to 12 am 6 mobile post offices will be available to provide cancellations for a commemorative stamp dedicated to the Fiat 500 (the design reproduces the work called “Fiat Nuova 500”, done in 1968 by the painter Antonio Aimone);
· various animations and award ceremonies are planned throughout the day.
Piazza San Carlo
· from 7 pm to 7.30 pm a fabulous Aperitif party with Campari "Cin Cin Cinquecento".
· Photographic exhibition dedicated to the Fifties;
· at 12.00 am “midnight toast” with Asti Spumante served by Piedmontese sommeliers;
· from 12.00 am arrival of the “Band 500” on board 15 historic cars that will perform jazz, swing and evergreens.
Borgo Dora
· from 6.00 pm an exceptional street market of modern antiques dedicated to the Fifties;
· in the Cortile del Maglio the public will be able to taste a new beer created for the occasion by Teo Musso of the “Birrificio Le Baladin”;
· from 7.00 pm theatre with period scenes and ballroom dancing;
· from 7.00 pm to 12.00 am “The Theatre of Taste”, five Slow Food Osterie: the Antiche Sere, Con calma, Frà Fiusch, I Saletta and La Betulla, interpret the Fiat 500.
· at 12.00 am “Pinocchio’s risotto”.
Quadrilatero Romano
· from early afternoon, display of vintage cars;
· from 7.00 pm various restaurants will prepare aperitifs and themed dinners;
· thereafter Dj set and groups of jazz musicians will ride around in period cars.
Via Garibaldi
· from 9.00 pm to 2.00 am, stalls with Toscani cigars, Barolo Chinato and cakes.
Source: Fiat
The 2008 Ford Taurus X, a midsize SUV, meets the criteria to win the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) TOP SAFETY PICK award. Winners of this designation afford superior overall crash protection among the vehicles in their class. To qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK, a vehicle must earn the highest rating of good in all three Institute tests -- front, side, and rear -- and be equipped with electronic stability control.
"Criteria to win are tough because the award is intended to drive continued safety improvements such as high crash test ratings and rapid addition of electronic stability control, which is standard equipment on the 2008 Ford Taurus X," says Institute president Adrian Lund. "Recognizing vehicles at the head of the class for safety helps consumers distinguish the best overall choices without having to sort through multiple results."
Initially only 13 cars, minivans, and SUVs qualified for 2007 awards. As automakers introduce new models or make safety changes to existing ones, the Institute adds winners throughout the year. Ford's Freestyle, predecessor to the Ford Taurus X, earned top crash test ratings but didn't qualify for the 2007 award because electronic stability control wasn't available.
"In a competitive marketplace, automakers are striving to earn safety accolades," Lund points out. "We congratulate Ford for having more models that earn TOP SAFETY PICK from the Institute than any other car company."
Seven of the 22 current TOP SAFETY PICKs are from Ford or its subsidiary, Volvo.
How vehicles are evaluated: The Institute's frontal crashworthiness evaluations are based on results of 40 mph frontal offset crash tests. Each vehicle's overall evaluation is based on measurements of intrusion into the occupant compartment, injury measures recorded on a Hybrid III dummy in the driver seat, and analysis of slow-motion film to assess how well the restraint system controlled dummy movement during the test.
Side evaluations are based on performance in a crash test in which the side of a vehicle is struck by a barrier moving at 31 mph. The barrier represents the front end of a pickup or SUV. Ratings reflect injury measures recorded on two instrumented SID-IIs dummies, assessment of head protection countermeasures, and the vehicle's structural performance during the impact. Injury measures obtained from the two dummies, one in the driver seat and the other in the back seat behind the driver, are used to determine the likelihood that a driver and/or passenger in a similar real-world crash would sustain serious injury to various parts of the body. The movements and contacts of the dummies' heads during the test also are evaluated. Structural performance is based on measurements indicating the amount of B-pillar intrusion into the occupant compartment.
Rear crash protection is rated according to a two-step procedure. Starting points for the ratings are measurements of head restraint geometry -- the height of a restraint and its horizontal distance behind the back of the head of an average-size man. Seat/head restraints with good or acceptable geometry are tested dynamically using a dummy that measures forces on the neck.
Source: Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
"Criteria to win are tough because the award is intended to drive continued safety improvements such as high crash test ratings and rapid addition of electronic stability control, which is standard equipment on the 2008 Ford Taurus X," says Institute president Adrian Lund. "Recognizing vehicles at the head of the class for safety helps consumers distinguish the best overall choices without having to sort through multiple results."
Initially only 13 cars, minivans, and SUVs qualified for 2007 awards. As automakers introduce new models or make safety changes to existing ones, the Institute adds winners throughout the year. Ford's Freestyle, predecessor to the Ford Taurus X, earned top crash test ratings but didn't qualify for the 2007 award because electronic stability control wasn't available.
"In a competitive marketplace, automakers are striving to earn safety accolades," Lund points out. "We congratulate Ford for having more models that earn TOP SAFETY PICK from the Institute than any other car company."
Seven of the 22 current TOP SAFETY PICKs are from Ford or its subsidiary, Volvo.
How vehicles are evaluated: The Institute's frontal crashworthiness evaluations are based on results of 40 mph frontal offset crash tests. Each vehicle's overall evaluation is based on measurements of intrusion into the occupant compartment, injury measures recorded on a Hybrid III dummy in the driver seat, and analysis of slow-motion film to assess how well the restraint system controlled dummy movement during the test.
Side evaluations are based on performance in a crash test in which the side of a vehicle is struck by a barrier moving at 31 mph. The barrier represents the front end of a pickup or SUV. Ratings reflect injury measures recorded on two instrumented SID-IIs dummies, assessment of head protection countermeasures, and the vehicle's structural performance during the impact. Injury measures obtained from the two dummies, one in the driver seat and the other in the back seat behind the driver, are used to determine the likelihood that a driver and/or passenger in a similar real-world crash would sustain serious injury to various parts of the body. The movements and contacts of the dummies' heads during the test also are evaluated. Structural performance is based on measurements indicating the amount of B-pillar intrusion into the occupant compartment.
Rear crash protection is rated according to a two-step procedure. Starting points for the ratings are measurements of head restraint geometry -- the height of a restraint and its horizontal distance behind the back of the head of an average-size man. Seat/head restraints with good or acceptable geometry are tested dynamically using a dummy that measures forces on the neck.
Source: Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
Three Kansas City area federal agencies added new 2007 Saturn Aura Green Line hybrid vehicles to their fleets Monday. Two vehicles were delivered by the federal General Services Administration (GSA) to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 7 office in Kansas City, Kan. One is for EPA and one for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in Kansas City, Mo. A third will be added to the GSA fleet in Kansas City, Mo.
Romell Cooks, regional administrator for the NHTSA’s Central Region, received the keys to a new hybrid Saturn Aura Green Line. “While safety of the motoring public is a key concern of the NHTSA, we are equally concerned about the fuel efficiency of our passenger cars and light trucks,” Cooks said. “These types of vehicles will make a difference.”
GSA ordered 50 Saturn Aura Green Line vehicles this year to be delivered nationwide. The Saturn Aura Green Line hybrids are assembled at the General Motor's Fairfax Assembly plant in Kansas City, Kan.
Executive Order 13423, signed by President Bush in January, directs federal agencies to increase alternative fuel use by 10 percent each year. GSA’s fleet management division has delivered 3,581 bi-fuel and 20 biodiesel vehicles to regional federal agencies.
EPA Region 7 Administrator John B. Askew accepted the vehicle for the environmental agency. Askew said, “Using fuel efficient vehicles like the Saturn hybrid we’re receiving today just makes sense. Not only does it protect the environment by reducing emissions, but using less fuel strengthens our energy security.”
GSA Heartland Region Administrator Bradley M. Scott said, “GSA is proud to join EPA and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as government leaders in using and supporting environmentally friendly vehicles, and we look forward to providing energy efficient vehicles and alternative fuel-use cars to more federal agencies in the future.”
Executive Order 13423 also directs federal agencies with more than 20 motor vehicles to reduce petroleum consumption by 2 percent annually through 2015. The Saturn Aura’s estimated fuel mileage is 35 miles per gallon.
# # #
Source: EPA
Romell Cooks, regional administrator for the NHTSA’s Central Region, received the keys to a new hybrid Saturn Aura Green Line. “While safety of the motoring public is a key concern of the NHTSA, we are equally concerned about the fuel efficiency of our passenger cars and light trucks,” Cooks said. “These types of vehicles will make a difference.”
GSA ordered 50 Saturn Aura Green Line vehicles this year to be delivered nationwide. The Saturn Aura Green Line hybrids are assembled at the General Motor's Fairfax Assembly plant in Kansas City, Kan.
Executive Order 13423, signed by President Bush in January, directs federal agencies to increase alternative fuel use by 10 percent each year. GSA’s fleet management division has delivered 3,581 bi-fuel and 20 biodiesel vehicles to regional federal agencies.
EPA Region 7 Administrator John B. Askew accepted the vehicle for the environmental agency. Askew said, “Using fuel efficient vehicles like the Saturn hybrid we’re receiving today just makes sense. Not only does it protect the environment by reducing emissions, but using less fuel strengthens our energy security.”
GSA Heartland Region Administrator Bradley M. Scott said, “GSA is proud to join EPA and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as government leaders in using and supporting environmentally friendly vehicles, and we look forward to providing energy efficient vehicles and alternative fuel-use cars to more federal agencies in the future.”
Executive Order 13423 also directs federal agencies with more than 20 motor vehicles to reduce petroleum consumption by 2 percent annually through 2015. The Saturn Aura’s estimated fuel mileage is 35 miles per gallon.
# # #
Source: EPA
Audi of America, Inc. announced today the pricing of its 2008 Audi RS 4 Cabriolet model at $81,900. The destination charge will be $775, and the gas guzzler tax will be determined prior to arrival at U.S. showrooms in fall 2007.
Because of its limited production, 2008 Audi RS 4 Cabriolet will only be offered with standard equipment, including navigation system plus, preparation for mobile phone (Bluetooth(R)), SIRIUS(R) satellite radio, Bose(R) sound system, heated front and rear seats, memory function for driver seat and exterior mirrors, bi-xenon adaptive headlamps, rear parking system, acoustic convertible top, HomeLink(R) garage/gate opener, auto dimming exterior mirrors, auto dimming interior rear-view mirror with integrated compass, rain and light sensor with "coming home" feature, color driver information system, iPod(R) glovebox interface (no-cost option in place of standard 6-CD changer), brushed aluminum decorative inlays (no-cost option in place of RS 4 carbon fiber decorative inlays).
The 2008 Audi RS 4 Cabriolet shares the same high-revving 4.2 V8 FSI engine found in the 2008 Audi RS 4 sedan. It produces 420 hp at 7,800 rpm and 317 ft-lbs. of torque at 5,500 rpm. Like the sedan, the Cabriolet will only be available with a six- speed manual transmission and quattro(R) all-wheel drive featuring the asymmetrical dynamic torque split.
Like the sedan, the Cabriolet will have 19" Audi RS 4-style alloy wheels with 255/35/19 high-performance tires, a four-link front and trapezoidal-link rear sport-tuned suspension with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC), and 14.4" front and 12.8" rear disc brake rotors.
ABOUT AUDI OF AMERICA
Audi of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich. Audi's history in America dates to 1969, when the brand was first introduced to the U.S. market. Today, a network of over 260 Audi dealers currently offers a line of premium vehicles that include the Audi A3 premium compact; the sporty Audi A4 sedan, Avant and Cabriolet models; the high performance Audi S4 sedan, Avant and Cabriolet models; the high-revving Audi RS 4 sports sedan; the design-leading Audi A6 sedan and Avant; the all-new Audi Q7 performance SUV; and the all-aluminum Audi A8; and the new V10-powered Audi S6 and Audi S8 performance sedans.
For more information, visit www.audiusa.com
Source: Audi of America, Inc.
Because of its limited production, 2008 Audi RS 4 Cabriolet will only be offered with standard equipment, including navigation system plus, preparation for mobile phone (Bluetooth(R)), SIRIUS(R) satellite radio, Bose(R) sound system, heated front and rear seats, memory function for driver seat and exterior mirrors, bi-xenon adaptive headlamps, rear parking system, acoustic convertible top, HomeLink(R) garage/gate opener, auto dimming exterior mirrors, auto dimming interior rear-view mirror with integrated compass, rain and light sensor with "coming home" feature, color driver information system, iPod(R) glovebox interface (no-cost option in place of standard 6-CD changer), brushed aluminum decorative inlays (no-cost option in place of RS 4 carbon fiber decorative inlays).
The 2008 Audi RS 4 Cabriolet shares the same high-revving 4.2 V8 FSI engine found in the 2008 Audi RS 4 sedan. It produces 420 hp at 7,800 rpm and 317 ft-lbs. of torque at 5,500 rpm. Like the sedan, the Cabriolet will only be available with a six- speed manual transmission and quattro(R) all-wheel drive featuring the asymmetrical dynamic torque split.
Like the sedan, the Cabriolet will have 19" Audi RS 4-style alloy wheels with 255/35/19 high-performance tires, a four-link front and trapezoidal-link rear sport-tuned suspension with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC), and 14.4" front and 12.8" rear disc brake rotors.
ABOUT AUDI OF AMERICA
Audi of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich. Audi's history in America dates to 1969, when the brand was first introduced to the U.S. market. Today, a network of over 260 Audi dealers currently offers a line of premium vehicles that include the Audi A3 premium compact; the sporty Audi A4 sedan, Avant and Cabriolet models; the high performance Audi S4 sedan, Avant and Cabriolet models; the high-revving Audi RS 4 sports sedan; the design-leading Audi A6 sedan and Avant; the all-new Audi Q7 performance SUV; and the all-aluminum Audi A8; and the new V10-powered Audi S6 and Audi S8 performance sedans.
For more information, visit www.audiusa.com
Source: Audi of America, Inc.
Organized by the South East Automotive Media Organization (SEAMO), Jaguar’s C-XF concept car was voted the 2007 North American Production Preview Vehicle of the Year Award.
According to juror Chris Poole, “The Jaguar C-XF reinterprets Jaguar's traditional 'grace, space, pace' in a fresh, original new way – which is no easy task. And, all without a sign of [retrospective design]."
These awards recognize vehicles that are most likely to shape the future of the automobile industry. With more than two dozen professional automotive journalists from all over North America on the jury panel, the Jaguar C-XF was selected amongst 11 Production Preview Concept Vehicles that were launched in North America during the 2007 Auto Show season.
“We are honored that the Jaguar C-XF was voted 2007 Production Preview Vehicle of the Year Award in such a highly competitive segment," said Marti Eulberg, executive vice president of Marketing and Sales, Jaguar North America. “Although purely a concept vehicle, the C-XF definitely signals a new design direction for Jaguar.”
The Jaguar C-XF concept car made its debut on January 7, 2007 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Mich. It's a stunning four-door sedan that blends dynamic, modern features with classic heritage cues and boasts a 4.2-liter supercharged V8 engine.
In January 2007, the Jaguar C-XF also won AutoWeek’s Editors' Choice Award for Best in Show.
Source: Ford Motor Company
According to juror Chris Poole, “The Jaguar C-XF reinterprets Jaguar's traditional 'grace, space, pace' in a fresh, original new way – which is no easy task. And, all without a sign of [retrospective design]."
These awards recognize vehicles that are most likely to shape the future of the automobile industry. With more than two dozen professional automotive journalists from all over North America on the jury panel, the Jaguar C-XF was selected amongst 11 Production Preview Concept Vehicles that were launched in North America during the 2007 Auto Show season.
“We are honored that the Jaguar C-XF was voted 2007 Production Preview Vehicle of the Year Award in such a highly competitive segment," said Marti Eulberg, executive vice president of Marketing and Sales, Jaguar North America. “Although purely a concept vehicle, the C-XF definitely signals a new design direction for Jaguar.”
The Jaguar C-XF concept car made its debut on January 7, 2007 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Mich. It's a stunning four-door sedan that blends dynamic, modern features with classic heritage cues and boasts a 4.2-liter supercharged V8 engine.
In January 2007, the Jaguar C-XF also won AutoWeek’s Editors' Choice Award for Best in Show.
Source: Ford Motor Company
Nissan North America, Inc. announced pricing on the 2008 Nissan Versa Sedan and Hatchback models, which go on sale today at Nissan dealers nationwide. Nissan Versa enters it second model year with strong sales momentum -- through May 2007, the Nissan Versa Hatchback and Sedan have combined to sell more than 52,000 units in less than one year of production.
For 2008, the Sport Package is now an option on the Nissan Versa Sedan 1.8 SL model (previously available on Nissan Versa Hatchback 1.8 SL). The Sport Package adds a higher level of performance styling with a rear spoiler (roof-mounted for Hatchback, decklid-mounted for Sedan), lower body side sill extensions, unique front and rear fascia (Hatchback) and chin spoiler (Sedan) and fog lights.
The starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2008 Nissan Versa Sedan 1.8 S is $12,550 with 6-speed manual transmission and $13,350 with the 4-speed automatic transmission. The Nissan Versa Sedan 1.8 SL with Nissan's advanced Xtronic CVT(TM) (Continuously Variable Transmissions) is priced at $15,550.
The 2008 Nissan Versa Hatchback is offered in four models: Versa Hatchback 1.8 S 6-speed manual transmission at an MSRP of $12,650; Versa Hatchback 1.8 S 4- speed automatic transmission at $13,450; Versa Hatchback 1.8 SL 6-speed manual transmission at $14,650; and Versa Hatchback 1.8 SL with Xtronic CVT(TM) at $15,650.
All 2008 Nissan Versas are equipped with a standard 122-horsepower 1.8-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine - providing the highest standard horsepower rating in class.
The 2008 Nissan Versa also delivers excellent fuel economy. Estimated 2008 EPA fuel economy is 27 mpg City/33 mpg Highway with the CVT transmission; 24 mpg City/31 mpg highway with the 4-speed automatic transmission; and 26 mpg City/31 mpg Highway with the 6-speed manual transmission.
The 2008 Nissan Versa's unique packaging layout provides a spacious cabin with class- leading head and rear leg room. Versa also offers unexpected available technology, including Nissan's Intelligent Key, a Bluetooth(R) Hands-free Phone System, a Rockford Fosgate subwoofer, an auxiliary mp3 player input and XM(R) Satellite Radio.
In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing.
More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at http://www.nissan.com/
Source: Nissan North America, Inc.
For 2008, the Sport Package is now an option on the Nissan Versa Sedan 1.8 SL model (previously available on Nissan Versa Hatchback 1.8 SL). The Sport Package adds a higher level of performance styling with a rear spoiler (roof-mounted for Hatchback, decklid-mounted for Sedan), lower body side sill extensions, unique front and rear fascia (Hatchback) and chin spoiler (Sedan) and fog lights.
The starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2008 Nissan Versa Sedan 1.8 S is $12,550 with 6-speed manual transmission and $13,350 with the 4-speed automatic transmission. The Nissan Versa Sedan 1.8 SL with Nissan's advanced Xtronic CVT(TM) (Continuously Variable Transmissions) is priced at $15,550.
The 2008 Nissan Versa Hatchback is offered in four models: Versa Hatchback 1.8 S 6-speed manual transmission at an MSRP of $12,650; Versa Hatchback 1.8 S 4- speed automatic transmission at $13,450; Versa Hatchback 1.8 SL 6-speed manual transmission at $14,650; and Versa Hatchback 1.8 SL with Xtronic CVT(TM) at $15,650.
All 2008 Nissan Versas are equipped with a standard 122-horsepower 1.8-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine - providing the highest standard horsepower rating in class.
The 2008 Nissan Versa also delivers excellent fuel economy. Estimated 2008 EPA fuel economy is 27 mpg City/33 mpg Highway with the CVT transmission; 24 mpg City/31 mpg highway with the 4-speed automatic transmission; and 26 mpg City/31 mpg Highway with the 6-speed manual transmission.
The 2008 Nissan Versa's unique packaging layout provides a spacious cabin with class- leading head and rear leg room. Versa also offers unexpected available technology, including Nissan's Intelligent Key, a Bluetooth(R) Hands-free Phone System, a Rockford Fosgate subwoofer, an auxiliary mp3 player input and XM(R) Satellite Radio.
In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing.
More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at http://www.nissan.com/
Source: Nissan North America, Inc.
-- Two organizations with a tradition of entrepreneurial support reach out to small businesses to ensure innovation, economic growth and job creation
-- Accelerator Program's quarterly modules focus on People, Money, Sales & Revenue and Strategy
-- Chicago joins New York, Boston, Los Angeles and St. Louis as the major EO chapters participating in the Accelerator Program 2007 kickoff
WHAT: Mercedes-Benz Financial and the Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO) are teaming up to help first-stage entrepreneurs in Chicago by providing the Accelerator Program, a quarterly seminar program aimed at helping start-up entrepreneurs drive their growth to $1 million in annual sales and beyond. The Accelerator Program was developed by entrepreneurs, for entrepreneurs, to help them survive and grow in the start-up phase of their businesses.
To qualify for acceptance in the Chicago Accelerator program, entrepreneurs must meet the following criteria: be 36 years old or younger: own and run their business; and have annual revenues of at least $250,000 (and less than $1 million).
The EO Accelerator Program will deliver quarterly one-day learning sessions, presented by an EO-certified facilitator, to a class of up to 30 local entrepreneurs. In addition there will be opportunities for participants to engage with the local EO Chapter members. Annual tuition is $1000.
WHO: Members of EO Chicago's leadership team including:
Richard Levy, Salad Spinners (restaurant). Website: www.saladspinners.com
Dan Heuertz, The Preferred Group. Website: www.prslp.com
Adam Robinson, illuma, LLC. Website: www.illumallc.com
WHEN: Wednesday evening, June 27, 6:30- 8:30 p.m. Reception, networking with Chicago's leading entrepreneurs, media interview opportunities throughout the evening; 7 p.m. opening remarks.
WHERE: Union League Club, 65 W. Jackson Blvd., Chicago, 60604,
OTHER:
For more information on Mercedes-Benz Financial visit: www.mercedesbenzfinancial.com
For more information on the Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO) visit: www.eonetwork.org
For more information on the Accelerator Program visit: www.accelerator.eonetwork.org
Source: Mercedes-Benz Financial
-- Accelerator Program's quarterly modules focus on People, Money, Sales & Revenue and Strategy
-- Chicago joins New York, Boston, Los Angeles and St. Louis as the major EO chapters participating in the Accelerator Program 2007 kickoff
WHAT: Mercedes-Benz Financial and the Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO) are teaming up to help first-stage entrepreneurs in Chicago by providing the Accelerator Program, a quarterly seminar program aimed at helping start-up entrepreneurs drive their growth to $1 million in annual sales and beyond. The Accelerator Program was developed by entrepreneurs, for entrepreneurs, to help them survive and grow in the start-up phase of their businesses.
To qualify for acceptance in the Chicago Accelerator program, entrepreneurs must meet the following criteria: be 36 years old or younger: own and run their business; and have annual revenues of at least $250,000 (and less than $1 million).
The EO Accelerator Program will deliver quarterly one-day learning sessions, presented by an EO-certified facilitator, to a class of up to 30 local entrepreneurs. In addition there will be opportunities for participants to engage with the local EO Chapter members. Annual tuition is $1000.
WHO: Members of EO Chicago's leadership team including:
Richard Levy, Salad Spinners (restaurant). Website: www.saladspinners.com
Dan Heuertz, The Preferred Group. Website: www.prslp.com
Adam Robinson, illuma, LLC. Website: www.illumallc.com
WHEN: Wednesday evening, June 27, 6:30- 8:30 p.m. Reception, networking with Chicago's leading entrepreneurs, media interview opportunities throughout the evening; 7 p.m. opening remarks.
WHERE: Union League Club, 65 W. Jackson Blvd., Chicago, 60604,
OTHER:
For more information on Mercedes-Benz Financial visit: www.mercedesbenzfinancial.com
For more information on the Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO) visit: www.eonetwork.org
For more information on the Accelerator Program visit: www.accelerator.eonetwork.org
Source: Mercedes-Benz Financial
Ready To Move? You must be a Subaru Impreza Enthusiast! Come join more than 150 other enthusiasts at this exciting gathering with food, fun and prizes. Back by popular demand, this is the third year for this successful gathering of Subaru fans. They know what makes a Subaru, a Subaru.
The All-Wheel Drive Subaru Impreza WRX shook up the sport compact segment when it was first introduced in the U.S. in 2002 and continues to stand as the performance value standard in its class. The new Subaru Impreza is more powerful, restyled, and brings additional refinement and significant upgrades at a price that delivers exceptional value.
Among the vehicles featured at this event will be the custom 2007 Bosal Subaru Impreza STI. Bring your own ... bring a friend ... or just come enjoy the fun!
WHEN: Sunday, June 24, 2007
11am-3pm
WHERE: Perry Subaru
6611 E Virginia Beach Blvd
Norfolk Va., 23502
Phone: 757-461-8855
www.perrysubaru.com
Source: Subaru of America Inc.
The All-Wheel Drive Subaru Impreza WRX shook up the sport compact segment when it was first introduced in the U.S. in 2002 and continues to stand as the performance value standard in its class. The new Subaru Impreza is more powerful, restyled, and brings additional refinement and significant upgrades at a price that delivers exceptional value.
Among the vehicles featured at this event will be the custom 2007 Bosal Subaru Impreza STI. Bring your own ... bring a friend ... or just come enjoy the fun!
WHEN: Sunday, June 24, 2007
11am-3pm
WHERE: Perry Subaru
6611 E Virginia Beach Blvd
Norfolk Va., 23502
Phone: 757-461-8855
www.perrysubaru.com
Source: Subaru of America Inc.
- Starting at $34,050, Dodge's All-new Medium Duty Work Trucks Offer Dominant Commercial Capability, Durability and Dependability
- Delivering maximum uptime, value and power, starting price is $645 below comparable Ford F-450 chassis cab
- Legendary 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel engine (610 lb.-ft. of torque) standard with six-speed automatic or manual transmission
- Largest standard fuel tank in segment (52 gallons)
- Best-in-class first-gear launch provides optimum acceleration on vehicle take-off
- Largest front brake rotors in segment (390 mm)
- Largest caliper piston size in segment (66 mm)
- Standard diesel exhaust brake system, together with class-leading brakes and pistons, extends brake life while giving driver increased control
- Commercial-grade frame (50,000-psi steel) to maximize strength and reduce weight
- Flat, "clean" frame rail -- all chassis components below top-of-frame surface to facilitate after-market upfits or retrofits
- Five-year/100,00-mile Cummins diesel engine limited warranty
- Three-year/180,000-mile Aisin automatic transmission limited warranty
- Segment exclusive YES Essentials(R) stain resistant, odor resistant, anti-static seat fabric
Continuing its commercial vehicle conquest, while delivering Ram-tough heritage and leadership to the Class 4-5 medium-duty truck markets, Dodge today announced pricing for the all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs which boast superior commercial capability, durability and power.
The U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab is $34,050 and base price for the all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab is $36,050. Both include a destination charge of $900. Dodge's latest heavy-duty work trucks go on sale this fall.
"The all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs are not only competitively priced, but feature numerous class-leading attributes and enter the market as the ultimate chassis cabs for business customers looking for dynamic, capable work-trucks," said Michael Accavitti, Director - Dodge Brand & SRT Marketing and Communications. "Filling a white space opportunity for the brand, these 'big-rig' trucks not only get the job done, but also offer more power, versatility and capability to the commercial customer looking for a tough, heavyweight work truck."
Instant recognition and commercial power is immediately conveyed in the all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs. Delivering maximum uptime, while showcasing dominant commercial capability, durability and dependability, both vehicles come standard with the legendary Cummins 6.7-liter turbo diesel engine and offer a six-speed automatic or manual transmission with Power Take Off (PTO) capability.
The all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs come to market in both two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive models, four available cab-axle lengths (60, 84, 105 and 120 inches), single-rear-wheel and dual-rear-wheel versions, regular cab and Quad Cab(R) configurations, and three trim lines -- ST, SLT and Laramie. All models are "Job-rated," meaning they are designed, engineered, tested and built to meet the rigid standards of commercial truck buyers.
Covering a broad spectrum of demographics, the typical customer for the Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs includes small business tradesmen, fleet customers and traditional chassis cab users.
2008 Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab ST
Powered by a 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel, standard features on the 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab ST include an argent front bumper, argent grille, argent steel wheels, four-wheel anti-lock brake system, black bezel instrument panel, diesel exhaust brake system, tilt wheel, trailer tow wiring (seven wires), vinyl floor covering, 40/20/40 vinyl seats, and 7- x 10-inch manual exterior mirrors.
Optional features, which are available on all models, include a six-speed automatic transmission, 22-gallon mid-ship fuel tank, 220-amp alternator, Power Take Off (PTO) capability, snow plow prep package, rollback wrecker package, spare tire and tools, vinyl seats and flooring (SLT only), and (fleet only) Limited Production Options (LPO) that include passenger air bag delete, radio delete, power window/lock/mirror option with ST, and unique exterior paint colors including special fleet paint capability.
Following are prices for the all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab ST. All prices include $900 for destination.
-- Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab ST Regular Cab 4x2 $34,050
-- Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab ST Quad Cab 4x2 $36,790
2008 Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab SLT
In addition to standard features on the ST, the Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab SLT adds air conditioning, carpet floor covering, floor mats, four speakers, bright chromed grille with black inserts, keyless entry, power heated mirrors, power windows and locks, Sentry Key(R) engine immobilizer, speed control, tilt steering wheel, bright skins/chromed center cap wheels, and 40/20/40 cloth seats with YES Essentials(R) stain/odor/static resistant fabric.
Optional features include adjustable pedals, AM/FM radio with six-CD disc player, bucket seats with leather upholstery, Infinity(R) sound system, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, six-way power driver seat and UConnect(R) Hands-free Communication System.
Following are prices for the all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cabs SLT. All prices include $900 for destination.
-- Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab SLT Regular Cab 4x2 $37,570
-- Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab SLT Regular Cab 4x4 $41,555
-- Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab SLT Quad Cab 4x2 $40,520
-- Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab SLT Quad Cab 4x4 $44,490
2008 Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab Laramie
In addition to standard features on the SLT, Ram 4500 Chassis Cab Laramie adds AM/FM stereo with six-disc CD changer and Infinity speaker system, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, dual-zone temperature control, fog lamps, glove box, ashtray, under-the-hood lamp, chromed grille with chromed inserts, leather power and heated seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, luxury front floor mats, power- sliding rear window, security alarm, steering wheel-mounted radio controls, and wood-grain instrument panel bezel.
Optional equipment includes bucket seats, navigation radio and UConnect(R) Hands-free Communication System.
Following are prices for the all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab Laramie. All prices include $900 for destination.
-- Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab Laramie Quad Cab 4x2 $44,935
-- Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab Laramie Quad Cab 4x4 $49,150
2008 Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab ST
The 2008 Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab ST is powered by a 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel. Standard features include an argent front bumper, argent grille, argent steel wheels, four-wheel anti-lock brake system, black bezel instrument panel, diesel exhaust brake system, tilt steering wheel, trailer tow wiring (seven wires), vinyl floor covering, 40/20/40 vinyl seats, and 7- x 10-inch manual exterior mirrors.
Optional features, which are available on all models, include a six-speed automatic transmission, 22-gallon mid-ship fuel tank, 220-amp alternator, Power Take Off (PTO) capability, snow plow prep package, rollback wrecker package, spare tire and tools, vinyl seats and flooring (SLT only), and (fleet only) Limited Production Options (LPO) that include passenger air bag delete, radio delete, power window/lock/mirror option with ST, and unique exterior paint colors including special fleet paint capability.
Following are prices for the all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cabs ST. All prices include $900 for destination.
-- Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab ST Regular Cab 4x2 $36,050
-- Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab ST Quad Cab 4x2 $38,355
2008 Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab SLT
In addition to standard features on the ST, the Ram 5500 Chassis Cab SLT adds air conditioning, carpet floor covering, floor mats, four speakers, bright chromed grille with black inserts, keyless entry, power heated mirrors, power windows and locks, Sentry Key(R) engine immobilizer, speed control, tilt steering wheel, bright skins/chromed center cap wheels, and 40/20/40 cloth seats with YES Essentials(R) stain/odor/static resistant fabric.
Optional features include adjustable pedals, AM/FM radio with six-CD disc player, bucket seats with leather upholstery, Infinity(R) sound system, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, six-way power driver seat and UConnect(R) Hands-free Communication System.
Following are prices for the all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab SLT. All prices include $900 for destination.
-- Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab SLT Regular Cab 4x2 $39,570
-- Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab SLT Regular Cab 4x4 $43,115
-- Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab SLT Quad Cab 4x2 $42,085
-- Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab SLT Quad Cab 4x4 $46,040
2008 Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab Laramie
In addition to standard features on the SLT, Ram 5500 Chassis Cab Laramie adds AM/FM stereo with six-disc CD changer and Infinity speaker system, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, dual-zone temperature control, fog lamps, glove box, ashtray, under-the-hood lamp, chromed grille with chromed inserts, leather power and heated seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, luxury front floor mats, power- sliding rear window, security alarm, steering wheel-mounted radio controls, and wood-grain instrument panel bezel.
Optional equipment includes bucket seats, navigation radio and UConnect(R) Hands-free Communication System.
Following are prices for the all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cabs Laramie. All prices include $900 for destination.
-- Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab Laramie Quad Cab 4x2 $46,500
-- Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab Laramie Quad Cab 4x4 $50,700
The all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cab will be built at Chrysler Group's Saltillo Assembly Plant in Coahuila, Mexico.
Dodge Commercial Vehicles
As part of DaimlerChrysler, the world's leading manufacturer of commercial vehicles, Dodge continues to increase the breadth of its commercial products and offers a comprehensive array of vehicles and services designed with business customers in mind. Along with the Dodge Ram 2500/3500 Box-Off models and the Dodge Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs -- the Class 3-5 segments' most powerful, capable and upfit-friendly work-trucks -- Dodge Grand Caravan cargo vans complement a growing Dodge commercial lineup that includes the class-leading Dodge Sprinter, which continues its legacy and leadership as the top-performing commercial van in the marketplace.
Dodge BusinessLink
Launched in 1999 and offering no-cost enrollment, Dodge BusinessLink is a full-service commercial program comprised of a select network of Dodge dealers who know and understand the unique vehicle needs of small businesses, fleet managers and other commercial vehicle customers. Providing exclusive benefits, BusinessLink dealers offer unprecedented business assistance including dedicated commercial account managers and sales teams, dealer inventories representing a higher mix of work-truck and other commercial vehicles, next in-bay service and technicians, extended hours to minimize downtime, free loaner vehicles and more. BusinessLink also includes our "On The Job" program which offers discounts on upfits and direct cash incentives and savings on almost all Dodge commercial vehicles.
Dodge Brand
With a U.S. market share of 6 percent, Dodge is the Chrysler Group's best- selling brand and the fifth largest nameplate in the U.S. automotive market. In 2006, Dodge sold more than 1.3 million vehicles in the global market. Dodge continues to lead the minivan market with a 20 percent market share in the U.S. In the highly competitive truck market, Dodge has an 18 percent market share. Dodge is also entering key European volume segments with Dodge Nitro, Dodge Caliber and Dodge Avenger.
Source: Chrysler Group
- Delivering maximum uptime, value and power, starting price is $645 below comparable Ford F-450 chassis cab
- Legendary 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel engine (610 lb.-ft. of torque) standard with six-speed automatic or manual transmission
- Largest standard fuel tank in segment (52 gallons)
- Best-in-class first-gear launch provides optimum acceleration on vehicle take-off
- Largest front brake rotors in segment (390 mm)
- Largest caliper piston size in segment (66 mm)
- Standard diesel exhaust brake system, together with class-leading brakes and pistons, extends brake life while giving driver increased control
- Commercial-grade frame (50,000-psi steel) to maximize strength and reduce weight
- Flat, "clean" frame rail -- all chassis components below top-of-frame surface to facilitate after-market upfits or retrofits
- Five-year/100,00-mile Cummins diesel engine limited warranty
- Three-year/180,000-mile Aisin automatic transmission limited warranty
- Segment exclusive YES Essentials(R) stain resistant, odor resistant, anti-static seat fabric
Continuing its commercial vehicle conquest, while delivering Ram-tough heritage and leadership to the Class 4-5 medium-duty truck markets, Dodge today announced pricing for the all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs which boast superior commercial capability, durability and power.
The U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab is $34,050 and base price for the all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab is $36,050. Both include a destination charge of $900. Dodge's latest heavy-duty work trucks go on sale this fall.
"The all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs are not only competitively priced, but feature numerous class-leading attributes and enter the market as the ultimate chassis cabs for business customers looking for dynamic, capable work-trucks," said Michael Accavitti, Director - Dodge Brand & SRT Marketing and Communications. "Filling a white space opportunity for the brand, these 'big-rig' trucks not only get the job done, but also offer more power, versatility and capability to the commercial customer looking for a tough, heavyweight work truck."
Instant recognition and commercial power is immediately conveyed in the all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs. Delivering maximum uptime, while showcasing dominant commercial capability, durability and dependability, both vehicles come standard with the legendary Cummins 6.7-liter turbo diesel engine and offer a six-speed automatic or manual transmission with Power Take Off (PTO) capability.
The all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs come to market in both two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive models, four available cab-axle lengths (60, 84, 105 and 120 inches), single-rear-wheel and dual-rear-wheel versions, regular cab and Quad Cab(R) configurations, and three trim lines -- ST, SLT and Laramie. All models are "Job-rated," meaning they are designed, engineered, tested and built to meet the rigid standards of commercial truck buyers.
Covering a broad spectrum of demographics, the typical customer for the Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs includes small business tradesmen, fleet customers and traditional chassis cab users.
2008 Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab ST
Powered by a 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel, standard features on the 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab ST include an argent front bumper, argent grille, argent steel wheels, four-wheel anti-lock brake system, black bezel instrument panel, diesel exhaust brake system, tilt wheel, trailer tow wiring (seven wires), vinyl floor covering, 40/20/40 vinyl seats, and 7- x 10-inch manual exterior mirrors.
Optional features, which are available on all models, include a six-speed automatic transmission, 22-gallon mid-ship fuel tank, 220-amp alternator, Power Take Off (PTO) capability, snow plow prep package, rollback wrecker package, spare tire and tools, vinyl seats and flooring (SLT only), and (fleet only) Limited Production Options (LPO) that include passenger air bag delete, radio delete, power window/lock/mirror option with ST, and unique exterior paint colors including special fleet paint capability.
Following are prices for the all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab ST. All prices include $900 for destination.
-- Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab ST Regular Cab 4x2 $34,050
-- Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab ST Quad Cab 4x2 $36,790
2008 Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab SLT
In addition to standard features on the ST, the Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab SLT adds air conditioning, carpet floor covering, floor mats, four speakers, bright chromed grille with black inserts, keyless entry, power heated mirrors, power windows and locks, Sentry Key(R) engine immobilizer, speed control, tilt steering wheel, bright skins/chromed center cap wheels, and 40/20/40 cloth seats with YES Essentials(R) stain/odor/static resistant fabric.
Optional features include adjustable pedals, AM/FM radio with six-CD disc player, bucket seats with leather upholstery, Infinity(R) sound system, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, six-way power driver seat and UConnect(R) Hands-free Communication System.
Following are prices for the all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cabs SLT. All prices include $900 for destination.
-- Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab SLT Regular Cab 4x2 $37,570
-- Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab SLT Regular Cab 4x4 $41,555
-- Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab SLT Quad Cab 4x2 $40,520
-- Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab SLT Quad Cab 4x4 $44,490
2008 Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab Laramie
In addition to standard features on the SLT, Ram 4500 Chassis Cab Laramie adds AM/FM stereo with six-disc CD changer and Infinity speaker system, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, dual-zone temperature control, fog lamps, glove box, ashtray, under-the-hood lamp, chromed grille with chromed inserts, leather power and heated seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, luxury front floor mats, power- sliding rear window, security alarm, steering wheel-mounted radio controls, and wood-grain instrument panel bezel.
Optional equipment includes bucket seats, navigation radio and UConnect(R) Hands-free Communication System.
Following are prices for the all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab Laramie. All prices include $900 for destination.
-- Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab Laramie Quad Cab 4x2 $44,935
-- Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab Laramie Quad Cab 4x4 $49,150
2008 Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab ST
The 2008 Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab ST is powered by a 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel. Standard features include an argent front bumper, argent grille, argent steel wheels, four-wheel anti-lock brake system, black bezel instrument panel, diesel exhaust brake system, tilt steering wheel, trailer tow wiring (seven wires), vinyl floor covering, 40/20/40 vinyl seats, and 7- x 10-inch manual exterior mirrors.
Optional features, which are available on all models, include a six-speed automatic transmission, 22-gallon mid-ship fuel tank, 220-amp alternator, Power Take Off (PTO) capability, snow plow prep package, rollback wrecker package, spare tire and tools, vinyl seats and flooring (SLT only), and (fleet only) Limited Production Options (LPO) that include passenger air bag delete, radio delete, power window/lock/mirror option with ST, and unique exterior paint colors including special fleet paint capability.
Following are prices for the all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cabs ST. All prices include $900 for destination.
-- Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab ST Regular Cab 4x2 $36,050
-- Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab ST Quad Cab 4x2 $38,355
2008 Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab SLT
In addition to standard features on the ST, the Ram 5500 Chassis Cab SLT adds air conditioning, carpet floor covering, floor mats, four speakers, bright chromed grille with black inserts, keyless entry, power heated mirrors, power windows and locks, Sentry Key(R) engine immobilizer, speed control, tilt steering wheel, bright skins/chromed center cap wheels, and 40/20/40 cloth seats with YES Essentials(R) stain/odor/static resistant fabric.
Optional features include adjustable pedals, AM/FM radio with six-CD disc player, bucket seats with leather upholstery, Infinity(R) sound system, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, six-way power driver seat and UConnect(R) Hands-free Communication System.
Following are prices for the all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab SLT. All prices include $900 for destination.
-- Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab SLT Regular Cab 4x2 $39,570
-- Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab SLT Regular Cab 4x4 $43,115
-- Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab SLT Quad Cab 4x2 $42,085
-- Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab SLT Quad Cab 4x4 $46,040
2008 Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab Laramie
In addition to standard features on the SLT, Ram 5500 Chassis Cab Laramie adds AM/FM stereo with six-disc CD changer and Infinity speaker system, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, dual-zone temperature control, fog lamps, glove box, ashtray, under-the-hood lamp, chromed grille with chromed inserts, leather power and heated seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, luxury front floor mats, power- sliding rear window, security alarm, steering wheel-mounted radio controls, and wood-grain instrument panel bezel.
Optional equipment includes bucket seats, navigation radio and UConnect(R) Hands-free Communication System.
Following are prices for the all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cabs Laramie. All prices include $900 for destination.
-- Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab Laramie Quad Cab 4x2 $46,500
-- Dodge Ram 5500 Chassis Cab Laramie Quad Cab 4x4 $50,700
The all-new 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cab will be built at Chrysler Group's Saltillo Assembly Plant in Coahuila, Mexico.
Dodge Commercial Vehicles
As part of DaimlerChrysler, the world's leading manufacturer of commercial vehicles, Dodge continues to increase the breadth of its commercial products and offers a comprehensive array of vehicles and services designed with business customers in mind. Along with the Dodge Ram 2500/3500 Box-Off models and the Dodge Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs -- the Class 3-5 segments' most powerful, capable and upfit-friendly work-trucks -- Dodge Grand Caravan cargo vans complement a growing Dodge commercial lineup that includes the class-leading Dodge Sprinter, which continues its legacy and leadership as the top-performing commercial van in the marketplace.
Dodge BusinessLink
Launched in 1999 and offering no-cost enrollment, Dodge BusinessLink is a full-service commercial program comprised of a select network of Dodge dealers who know and understand the unique vehicle needs of small businesses, fleet managers and other commercial vehicle customers. Providing exclusive benefits, BusinessLink dealers offer unprecedented business assistance including dedicated commercial account managers and sales teams, dealer inventories representing a higher mix of work-truck and other commercial vehicles, next in-bay service and technicians, extended hours to minimize downtime, free loaner vehicles and more. BusinessLink also includes our "On The Job" program which offers discounts on upfits and direct cash incentives and savings on almost all Dodge commercial vehicles.
Dodge Brand
With a U.S. market share of 6 percent, Dodge is the Chrysler Group's best- selling brand and the fifth largest nameplate in the U.S. automotive market. In 2006, Dodge sold more than 1.3 million vehicles in the global market. Dodge continues to lead the minivan market with a 20 percent market share in the U.S. In the highly competitive truck market, Dodge has an 18 percent market share. Dodge is also entering key European volume segments with Dodge Nitro, Dodge Caliber and Dodge Avenger.
Source: Chrysler Group
- Mild-hybrid technology to debut in future Chrysler Group vehicle
- Chrysler two-mode hybrid program to expand
- 2009 Jeep(R) Grand Cherokee BLUETEC: another 50-state clean diesel from Chrysler Group
- Company to explore development of 4-cylinder diesel for North American market, and expansion of 3.0-liter V-6 diesel
- New V-6 family of engines to include Multi-displacement System (MDS), resulting in fuel economy gain of 6 to 8 percent
- Significantly upgraded 5.7-liter HEMI(R) V-8
- New 4.7-liter V-8 delivers 5-percent fuel economy improvement
- Dual-clutch transmission to result in fuel economy improvement of up to 6 percent
- Common axle program to improve fuel economy, axle efficiency and costs
- Weight reduction, aerodynamic and drivetrain improvements to raise fuel economy 5 percent
Chrysler Group's Powertrain Offensive took a major leap forward today when Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President - Product Development, announced a barrage of new initiatives targeted solely at improving the fuel efficiency of future Chrysler, Jeep(R) and Dodge vehicles.
Among the fuel-efficient initiatives are a commitment to developing mild- hybrid technology and expanding the company's two-mode hybrid program; new six- and eight-cylinder gasoline engines - including cylinder-deactivation in a V-6; dual-clutch transmission technology; a common axle program; weight reduction, aerodynamic and drivetrain initiatives; and another BLUETEC clean- diesel vehicle.
Additionally, the company announced it is exploring the development of a 4-cylinder diesel engine for the North American market, and the expansion of its 3.0-liter V-6 diesel engine.
"Chrysler Group is focused directly on improving fuel efficiency across our vehicle lineup," Klegon said. "We have developed and are implementing a series of major initiatives - including a bigger push in hybrid and clean- diesel technology - to meet the nneeds of American consumers.
"Many of these fuel-efficiency initiatives will be incorporated simultaneously into a single vehicle family - our new V-6 with Multi- displacement System (MDS) mated to a dual-clutch transmission, for example - ultimately resulting in double-digit-percentage fuel-economy gains."
Mild hybrid
Within the next few years, Chrysler will offer a mild-hybrid powertrain in a Chrysler Group vehicle.
Mild-hybrid vehicles provide many of the benefits of hybrid technology, with less of the cost/weight penalty that is incurred by installing a full hybrid drivetrain. Mild hybrids allow the vehicle's engine to be turned off at stops. Regenerative braking stores energy that would normally be lost. Accessories can continue to run on electrical power while the engine is off. An electric motor assist results in significant fuel efficiency gains.
Two-mode hybrid
Chrysler Group announced today that its two-mode hybrid program will expand beyond the Chrysler Aspen Hybrid and Dodge Durango Hybrid, which debut next year.
Chrysler Group's two-mode hybrid system leapfrogs current technology by addressing inefficiencies that exist in high-speed driving with traditional hybrid technology. The result will be a 25-percent improvement in fuel efficiency overall - and nearly 40 percent in the city - in the Chrysler Aspen Hybrid and Dodge Durango Hybrid.
The new Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango Hybrid vehicles can be powered either by the electric motor or by the 5.7-liter HEMI(R) V-8 engine with MDS - or a combination of the two. When full power is needed, the system automatically adjusts for passing, driving steep grades or hauling a trailer. The result is trend-setting hybrid technology that provides superior fuel economy, performance and load-carrying capability.
Another BLUETEC 50-state clean-diesel vehicle
The 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee will join the 2007 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty as Chrysler Group's 50-state, clean-diesel BLUETEC vehicles.
BLUETEC brings together a host of technologies for diesel passenger vehicles, beginning with completely modern, efficient diesel engines and a focus on "denoxing" to reduce nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gases. The result is clean-diesel technology in vehicles that meet 50-state emissions standards for 2010.
Future diesel considerations
Chrysler Group announced today that it is exploring additional penetration of its 3.0-liter V-6 common-rail diesel (CRD) engine - currently in the 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee - and the possibility of a four-cylinder diesel engine for the North American market.
The company's current diesel lineup includes Dodge Sprinter, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Ram Heavy Duty.
Earlier this year, Chrysler Group announced that an all-new Cummins turbodiesel engine will be available in light-duty pickup trucks after 2009. Along with generous power and low-end torque, the new engine will provide up to 30-percent improvement in fuel efficiency and a 20-percent reduction in CO2 emissions compared to an equivalent gasoline engine.
V-6 engine family with cylinder deactivation
In February, Chrysler Group announced that an all-new family of engines - known as "Phoenix" - will join the Chrysler Group lineup in 2010. Since then, the company has broken ground on new plants in Trenton, Mich., Kenosha, Wis., and Mexico - all of which will produce this family of engines.
The company announced today that this new family of V-6 engines will feature cylinder deactivation (MDS). Specifically, this means the engine will operate efficiently on three cylinders when less power is needed, and in V-6 mode when more power is needed. This optimizes fuel economy when V-6 power is not required - without sacrificing vehicle performance or capability.
The new family of V-6 engines will feature an aluminum die cast block, dual variable valve timing (VVT) and a two-stage oil pump, among other technologies. The end result is an expected across-the-board V-6 fuel efficiency improvement of six to eight percent - in addition to new levels of V-6 power, performance and refinement.
Significantly upgraded 5.7-liter HEMI V-8
For 2009, Chrysler Group will deliver a significantly upgraded version of its renowned 5.7-liter HEMI V-8, resulting in notable gains in fuel efficiency, refinement, power and torque.
New 4.7-liter V-8
The new 4.7-liter V-8 offers up to five percent better fuel economy than the previous 4.7-liter engine.
At the same time, this E85 flex-fuel engine delivers increased performance and improved refinement. These improvements come from the 4.7-liter V-8's two spark plugs per cylinder (the only Chrysler Group engine to do so, other than the 5.7-liter HEMI(R)), increased compression ratio, improved cylinder-head port flow and new combustion system.
In addition to improved fuel economy, the result is a 30-percent increase in horsepower and a 10-percent increase in torque (up to 75 additional horsepower and 35 more lb.-ft. of torque, depending on application) compared with the previous 4.7-liter V-8 engine.
Dual-clutch transmission technology
A new dual-clutch transmission - developed in partnership with Getrag - joins the Chrysler Group lineup in significant volumes in 2010 model-year vehicles.
The new dual-clutch transmission is expected to deliver a fuel economy improvement of up to six percent, based on preliminary testing.
The new transmission is equipped with two independent lay-shaft style gear sets with separate clutches, using manual transmission-based components. During shifts, the next gear is anticipated and pre-selected. Then one clutch is opened while the other is closed, allowing shifting without torque interruption. The result is quicker acceleration and refined shift quality.
Common axle program
New common axle technology will result in fuel-economy and axle-efficiency gains, while providing weight savings, cost reduction, increased refinement and less complexity. New advanced materials increase overall axle strength and reduce package size.
Already featured in the Chrysler 300C SRT8, this axle will soon move to other Chrysler Group vehicles.
Aerodynamic, weight reduction and drivetrain improvements
Chrysler Group announced today that a new set of initiatives are in place to improve fuel efficiency across its vehicle lineup by at least five percent. These initiatives include weight reduction, aerodynamic drag improvements, reduced rolling resistance and brake drag, optimized accessory loads, and minimized drivetrain losses.
Source: Chrysler Group
- Chrysler two-mode hybrid program to expand
- 2009 Jeep(R) Grand Cherokee BLUETEC: another 50-state clean diesel from Chrysler Group
- Company to explore development of 4-cylinder diesel for North American market, and expansion of 3.0-liter V-6 diesel
- New V-6 family of engines to include Multi-displacement System (MDS), resulting in fuel economy gain of 6 to 8 percent
- Significantly upgraded 5.7-liter HEMI(R) V-8
- New 4.7-liter V-8 delivers 5-percent fuel economy improvement
- Dual-clutch transmission to result in fuel economy improvement of up to 6 percent
- Common axle program to improve fuel economy, axle efficiency and costs
- Weight reduction, aerodynamic and drivetrain improvements to raise fuel economy 5 percent
Chrysler Group's Powertrain Offensive took a major leap forward today when Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President - Product Development, announced a barrage of new initiatives targeted solely at improving the fuel efficiency of future Chrysler, Jeep(R) and Dodge vehicles.
Among the fuel-efficient initiatives are a commitment to developing mild- hybrid technology and expanding the company's two-mode hybrid program; new six- and eight-cylinder gasoline engines - including cylinder-deactivation in a V-6; dual-clutch transmission technology; a common axle program; weight reduction, aerodynamic and drivetrain initiatives; and another BLUETEC clean- diesel vehicle.
Additionally, the company announced it is exploring the development of a 4-cylinder diesel engine for the North American market, and the expansion of its 3.0-liter V-6 diesel engine.
"Chrysler Group is focused directly on improving fuel efficiency across our vehicle lineup," Klegon said. "We have developed and are implementing a series of major initiatives - including a bigger push in hybrid and clean- diesel technology - to meet the nneeds of American consumers.
"Many of these fuel-efficiency initiatives will be incorporated simultaneously into a single vehicle family - our new V-6 with Multi- displacement System (MDS) mated to a dual-clutch transmission, for example - ultimately resulting in double-digit-percentage fuel-economy gains."
Mild hybrid
Within the next few years, Chrysler will offer a mild-hybrid powertrain in a Chrysler Group vehicle.
Mild-hybrid vehicles provide many of the benefits of hybrid technology, with less of the cost/weight penalty that is incurred by installing a full hybrid drivetrain. Mild hybrids allow the vehicle's engine to be turned off at stops. Regenerative braking stores energy that would normally be lost. Accessories can continue to run on electrical power while the engine is off. An electric motor assist results in significant fuel efficiency gains.
Two-mode hybrid
Chrysler Group announced today that its two-mode hybrid program will expand beyond the Chrysler Aspen Hybrid and Dodge Durango Hybrid, which debut next year.
Chrysler Group's two-mode hybrid system leapfrogs current technology by addressing inefficiencies that exist in high-speed driving with traditional hybrid technology. The result will be a 25-percent improvement in fuel efficiency overall - and nearly 40 percent in the city - in the Chrysler Aspen Hybrid and Dodge Durango Hybrid.
The new Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango Hybrid vehicles can be powered either by the electric motor or by the 5.7-liter HEMI(R) V-8 engine with MDS - or a combination of the two. When full power is needed, the system automatically adjusts for passing, driving steep grades or hauling a trailer. The result is trend-setting hybrid technology that provides superior fuel economy, performance and load-carrying capability.
Another BLUETEC 50-state clean-diesel vehicle
The 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee will join the 2007 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty as Chrysler Group's 50-state, clean-diesel BLUETEC vehicles.
BLUETEC brings together a host of technologies for diesel passenger vehicles, beginning with completely modern, efficient diesel engines and a focus on "denoxing" to reduce nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gases. The result is clean-diesel technology in vehicles that meet 50-state emissions standards for 2010.
Future diesel considerations
Chrysler Group announced today that it is exploring additional penetration of its 3.0-liter V-6 common-rail diesel (CRD) engine - currently in the 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee - and the possibility of a four-cylinder diesel engine for the North American market.
The company's current diesel lineup includes Dodge Sprinter, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Ram Heavy Duty.
Earlier this year, Chrysler Group announced that an all-new Cummins turbodiesel engine will be available in light-duty pickup trucks after 2009. Along with generous power and low-end torque, the new engine will provide up to 30-percent improvement in fuel efficiency and a 20-percent reduction in CO2 emissions compared to an equivalent gasoline engine.
V-6 engine family with cylinder deactivation
In February, Chrysler Group announced that an all-new family of engines - known as "Phoenix" - will join the Chrysler Group lineup in 2010. Since then, the company has broken ground on new plants in Trenton, Mich., Kenosha, Wis., and Mexico - all of which will produce this family of engines.
The company announced today that this new family of V-6 engines will feature cylinder deactivation (MDS). Specifically, this means the engine will operate efficiently on three cylinders when less power is needed, and in V-6 mode when more power is needed. This optimizes fuel economy when V-6 power is not required - without sacrificing vehicle performance or capability.
The new family of V-6 engines will feature an aluminum die cast block, dual variable valve timing (VVT) and a two-stage oil pump, among other technologies. The end result is an expected across-the-board V-6 fuel efficiency improvement of six to eight percent - in addition to new levels of V-6 power, performance and refinement.
Significantly upgraded 5.7-liter HEMI V-8
For 2009, Chrysler Group will deliver a significantly upgraded version of its renowned 5.7-liter HEMI V-8, resulting in notable gains in fuel efficiency, refinement, power and torque.
New 4.7-liter V-8
The new 4.7-liter V-8 offers up to five percent better fuel economy than the previous 4.7-liter engine.
At the same time, this E85 flex-fuel engine delivers increased performance and improved refinement. These improvements come from the 4.7-liter V-8's two spark plugs per cylinder (the only Chrysler Group engine to do so, other than the 5.7-liter HEMI(R)), increased compression ratio, improved cylinder-head port flow and new combustion system.
In addition to improved fuel economy, the result is a 30-percent increase in horsepower and a 10-percent increase in torque (up to 75 additional horsepower and 35 more lb.-ft. of torque, depending on application) compared with the previous 4.7-liter V-8 engine.
Dual-clutch transmission technology
A new dual-clutch transmission - developed in partnership with Getrag - joins the Chrysler Group lineup in significant volumes in 2010 model-year vehicles.
The new dual-clutch transmission is expected to deliver a fuel economy improvement of up to six percent, based on preliminary testing.
The new transmission is equipped with two independent lay-shaft style gear sets with separate clutches, using manual transmission-based components. During shifts, the next gear is anticipated and pre-selected. Then one clutch is opened while the other is closed, allowing shifting without torque interruption. The result is quicker acceleration and refined shift quality.
Common axle program
New common axle technology will result in fuel-economy and axle-efficiency gains, while providing weight savings, cost reduction, increased refinement and less complexity. New advanced materials increase overall axle strength and reduce package size.
Already featured in the Chrysler 300C SRT8, this axle will soon move to other Chrysler Group vehicles.
Aerodynamic, weight reduction and drivetrain improvements
Chrysler Group announced today that a new set of initiatives are in place to improve fuel efficiency across its vehicle lineup by at least five percent. These initiatives include weight reduction, aerodynamic drag improvements, reduced rolling resistance and brake drag, optimized accessory loads, and minimized drivetrain losses.
Source: Chrysler Group
Mazda Racers to Pick Up the Pace
MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development and Pace American Trailers today announced a two-year partnership involving Pace becoming the Official Trailer of MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development. Through the partnership, members of MAZDASPEED's racing contingency program -- already one of the most lucrative in the sport -- will be able to purchase Pace trailers at a deep discount. Additionally, MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development has debuted a trailer that will be used for parts distribution and meetings during professional and amateur race weekends around the U.S. and Canada.
"Racers need trailers, and Mazda racers want trailers that perform well, are well-built, easy to tow and -- above all else -- are a great value. Pace trailers meet those criteria, have a great reputation for performance and will be a great addition to the MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development family," noted John Doonan, MAZDASPEED Business Development Manager. "Because Pace and its product range appeal to the same grassroots racing competitors that MAZDASPEED supports, this partnership made perfect sense for both companies."
Pace has provided MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development with a brand-new 44-foot goose-neck trailer with a vendor window and closed-off meeting space. This trailer will be used as a parts supply and technical support trailer at all MX-5 Cup races, key Club Racing events like the SCCA Runoffs and other key Mazda race weekends throughout the season.
Pace is similar to Mazda, with enthusiasts in key positions throughout the organization. Pace American CEO Mitchell Bender and Marketing Manager Peter Calhoun are both long time club racers. The company's products are focused on supporting the weekend club racer as well as the overall enthusiast market.
Mitchell Bender noted, "Mazda has done an exceptional job supporting their grassroots racers, creating the finest racing ladder-system in the world. A young racer can start in karts and work their way up to world-class ALMS racing with support from Mazda. Pace American is excited to be a small part of Mazda's commitment to motorsports and great cars."
"Pace American is proud to become a partner of MAZDASPEED and assist in the continued development of their motorsport programs. This partnership brings together two companies with rich racing histories, companies who use racing not just as a marketing exercise, but actually to test and develop better products," added Peter Calhoun.
As part of the standard Mazda club racing contingency program, Pace graphics will appear on all Mazdas racing nationwide. MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development team members -- over 9,000 registered club racers nationwide -- will be eligible for special discount and incentive programs on Pace American trailers. In addition, Pace American Trackside Service will also be offering complimentary trailer repairs at both the SCCA Runoffs and June Sprints
On any given weekend, there are more Mazdas on the road-race tracks of America than any other brand of vehicle. At the track, you'll see MX-5 Miata, RX-8, MAZDA3, MAZDA6, RX-7 and other vintage Mazda models competing, because every Mazda has the Soul of a Sports Car. In fact, the fastest growing road-racing class in the U.S. is the SCCA's Spec Miata class, with nearly 1,500 first- and second-generation Miatas tearing up America's racetracks, making it the most-raced production car in the world. Mazda's involvement in motorsports extends to its relationship with Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, one of the world's premier road-racing circuits, and the Skip Barber Schools for driving and racing.
Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario, Canada, and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.
Source: Mazda North American Operations
MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development and Pace American Trailers today announced a two-year partnership involving Pace becoming the Official Trailer of MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development. Through the partnership, members of MAZDASPEED's racing contingency program -- already one of the most lucrative in the sport -- will be able to purchase Pace trailers at a deep discount. Additionally, MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development has debuted a trailer that will be used for parts distribution and meetings during professional and amateur race weekends around the U.S. and Canada.
"Racers need trailers, and Mazda racers want trailers that perform well, are well-built, easy to tow and -- above all else -- are a great value. Pace trailers meet those criteria, have a great reputation for performance and will be a great addition to the MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development family," noted John Doonan, MAZDASPEED Business Development Manager. "Because Pace and its product range appeal to the same grassroots racing competitors that MAZDASPEED supports, this partnership made perfect sense for both companies."
Pace has provided MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development with a brand-new 44-foot goose-neck trailer with a vendor window and closed-off meeting space. This trailer will be used as a parts supply and technical support trailer at all MX-5 Cup races, key Club Racing events like the SCCA Runoffs and other key Mazda race weekends throughout the season.
Pace is similar to Mazda, with enthusiasts in key positions throughout the organization. Pace American CEO Mitchell Bender and Marketing Manager Peter Calhoun are both long time club racers. The company's products are focused on supporting the weekend club racer as well as the overall enthusiast market.
Mitchell Bender noted, "Mazda has done an exceptional job supporting their grassroots racers, creating the finest racing ladder-system in the world. A young racer can start in karts and work their way up to world-class ALMS racing with support from Mazda. Pace American is excited to be a small part of Mazda's commitment to motorsports and great cars."
"Pace American is proud to become a partner of MAZDASPEED and assist in the continued development of their motorsport programs. This partnership brings together two companies with rich racing histories, companies who use racing not just as a marketing exercise, but actually to test and develop better products," added Peter Calhoun.
As part of the standard Mazda club racing contingency program, Pace graphics will appear on all Mazdas racing nationwide. MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development team members -- over 9,000 registered club racers nationwide -- will be eligible for special discount and incentive programs on Pace American trailers. In addition, Pace American Trackside Service will also be offering complimentary trailer repairs at both the SCCA Runoffs and June Sprints
On any given weekend, there are more Mazdas on the road-race tracks of America than any other brand of vehicle. At the track, you'll see MX-5 Miata, RX-8, MAZDA3, MAZDA6, RX-7 and other vintage Mazda models competing, because every Mazda has the Soul of a Sports Car. In fact, the fastest growing road-racing class in the U.S. is the SCCA's Spec Miata class, with nearly 1,500 first- and second-generation Miatas tearing up America's racetracks, making it the most-raced production car in the world. Mazda's involvement in motorsports extends to its relationship with Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, one of the world's premier road-racing circuits, and the Skip Barber Schools for driving and racing.
Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario, Canada, and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.
Source: Mazda North American Operations
Jaguar X-TYPE Owners Name It as Top Aspirational Luxury Car According to AutoPacific’s 2007 Vehicle Satisfaction Awards
The Jaguar X-TYPE received top honors in the 2007 Aspirational Luxury Car category of AutoPacific's annual Vehicle Satisfaction Award (VSA) – a study that measures satisfaction among vehicle owners.
The Jaguar X-TYPE fits perfectly into the Aspirational Luxury Car section as it plays the key role of providing buyers with entry into the Jaguar brand. Competitively priced with an MSRP starting at $34,995,
Jaguar X-TYPE offers all the luxury, performance and prestige associated with the marque at a fraction of the price. The entry-level luxury sedan combines athletic performance with a smooth ride and is the only compact sedan in its class to offer standard traction-enhanced all-wheel drive.
AutoPacific is a noted automotive consulting firm. Each year, it conducts research on owner satisfaction for brands and vehicles. The study is comprised of AutoPacific’s Future Vehicle Survey and sets the standard for objective measurements of owners’ satisfaction with their new vehicles. VSA recognizes brands and vehicles in a variety of different categories, including Premium Brand, Sport Utility Vehicle and Large Car.
From its beginning as a manufacturer of motorcycle sidecars in 1922, Jaguar Cars has grown to become one of the world’s premier manufacturers of luxury sedans and sports cars and with that, one of the most recognized commercial brands. The company's vision is simple: To produce beautiful fast cars that are desired the world over. The company operates two manufacturing plants in the United Kingdom and is fully engaged in environmental programs, community work and brand awareness exercises such as motorsports.
Source: Jaguar Cars Ltd
The Jaguar X-TYPE received top honors in the 2007 Aspirational Luxury Car category of AutoPacific's annual Vehicle Satisfaction Award (VSA) – a study that measures satisfaction among vehicle owners.
The Jaguar X-TYPE fits perfectly into the Aspirational Luxury Car section as it plays the key role of providing buyers with entry into the Jaguar brand. Competitively priced with an MSRP starting at $34,995,
Jaguar X-TYPE offers all the luxury, performance and prestige associated with the marque at a fraction of the price. The entry-level luxury sedan combines athletic performance with a smooth ride and is the only compact sedan in its class to offer standard traction-enhanced all-wheel drive.
AutoPacific is a noted automotive consulting firm. Each year, it conducts research on owner satisfaction for brands and vehicles. The study is comprised of AutoPacific’s Future Vehicle Survey and sets the standard for objective measurements of owners’ satisfaction with their new vehicles. VSA recognizes brands and vehicles in a variety of different categories, including Premium Brand, Sport Utility Vehicle and Large Car.
From its beginning as a manufacturer of motorcycle sidecars in 1922, Jaguar Cars has grown to become one of the world’s premier manufacturers of luxury sedans and sports cars and with that, one of the most recognized commercial brands. The company's vision is simple: To produce beautiful fast cars that are desired the world over. The company operates two manufacturing plants in the United Kingdom and is fully engaged in environmental programs, community work and brand awareness exercises such as motorsports.
Source: Jaguar Cars Ltd
Two new variations debut: Value Package and Special Edition
The 2008 Honda Pilot goes on sale today, introducing two new variations to the lineup, American Honda Motor Co., Inc, announced today. The all-new Honda Pilot Value Package and Honda Pilot Special Edition trims debut, building on accomplished trims with popular feature content. As with previous Honda Value Package and Special Edition trim levels, these added features represent a significant value without a significant price increase. The Value Package and Special Edition start at $27,595 and $31,595, respectively. Destination and handling charges for all 2008 Honda models are $595.
"The Honda Pilot was a conceptual pioneer within its segment when it was introduced," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "And it continues to evolve to meet the changing needs of customers."
For the first time in its six years on the market, the Pilot is available in two new trim levels, the Value Package and the Special Edition. The Value Package builds on and replaces 2007's value-leading LX trim, adding rear privacy glass, machined alloy wheels, XM® Satellite Radio, upgraded audio to include a 6-disc CD changer and additional speakers, roof rails, steering-wheel mounted audio controls, and body-colored door mirrors, door handles and rear spoiler. The Special Edition supplements the available EX trim, adding in-demand features like a DVD rear entertainment system, XM® Satellite Radio, power moonroof, 115-volt power outlet and ambient console lighting.
Source: Honda
The 2008 Honda Pilot goes on sale today, introducing two new variations to the lineup, American Honda Motor Co., Inc, announced today. The all-new Honda Pilot Value Package and Honda Pilot Special Edition trims debut, building on accomplished trims with popular feature content. As with previous Honda Value Package and Special Edition trim levels, these added features represent a significant value without a significant price increase. The Value Package and Special Edition start at $27,595 and $31,595, respectively. Destination and handling charges for all 2008 Honda models are $595.
"The Honda Pilot was a conceptual pioneer within its segment when it was introduced," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "And it continues to evolve to meet the changing needs of customers."
For the first time in its six years on the market, the Pilot is available in two new trim levels, the Value Package and the Special Edition. The Value Package builds on and replaces 2007's value-leading LX trim, adding rear privacy glass, machined alloy wheels, XM® Satellite Radio, upgraded audio to include a 6-disc CD changer and additional speakers, roof rails, steering-wheel mounted audio controls, and body-colored door mirrors, door handles and rear spoiler. The Special Edition supplements the available EX trim, adding in-demand features like a DVD rear entertainment system, XM® Satellite Radio, power moonroof, 115-volt power outlet and ambient console lighting.
Source: Honda
Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., announced manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) today for the all-new 2008 Toyota Highlander mid-size sport utility vehicle (SUV).
The 2008 Toyota Highlander is significantly larger, roomier and more powerful than the vehicle it replaces. Yet its fuel efficiency will be virtually unchanged. It is noticeably quieter, smarter, with significantly improved versatility and ride comfort. The 2008 Toyota Highlander will have one of the most comprehensive lists of standard safety features in it the mid-size SUV class where safety is at the top of purchase considerations.
The 2008 Toyota Highlander will be offered in Base, Sport and Limited grades. All three grades will be powered by a new 3.5-liter V6 with dual independent variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i) that delivers an impressive 270 horsepower -- a 55 horsepower gain over the previous generation's 3.3-liter engine.
The 2008 Highlander has an impressive list of standard safety features. It will provide a segment-leading total of seven airbags, including a driver's knee airbag and roll-sensing side curtain airbags for all three rows in addition to active headrests for the driver and front passenger.
As with all Toyota SUVs for the last three years, Toyota Highlander will provide Toyota's STAR(TM) safety system, featuring: anti-lock brakes, traction control, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and for the first time, enhanced vehicle stability control, with electronic power steering.
For all Sport and Limited models, a stand-alone backup camera with a 3.5-inch LCD multi-information screen, not tied to a navigation system, is standard equipment.
Highlander rides on an all-new chassis derived from the current Toyota Camry and Toyota Avalon. It is nearly four inches longer and three inches wider, with an inch more ground clearance and three inches of additional wheelbase than the Highlander it replaces.
The 2008 Toyota Highlander's second-row seating flexibility features captain's chairs with armrests that, if needed, can be converted to a bench seat for three passengers. A "Center Stow(TM)" seat, when not in use, is hidden in a compartment under the front center console. In its place, passengers can easily put in the Center Stow(TM)console or choose to leave the area open as a walk-through to the third row. The second row also slides forward and back 4.7 inches and reclines.
Clever and convenient standard features include: a third-row bench seat with foldable headrests for a flat rear cargo area, a rear glass hatch for quick access to the rear cargo area (optional on Base grade), and Smart Key System with Push Button Start for Limited. Nineteen-inch alloy wheels will be standard on both Sport and Limited gas models.
The 2008 Toyota Highlander adds significant standard features (all new V6 engine, new five-speed automatic sequential shift transmission, electronic power steering, three-row curtain side airbags, driver's knee airbag, new larger alloy wheels, etc.) with only a modest MSRP increase.
The 2008 Toyota Highlander Base grade will carry a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price of $27,300 for the 4x2 model, an increase of $510, or 1.9 percent over the previous generation Toyota Highlander. The Base grade 4x4 will carry a base MSRP of $28,750, an increase of $560 or 2.0 percent.
The base MSRP for the Sport grade will carry a base of $29,950 for the 4x2, an increase of $985, or 3.4 percent. The Sport grade 4x4 will carry a base MSRP of $31,400, an increase of $965, or 3.2 percent.
The MSRP for the top-of-the-line Toyota Highlander Limited will be $32,700 for the 4x2, an increase of $1,890 or 6.1 percent. The Limited 4x4 will carry a base MSRP of $34,150, an increase of $1,940 or 6.0 percent. Toyota Highlander gas models will go on sale in July with hybrid models reaching Toyota dealers in late September.
Pricing for the 2008 Toyota Highlander hybrid models will be announced closer to launch.
The delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee for the 2008 Toyota Highlander was increased by $40 to $685. DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.
Source: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc
The 2008 Toyota Highlander is significantly larger, roomier and more powerful than the vehicle it replaces. Yet its fuel efficiency will be virtually unchanged. It is noticeably quieter, smarter, with significantly improved versatility and ride comfort. The 2008 Toyota Highlander will have one of the most comprehensive lists of standard safety features in it the mid-size SUV class where safety is at the top of purchase considerations.
The 2008 Toyota Highlander will be offered in Base, Sport and Limited grades. All three grades will be powered by a new 3.5-liter V6 with dual independent variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i) that delivers an impressive 270 horsepower -- a 55 horsepower gain over the previous generation's 3.3-liter engine.
The 2008 Highlander has an impressive list of standard safety features. It will provide a segment-leading total of seven airbags, including a driver's knee airbag and roll-sensing side curtain airbags for all three rows in addition to active headrests for the driver and front passenger.
As with all Toyota SUVs for the last three years, Toyota Highlander will provide Toyota's STAR(TM) safety system, featuring: anti-lock brakes, traction control, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and for the first time, enhanced vehicle stability control, with electronic power steering.
For all Sport and Limited models, a stand-alone backup camera with a 3.5-inch LCD multi-information screen, not tied to a navigation system, is standard equipment.
Highlander rides on an all-new chassis derived from the current Toyota Camry and Toyota Avalon. It is nearly four inches longer and three inches wider, with an inch more ground clearance and three inches of additional wheelbase than the Highlander it replaces.
The 2008 Toyota Highlander's second-row seating flexibility features captain's chairs with armrests that, if needed, can be converted to a bench seat for three passengers. A "Center Stow(TM)" seat, when not in use, is hidden in a compartment under the front center console. In its place, passengers can easily put in the Center Stow(TM)console or choose to leave the area open as a walk-through to the third row. The second row also slides forward and back 4.7 inches and reclines.
Clever and convenient standard features include: a third-row bench seat with foldable headrests for a flat rear cargo area, a rear glass hatch for quick access to the rear cargo area (optional on Base grade), and Smart Key System with Push Button Start for Limited. Nineteen-inch alloy wheels will be standard on both Sport and Limited gas models.
The 2008 Toyota Highlander adds significant standard features (all new V6 engine, new five-speed automatic sequential shift transmission, electronic power steering, three-row curtain side airbags, driver's knee airbag, new larger alloy wheels, etc.) with only a modest MSRP increase.
The 2008 Toyota Highlander Base grade will carry a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price of $27,300 for the 4x2 model, an increase of $510, or 1.9 percent over the previous generation Toyota Highlander. The Base grade 4x4 will carry a base MSRP of $28,750, an increase of $560 or 2.0 percent.
The base MSRP for the Sport grade will carry a base of $29,950 for the 4x2, an increase of $985, or 3.4 percent. The Sport grade 4x4 will carry a base MSRP of $31,400, an increase of $965, or 3.2 percent.
The MSRP for the top-of-the-line Toyota Highlander Limited will be $32,700 for the 4x2, an increase of $1,890 or 6.1 percent. The Limited 4x4 will carry a base MSRP of $34,150, an increase of $1,940 or 6.0 percent. Toyota Highlander gas models will go on sale in July with hybrid models reaching Toyota dealers in late September.
Pricing for the 2008 Toyota Highlander hybrid models will be announced closer to launch.
The delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee for the 2008 Toyota Highlander was increased by $40 to $685. DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.
Source: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc
The new Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable are rated the safest full-size sedans in America based on crash test ratings, but can safety sell a vehicle?
Absolutely, says Mark O’Brien, president and general manager of Roy O’Brien Ford in St. Clair Shores, Mich.
"When it comes to choosing between our Ford cars, a foreign car or another domestic vehicle that all have a certain visual appeal, customers do ask the pointed question, 'What's the crash rating on this car?' " said O'Brien, whose family dealership has been selling Ford cars and trucks since 1946.
O’Brien says that historically, it was predominantly mothers asking questions about safety but today, safety is a concern for many car buyers.
"It's not just the moms anymore," he said. "I think it's starting to filter through all society now because today's consumers have a lot of choices. So why not choose a vehicle that will save you if you have an accident."
According to a survey conducted earlier this year by Consumer Reports, seven in 10 customers consider safety to be one of the most important factors to consider when evaluating a new car.
Ford studies support those findings, according to Ed Molchany, Ford Division communications manager.
"We've done a great deal of research to determine what factors drive overall brand opinion, and safety is definitely one of them," he said.
Molchany says that while most people expect cars to be safe, there is still an opportunity to stand out from the competition with vehicles like the new Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable. Both vehicles earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick rating and the U.S. government’s highest available five-star ratings in all crash test categories.
"When you know safety is one of the key pillars that drive opinion and you can lay claim to being the safest, that's not only going to help us sell Ford Tauruses and Mercury Sables, it's going to help the entire Ford brand," said Molchany.
According to Robert Parker, Ford Division car marketing manager, safety is at the heart of the recently launched print and television ads for the new Ford Taurus.
"We're going to beat the safety drum as loudly as we can and get out there with the message that Ford Taurus is rated America's safest sedan," he said.
The 2008 Mercury Sable will be launched later this summer, but the new Taurus has already begun arriving in dealerships throughout the country.
Mark O'Brien says his dealership received its first Ford Taurus last week.
"It was sold before it even arrived," he said. "The questions that people had about the Ford Five Hundred regarding its power and styling have all been answered with the new Ford Taurus. If you combine that with the class-leading safety of the vehicle, I think we've got a one-two punch here that’s going to be pretty hard to beat."
Source: Ford Motor Company
Absolutely, says Mark O’Brien, president and general manager of Roy O’Brien Ford in St. Clair Shores, Mich.
"When it comes to choosing between our Ford cars, a foreign car or another domestic vehicle that all have a certain visual appeal, customers do ask the pointed question, 'What's the crash rating on this car?' " said O'Brien, whose family dealership has been selling Ford cars and trucks since 1946.
O’Brien says that historically, it was predominantly mothers asking questions about safety but today, safety is a concern for many car buyers.
"It's not just the moms anymore," he said. "I think it's starting to filter through all society now because today's consumers have a lot of choices. So why not choose a vehicle that will save you if you have an accident."
According to a survey conducted earlier this year by Consumer Reports, seven in 10 customers consider safety to be one of the most important factors to consider when evaluating a new car.
Ford studies support those findings, according to Ed Molchany, Ford Division communications manager.
"We've done a great deal of research to determine what factors drive overall brand opinion, and safety is definitely one of them," he said.
Molchany says that while most people expect cars to be safe, there is still an opportunity to stand out from the competition with vehicles like the new Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable. Both vehicles earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick rating and the U.S. government’s highest available five-star ratings in all crash test categories.
"When you know safety is one of the key pillars that drive opinion and you can lay claim to being the safest, that's not only going to help us sell Ford Tauruses and Mercury Sables, it's going to help the entire Ford brand," said Molchany.
According to Robert Parker, Ford Division car marketing manager, safety is at the heart of the recently launched print and television ads for the new Ford Taurus.
"We're going to beat the safety drum as loudly as we can and get out there with the message that Ford Taurus is rated America's safest sedan," he said.
The 2008 Mercury Sable will be launched later this summer, but the new Taurus has already begun arriving in dealerships throughout the country.
Mark O'Brien says his dealership received its first Ford Taurus last week.
"It was sold before it even arrived," he said. "The questions that people had about the Ford Five Hundred regarding its power and styling have all been answered with the new Ford Taurus. If you combine that with the class-leading safety of the vehicle, I think we've got a one-two punch here that’s going to be pretty hard to beat."
Source: Ford Motor Company
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today released its fourth annual Sustainability Report, which outlines Nissan's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policy and the nine key areas of corporate activity.
In April 2005, Nissan established a CSR group within its communications division with the responsibility to create a methodology to strengthen the company's CSR strategies, enhance its external image, and promote internal communication.
One year later, Nissan formulated its CSR Policy*1, identified nine key areas of focus*2, and also established a CSR Steering Committee. The committee serves to monitor the company's progress through the Nissan CSR scorecard. The scorecard is a tool to monitor the progress, while taking into account future goals and analyzing future risks and opportunities, in each of the nine key areas. This year's report makes public the progress made towards annual goals detailed in the CSR scorecard.
"This is not an exercise designed to project a halo over everything we do. It is the annual milestone in a process of transparent measurement that becomes more rigorous each year," said Nissan President and CEO Carlos Ghosn. "We hope this Sustainability Report can serve as a measure of our progress and a basis for dialogue with our stakeholders*3."
Consistent to its environmental goals, Nissan no longer publishes the Sustainability Report in print. Instead, the report is available for download from the company's CSR website. The CSR site has been enhanced to allow for more comprehensive and timely information sharing and to better respond to the needs of stakeholders and CSR rating agencies.
*1 The Nissan CSR Policy
"Ethical conduct, strong corporate governance with a high degree of transparency and a clear focus on diversity are the foundation for all our activities worldwide. We aim for the sustained profitable growth of the company, and at the same time contribute proactively to the sustainable development of mobility and society. We will listen to, and work with, our stakeholders around the world and create trust, opportunity and long-term sustainable value."
*2 Nine key areas
Nissan's nine key areas of focus for CSR activity are integrity, economic contribution, brand, quality, environment, employees, safety, value chain and philanthropy.
*3 Stakeholders
Nissan's stakeholders include customers, shareholders, employees, dealers and suppliers, as well as the communities in which the company works and operates.
To view Nissan's Sustainability Report website, go to:
http://www.nissan-global.com/EN/COMPANY/CSR/index.html
###
Source: Nissan
In April 2005, Nissan established a CSR group within its communications division with the responsibility to create a methodology to strengthen the company's CSR strategies, enhance its external image, and promote internal communication.
One year later, Nissan formulated its CSR Policy*1, identified nine key areas of focus*2, and also established a CSR Steering Committee. The committee serves to monitor the company's progress through the Nissan CSR scorecard. The scorecard is a tool to monitor the progress, while taking into account future goals and analyzing future risks and opportunities, in each of the nine key areas. This year's report makes public the progress made towards annual goals detailed in the CSR scorecard.
"This is not an exercise designed to project a halo over everything we do. It is the annual milestone in a process of transparent measurement that becomes more rigorous each year," said Nissan President and CEO Carlos Ghosn. "We hope this Sustainability Report can serve as a measure of our progress and a basis for dialogue with our stakeholders*3."
Consistent to its environmental goals, Nissan no longer publishes the Sustainability Report in print. Instead, the report is available for download from the company's CSR website. The CSR site has been enhanced to allow for more comprehensive and timely information sharing and to better respond to the needs of stakeholders and CSR rating agencies.
*1 The Nissan CSR Policy
"Ethical conduct, strong corporate governance with a high degree of transparency and a clear focus on diversity are the foundation for all our activities worldwide. We aim for the sustained profitable growth of the company, and at the same time contribute proactively to the sustainable development of mobility and society. We will listen to, and work with, our stakeholders around the world and create trust, opportunity and long-term sustainable value."
*2 Nine key areas
Nissan's nine key areas of focus for CSR activity are integrity, economic contribution, brand, quality, environment, employees, safety, value chain and philanthropy.
*3 Stakeholders
Nissan's stakeholders include customers, shareholders, employees, dealers and suppliers, as well as the communities in which the company works and operates.
To view Nissan's Sustainability Report website, go to:
http://www.nissan-global.com/EN/COMPANY/CSR/index.html
###
Source: Nissan
Volkswagen of America to offer SIRIUS as standard equipment on the 2008 Volkswagen MY Touareg2, 2008 VW New Beetle, 2008 VW New Beetle Convertible, 2008 Volkswagen GTI, and 2008 Volkswagen GLI
SIRIUS Satellite Radio (NASDAQ:SIRI) today announced that Volkswagen of America, Inc. will offer SIRIUS as standard equipment in all Volkswagen Touareg2, Volkswagen New Beetle, Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible, Volkswagen GTI, and Volkswagen GLI models beginning with the 2008 model year. SIRIUS will also be available on Volkswagen Jetta, Volkswagen Passat and Volkswagen EOS models.
"The Volkswagen of America, Inc. plan to offer SIRIUS as standard equipment in select models not only proves VW's commitment to the customer, but also shows VW's commitment to technology that enhances driving pleasure and enjoyment in every sense," said Adrian Hallmark, Executive Vice President of Volkswagen of America. "SIRIUS Satellite Radio helps to enhance the driving experience and Volkswagen ownership pride."
"Since the first launch on the VW New Beetle in 2004, to now making it standard on the Volkswagen New Beetle and other key models, VW has always shown to be a significant partner in the growth of SIRIUS," said Mel Karmazin, CEO of SIRIUS. "Volkswagen of America's decision to move in the direction of standardizing SIRIUS on key models only shows their commitment for expansion and growth of our capabilities."
SIRIUS and Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced in March 2006 that Volkswagen will offer SIRIUS as its sole satellite radio provider for vehicles sold in this country through 2012. Volkswagen has exclusively offered SIRIUS beginning with its 2007 model year vehicles and expects to equip approximately 80% of its vehicles with SIRIUS satellite radio receivers. Volkswagen additionally offers three months of complimentary service on vehicles equipped with SIRIUS.
About SIRIUS
SIRIUS, "The Best Radio on Radio," delivers more than 130 channels of the best programming in all of radio. SIRIUS is the original and only home of 100% commercial free music channels in satellite radio, offering 69 music channels. SIRIUS also delivers 65 channels of sports, news, talk, entertainment, traffic, weather and data. SIRIUS is the Official Satellite Radio Partner of the NFL, NASCAR, NBA and NHL, and broadcasts live play-by- play games of the NFL, NBA and NHL, as well as live NASCAR races. All SIRIUS programming is available for a monthly subscription fee of only $12.95.
SIRIUS Internet Radio (SIR) is a CD-quality, Internet-only version of the SIRIUS radio service, without the use of a radio, for the monthly subscription fee of $12.95. SIR delivers more than 75 channels of talk, entertainment, sports, and 100% commercial free music.
SIRIUS products for the car, truck, home, RV and boat are available in more than 25,000 retail locations, including Best Buy, Circuit City, Crutchfield, Costco, Target, Wal-Mart, Sam's Club, RadioShack and at shop.sirius.com.
SIRIUS radios are offered in vehicles from Audi, Bentley, BMW, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Infiniti, Jaguar, Jeep(R), Land Rover, Lexus, Lincoln, Mercury, Maybach, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Rolls Royce, Scion, Toyota, Volkswagen, and Volvo. Hertz also offers SIRIUS in its rental cars at major locations around the country.
Click on www.sirius.com to listen to SIRIUS live, or to purchase a SIRIUS radio and subscription.
Any statements that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance with respect to SIRIUS Satellite Radio Inc. are not historical facts and may be forward-looking and, accordingly, such statements involve estimates, assumptions and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. Accordingly, any such statements are qualified in their entirety by reference to the factors discussed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Among the significant factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed are: our pending merger with XM Satellite Radio Holdings, Inc. ("XM"), including related uncertainties and risks and the impact on our business if the merger is not completed; any events which affect the useful life of our satellites; our dependence upon third parties, including manufacturers of SIRIUS radios, retailers, automakers and programming providers; and our competitive position versus other audio entertainment providers.
Source: SIRIUS Satellite Radio
SIRIUS Satellite Radio (NASDAQ:SIRI) today announced that Volkswagen of America, Inc. will offer SIRIUS as standard equipment in all Volkswagen Touareg2, Volkswagen New Beetle, Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible, Volkswagen GTI, and Volkswagen GLI models beginning with the 2008 model year. SIRIUS will also be available on Volkswagen Jetta, Volkswagen Passat and Volkswagen EOS models.
"The Volkswagen of America, Inc. plan to offer SIRIUS as standard equipment in select models not only proves VW's commitment to the customer, but also shows VW's commitment to technology that enhances driving pleasure and enjoyment in every sense," said Adrian Hallmark, Executive Vice President of Volkswagen of America. "SIRIUS Satellite Radio helps to enhance the driving experience and Volkswagen ownership pride."
"Since the first launch on the VW New Beetle in 2004, to now making it standard on the Volkswagen New Beetle and other key models, VW has always shown to be a significant partner in the growth of SIRIUS," said Mel Karmazin, CEO of SIRIUS. "Volkswagen of America's decision to move in the direction of standardizing SIRIUS on key models only shows their commitment for expansion and growth of our capabilities."
SIRIUS and Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced in March 2006 that Volkswagen will offer SIRIUS as its sole satellite radio provider for vehicles sold in this country through 2012. Volkswagen has exclusively offered SIRIUS beginning with its 2007 model year vehicles and expects to equip approximately 80% of its vehicles with SIRIUS satellite radio receivers. Volkswagen additionally offers three months of complimentary service on vehicles equipped with SIRIUS.
About SIRIUS
SIRIUS, "The Best Radio on Radio," delivers more than 130 channels of the best programming in all of radio. SIRIUS is the original and only home of 100% commercial free music channels in satellite radio, offering 69 music channels. SIRIUS also delivers 65 channels of sports, news, talk, entertainment, traffic, weather and data. SIRIUS is the Official Satellite Radio Partner of the NFL, NASCAR, NBA and NHL, and broadcasts live play-by- play games of the NFL, NBA and NHL, as well as live NASCAR races. All SIRIUS programming is available for a monthly subscription fee of only $12.95.
SIRIUS Internet Radio (SIR) is a CD-quality, Internet-only version of the SIRIUS radio service, without the use of a radio, for the monthly subscription fee of $12.95. SIR delivers more than 75 channels of talk, entertainment, sports, and 100% commercial free music.
SIRIUS products for the car, truck, home, RV and boat are available in more than 25,000 retail locations, including Best Buy, Circuit City, Crutchfield, Costco, Target, Wal-Mart, Sam's Club, RadioShack and at shop.sirius.com.
SIRIUS radios are offered in vehicles from Audi, Bentley, BMW, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Infiniti, Jaguar, Jeep(R), Land Rover, Lexus, Lincoln, Mercury, Maybach, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Rolls Royce, Scion, Toyota, Volkswagen, and Volvo. Hertz also offers SIRIUS in its rental cars at major locations around the country.
Click on www.sirius.com to listen to SIRIUS live, or to purchase a SIRIUS radio and subscription.
Any statements that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance with respect to SIRIUS Satellite Radio Inc. are not historical facts and may be forward-looking and, accordingly, such statements involve estimates, assumptions and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. Accordingly, any such statements are qualified in their entirety by reference to the factors discussed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Among the significant factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed are: our pending merger with XM Satellite Radio Holdings, Inc. ("XM"), including related uncertainties and risks and the impact on our business if the merger is not completed; any events which affect the useful life of our satellites; our dependence upon third parties, including manufacturers of SIRIUS radios, retailers, automakers and programming providers; and our competitive position versus other audio entertainment providers.
Source: SIRIUS Satellite Radio
Partnership Brings Virtual Scion Cars into Gaia's Fast-Growing Online Hangout for Teens
Gaia Online, the fastest growing hangout for teens on the web, and Scion, a marque of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., today announced a joint partnership that will enable Gaia members to buy and customize virtual versions of Scion cars. Beginning with the virtual Scion xB available today, Scion is the first auto maker to introduce its vehicles to the more than two million teens who visit Gaia every month.
After getting their virtual Scion xB, Gaia members can 'pimp their rides' with customizable options such as wheels, decals, fog lights, tail lights, spoilers and more. Gaia members can also compete in and socialize at drag races, join forums dedicated to car culture, and nominate their cars for accolades within Gaia's arenas. Enterprising members can trick out and sell cars in Gaia's marketplace for Gaia Gold, the currency of the Gaia economy.
"Teens spend hours every day on Gaia because there are endless opportunities to have fun, socialize and express their creativity. Customizing Scions is an exciting new way for our members to do all three," said Craig Sherman, CEO, Gaia Online. "Teenage obsessions with cars go back more than half a century, so bringing Scion into the Gaia community is a great new way to fulfill that interest."
Gaia Online is a fun, social environment online where teens can make friends and express their individuality through customizable avatars and homes -- and as of today -- cars. The site combines elements of social networking, virtual worlds, casual gaming and narrative entertainment. The Gaia community boasts more than two million unique users per month (up three fold from a year ago), with members spending an average of more than two hours on the site per day. Gaia's forums have exceeded a billion postings with a million new posts being added each day, and the Gaia economy sees more than 190 million in Gaia Gold transactions per day.
"We've had great success reaching virtual world visitors who might not be familiar with us otherwise. Gaia Online is a fantastic next step in our approach," said Adrian Si, Scion interactive marketing manager. "Gaia offers a community of young, creative people who seek customization and fun, so it's a perfect match for the Scion brand."
Beyond the Scion personalization options, drag races and other features available today, Gaia will introduce new ways to modify cars and activities involving vehicles in the future.
"Gaia has created immersive experiences for sponsors around New Line Cinema's movie The Last Mimzy and Time Warner's movies Gracie and Nancy Drew, and the uptake by Gaia members has been phenomenal. We believe these sponsorships represent some of the highest engagement between brands and online communities on the web, and we expect the same kind of intense interest and participation for the Scion partnership," added Sherman.
About Gaia Online
Founded in 2003, Gaia Online is the fastest-growing hangout on the web. Millions of teens come to Gaia every month to make friends, play games, watch movies in Gaia's virtual theaters, and participate in the world's most active online community. Gaia provides a fun, social environment that inspires individuality and creativity. With everything from art contests to discussion forums on poetry, politics, celebrities and more, to fully customizable profiles, digital characters and cars, Gaia is a place where teens can create their own space and express their individual style.
About Scion
Scion is the newest line of vehicles from Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. Developed with a new generation of youthful buyers in mind, Scion's mission is to provide distinctive products, the opportunity to personalize, and an innovative, consumer-driven process at the retail level. The Scion brand features three ground-breaking models. The Scion xD is an urban subcompact five-door, featuring a muscular stance and accentuated wheel flares. The Scion xB, an urban utility vehicle with an iconic shape, combines remarkable interior space with aggressive style. And the Scion tC sports coupe surprises the buyer with the convenience of a hatchback and the luxury of a standard all-glass panorama moonroof, complementing the usual wide array of features on all Scions.
For more information, visit www.scion.com
Gaia Online is a trademark of Gaia Interactive, Inc. in the United States and other countries.
Source: Gaia Interactive, Inc.
Gaia Online, the fastest growing hangout for teens on the web, and Scion, a marque of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., today announced a joint partnership that will enable Gaia members to buy and customize virtual versions of Scion cars. Beginning with the virtual Scion xB available today, Scion is the first auto maker to introduce its vehicles to the more than two million teens who visit Gaia every month.
After getting their virtual Scion xB, Gaia members can 'pimp their rides' with customizable options such as wheels, decals, fog lights, tail lights, spoilers and more. Gaia members can also compete in and socialize at drag races, join forums dedicated to car culture, and nominate their cars for accolades within Gaia's arenas. Enterprising members can trick out and sell cars in Gaia's marketplace for Gaia Gold, the currency of the Gaia economy.
"Teens spend hours every day on Gaia because there are endless opportunities to have fun, socialize and express their creativity. Customizing Scions is an exciting new way for our members to do all three," said Craig Sherman, CEO, Gaia Online. "Teenage obsessions with cars go back more than half a century, so bringing Scion into the Gaia community is a great new way to fulfill that interest."
Gaia Online is a fun, social environment online where teens can make friends and express their individuality through customizable avatars and homes -- and as of today -- cars. The site combines elements of social networking, virtual worlds, casual gaming and narrative entertainment. The Gaia community boasts more than two million unique users per month (up three fold from a year ago), with members spending an average of more than two hours on the site per day. Gaia's forums have exceeded a billion postings with a million new posts being added each day, and the Gaia economy sees more than 190 million in Gaia Gold transactions per day.
"We've had great success reaching virtual world visitors who might not be familiar with us otherwise. Gaia Online is a fantastic next step in our approach," said Adrian Si, Scion interactive marketing manager. "Gaia offers a community of young, creative people who seek customization and fun, so it's a perfect match for the Scion brand."
Beyond the Scion personalization options, drag races and other features available today, Gaia will introduce new ways to modify cars and activities involving vehicles in the future.
"Gaia has created immersive experiences for sponsors around New Line Cinema's movie The Last Mimzy and Time Warner's movies Gracie and Nancy Drew, and the uptake by Gaia members has been phenomenal. We believe these sponsorships represent some of the highest engagement between brands and online communities on the web, and we expect the same kind of intense interest and participation for the Scion partnership," added Sherman.
About Gaia Online
Founded in 2003, Gaia Online is the fastest-growing hangout on the web. Millions of teens come to Gaia every month to make friends, play games, watch movies in Gaia's virtual theaters, and participate in the world's most active online community. Gaia provides a fun, social environment that inspires individuality and creativity. With everything from art contests to discussion forums on poetry, politics, celebrities and more, to fully customizable profiles, digital characters and cars, Gaia is a place where teens can create their own space and express their individual style.
About Scion
Scion is the newest line of vehicles from Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. Developed with a new generation of youthful buyers in mind, Scion's mission is to provide distinctive products, the opportunity to personalize, and an innovative, consumer-driven process at the retail level. The Scion brand features three ground-breaking models. The Scion xD is an urban subcompact five-door, featuring a muscular stance and accentuated wheel flares. The Scion xB, an urban utility vehicle with an iconic shape, combines remarkable interior space with aggressive style. And the Scion tC sports coupe surprises the buyer with the convenience of a hatchback and the luxury of a standard all-glass panorama moonroof, complementing the usual wide array of features on all Scions.
For more information, visit www.scion.com
Gaia Online is a trademark of Gaia Interactive, Inc. in the United States and other countries.
Source: Gaia Interactive, Inc.
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., today held its 108th Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders at the National Convention Hall of Yokohama. The meeting lasted for 2 hours 27 minutes beginning at 10:00 JST and concluded at 12:27 JST. This year, a total of 2,135 shareholders attended the meeting, which is record attendance.
All current nine members of its Board of Directors attended the meeting. President and CEO Carlos Ghosn delivered an address to the shareholders, reporting on the company’s fiscal year 2006 sales and financial performance, Nissan Value-Up mid-term business plan progress, FY2007 outlook and future strategies focused on brand-building, new product offensive and R&D innovations.
Nissan proposed a 17-yen-per-share year-end dividend, giving a full-year dividend of 34 yen per share for FY2006, and to maintain the proposed 40 yen per share for FY2007.
The five items tabled for deliberation by the stakeholders include:
1. Approval of Appropriation of Retained Earnings for the 108th Fiscal Year.
2. Approval of the Delegation to the Board of Director in deciding the Terms and Conditions of the Issuance of “Shinkabu-Yoyakuken” (stock acquisition right) without Consideration as Stock Options to Employees of the Company and Directors and Employees of its Affiliates.
3. Election of Ten (10) Directors due to Expiration of Term of All Directors. (Proposal for ten directors, including one additional director, to be elected.)
4. Granting of Share Appreciation Rights (SAR) to the Directors.
5. Granting of Retirement Allowances to the Directors and Statutory Auditors in relation to the abolition of such Allowances.
All five items were voted by majority of shareholders and approved as presented.
###
Source: Nissan
All current nine members of its Board of Directors attended the meeting. President and CEO Carlos Ghosn delivered an address to the shareholders, reporting on the company’s fiscal year 2006 sales and financial performance, Nissan Value-Up mid-term business plan progress, FY2007 outlook and future strategies focused on brand-building, new product offensive and R&D innovations.
Nissan proposed a 17-yen-per-share year-end dividend, giving a full-year dividend of 34 yen per share for FY2006, and to maintain the proposed 40 yen per share for FY2007.
The five items tabled for deliberation by the stakeholders include:
1. Approval of Appropriation of Retained Earnings for the 108th Fiscal Year.
2. Approval of the Delegation to the Board of Director in deciding the Terms and Conditions of the Issuance of “Shinkabu-Yoyakuken” (stock acquisition right) without Consideration as Stock Options to Employees of the Company and Directors and Employees of its Affiliates.
3. Election of Ten (10) Directors due to Expiration of Term of All Directors. (Proposal for ten directors, including one additional director, to be elected.)
4. Granting of Share Appreciation Rights (SAR) to the Directors.
5. Granting of Retirement Allowances to the Directors and Statutory Auditors in relation to the abolition of such Allowances.
All five items were voted by majority of shareholders and approved as presented.
###
Source: Nissan
-- Chrysler Group plans to expand its dealer operations in key markets outside North America
-- 70 potential investors attend forum for sneak peek at Chrysler, Jeep(R) and Dodge sales outlet ownership opportunities
-- Sales performance outside North America continues at record levels
As Chrysler Group continues to increase sales and expand operations in markets outside North America, the company has identified a need for additional sales outlets in key established and growth markets. This week, approximately 70 international investors and dealers are visiting the company's headquarters in Auburn Hills for a sneak peek at the potential for Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge brand franchises in their respective markets.
"While we will continue to aggressively defend our position in NAFTA, it is important that we expand in other markets so that we are not as dependent on the ups and downs of a single region," said Tom LaSorda - Chrysler Group President and CEO. "With a more global focus we will be better able to take advantage of emerging opportunities."
Dealer Investment Forum
The Chrysler Group has invited the potential partners from 19 countries all over the world, including Russia, Japan and Middle East. During three days with senior Chrysler Group executives, the investors will learn more about the different avenues the company is pursuing to become a more global operation as it implements the Recovery and Transformation Plan, a roadmap for returning to financial health. They will also gain insight into the Chrysler Group's growth plans outside North America and experience first-hand the unique products and powertrains that would be available through their franchise if they choose to invest. This week's forum follows a conference held in China where 140 dealers attended.
"Due to the expansion of our global portfolio, we see an opportunity not only to strengthen the relationship with our current dealers, but also to look for new business partners that can help us to take our international business to the next level," said Michael Manley, Executive Vice President - International Sales, Marketing and Business Development.
Outside North America, Chrysler Group has roughly 1,400 sales outlets. In established markets, like Western Europe, the company plans to add roughly 100 new sales outlets over the next two years. Additional growth in the dealer network will increase the company's presence in growing markets, such as Russia and China, where the existing dealer network is doing well, but the goals of additional sales growth will require adding more locations.
The addition of these new outlets will increase customer satisfaction, as well as contribute to increased sales. Chrysler Group remains committed to ensuring a positive customer experience with the product itself, and with the dealership for both sales and service experiences. Having the necessary number of dealerships exposes more customers to the Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge brands and also means that customers are able to visit a facility in or near their community after purchasing the vehicle for any necessary maintenance.
Performance Outside North America
In 2006, Chrysler Group expanded the availability of the Dodge brand in key markets all over the world with the launch of the Dodge Caliber, the brand's first volume vehicle outside North America. The next two Dodge vehicles, making their way into global markets this summer, are the Dodge Nitro and Avenger. Demand for the Dodge brand has been strong so far this year as Dodge Caliber sales soared to 13,265 units year-to-date, making it the top- selling Chrysler Group vehicle outside North America. By 2009, Dodge could account for roughly 30 percent of the Company's international sales.
"Many dealers outside North America have been very successful with the sales of all three Chrysler Group brands in their local markets," said Thomas Hausch, Vice President of International Sales. "In Western Europe alone, we increased our return on sales by more than 20 percent, from 1.7 in 2005 to 2.1 in 2006. This is a clear indication that the new vehicles we are introducing are well-received by our customers and that we deliver to our dealers one of the best return on sales within the industry."
Sales growth for Chrysler Group as a whole outside North America has reached an unprecedented two full years of monthly sales gains, and year-to- date growth of 16 percent (91,412 units) over the same period of time in 2006. Much of this growth is attributed to the increase in the number of models that are being introduced in markets all over the world with options that meet the needs of global customers. Chrysler Group management has indicated that the plan is to double last year's sales outside North America and reach approximately 400,000 units in the next five years.
To support this growth plan, between 2003 and 2007, The Chrysler Group will approximately double the number of products available outside North America from 9 to 20 vehicles. Within the number of models available, the company will triple the number of vehicles in right-hand-drive, from 6 to 18; and, quadruple the number of vehicles with an option for a diesel powertrain, from 4 to 16.
Chrysler Group sells and services vehicles in more than 125 countries around the world. Sales outside North America currently account for approximately 8 percent of the company's total global sales. Vehicles available outside of North America come from all three Chrysler Group brands, with limited availability on some trucks and SUV models.
Source: Chrysler Group
-- 70 potential investors attend forum for sneak peek at Chrysler, Jeep(R) and Dodge sales outlet ownership opportunities
-- Sales performance outside North America continues at record levels
As Chrysler Group continues to increase sales and expand operations in markets outside North America, the company has identified a need for additional sales outlets in key established and growth markets. This week, approximately 70 international investors and dealers are visiting the company's headquarters in Auburn Hills for a sneak peek at the potential for Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge brand franchises in their respective markets.
"While we will continue to aggressively defend our position in NAFTA, it is important that we expand in other markets so that we are not as dependent on the ups and downs of a single region," said Tom LaSorda - Chrysler Group President and CEO. "With a more global focus we will be better able to take advantage of emerging opportunities."
Dealer Investment Forum
The Chrysler Group has invited the potential partners from 19 countries all over the world, including Russia, Japan and Middle East. During three days with senior Chrysler Group executives, the investors will learn more about the different avenues the company is pursuing to become a more global operation as it implements the Recovery and Transformation Plan, a roadmap for returning to financial health. They will also gain insight into the Chrysler Group's growth plans outside North America and experience first-hand the unique products and powertrains that would be available through their franchise if they choose to invest. This week's forum follows a conference held in China where 140 dealers attended.
"Due to the expansion of our global portfolio, we see an opportunity not only to strengthen the relationship with our current dealers, but also to look for new business partners that can help us to take our international business to the next level," said Michael Manley, Executive Vice President - International Sales, Marketing and Business Development.
Outside North America, Chrysler Group has roughly 1,400 sales outlets. In established markets, like Western Europe, the company plans to add roughly 100 new sales outlets over the next two years. Additional growth in the dealer network will increase the company's presence in growing markets, such as Russia and China, where the existing dealer network is doing well, but the goals of additional sales growth will require adding more locations.
The addition of these new outlets will increase customer satisfaction, as well as contribute to increased sales. Chrysler Group remains committed to ensuring a positive customer experience with the product itself, and with the dealership for both sales and service experiences. Having the necessary number of dealerships exposes more customers to the Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge brands and also means that customers are able to visit a facility in or near their community after purchasing the vehicle for any necessary maintenance.
Performance Outside North America
In 2006, Chrysler Group expanded the availability of the Dodge brand in key markets all over the world with the launch of the Dodge Caliber, the brand's first volume vehicle outside North America. The next two Dodge vehicles, making their way into global markets this summer, are the Dodge Nitro and Avenger. Demand for the Dodge brand has been strong so far this year as Dodge Caliber sales soared to 13,265 units year-to-date, making it the top- selling Chrysler Group vehicle outside North America. By 2009, Dodge could account for roughly 30 percent of the Company's international sales.
"Many dealers outside North America have been very successful with the sales of all three Chrysler Group brands in their local markets," said Thomas Hausch, Vice President of International Sales. "In Western Europe alone, we increased our return on sales by more than 20 percent, from 1.7 in 2005 to 2.1 in 2006. This is a clear indication that the new vehicles we are introducing are well-received by our customers and that we deliver to our dealers one of the best return on sales within the industry."
Sales growth for Chrysler Group as a whole outside North America has reached an unprecedented two full years of monthly sales gains, and year-to- date growth of 16 percent (91,412 units) over the same period of time in 2006. Much of this growth is attributed to the increase in the number of models that are being introduced in markets all over the world with options that meet the needs of global customers. Chrysler Group management has indicated that the plan is to double last year's sales outside North America and reach approximately 400,000 units in the next five years.
To support this growth plan, between 2003 and 2007, The Chrysler Group will approximately double the number of products available outside North America from 9 to 20 vehicles. Within the number of models available, the company will triple the number of vehicles in right-hand-drive, from 6 to 18; and, quadruple the number of vehicles with an option for a diesel powertrain, from 4 to 16.
Chrysler Group sells and services vehicles in more than 125 countries around the world. Sales outside North America currently account for approximately 8 percent of the company's total global sales. Vehicles available outside of North America come from all three Chrysler Group brands, with limited availability on some trucks and SUV models.
Source: Chrysler Group
The revolutionary Chevrolet Volt Concept made its Canadian debut today at the Energy and Environment Conference (EECO) in Toronto. The technologically-advanced and stylish Volt has the potential to virtually eliminate the need for daily commuters to visit a gas station.
"If you are like most Canadians who live and work within a 64 kilometre round trip the Chevy Volt is a gas free, emission free car,” says David Paterson, vice president, corporate and environmental affairs, General Motors of Canada. “Drivers will simply unplug and go each morning - much as we do with our cell phones today."
The Chevrolet Volt Concept electric vehicle can be fully charged by plugging it into a 110-volt outlet for approximately six hours a day. When the lithium-ion battery is fully charged, the Volt can deliver 64 kilometres of pure electric vehicle range. If drivers need to travel more than 64 kilometres, a range extending power source (which creates electricity from gasoline, ethanol, hydrogen or biodiesel fuels) seamlessly kicks in to recharge the lithium ion battery pack when required, for an impressive driving range of more than 1,000 kilometres.
"At GM we believe that tomorrow’s automobile must be flexible to accommodate many different energy sources and choices for consumers, and a key part of that flexibility will be enabled by electrically driven cars" adds Paterson. "With battery contracts in place and a dedicated team of engineers, General Motors is moving to bring the Chevrolet Volt closer to reality."
The signing of advanced development battery contracts and our announcement to move fuel cell engineers from research and development work to our powertrain and engineering organizations for the E-Flex system are the latest proof points in GM's commitment to providing more green choices for consumers. Today GM offers:
o Canada’s most affordable hybrid SUV and mid-sedan - the Saturn Vue and Saturn Aura Green Line hybrids, and the Chevrolet Malibu hybrid, to be introduced later this year. GM has also announced two-mode hybrid versions of the new Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon arriving this fall and a two-mode hybrid version of the Oshawa-made Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups next year. GM’s new two-mode hybrid pickups will be the first hybrid vehicles ever built in Canada.
o GM is a world leader in the development of flex fuel vehicles that are capable of running on fuel containing up to 85 per cent ethanol (E85) or regular gasoline. Today 15 GM models are available with E85 Flex Fuel capability.
o GM is currently building the world’s largest fuel cell demonstration fleet at GM’s Canadian Engineering Centre in Oshawa, these 100 Chevrolet Equinox fuel cell vehicles will be placed with customers this fall.
o Active Fuel Management (or AFM) engines are available on 15 of our most popular cars and trucks. AFM seamlessly shuts down half the engine’s cylinders to conserve fuel when they are not needed – such as when you are cruising on the highway.
o GM provides more vehicles that achieve 7L / 100 km highway than any other manufacturer in the Canada.
General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada. Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 19,000 people nationwide. GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 743 dealerships and retailers across Canada. Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.
Source: GM Canada
"If you are like most Canadians who live and work within a 64 kilometre round trip the Chevy Volt is a gas free, emission free car,” says David Paterson, vice president, corporate and environmental affairs, General Motors of Canada. “Drivers will simply unplug and go each morning - much as we do with our cell phones today."
The Chevrolet Volt Concept electric vehicle can be fully charged by plugging it into a 110-volt outlet for approximately six hours a day. When the lithium-ion battery is fully charged, the Volt can deliver 64 kilometres of pure electric vehicle range. If drivers need to travel more than 64 kilometres, a range extending power source (which creates electricity from gasoline, ethanol, hydrogen or biodiesel fuels) seamlessly kicks in to recharge the lithium ion battery pack when required, for an impressive driving range of more than 1,000 kilometres.
"At GM we believe that tomorrow’s automobile must be flexible to accommodate many different energy sources and choices for consumers, and a key part of that flexibility will be enabled by electrically driven cars" adds Paterson. "With battery contracts in place and a dedicated team of engineers, General Motors is moving to bring the Chevrolet Volt closer to reality."
The signing of advanced development battery contracts and our announcement to move fuel cell engineers from research and development work to our powertrain and engineering organizations for the E-Flex system are the latest proof points in GM's commitment to providing more green choices for consumers. Today GM offers:
o Canada’s most affordable hybrid SUV and mid-sedan - the Saturn Vue and Saturn Aura Green Line hybrids, and the Chevrolet Malibu hybrid, to be introduced later this year. GM has also announced two-mode hybrid versions of the new Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon arriving this fall and a two-mode hybrid version of the Oshawa-made Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups next year. GM’s new two-mode hybrid pickups will be the first hybrid vehicles ever built in Canada.
o GM is a world leader in the development of flex fuel vehicles that are capable of running on fuel containing up to 85 per cent ethanol (E85) or regular gasoline. Today 15 GM models are available with E85 Flex Fuel capability.
o GM is currently building the world’s largest fuel cell demonstration fleet at GM’s Canadian Engineering Centre in Oshawa, these 100 Chevrolet Equinox fuel cell vehicles will be placed with customers this fall.
o Active Fuel Management (or AFM) engines are available on 15 of our most popular cars and trucks. AFM seamlessly shuts down half the engine’s cylinders to conserve fuel when they are not needed – such as when you are cruising on the highway.
o GM provides more vehicles that achieve 7L / 100 km highway than any other manufacturer in the Canada.
General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada. Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 19,000 people nationwide. GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 743 dealerships and retailers across Canada. Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.
Source: GM Canada
