Auto Opinion.ca News

AMG clinches second podium position in a row: Second place for the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 in the Bathurst 12 Hour, Australia

2012-02-28T12:06:00.000-05:00

DAIMLER AG - In Sunday's Bathurst 12 Hour Race in Australia, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 had finished in the second place. The Australian customer team of Erebus Racing with its drivers Peter Hackett (AUS), Tim Slade (AUS), Jeroen Bleekemolen (NED) and Bret Curtis (USA) came home second after having driven 270 race laps. Having started from 6th place on the grid, starting number 20 took over the lead for the first time in the third hour of the race on a wet track. In an exciting battle against other GT3 cars, the gullwing car of the customer sports team of Erebus was able to constantly hold on to a position no lower than the top three. The Bathurst 12 Hour remained a narrow decision until the very end. The two leading cars remained in the same lap and the time difference with which they crossed the finish line was only 1.13 minutes.

The endurance race on Circuit Mount Panorama, which is 6.213 kilometres long, was marked by the difficult weather conditions, a large number of incidents and many safety car phases. The traditional hilly track is located in the State of New South Wales, with a distance of approximately 200 kilometres west of Sydney, the biggest city in Australia.

Peter Hackett (AUS):

"I am very happy about the second place. Our SLS AMG GT3 delivered a convincing top performance facing the wet conditions on the track. The car ran like clockwork and was completely reliable. We did not get involved in any of the incidents and drove a constant race with a great race strategy and fantastic pit stops. The co-operation with Black Falcon from Germany worked very well since both teams complemented each other perfectly."

Tim Slade (AUS):

"It was a great challenge with a narrow finish here on Circuit Mount Panorama in Bathurst. During the entire race we competed with the other GT3 cars on a high level. I want to thank the whole team for this cohesive performance."

Black Falcon's SLS AMG GT3 retired from race after accident

The second SLS AMG GT3 of the customer team Black Falcon with Rob Wilson (NZ), Sean Patrick Breslin (GB), Sean Paul Breslin (GB) and Vimal Mehta (TZA) started from 9th place on the grid and had no difficulties in claiming one of the top positions among the fastest cars in the race. After an hour, starting number 21 had to make a pit stop because of a problem with the rear suspension. After having been repaired successfully, the gullwing car of Black Falcon carried on driving. However, due to an accident in the 52nd lap, the race came to an end after three hours. Thanks to the exemplary safety level, which is currently not reached by any other GT3 car, the driver Sean Patrick Breslin was unharmed.

Most successful newcomer in the 2011 motor sport season

The Bathurst 12 Hour was the second podium position in a row for the AMG Customer Sports programme. In the Dubai 24 Hours race (12th to 14th January 2012) the Mercedes Benz SLS AMG GT3 scored a commanding 1-2-3 with Abu Dhabi by Black Falcon at the top.

In its debut year of 2011, the Gullwing became probably the most successful newcomer in the 2011 motorsport season: from March 2011 on 40 race cars were delivered to international customer teams that took part in races on four continents and won a total of 26 races. The success story was crowned by the team title of the FIA GT3 European Championship for HEICO Motorsport and its two Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 – the first title for the Gullwing in its first full racing season.

Nissan unveils "Nissan CMF" next-generation vehicle engineering - 4 + 1 big module concept -

2012-02-28T11:54:00.000-05:00

NISSAN MOTOR COMPANY - Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. yesterday announced the introduction of its next-generation vehicle engineering concept, named Nissan Common Module Family (CMF). Nissan vehicles developed under the CMF strategy are slated to enter the marketplace from 2013.

In vehicle development, cost reductions are fundamental to maintaining product competitiveness amid the increasing calls for environmental and safety improvements that often increase costs. In response to the corresponding challenges, Nissan created CMF, which combines modular engineering with Nissan's own engineering technologies, in areas such as simulation and variation engineering (a way to enhance commonization) and the pursuit of simplicity. Through the introduction of CMF, Nissan expects to dramatically raise the appeal of its products and thereby significantly expand sales volume.

Nissan has long been promoting vehicle platform commonization, with several vehicle variations derived from a single platform. This has become critical to achieving the rapid improvements in products demanded by today's competitive global marketplace. Each new vehicle that is developed requires distinctive characteristics, improved fuel economy, passenger safety and IT features, and the rapid application of the latest technologies into the development process. At the same time, volume efficiencies need to be achieved through the extensive use of common vehicle structures, components and parts. Up to now, these contrasting elements have been difficult to balance. To contend with these challenges, Nissan is implementing its next-generation "Nissan CMF" vehicle engineering strategy.

The application of Nissan CMF entails the use of four modules – engine compartment, cockpit, front underbody and rear underbody – as well as the architecture for electronic components, with each module having appropriate variations. Vehicles are designed by combining these modules in different ways. Depending on the module configuration, a variety of vehicles – compacts, large-sized vehicles through to tall SUVs – can be efficiently designed.

Nissan has committed to introducing 90 new technologies by 2016. The launch of Nissan CMF will enable commonization that transcends vehicle segments, lower costs, and facilitate the simultaneous application of attractive new technologies across several models that up to now had been clustered in higher-end segments. Nissan CMF will bring new technologies to a wider range of Nissan owners around the world faster than ever before.

Nissan will introduce 51 new models over the course of its mid-term business plan, Nissan Power 88, to offer more attractive and competitive products to potential customers all over the world.

Nissan and NISMO unveil 2012 motorsports activity plan

2012-02-28T11:22:00.000-05:00

NISSAN MOTOR COMPANY - Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. and Nissan Motorsports International Co., Ltd. (NISMO) last week announced their 2012 global motorsports program.

Nissan won numerous championships in motor races in 2011. For 2012, it will participate in the GT500 class of the SUPER GT series, the top motorsports competition series in Japan, provide support in overseas races, mainly by offering its engines to teams participating in LMP2 (Le Mans Prototype 2) Class, and support customer teams which use the NISSAN GT-R NISMO GT3, available to customers beginning this year.

Nissan will further support grassroots activities through a driver scholarship program and support for racing teams that enter national championship series around the world.

In pursuit of racing through electric cars, Nissan will continue demo runs globally with NISSAN LEAF NISMO RC, which has the same high performance lithium-ion battery and motor as the mass-produced electric car, the NISSAN LEAF.

Nissan and NISMO once again provide excitement and entertainment to customers through dynamic motorsports competition. A summary of 2012 motorsports activities are as follows:

Japan

1. SUPER GT

1) GT500 Class

• Vehicle:

The R35 model NISSAN GT-R will take part in the SUPER GT series' GT500 class.

NISMO will develop the cars and provide technical support for participating teams. The 2012 NISSAN GT-R incorporates changes in the VRH34B engine that include improved torque characteristics, along with increased horsepower in accordance with regulation changes. Also significantly improved is aerodynamics performance, achieved through a full refinement of aero parts. A lowered center of gravity and optimal load distribution are also achieved by weight reduction.

• Team Composition:

MOLA, NISMO, TEAM IMPUL and KONDO RACING will deploy one car each, for a total of four Nissan GT-Rs competing across the Nissan teams in the GT500 Class. Kunihiko Kakimoto will continue as the general director of the teams driving Nissan cars.

2) GT300 Class

• Vehicle:

The R35 model NISSAN GT-R NISMO GT3 will take part in the SUPER GT series' GT300 class for the first time.

The NISSAN GT-R NISMO GT3 is built specially for racing according to the FIA GT3 technical regulations, based on the R35 model NISSAN GT-R.

• Team Composition:

NDDP (Nissan Driver Development Program) RACING, headed by team principal Masahiro Hasemi, will participate in the GT300 class with two Nissan Advance Scholarship drivers.

2. Nissan Driver Development Program (NDDP)

Nissan will continue to support Formula Challenge Japan (FCJ), which started in 2006 with the aim of educating young drivers to enable them to compete worldwide and in the Japanese top category.

Among Nissan Advance Scholarship drivers, two drivers will take part in the SUPER GT series' GT300 class and one driver in the National (N) Class of the All-Japan F3 Championship. Two additional individuals have been selected as Nissan Scholarship drivers and will receive support to run in FCJ.

• NDDP Advance Scholarship Drivers:

SUPER GT (GT300 Class): Yuhi Sekiguchi (24), Katsumasa Chiyo (24)

All-Japan F3 Championship (N Class): Daiki Sasaki (20)

• NDDP FCJ Scholarship Drivers:

Mitsunori Takaboshi (19), Kiyoto Fujinami (16)

3. Super Taikyu

NISMO provides technical support to customer teams participating in the Super Taikyu series in Japan.

Europe

1. European Le Mans Series (ELMS)

NISMO will offer its NISSAN VK45DE engine, which is developed based on mass production engine, and provide technical support to Greaves Motorsport.

2. 24 Hours of Le Mans

NISMO will also offer its NISSAN VK45DE engine and provide technical support to Greaves Motorsport for the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Among 18 vehicles entered for the Le Mans 24 Hours LMP2 class, 11 vehicles are equipped with VK45DE engines. A former British Formula One driver Martin Brundle, with his son Alex Brundle, will take part in this race.

3. World Endurance Championship (WEC)

NISMO will offer its NISSAN VK45DE engine and provide technical support to the Signatech Nissan team that will participate in WEC LMP2 class.

4. Blancpain Endurance Series

Alex Buncombe (U.K.), Christopher Ward (U.K.) and Jann Mardenborough (U.K.), winner of the GT Academy 2011, will take part in the Blancpain Endurance Series with the R35 model NISSAN GT-R NISMO GT3. (Team: GT ACADEMY TEAM RJN)

5. GT Academy

The past three champions of the GT Academy, namely Lucas Ordoñez (Spain, 2008 winner), Jordan Tresson (France, 2010 winner) and Jann Mardenborough (U.K., 2011 winner), are expected to be among the top drivers in endurance racing events, mainly in Europe, this year.

Nissan Germany recently announced the establishment of GT Academy in their own country and the trainee selection program will begin in early March.

North America

1. GRAND-AM Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge

B.J. Zacharias and Bryan Heitkotter, both from the U.S.A., will participate in the GS Class in this series with a NISSAN 370Z. Heitkotter will take part in selective events.

Lara Tallman and Vesko Kozarov, both from the U.S.A., will take part in the ST Class with a NISSAN Altima Coupe.

2. Pirelli World Challenge

Mike Skeen (U.S.A.) will participate in the GT class in this racing series with the NISSAN GT-R. Rick Bushey, Greg Shaffer and Brian Kleeman, all from the U.S.A., will take part in the GTS class with a NISSAN 370Z.

3. Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series

Carl Renezeder (U.S.A.) will take part in the 2WD and 4WD classes with a NISSAN Titan full-size pick up truck, while Casey Currie (U.S.A.) will participate in the Pro Light Class with a NISSAN Titan.

4. The Off-Road Championship Series

Chad Hord (U.S.A.) will participate in the 2WD class with a NISSAN Titan pickup truck, and Brad Lovell (U.S.A.), in the Pro Light Class, with a NISSAN Frontier.

Others

Australian V8 Supercars Championship

Nissan will participate in the V8 Supercars Championship, based in Australia, from 2013, as the third manufacturer along with Ford and GM-owned Holden.

The 2013 GS 350 RWD, GS 350 AWD and GS 450h: Next generation performance luxury sedans herald new design direction and the new passion driving Lexus

2012-02-24T15:23:00.000-05:00

TOYOTA CANADA - Lexus yesterday introduced Canadian guests to the next generation 2013 GS 350 RWD and GS 350 AWD performance luxury sedans plus the 2013 GS 450 hybrid performance luxury sedan – three models that herald a new design direction and new passion for performance at Lexus.

Inspired by the Lexus LFA supercar, the 2013 GS strikes an aggressive, confident stance, perfectly aligned with its exhilarating high-performance driving dynamics. Engineered for responsive power and superior handling, the new GS also delivers sophisticated refinement, leading edge innovation and advanced technology that establishes the future for performance luxury sedans. The 2013 GS is available in rear wheel and all-wheel drive GS 350 models with a 306 horsepower 3.5L V6 – as well as the GS 450 hybrid, which delivers a peak 338 horsepower plus best-in-class fuel efficiency at just 6.4 L / 100 KM (city/highway combined) – and all three models establish new pricing benchmarks to stand apart from the competition.

What's New for 2013

· All new exterior design injects an aggressive yet clean design direction into the Lexus brand, from a unique spindle grille to sharp lines and curves. Highlights include new alloy wheels and LED daytime running lights.

· All new interior design is finely-honed and human-centric, featuring all-white ambient LED lighting and leather instrument panel, plus additional cabin room for five occupants, and extra cargo capacity;

· A new passion for performance and handling delivers the perfect balance of spirited dynamics and driving pleasure, with drive mode select, available adaptive variable suspension, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, the 2nd generation Lexus Remote Touch controller, an available next generation 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, and more;

· An impressive list of innovations, refine comfort, safety and convenience to new, segment leading levels, including the industry's first available 12.3" navigation display, a new Smart Key design, three-zone climate control with occupant detection, power-adjustable front seats, and more;

· A full list of safety systems including a class-leading 10 standard airbags, six Lexus active safety technologies, and more;

· GS 450h delivers environmental sophistication, advanced hybrid performance and best-in-class fuel efficiency;

· New options packages include F-Sport components and advanced technology for upgraded performance and luxury, including the Lexus Pre-Collision System, Blind Spot Monitoring, Driver Monitoring with closed eye detection, Nightview, Heads-up Display, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, voice activated navigation, and more.

"Since taking the wraps off the new GS last year, we have been eagerly anticipating introducing this next-generation performance luxury sedan to our guests – and now that day is here," said Larry Hutchinson, Senior Executive Director of Lexus in Canada. "With its sharp and emotional spindle grille – the new face of Lexus - the next generation GS represents new design, new performance, and new passion at Lexus. It delivers the progressive luxury and innovation that today's drivers demand, plus all the luxury, comfort and intuitive technology that Canadian guests have come to expect from Lexus."

Power and performance

The 2013 Lexus GS 350 is built around a finely-tuned, proven 3.5 L V6 that generates a peak 306 horsepower and up to 277 lb-ft of torque. Engine systems – including Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (Dual VVT-i), Electronic Throttle Control System with intelligence (ETCS-i), an Acoustic Control Induction System (ACIS) and Electronic Fuel Injection maximize power and efficiency while minimizing emissions.

This engine is mated with a six-speed Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) featuring sequential shift mode and steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for quick, smooth acceleration, lightning-quick shifts, and a downshift throttle-blip function for enhanced engine control. The GS 350 achieves a combined city/highway fuel efficiency of 9.1 L / 100 KM in rear wheel drive models, and 9.5 L / 100 KM in all wheel drive models.

The 2013 Lexus GS 450h features the proven Lexus Hybrid Drive. Built around the 3.5 L V6 engine found in the GS 350, the GS hybrid includes high-torque electric motors/generators, a powerful hybrid system storage battery and a sophisticated power management system. This system confers the ability to operate in multiple modes – Normal, Sport, Sport +, Eco and electric-only EV – and delivers a peak 338 horsepower. Coupled to a continuously variable transmission, the GS 450h's hybrid drive delivers performance and efficiency without compromised: acceleration on par with that of a 4.5 L V8 engine, coupled to sophisticated environmental performance and class- leading fuel efficiency of just 6.4 L / 100 KM city/highway combined.

Handling and Control

All 2013 GS performance luxury sedans feature a redesigned chassis and performance-tuned suspension system. The front independent suspension features anti-dive and anti-squat geometry, plus forged aluminum alloy upper and lower arms and aluminum alloy steering knuckles to help reduce un-sprung weight and increase rigidity. The rear multi-link suspension features forged aluminum alloy upper arms and toe-control arms to help reduce weight while enhancing responsiveness and stability. These systems work together to deliver highly responsive handling, exceptional stability and first-rate ride quality.

In addition, the GS 450h features the Lexus Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), fitted front and rear as standard. This system (which is also available on certain GS 350 models), controls damping force on all four wheels in response to driver operations and road surface conditions. This helps achieve high measures of both ride comfort and handling stability. In addition, computerized sensors monitor steering and wheel speed to minimize dive, squat, lean and roll. On the GS 450h as well as GS 350 models so equipped, AVS settings are modified when the driver selects the SPORT S+ mode to further enhance handling and performance.

The 2013 GS features the Lexus Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system. VDIM is designed to anticipate and help correct potential instability for optimized control and handling. VDIM uses information from computer-linked sensors to detect a skid or slide and takes corrective action through subtle adjustments to steering, braking and throttle control, as appropriate.

All models feature highly responsive and efficient electric power steering. In addition, the GS 350 RWD with F-Sport package features Lexus Dynamic Handling (LDH). This combines variable gear ratio steering with Dynamic Rear Steering to boost performance on curves that call for greater control and confidence.

The GS 350 AWD adds the confidence of advanced all-wheel-drive. Under normal driving conditions, this system distributes 70% of power to the rear wheels and 30% to the front wheels. When slippage occurs, the system transfers power to achieve best traction, with up to 50% being transferred to the front wheels. The system consists of front, rear and centre differentials and uses Lexus Traction Control (TRAC) instead of a limited slip centre differential to create a system that delivers high levels of stability and drivability.

GS gas models feature Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), which prevents roll-back when starting on a grade.

Safety

From its impact absorbing structure to advanced active and passive safety systems, every 2013 Lexus GS series sedan is engineered to help prevent accidents, and to protect occupants if an incident occurs, offering peace of mind to drivers and passengers:

· All GS models are standard equipped with a full suite of Lexus active safety technologies designed to protect occupants by helping drivers avoid accidents in the first place. These include Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), the Antilock Braking System with electronic brakeforce distribution and Brake Assist enhancements, and Smart Stop Technology;

· As a Lexus hybrid, the GS 450h also features an integrated regenerative braking system that captures energy during the braking process and uses it to recharge the hybrid system's battery;

· The GS series surrounds driver and passengers in a class-leading 10 standard airbags. These include dual-stage driver and front passenger SRS airbags, which adapt automatically to impact severity and front seat position to provide better protection. Other airbag systems include front seat mounted side airbags, driver and front passenger knee airbags, rear seat mounted side airbags and front and rear roll-sensing side curtain airbags.

· A carefully engineered body structure that helps channel impact forces away from occupants and protect pedestrians in the event of an accident;

· Front and rear disc brakes and electronic parking brake on all models

· All-position three point lap and shoulder belts plus pretensioners and force limiters for the front seats;

· Whiplash injury lessening front seats;

· Anchor points for child-restraint seats and child protector rear door locks;

· An on-board first-aid kit;

· A tire pressure monitoring system;

· Auto-levelling headlamps ensure that lights are always correctly aimed, using sensors in the suspension systems to detect vehicle posture and automatically correct headlight trim;

· Fast-acting, high-visibility and dependable LED brake lamps and LED high-mount stop lamp;

· And more.

Full featured

The GS series features an all-new interior design that is modern, sporty and spacious. The emphasis is on driver control and comfort, with an ergonomic cockpit design, intelligent displays and intuitive instrument positioning. Interior accents include a leather-wrapped steering wheel (heated on the GS 450h) and leather-clad shift knob, aluminum scuff plates, and woodgrain trim. All five occupants will notice the generous room and full suite of amenities. These include:

· The Lexus Premium Audio system features 12 speakers, AM/FM, DVD, integrated XM Satellite Radio, auxiliary input jack for portable music devices, USB audio input, Bluetooth connectivity and steering wheel-mounted audio controls;

· Front and rear independent climate control with S-Flow delivers ultimate comfort. Features include three independent zones with controls for driver, front passenger and rear seat, plus a dust, pollen and odour filter. To save energy, the system features S-Flow, which uses sensors to determine if there is a front passenger. If there is no passenger, air-flow is restricted to the driver's side. S-Flow also manages the number of vents it requires to maintain a comfortable cabin climate;

· 10-way power adjustable front-row seats are heated – and for the first time on the GS, air conditioned. All seat surfaces are clad in luxurious leather. The driver's seat includes a seat memory system;

· The GS features power door locks and introduces a new Lexus Smart Key design with Push Button Start and engine immobilizer;

· A Lexus first, all GS sedans feature warm white LED ambient interior lighting, including switches, ignition, front and rear footwell lamps, map lamps, rear reading lamps, and more;

· A vast array of advanced instrumentation includes an 8-inch multi-information display, stand-alone back-up camera, tachometer, dual trip odometer and outside temperature gauge;

· The GS introduces the second-generation Remote Touch controller, which puts the most used feature settings at the driver's fingertips. Positioned where the driver's right hand rests on the centre console, this new Remote Touch controller is easier and more intuitive to use.

· Electrochromatic rear view mirrors, dual vanity mirrors;

· Power windows with automatic up/down function for all windows and a power rear window sunshade;

· Power tilting/telescoping steering column;

· A unique analogue clock with white ambient LED indicators;

· Cruise control;

· Integrated garage door opener;

· Plenty of intuitive in-cabin storage, including a driver's coin case compartment, front and rear cup holders, front console box with lid, driver and passenger opening door pockets, overhead console box, front seat back pockets, front and rear door integrated bottle holders, rear seat coat hooks, cargo area mat and cargo net, and more;

· More cargo capacity in all models: 520L in GS 350 models, and 460L in the GS 450h.

· All season floor mats;

· A 12-volt accessory power outlet;

· Unique 18" aluminum alloy wheels with locks;

· All models feature dual foldable, heated, power-adjustable electrochromatic exterior mirrors with integrated signal lamps;

· A bold exterior design with sharp angles and well-defined curves, a signature spindle grille, dual exhausts and a power moon roof. The GS 450h sports unique hybrid badging and hybrid blue accent emblems;

· Bi-Xenon High-Intensity Discharge headlamps with an auto-levelling headlamp system, headlamp washers, and fog lamps;

· LED daytime running lights, high-mount stop lamp, brake lamps and clearance lamps;

· Variable intermittent rain-sensing wipers and a front windshield de-icer;

· And more.

Models and Available Packages

The 2013 Lexus GS is available in three models – the GS 350 RWD, the GS 350 AWD and the GS 450h. Each may be enhanced with a selection of available upgrade packages.

The 2013 Lexus GS 350 RWD starts at a suggested $51,900 – the most competitive starting MSRP in the mid-luxury segment. In addition, the GS 350 RWD may be fitted with a choice of two packages:

· The Navigation Package adds: a heated steering wheel; and a voice-activated, hard disc-based navigation system with the industry's first 12.3" LCD display;

· The F-Sport Package builds on the Navigation Package, adding: front and rear Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS); Variable Gear Ratio Steering with Four-Wheel Active Steering; 19" aluminum alloy F-Sport wheels; a three-spoke F-Sport steering wheel; Drive Mode Select with SPORT+ Mode; Easy-close trunk; 16-way power adjustable driver's seat with memory; aluminum sport pedals with rubber inserts; F-Sport leather seats; F-Sport front grille; F-Sport rear spoiler; Metallic dash accents; F-Sport scuff plates; and an F-Sport shift knob.

The 2013 Lexus GS 350 AWD starts at a suggested $54,900 – matching the best price in the all-wheel-drive mid-luxury segment, but offering more features. In addition, the GS 350 AWD may be fitted with a choice of five packages:

· The Navigation Package adds: a heated steering wheel; and a voice-activated, hard disc-based navigation system with the industry's first 12.3" LCD display;

· The F-Sport Package builds on the Navigation Package, adding: front and rear Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS); 19" aluminum alloy F-Sport wheels; a three-spoke F-Sport steering wheel; Drive Mode Select with SPORT+ Mode; Easy-close trunk; 16-way power adjustable driver's seat with memory; aluminum sport pedals with rubber inserts; F-Sport leather seats; F-Sport front grille; F-Sport rear spoiler; Metallic dash accents; F-Sport scuff plates; and an F-Sport shift knob;

· The Luxury Package builds on the Navigation Package, adding: Drive Mode Select with SPORT+ S mode; Woodgrain and leather wrapped steering wheel; front and rear Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS); unique high-gloss wheel rims; rear seat climate/HVAC controls; 18-way power adjustable driver and front passenger seats with driver and front passenger seat memory systems; heated rear seats; premium leather seat surfaces throughout; rear door glass sunshades; front seat butterfly headrests; the Lexus Adaptive Front Lighting System; Easy-close trunk; and a tire pressure monitoring system with auto-locate feature;

· The Technology Package builds on the Luxury Package, adding: a 17-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Audio System; Heads-Up Display; and the Blind Spot Monitor System;

· The Technology Plus Package builds on the Technology Package, adding: the Lexus Pre-Collision System with Driver Monitor; Nightview; Clearance and back-up sensor; and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

The 2013 Lexus GS 450h starts at a suggested $64,650 – the most attractively priced hybrid in the mid-luxury segment, and a remarkable $12,000 less than the launch price for the GS hybrid it replaces and more standard equipment. In addition, the GS 450h may be fitted with a choice of two packages:

· The Luxury Package adds: a heated wood steering wheel; a 17-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Audio System; 18-way power adjustable driver and front passenger seats with driver and front passenger seat memory systems; heated rear seats; premium leather seat surfaces throughout; rear door glass sunshades; the Lexus Adaptive Front Lighting System; Easy-close trunk; rear HVAC controls; and a tire pressure monitoring system with auto-locate feature;

· The Technology Package builds on the Luxury Package, adding: the Lexus Pre-Collision System with Driver Monitor; Heads-Up Display; the Blind Spot Monitor System; Nightview; Clearance and back-up sensor; Dynamic Radar Cruise Control; and LED headlamps.

Personalization

Guests may also personalize their 2013 Lexus GS 350 RWD, GS 350 AWD or GS 450h from a range of Lexus parts and accessories. Consult the Lexus web site for the most up to date list of options by model.

Pricing and availability

The 2013 Lexus GS will be on sale this February, with a manufacturer's suggested retail price starting at $51,900 for the GS 350 RWD, $54,900 for the GS 350 AWD, and $64,650 for the GS 450h.

The new Mercedes-Benz A-Class is "always on": Mercedes-Benz puts the iPhone on wheels

2012-02-24T12:08:00.000-05:00

DAIMLER AG - Mercedes-Benz is making smartphones mobile and ensuring that such electronic assistants will in future be fully linked into the car's infotainment system. First off the blocks is the Apple iPhone, which Mercedes-Benz has now integrated comprehensively into the user experience concept of the new A-Class, as the first automotive manufacturer in the world to take this step. Thanks to a new "Digital DriveStyle App", developed in-house, together with the „Drive Kit Plus for the Apple iPhone", drivers can now access all the key content of their Apple iPhone through the in-vehicle display and enjoy safe and convenient operation of the device via the Controller on the center armrest. The attractive 'look' is ensured by the revolutionary user interface design. In a further world premiere, Mercedes-Benz will enable access to the voice-based intelligent companion Siri in the vehicle. This allows natural speech input, without the need for specific commands, to send messages, select music tracks and check the weather forecast or stock prices, as well as to make appointments. All the iPhone integration functions can be used even with the entry-level Audio 20 system.

This seamless integration of the Apple iPhone into the vehicle, in conjunction with the new revolutionary user interface design, means that Mercedes-Benz is now able to offer the Facebook generation its natural home on four wheels, in the form of the new A-Class. Along with Facebook, Twitter and so on, the "Digital DriveStyle App" developed by Daimler offers further services and content to suit the digital lifestyle and will be available to download free of charge from the Apple iTunes store. Its highlights include:

Personalised internet radio by AUPEO! Personal Radio, which offers radio stations that compile an individual program for listeners and recommend similar music by genre or artists based on personal taste.

The advanced navigation software from Garmin, with internet-based real-time traffic information, online POI searches and 3D map display, all of which work even in combination with the entry-level multimedia system Audio 20

A socially interactive experience involving "sharing", "posting" and the integration of music and other content from social networks including text-to-speech.

An intuitive 'Car Finder' which automatically stores the vehicle's location. Pedestrian navigation makes it completely easy to find your way back to the car.

New here is also the contextual and location-based display of menu content under the headings "Social", "Media" and "Places". The basic logic behind this was presented by Daimler for the first time in January of this year at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. Appearing under the heading "Social", for example, are the various friends and latest news from the social networks.

The user interface design is unique and revolutionary. Transparent symbols are illuminated in red to create three-dimensionally arranged navigation levels. Within the three-dimensional illustration provided by this menu structure, the user can move intuitively between the various functions in fluid, animated transitions. The user interface concept was designed and implemented by designers and engineers in the Mercedes-Benz research and development center in Palo Alto, California/USA. Enlarging the display of content on the screen to an appropriate format for use in a vehicle and allowing it to be controlled through the ergonomically positioned Controller on the center armrest makes operating the system both safe and easy.

The iPhone is connected through an interface developed by Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH. This allows content to be fed directly from the graphics output of the device to the display of the vehicle. At the same time, the iPhone is both powered and charged automatically while it is being used.

Full iPhone integration is not only possible in conjunction with the COMAND Online multimedia system. All functions, including navigation, can also be used even with the entry-level Audio 20 system. Mercedes-Benz is thus making it possible for the A-Class's younger target group in particular to continue their digital lifestyle seamlessly inside the vehicle. Both the "Digital DriveStyle App" and the "Drive Kit Plus for the Apple iPhone" will be making their debut in the new A-Class, which will be celebrating its world premiere at this year's Geneva Motor Show, and are also planned to be available from autumn 2012 for the B-, C- and E-Class.

Always at your service: the voice-based intelligent companion Siri

As the first automotive manufacturer to do so, Mercedes-Benz will be introducing Siri in a vehicle with easy access to it from the "Digital DriveStyle App". While conventional voice recognition software demands the use of specific spoken commands, Siri understands natural speech patterns and will even ask questions in return should more information be needed in order to complete a given task.

Siri is a function of the latest iPhone generation, 4S, and acts as a personal assistant. Given verbal instructions, for example, it will access the personal calendar to make or decline requests for appointments or meetings. SMS text messages can be dictated or read out, and emails sent. Siri can also be used as a convenient way of accessing the complete range of music stored on an iPhone or to request the latest weather forecast.

Always up-to-date: COMAND Online with Cloud technology and Mercedes-Benz App Shop

Safe and convenient access to the internet on the move is already available in a whole series of Mercedes-Benz models: the fully integrated multimedia system COMAND Online was introduced in 2011. As well as innovative applications such as Google Local Search including Google Street View and Panoramio, Mercedes-Benz is the only manufacturer to offer the option of sending individually preconfigured routes from Google Maps on a PC to the vehicle. The internet connection that is required for the functions in COMAND Online is established via a mobile telephone Bluetooth link and a secure Virtual Private Network (VPN).

Mercedes-Benz is firmly convinced that the future lies with cloud computing. The software used in the COMAND Online applications is not stored in the vehicle, but runs off the Daimler Vehicle Backend. The advantage of this is that applications can be continually updated in the cloud, and new applications released to Mercedes-Benz customers, without the need to visit a workshop.

In this sense on March 31st, 2012 a new Mercedes-Benz App to access News will be available to COMAND Online customers.

Additionally, Mercedes-Benz Apps for COMAND Online will be offered soon in the new Mercedes-Benz App Shop. The first two Mercedes-Benz Apps to become available in the App Shop will be the Parking Finder and Morningstar Finance, that offers access to stock prices.

It is planned to introduce a dozen or so new applications each year. To this end, Daimler has set up App Development Groups in both Palo Alto, California/USA, and Bangalore, India.

Three lucky winners drive away with new Scion iQ vehicles

2012-02-23T15:21:00.000-05:00

TOYOTA CANADA - Scion Canada has celebrated the arrival of its newest model – the iQ. Three lucky Canadians will be among the first to drive home in their new iQ.

To wrap up a Scion national campaign in conjuction with Cineplex Entertainment, 3 winners were drawn from a pool of over 40,000 participants who entered via cineplex.com/scioniQ. The winners are Gregg Reddin from Ottawa, ON; Carrie Guenette from Halbrite, SK; and Brigitte Inderbitzin from Smithers, BC.

"Congratulations to the winners. They're really going to enjoy driving the new Scion iQ, which may be the world's smallest four-seater micro-subcompact car, but they'll quickly discover how big it is on comfort and versatility, thanks to a number of unique engineering innovations and exceptional standard features," said Larry Hutchinson, Director of Scion in Canada.

The draw concluded an awareness campaign that ran for 4 weeks in Dec 2011. To make the iQ's many attributes particularly memorable for Canadian consumers, advertisements at selected Cineplex Entertainment theatres paired movie trivia with key facts about Scion, under the fitting tagline of "Elevate your iQ." Attention-grabbing facts about the iQ were emphasized, including how it has the world's smallest turning radius (3.9 metres) and that it has the world's first rear-window curtain airbag among its 11 standard airbags.

As the world's most fuel efficient non-hybrid on the road, the Scion iQ is loaded with ingenious engineering advancements, is only three metres long and has a starting price of just $16,760.

The new Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG: Enhanced performance, reduced weight and lower consumption

2012-02-22T11:30:00.000-05:00

DAIMLER AG - The stage is set for the new Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG. The new version of the high-performance Roadster impresses on several counts: systematic lightweight construction, a boost in output and driving dynamics, and 30 percent lower fuel consumption and emissions. Thanks to an all-aluminium bodyshell, similar to that of the SLS AMG super sports car, the vehicle weight has been reduced by 125 kilograms. With a kerb weight of 1845 kilograms and an output of 395 kW (537 hp) or 415 kW (564 hp), the new model has the perfect recipe for unparalleled dynamism and a superior driving experience. A further boost in performance comes courtesy of a winning combination: enhanced AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control (ABC), new AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, the AMG high-performance compound brake system and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. An enticing mix of stylish design, extensive standard equipment and a high safety level.

Ola Källenius, CEO at Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "The new SL 63 AMG is yet another masterpiece from Mercedes-AMG. Be it driving dynamics, lightweight construction or efficiency – the SL 63 AMG represents a giant leap forward. Following on from the SLS AMG Roadster and the SLK 55 AMG, it now makes our unrivalled roadster family practically complete."

Superior performance and high efficiency: the SL 63 AMG is available with a choice of two power outputs for the first time. The AMG 5.5-litre V8 'biturbo' (twin-turbocharged) engine delivers 395 kW (537 hp) and 800 Nm of torque. If the AMG Performance package is specified, these figures rise to 415 kW (564 hp) and 900 Nm – more power than any other competitor in this segment. The result is high-calibre performance, as underlined by the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 or 4.2 seconds, and to 200 km/h in 12.9 or 12.6 seconds respectively. Top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited), although this rises to 300 km/h (likewise electronically limited) with the AMG Performance package on board. NEDC combined consumption comes in at 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres for both power outputs – a full 4.2 litres or 30 percent lower than for the outgoing model.

The eight-cylinder powerplant with the abbreviation M 157 features a combination of innovative high-tech components for high power output, and it delivers exemplary, low fuel consumption. In addition to spray-guided direct petrol injection, the engine boasts an all-aluminium crankcase, twin turbochargers, four valves per cylinder with camshaft adjustment, air/water intercooling, alternator management and an ECO start/stop function. The weight-optimised AMG sports exhaust system with two chromed twin tailpipes produces a distinctive engine sound.

The key data at a glance:

SL 63 AMG

Displacement

5461 cc

Bore x stroke

98.0 x 90.5 mm

Compression ratio

10.0 : 1

Output

395 kW (537 hp) at 5500 rpm

415 kW (564 hp) at 5500 rpm*

Max. torque

800 Nm at 2000-4500 rpm

900 Nm at 2250-3750 rpm*

Engine weight (dry)

204 kg

Vehicle weight acc. to EC

1845 kg

Fuel consumption, NEDC combined

9.9 l/100 km

CO2 emissions

231 g/km

Efficiency class

Acceleration 0-100 km/h

4.3 s 4.2 s*

Top speed

250 km/h**

*With AMG Performance package **Electronically limited

Intelligent lightweight construction with aluminium bodyshell and carbon fibre

Intelligent lightweight construction is one of the major factors behind the low fuel consumption figures. The SL 63 AMG is based on a lightweight all-aluminium bodyshell similar to that of the SLS AMG super sports car. Compared to the outgoing model, this design not only delivers a significant weight saving of around 110 kilograms, it also greatly enhances rigidity, safety and comfort. Intelligent lightweight construction also means that the components have been optimised in line with their specific purpose. Various types of processing are used for the aluminium components, for instance, which are produced as permanent mould castings or vacuum die castings before being processed into extruded sections or used as sheet aluminium with varying wall thicknesses. The result is high rigidity, high safety and improved vibration characteristics. For the cover behind the tank, the designers use even lighter magnesium material in some cases. High-strength steel tubes are integrated into the A-pillars for safety reasons.

The boot lid helps to further trim the weight. For the first time on a volume-produced model, the inner support is made from lightweight carbon-fibre composite. The extremely rigid carbon-fibre component is bonded to the plastic outer shell, resulting in a weight saving of five kilograms compared to a conventional boot lid – an innovative solution destined initially for the SL 63 AMG. This raft of innovative lightweight-design measures means that, at an EC kerb weight of 1845 kilograms, the new SL 63 AMG is 125 kilograms lighter than the model it replaces.

AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control

The lightweight-design measures are not just limited to the body of the SL 63AMG, however, as the steering knuckles and spring links on the 4-link front suspension and almost all of the multi-link independent rear suspension components are made of aluminium. The reduction in unsprung masses enhances both agility and the response of the spring and damper components.

Mercedes-AMG is remaining faithful to the ABC active spring and damper system: the new SL 63 AMG is equipped with an enhanced version of the AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control as standard. During the design, development and testing phases, the focus was firmly on driving dynamics and performance. Exceptionally sporty characteristics with reduced roll angles and firm body damping ("Sport") or more comfort-oriented settings for a high level of comfort on long journeys ("Comfort") can be selected at the push of a button. To enable greater agility and faster cornering speeds, the SL 63 AMG has more negative camber all round and fully revised elastokinematics. Equipped with the new, electro-mechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, the flagship AMG model impresses with its fleet-footed, agile cornering and exceptional feedback at the critical limits. The steering has a constant and more direct ratio, and variable power assistance which adjusts in line with the suspension settings. Further standard equipment includes 3‑stage ESP, a speciality exclusive to AMG with "SPORT Handling" mode for particularly keen drivers, while options available from the AMG Performance Studio include an AMG rear axle differential lock and AMG performance suspension.

Individuality: AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission

Power transmission can likewise be adapted to specific requirements, as the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission has four modes to select from: "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport plus) and "M" (Manual). In "C" mode, the ECO start/stop function is active at all times and switches off the eight-cylinder engine when the vehicle is at a standstill. Plus the transmission characteristics are tangibly soft, with smooth and early gear changes. Second gear is generally used as the starting gear in this mode.

The engine and transmission are far more agile in "S", "S+" and "M" mode; in addition, the stop/start function is deactivated. Partial suppression of the cylinders proves perfect for a committed driving style: briefly and precisely interrupting ignition and injection under full load leads to even faster gearshifts than before. A welcome side effect of this is the emotive sound impression. An automatic double-declutching function for downshifting and the RACE START function are also included as standard with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission.

Newly developed AMG high-performance compound brake system

Maximum performance is also a top priority when it comes to braking: the newly developed AMG high-performance compound brake system features 390 x 36 mm compound discs with six-piston fixed callipers at the front and 360 x 26 mm integral discs with single-piston floating callipers at the rear. An electric parking brake is fitted as standard, while options available from the AMG Performance Studio include red-painted callipers to denote the AMG Performance package and the even more high-performance, weight-optimised AMG ceramic high-performance compound brake system as seen on the SLS AMG.

The SL 63 AMG leaves the factory fitted with five-twin-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels painted titanium grey with a high-sheen finish, shod with 255/35 R 19 front and 285/30 R 19 rear tyres. Multi-spoke AMG forged wheels from the AMG Performance Studio with 255/35 R 19 front and 285/30 R 20 rear tyres – also available in matt black including a rim flange with a high-sheen finish – help to reduce the unsprung masses.

Design: stylish, superior, dynamic

SLS AMG Roadster, SLK 55 AMG and SL 63 AMG – as the latest addition to the AMG Roadster family, the flagship V8 model displays the hallmark styling elements of a superior high-performance car from Affalterbach: the dynamically distinctive AMG bodystyling comprises the front apron with large air dams, AMG-specific LED daytime running lamps and a lower cross strut in silver chrome. Among the particularly eye-catching features are the new AMG radiator grille with a double louvre in silver chrome, the side sill panels and the "V8 BITURBO" logos on the vent grilles with fins in silver chrome. At the rear, the AMG spoiler lip, the two chromed twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system and the diffuser-style rear apron with body-coloured insert draw the design to a fitting conclusion.

Vario-roof: MAGIC SKY CONTROL as an option

The sixth-generation SL retains the space-saving, electrohydraulically retractable vario-roof, enabling the SL to be transformed into a roadster or a coupé, as the mood takes the driver and depending on the weather, in under 20 seconds. In contrast to the outgoing model, there are three versions to choose from for the new SL: painted roof, glass roof or the unique panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL. Its transparency can be switched to light or dark at the push of a button.

Interior: a feast for all the senses

The SL 63 AMG interior is likewise inspired by the SLS AMG and offers a feast for all the senses: the four air vents styled like jet engines, the E-SELECT lever and the AMG DRIVE UNIT are all reminiscent of the super sports car. Standard equipment includes AMG sports seats in single-tone or two-tone nappa leather with a unique V8 seat upholstery layout and AMG badges in the seat backrests, a multicontour function and seat heating as well as AMG carbon-fibre trim, AMG illuminated door sill panels, ambient lighting and an IWC-design analogue clock. One of the stand-out details on the AMG performance steering wheel is the AMG logo in the lower metal insert. The sportily designed AMG instrument cluster provides a wealth of information and includes a TFT colour monitor, AMG start-up display, AMG main menu and RACETIMER. Outstanding material quality and high-calibre workmanship underline the attention to detail paid by the Mercedes and AMG experts.

Further standard equipment for the SL 63 AMG at a glance (selection):

ATTENTION ASSIST

COMAND Online with 6-disc DVD changer

Anti-theft alarm system

Frontbass

Remote-unlocking boot lid incl. power closing for boot lid

Intelligent Light System ILS

MAGIC VISION CONTROL adaptive windscreen cleaning system

NECK-PRO head restraints

PRE-SAFE system

Automatic, pop-up roll-over bars for driver and front passenger

Draught-stop

In keeping with tradition, the SL 63 AMG has an extensive range of optional extras (selection):

AIRSCARF neck-level heating

Active Parking Assist incl. PARKTRONIC

Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system

Driving Assistance package Plus (DISTRONIC PLUS incl. BAS PLUS, PRE‑SAFE brake, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist)

harman/kardon Logic 7 surround sound system

KEYLESS-GO Convenience package (incl. remote-closing boot lid and HANDS-FREE ACCESS system)

Exclusive nappa leather

Climatised seats

Electric draught-stop

Even more individuality is possible with optional extras from the AMG Performance Studio:

AMG Performance package (increase in maximum power of 20 kW (27 hp) and maximum torque of 100 Nm; AMG engine cover in genuine carbon fibre, AMG rear axle differential lock, AMG spoiler lip in genuine carbon fibre, red-painted callipers, AMG performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA)

AMG forged light-alloy wheels

AMG forged light-alloy wheels, painted matt black, rim flange with a high-sheen finish

AMG performance suspension

AMG ceramic high-performance compound brake system

AMG Exterior Carbon package (cross strut in front apron, exterior mirror housings and spoiler lip in genuine carbon fibre)

AMG Performance Media with telemetry function (available from September 2012)

AMG performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA

The designo range for the SL 63 AMG, available ex factory, offers a wealth of tailor-made individualisation options to cater for practically any requirement. As well as being able to choose between designo magno cashmere white and designo magno alanite grey matt paintwork or designo mocha black and designo graphite metallic paintwork, customers can also opt for an expressive designo zircon red paint finish. There is a range of designo leather or Exclusive designo leather appointments in eight attractive colours to match these paint finishes. All rounded off perfectly by a choice of designo trim, headlining and seat-belt options.

"Edition 1" with attractive appointments combination

To mark the launch of the new SL 63 AMG, AMG is also offering the special "Edition 1" model. The "Edition 1" is opulently appointed and includes the following as standard:

AIRSCARF neck-level heating

AMG forged light-alloy wheels, painted matt black, rim flange with a high-sheen finish

AMG Performance package

designo Exclusive leather in classic red or deep white with contrasting topstitching

designo headliner in black leather

harman/kardon Logic 7 surround sound system

MAGIC SKY CONTROL panoramic vario-roof

Features exclusive to the "Edition 1" include special designo magno crystal silver paintwork and, if designo Exclusive leather in classic red is specified, contrasting red topstitching on the steering wheel, headliner and dashboard. A set of designo velour floor mats with edging in designo classic red leather round off this exceptional package of appointments.

The world's safest roadster

A crash-optimised aluminium structure, standard-fit PRE-SAFE system and assistance systems on a par with those of the S-Class make the SL the world's safest roadster. The rigid aluminium bodyshell forms a robust occupant compartment as well as precisely defined deformation zones at the front and rear. If the vehicle rolls over, A-pillars made from a steel-aluminium material mix and two automatic roll-over bars help to protect the occupants.

The restraint systems, including two-stage driver and passenger airbags, have been further enhanced. A headbag extensively covers the side head-impact area. An additional thorax airbag in the backrest can protect the upper body in the event of a side impact. Further new standard features for the SL include the Mercedes-Benz-developed NECK-PRO crash-responsive head restraints. An active bonnet and a front end with a large, yielding impact area help ensure pedestrian protection.

A winning formula: the SL models made by AMG

The powerful SL models from Affalterbach are among the most successful AMG models of all time: almost 5000 SL 63 AMG models with eight-cylinder naturally aspirated engine were sold between 2008 and 2011. Over 21,500 of the SL 55 AMG models with V8 supercharged engine produced between 2001 and 2007 were sold, making it the best-selling AMG model so far. The total number of SL AMG models with eight-cylinder engine sold to date stands at over 26,500.

The new Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG will be launched in May 2012. Prices at a glance (incl. 19% VAT):

SL 63 AMG: €157,675

SL 63 AMG "Edition 1": €189,269.50

AMG Performance package: €4280

Have a hot coffee at Tim Hortons and you might RRRoll away with a redesigned, fuel efficient Toyota Camry Hybrid

2012-02-22T09:33:00.000-05:00

TOYOTA CANADA - Forty lucky rim rollers will be enjoying much more than a great cup of coffee when they come to Tim Hortons in the coming weeks – they'll become new owners of one of Canada's most exciting new vehicles, the redesigned 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid XLE. It's part of the 2012 Roll Up The Rim To Win Contest, which started February 20th and closes May 20th.

"We're delighted to join forces with Tim Horton's for a seventh consecutive year. At the conclusion of this year's contest, we'll have given away a total of 250 Toyota vehicles since first becoming involved in the promotion," said Stephen Beatty, Managing Director, Toyota Canada Inc. "We're celebrating by enabling 40 lucky winners to enjoy a truly special car that's as impressive through the curves as it is at the pumps. The XLE offers class-up design plus superior fuel efficiency and environmental friendliness of a hybrid while delivering the power and performance of a non-hybrid."

The 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid XLE, with best-in-class fuel efficiency of 4.7 L / 100 KM city/highway combined and a 39% improvement in fuel economy for city compared to the 2011 edition was named NADAguides' Car of the Month in September. The 2012 model has a new engine, which provides more horsepower, torque and acceleration, and it has a larger trunk for more cargo space. The 40 vehicles being given away come complete with the standard class-leading Toyota Star Safety System and a leather and premium audio package.

Lucky attendee at Canadian International Auto Show could win an all-new 2013 Lexus GS

2012-02-20T14:38:00.000-05:00

TOYOTA CANADA - The all-new 2013 Lexus GS will be getting a lot of attention at the Canadian International Auto Show through a promotion that includes a "Win the Perfect Moment" contest in which one entrant will drive away with the vehicle.

"We can't wait for everyone who comes to the auto show to see how the 2013 Lexus GS continues to define progressive luxury with a fresh, evocative design," said Larry Hutchinson, Director of Lexus in Canada. "The winner of this contest will have a truly 'perfect moment' the first time he or she drives this car. The new GS combines bold, dynamic styling, precise handling, innovative technology and a spacious interior."

The promotion is conducted in partnership with the Canadian International Auto Show, Global TV, CHFI (98.1FM) and the National Post.

To enter the contest, which runs from February 17-26, auto show visitors can stop by the Lexus "Win the Perfect Moment" display, located in the North Building at the MTCC, and submit an electronic ballot by using an available computer. Alternatively, people can submit a paper ballot outside the main entrance to the MTCC, or enter online via the website of the National Post (www.nationalpost.com/perfectmoment ).

On February 26, after the auto show concludes, 20 finalists will be selected in a random draw of all eligible entries. The next day, CHFI will select the winner in a random draw among the finalists to be aired live on the radio. The person whose name is chosen will have 10 minutes to call and claim their prize.

The Lexus GS 350 is priced to be the most competitive choice in its segment, proving that all-new engineering, luxurious features, performance-enhancing technology and an engaging driving experience can cost less than one might think. From its signature spindle grille to its LED brake lamps, the GS 350 is richly appointed. All-new for 2013, it has a fresh exterior design complemented by a more luxurious and spacious interior. It is available for purchase beginning this month at Lexus dealerships across Canada.

Infiniti Canada accepts fourth consecutive Luxury Brand residual value award at Canadian International Auto Show

2012-02-20T14:32:00.000-05:00

NISSAN CANADA - Last week, at the Canadian International Auto Show, Infiniti Canada received three ALG Residual Value Awards including its fourth consecutive Best Luxury Brand award. For the second year in-a-row, ALG named the Infiniti QX56 Luxury Fullsize Utility award recipient, while the EX35 received the award for best Luxury Compact Utility.

"Delivering inspired products that are best-in-class is what Infiniti is all about and recognition by ALG as Best Luxury Brand four years in a row is a testament to this," said Allen Childs, President of Nissan Canada Inc. "Our line-up continues to provide exceptional performance, style and excitement, and the added benefit of residual value is certainly something that appeals to drivers."

Last week, at the Canadian International Auto Show, Allen Childs, President of Nissan Canada, accepted three ALG Canadian Residual Value Awards for Infiniti Canada including Best Luxury Brand.

ALG Award winners are determined through careful study of the competition in each segment, historical vehicle performance, industry trends, and economic conditions. Vehicle quality, production levels relative to demand, and pricing and marketing strategies remain the key factors that impact ALG's residual value forecasts.

"Infiniti's top ranking among luxury brands category is a testament to the significant desirability and strong value of its models," said Geoff Helby, Canada Regional Director for ALG. "Infiniti delivers a combination of unique performance and luxury to offer consumers excellent value."

ETHEREA Concept

Infiniti's CIAS showcases include the Canadian premiere of the ETHEREA concept, a unique design, blending elements of a coupe, sedan, hatchback and crossover into a vehicle that is truly in a class of its own.

The ETHEREA concept integrates a supercharged, 2.5-litre, 4 cylinder engine producing 245 horsepower and delivers quick response and strong acceleration throughout the performance range, with an electric motor that provides silent, emission-free driving at low speeds.

The spacious four-seat ETHEREA cabin offers all the luxury that Infiniti owners expect, plus unrivalled ease of access and egress boosted by an H-point, which is higher than that of the average compact luxury car. Four wide-opening doors, rear-hinged at the back, and an absence of B-pillar offer an unprecedented feeling of openness. This concept is a preview of what a future entry-level compact performance luxury sedan from Infiniti could look like.

Infiniti JX

Making its regional debut, the all-new 2013 Infiniti JX is a bold new offering in the luxury crossover segment designed to excel in the areas that this segment's buyers desire most. The Infiniti JX offers segment-leading overall passenger and rear cargo volume with increased accessibility through wide door openings and the ability to access the 3rd row without having to remove a 2nd row child seat.

At a starting MSRP of $44,900, the Infiniti JX is loaded with technologies including the world's only Back-up Collision Intervention (BCI), added to the currently available Blind Spot Intervention (BSI) system. When the transmission is in reverse, this safety feature will help the driver detect crossing vehicles and objects behind the vehicle and, if necessary, can automatically engage the brakes to help avoid a collision.

"The all-new JX is the new standard in luxury family mobility offering all the excitement and performance expected from Infiniti at a price that's sure to shake up the market when it arrives in dealerships this spring," said Wendy Durward, Director of Infiniti.

Red Bull Racing

Finally, Infiniti celebrated its partnership with the Red Bull Racing team, featuring the World Champion RB8 Formula One replica car on the stand and giving visitors the opportunity to catch a glimpse into the domain of Infiniti's global brand ambassador and two-time World Champion F1 driver, Sebastian Vettel.

Nissan receives two ALG awards, debuts all-electric e-NV200 Concept van at 2012 CIAS

2012-02-20T14:11:00.000-05:00

NISSAN CANADA - Last Thursday, for the first time in Canada, Nissan took the wraps off the all-electric e-NV200 Concept at the Canadian International Auto Show (CIAS) in Toronto. Equally innovative, but on the other end of the automotive spectrum, the 2013 Nissan GT-R which boasts numerous enhancements for the new model year, also made its Canadian debut in Toronto.

In addition to the national unveilings for near-future and concept vehicles, two of Nissan's existing products shared the spotlight last Thursday, as winners of the 2012 ALG Residual Value Awards. Nissan's Maxima was awarded the ALG Residual Value Award in the Fullsize Car category and, for the fourth consecutive year, the Nissan GT-R received the ALG Residual Value Award for Best Luxury Sports Car.

"We are proud to accept these two ALG awards, and of the fact that Nissan Canada has won more ALG Residual Value awards than any other manufacturer in Canada," said Allen Childs, President of Nissan Canada Inc. "This recognition emphasizes our commitment to offer Canadians an unmatched ownership experience through innovative, exciting products, strong brand cachet, outstanding vehicle quality and long-term reliability as our governing principles."

Last Thursday, Judy Wheeler, Director of Marketing at Nissan Canada, accepted two ALG Residual Value Awards for Nissan vehicles including the Nissan Maxima in the Fullsize Car category.

Since the ALG Residual Awards' inception in Canada four years ago, Nissan Canada Inc. (including the Infiniti family of vehicles), has received a total of 17 awards, the most out of any automotive manufacturer.

"The Nissan Maxima proves that restrained pricing for a long list of standard features yields strong residual values," said Geoff Helby, Canada Regional Director for ALG. "In the halo car market, The GT-R provides a highly differentiated design at a relatively reasonable price point. The GT-R is competitive at every turn, literally and figuratively."

Nissan e-NV200 Concept

Additional highlights from Nissan at the 2012 CIAS include the national reveal of a model that is well poised to shake up the commercial vehicle segment in years to come – the advanced, all-electric Nissan e-NV200 Concept. Sharing its drivetrain components with the Nissan LEAF, the e-NV200 Concept provides a glimpse into a near-future production version of the van designed to provide businesses or families with flexible, roomy interior space, while payload and cargo space will offer the same level as the current, award-winning NV200.

The e-NV200 Concept

Silent, zero emission power is supplied is by a lithium-ion battery composed of 48 compact modules and a high-response 80kW AC synchronous motor that generates 207 lb-ft of torque. Unlike a conventional internal combustion engine, the e-NV200 Concept's motor delivers 100% of its torque from start with immediate response bringing excellent acceleration and smooth, comfortable driving feel.

The Nissan e-NV200 Concept is one of several all-electric vehicles set to join the Nissan LEAF in dealerships in the coming years.

2013 Nissan GT-R

Making its regional debut is the 2013 GT-R, which returns to the Canadian market for model year 2013 with increased horsepower and torque, an additional model in the form of the well-equipped Premium Edition, and a lowered starting MSRP of $103,980.

Following a major revision just last year, the 2013 Nissan GT-R receives a number of impressive performance enhancements, reinforcing the flagship supercar's spirit of continuous advancement. Horsepower has been boosted to 545 hp (from 530 hp), with torque now rated at 463 lb-ft (from 448 lb-ft). In addition, the suspension has been retuned to enhance both performance and comfort. Other changes for the 2013 model year include a standard RearView Monitor and the Black Edition receives a new dry carbon fibre rear spoiler.

"The vehicles featured today illustrate there has never been a more exciting time for us at Nissan, as we remain steadfast in our pledge to offer Canadians innovation in every segment," said Judy Wheeler, Director of Marketing at Nissan Canada Inc. "On one end of the spectrum, we're building off our success with the Nissan LEAF, through the all-electric e-NV200 Concept. On the other side of the line-up, 'Godzilla' has further cemented its position as the value-leader among sports cars with the engine and suspension enhancements it receives for model year 2013."

Next outing for Avant/Garde Diaries from Mercedes-Benz: Mike D curating Avant/Garde Diaries festival in Los Angeles

2012-02-17T10:19:00.000-05:00

DAIMLER AG - The Avant/Garde Diaries, a global online interview magazine is hosting "Transmission LA: AV CLUB curated by Mike D" from 19th April – 10th May, the sequel to a cultural festival that first took place in Berlin last year with curator, fashion designer Raf Simons. Music icon Mike D will present the event as official curator, which will feature a mixture of many types of artists, musicians, DJs and beyond.

With the backdrop of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York Raf Simons officially handed over the reins to Mike D, a native New Yorker. As part of his role in the "Transmission LA: AV CLUB curated by Mike D", he serves as artistic director for the 21-day festival that will be open to the public and include the first ever viewing of the Mercedes-Benz Concept Style Coupé presented within an art exhibit.
"Growing up and living in NYC, visual art is part of my daily experience. It is part of the fabric of the city and its citizens are surrounded by it, like it or not. I've always been interested in how music has helped to inform artists work and vice-versa forming a most interesting feed back loop," said Mike D, who will enter the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with the Beastie Boys in April. "This show to me is a great opportunity to get into that dialogue and to reach out to artists of all types that I admire. My hope is that we together create a unique and changing arts programme inclusive of painting video, installation, music, and design."

The Avant/Garde Diaries form a creative platform for topics ranging from art to fashion to music, and the innovations, trends, and culture that are shaping social discussions. The festival itself provides a platform for international artists and trendsetters under the directorship of a visionary mind, to present their perspective on the world of today and tomorrow as well as enter into dialogue with experts and the general public. A digital interview magazine at www.theavantgardediaries.com captures innovators with extraordinary ideas who are influencing culture and future trends.

"The success of the festival's first outing in Berlin proved that we were on the right track by offering younger target groups a platform for issues that they relate to and by creating awareness for new ideas and solutions," said Anders Sundt Jensen, Vice President Brand Communications Mercedes-Benz Cars, at the handover from Raf Simons to Mike D. "Mercedes-Benz has always been the driving force in automotive development. We are creating tomorrow's standard today. Challenging the status quo, breaking through the accepted limits of thinking, daring to take a new direction and releasing synergies – these are also the aims of Avant/Garde Diaries."

"The Transmission event in Berlin enabled us to impressively demonstrate that technology, fashion, art and music are effectively inseparable," said designer Raf Simons. "It's about bringing these elements together, which are the driving forces behind innovation and progress. Mercedes-Benz design and aesthetic has always attracted me and I was fascinated with the idea of them providing a platform in which I had the freedom to create an exhibit with the artists that are influencing my life. Together we created a meaningful expression of what it means to be avant-garde. I am excited that Mike D will now have the same opportunity and I look forward to seeing what he creates."

Prior to "Transmission LA: AV CLUB curated by Mike D", an Avant/Garde Diaries event will take place in Copenhagen on 29th March, 2012 with painter Andreas Emenius, who is working with musician Mikkel Hess. They will collaborate with other artists to create a festival around the theme of movement.

2013 Scion FR-S makes heart-pumping, adrenaline racing Canadian debut

2012-02-17T10:03:00.000-05:00

TOYOTA CANADA - Scion put the sport back into the car yesterday at the Canadian International Auto Show, as the new 2013 FR-S made its debut in Canada.

"With its style, performance, authenticity and originality, the FR-S fits perfectly with the passion Scion is all about," said Larry Hutchinson, Senior Executive Director, Toyota Canada Inc. "The FR-S is a legit sports car – a car that is awesome to drive, a car that is light and nimble, a car that is sleek and sporty, and a car that is exciting and affordable."

For many, the FR-S is the definition of the perfect daily driver and weekend warrior. Its 2-plus-2 seating configuration with a fold-flat cargo area is large enough to transport a full set of race tires for a fun day at the track. In addition, the flat architecture of the FR-S' engine gives it a low centre of gravity, rivaling some exotic supercars.

The FR-S comes straight from the heart of Toyota, reflecting heart-pumping, adrenaline-racing "Waku Doki." The vehicle's lineage comes primarily from three Toyota models: the 2000GT, for its lowness to the ground, and long, sleek hood; the Sports 800, with a front-mounted boxer engine in a rear-wheel drive; and most importantly, the AE86, a moderately priced car that didn't rely on brute horsepower but instead had a remarkable combination of lightweight design, responsive power and perfect balance.

You can also reserve your all-new 2013 FR-S by visiting scionfrs.ca, a new microsite that delivers everything you need to know about this high-performance vehicle.

The FR-S will be on display at the Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto, February 17-26. The Scion exhibit is on 800 Level of the South Building at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

Toyota’s newest environmentally-friendly vehicles make Canadian debuts at the Canadian International Auto Show

2012-02-17T09:30:00.000-05:00

TOYOTA CANADA - Toyota marked the latest stage in the evolution of hybrid and plug-in vehicles in Canada by unveiling four all-new models at the Canadian International Auto Show yesterday: the Prius c, Prius Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle (PHV), Prius v and 2012 Prius.

The Prius c, which goes on sale in March, is the smallest Prius yet, with the "c" representing "city." It will be the most fuel efficient vehicle in the market without a plug, offering an unmatched combined fuel efficiency of 3.7L/100 km. With an MSRP of $20,950, it will also be the lowest priced hybrid in the market.

The Prius PHV has the shortest charge time of any plug-in hybrid on the market, delivering about 25 kilometres of all-electric drive between charges, while providing the security of defaulting to full-hybrid drive.

"Prius has become an icon for green mobility," said Seiji Ichii, President of Toyota Canada, Inc. "The Prius c is sized, priced, styled and packaged to appeal to young buyers on a budget. And the Prius PHV represents the next logical step in attracting mainstream buyers to plug-in cars."

Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive has been adapted to the smaller platform of the Prius c, with each of the system's major components re-designed, to reduce weight and improve efficiency. The vehicle features a body structure that uses lightweight, high-strength steel to help reduce vehicle mass and improve fuel economy. Nine airbags and Toyota's Star Safety System are standard. The Prius c is being offered in three distinctive trim levels, with a generous array of standard equipment and premium technology options.

The Prius c and PHV join a family of vehicles that also includes the versatile new Prius v, which offers more cargo space than 80% of the small SUVs on the market, and the new 2012 Prius Liftback, which features an updated interior and exterior and the lowest MSRP in its history.

The Toyota Prius c, Prius PHV, Prius v, 2012 Prius and Toyota RAV4 EV will each be on display at the Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto, February 17-26. The Toyota exhibit is on 800 Level of the South Building at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

Toyota North America President describes “an industry that looks to the future” to kick off Canadian International Auto Show

2012-02-17T09:18:00.000-05:00

TOYOTA CANADA - Speaking yesterday at the opening ceremony of the 2012 Canadian International Auto Show, Yoshi Inaba, President and Chief Operating Officer of Toyota Motor North America, Inc., described how the auto sector is "entering an era of innovation that will significantly alter transportation in the twenty-first century," as it builds on a number of stunning gains over the last few years.

"Today's hybrids emit 66 per cent fewer smog-forming emissions," said Inaba. "Fuel economy is increasing at incredible rates, and in addition to advances in fuel efficiency and reducing environmental impact, our advances in communication technology are unprecedented."

Inaba noted that today's cars are well on the way to meeting the needs of connected customers.

"In-car electronics are becoming more compatible with the smartphones that have become the communications hubs of our lives. The key is providing these connected activities in a way that won't distract drivers."

Inaba added that while all manufacturers are striving to meet customer needs, some of the items Toyota is working on include, better voice recognition systems, new concepts in touch pads, cameras to replace inner and outer rear-view mirrors, new glass technologies that improve visibility in bad weather while blocking harmful sun rays, and "even steering wheel health monitors."

The auto economy, he said, is unique in that it creates, builds and adapts faster than any other mature industry, and it represents the hope and home of the next generation of engineering and design technology, offering young Canadians the opportunity to advance and leave their mark.

"The car business is a big business. It is vital to the well-being and quality of life for Canadians. It drives innovation. It drives growth."

Inaba noted that new vehicle sales in North America will increase by about six per cent in 2012, which means about 13.6 million units sold in the United States and a little over 1.6 million in Canada.

"Outstanding new cars are hitting the market one after another. Everyone knows they need vehicles to get stuff done, to drive to and from work or to car-pool kids. But a car is more than a transportation appliance. At its very best, it's a love affair. It's design that moves and inspires you; performance that thrills you; and technology and craftsmanship that simply amazes you. After some challenging years and a lot of soul-searching, automakers have rediscovered their passion. Collectively, we've put the car back in the car business."

Toyota wins two ecoEnergy awards – strengthening its fuel-efficiency leadership as the Tacoma wins for the second straight year and the Prius v, the newest Prius on the market, wins in its first year on the market

2012-02-17T08:48:00.000-05:00

TOYOTA CANADA - For the second consecutive year, Toyota's high-powered Tacoma pick-up truck has won an ecoENERGY Award from Natural Resources Canada's Office of Energy Efficiency, confirming the 2012 Tacoma's status as the most fuel-efficient in its class. In addition, the all-new 2012 Prius v claimed the title as most fuel-efficient station wagon, making it 12 straight years that a Prius has won an ecoENERGY Award.

"Toyota continues to set the benchmark for fuel efficiency, and we will keep investing in innovative ways to strengthen our leadership," said Mr. Seiji Ichii, President and Chief Executive Officer, Toyota Canada Inc. "Along with safety and performance, fuel efficiency is a key part of our commitment to delivering superior value to Canadian drivers."

Toyota Tacoma 4X2 Access Cab – most fuel-efficient pick-up

Toyota has re-affirmed its commitment to the truck segment with significant updates to the 2012 Toyota Tacoma. The 4X2 Access Cab is a high-quality force of nature with an engine as powerful as it is fuel-efficient. It was named ecoENERGY pickup truck champion for a combined fuel efficiency of 8.9L/100 km (10.0L/100 km city, 7.7L/100 km highway). The 2012 Tacoma's engine, which boasts a Tier 2 Bin 5 Emissions Rating, has a towing capacity of 3,500 lbs. (1,587 kg) and comes with Toyota's Star Safety System, an innovative and versatile bedrail utility system, and a steely interior that's roomy and rugged, with an authentic tough-truck feel.

Toyota Prius v – most fuel-efficient station wagon

The 2012 Prius v delivers the best fuel efficiency of any SUV, crossover or wagon in the market today, at a combined fuel efficiency rating of 4.6L/100km (4.3L/100 km city, 4.8L/100 km highway), plus it has a 66 per cent reduction in smog-forming emissions compared to the average new vehicle. Its versatile interior seats five adults comfortably, with sliding second-row seats that recline up to 45 degrees. At the same time, a fold-flat front passenger seat and 60/40 split folding rear seat make it easy to convert Prius v into a cargo hauler, with up to 971 L of space for stuff.

Toyota wins three 2012 ALG Canadian Residual Value Awards

2012-02-16T09:59:00.000-05:00

TOYOTA CANADA - Toyota announced that it has received three Canadian Residual Value Awards from the automotive insights company ALG, publisher of the well-respected Automotive Lease Guide.

Toyota's three Residual Value Awards were for the Toyota Camry in the Mid-size Car category, the Toyota Tacoma in the Mid-size Pickup segment, and Toyota Tundra in the Full-size Pickup category. These vehicles are most likely to retain the highest percentage of their original price in Canada after a conventional retail lease within their segments. When added to the three U.S. vehicles that won ALG awards for 2012, Toyota has won a total of six ALG awards in North America.

The annual ALG Residual Value Awards recognize automakers' outstanding achievements in producing vehicles that demonstrate the ability to retain the highest percentage of their original price after a three-year period. Awards are given in 19 vehicle categories and two brand categories (mainstream and luxury). This year's awards are based on 2012 model year vehicles.

"Toyota Canada is committed to delivering value to its customers yearly," noted Tony Wearing, Senior Managing Director, Toyota Canada Inc. "Helping Canadians further their dollar is of utmost importance to us, and we are proud that ALG has recognized the value in these vehicles. Canadians can feel confident knowing that their quality, dependable and reliable Toyota will deliver a high resale value."

"The redesigned Camry hits at the right time in this highly contested segment," said Geoff Helby, Canada Regional Director for ALG. "The new Camry's enhanced design combined with improved driving dynamics and interior styling are welcome changes to a consistent segment leader."

Regarding the award won by the Tacoma, Helby said: "With few competitors remaining and a long-standing tradition of near-zero incentives, the Tacoma takes home the Canadian RVA in the Mid-size Pickup segment for the second consecutive year. Preserving much of the capability of light-duty full-size pickup trucks, the Tacoma appeals to fuel-efficiency-minded buyers, even while entering the eighth year of its current generation."

In addressing the Tundra, Helby explained: "For its latest generation of full-size pickup, Toyota decided to go straight at the domestics in terms of size and capability, but it's the Tundra's dependability and value that help it to stand out among the segment. Add to that a strategy of low incentives compared to the segment average, and it's no mystery that the Tundra has the strongest retention of any full-size truck for the third year in a row."

Toyota and Lexus take top honours in seven categories in Canadian Black Book’s seventh annual Best Retained Value Awards

2012-02-16T09:41:00.000-05:00

TOYOTA CANADA - Canadian Black Book (CBB) has released its seventh annual Retained Value Awards, and Toyota and Lexus models have taken the top spot in seven categories, confirming the trusted quality, reliability and exceptionally high retained value of these vehicles.

The Toyota and Lexus winners of 2012 CBB Retained Value Awards were in the following categories:

· Full-size car: Toyota Avalon
· Luxury car: Lexus GS series
· Premium luxury car: Lexus LS series
· Small pickup: Toyota Tacoma
· Full-size pickup: Toyota Tundra
· Mid-size SUV: Toyota FJ Cruiser
· Full-size SUV: Toyota Sequoia

The Toyota Avalon, Lexus LS series, Toyota Tacoma, Toyota Tundra, Toyota FJ Cruiser and Toyota Sequoia each won as well in 2011.

"While most other industry accolades tend to generate headlines by focussing on the here-and-now of new vehicle models, our annual retained value awards provide consumers with excellent insight as to where they will most likely receive the best value for their money, over time," says Kathy Ward, CEO of Canadian Black Book. "But not taking vehicle depreciation into consideration, the single greatest cost of vehicle ownership, can lead to a costly surprise at trade-in time."

"We are proud to have seven Toyota and Lexus models recognized by Canadian Black Book for top honours in this year's Retained Value Awards," said Tony Wearing, Senior Managing Director at Toyota Canada Inc. "We take great pride in having such a wide range of Toyota and Lexus vehicles being recognized for the outstanding value they deliver to Canadian drivers."

This year, the award examines 2008 models, and winners have been chosen in 17 segments. The awards are determined from actual value retained from MSRP, measured over a four-year period.

CBB initiated the awards to help consumers identify which vehicles retain the highest percentage of their original value. Although strong retained value performance is not a guarantee of future strength, it is a strong indicator for how a vehicle should perform in the future. For the consumer, selecting a vehicle with a lower depreciation rate will reduce their overall cost of ownership.

K-Pax Racing Volvo C30 at Toronto Autoshow

2012-02-15T08:21:00.000-05:00

VOLVO CANADA - Volvo Cars of Canada is pleased to host Canadian driver Aaron Povoledo and the race-winning K-Pax Volvo C30 at the 2012 Canadian International Autoshow (CIAS) in Toronto. Povoledo, who raced the C30 during the 2011 season of the Pirelli World Challenge, will be at the Volvo booth in the 800 level of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre on Family Day (Monday, February 20th) to hand out posters and answer questions about the bright yellow # 88 racecar.

Competing in the Touring Car class of World Challenge, the Toronto native achieved four victories and six pole positions in only 12 races in his first season driving for the K-Pax team. Originally designed by Canadian Simon Lamarre, the balance, agility and performance of the turbocharged C30 make for an ideal racecar platform. This particular Volvo C30 arrived at the K-Pax facility last winter where a team of engineers and technicians immediately set to work, taking only four weeks to build a full-spec competition touring car.

"It is an amazing feat that K-Pax Racing took delivery of this bone-stock Volvo C30 and transformed it into a winning racecar all within a span of four months," explained Povoledo. "An achievement like this is unheard of. It's the ultimate testimony to how dedicated this team is and how great of a platform the C30 was to begin with."

Visit the Volvo booth in the 800 level of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC) over the duration of the show or come by on Family Day (Monday, February 20th) to meet Aaron Povoledo and get a free poster - while supplies last!

Pirelli World Challenge is North America's top production car-based racing championship, divided into three categories (World Challenge GT, World Challenge GTS, and World Challenge Touring Car). Sanctioned by SCCA Pro Racing, World Challenge races at North America's premier road and temporary street courses. The World Challenge will be competing at the legendary Mosport International Raceway on June 22-24, 2012. For more information about World Challenge, visit: http://www.world-challenge.com/

Volvo C30 wins Total Cost of Ownership Award

2012-02-14T09:22:00.000-05:00

VOLVO CANADA - The Volvo C30 has been honoured with the 2012 Kelley Blue Book Total Cost of Ownership Award. Presented at the Chicago Auto Show, the C30 claimed the top spot in the Entry-Level Luxury Car segment, a testament to its remarkable value. The all-new 2012 awards honour current model-year vehicles and brands with the lowest projected ownerships costs, based on Kelley Blue Book Total Cost of Ownership data for the initial five-year ownership period.

"Car shoppers should take the time to compare vehicles on their consideration lists to fully understand the financial implications involved with cost of ownership," said Juan Flores, director of vehicle valuation for Kelley Blue Book. "While a vehicle might be less expensive up front, the cost of fuel for that model, insurance and other expenditures could make it the less appealing choice for their wallet in the long run."

Total Cost of Ownership information reveals depreciation, expected fuel costs, finance and insurance fees, maintenance and repair costs for new models. Kelley Blue Book calculates total ownership costs for new vehicles by applying sophisticated valuation methodology along with critical financial data from third-party providers.

Electric cars sales will stall for more than a decade, KPMG Survey

2012-02-14T08:42:00.000-05:00

KPMG - Internal combustion engines are not going away anytime soon, especially as fuel efficiency and performance standards continue to improve, according to KPMG's 13th annual Global Automotive Executive Survey. However, automakers are expected to pump investment into electric technology as part of their long-term strategy.

"The need for new electric propulsion technology is still top of mind for auto executives around the world given the demand that will be felt in the emerging markets," said Peter Hatges, Partner, KPMG and Lead of KPMG's Automotive practice. "Automotive companies will continue to invest heavily in electric propulsion and will play a leadership role in the development of these emerging technologies going forward. The race is on, but there is no clear winner at this point."

The Global Automotive survey found that:

• Electromobility is not predicted to exceed 15 percent of new car registrations globally by 2025.

• Executives in North America and Western Europe expect even less adoption of electromobility in the short-term, projecting e-vehicles will only account for 6-10 percent of global annual sales.

• Nearly two-thirds say that optimization of the internal combustion engine offers greater efficiency and the most potential for carbon emission reduction than the current technologies over the next 5 years.

While the industry continues to weigh the benefits and challenges of various electrified fuel technologies, the ownership of the e-components space (battery management and chemistry, power electronics, e-motors, battery cells and packs, etc.) will draw intense competition among original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and suppliers. Fifty-four percent of respondents said that electric component suppliers will gain a bigger role by 2025 and 40 percent of respondents predict that OEMs will lead in that area in addition to traditional power train technologies.

"Electromobility is a colossal issue for the industry," said Hatges. "The key automotive players should have a clearer vision on this, even though how and when fully electric cars will be a reality is dependent on a variety of complex and interrelated factors."

For the KPMG Global Automotive Executive Survey 2012, KPMG interviewed 200 C-class global automotive executives, including 25 from North America, representing vehicle manufacturers and suppliers, from October through November 2011. KPMG has released an annual survey of automotive executives expressing their views on the state of the industry since 1999.

Follow @KPMG_Canada on Twitter for more facts and figures from the Global Automotive Executive Survey.

Lexus at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show

2012-02-11T22:41:00.001-05:00

TOYOTA CANADA -

Award-winning LF-LC Concept Car

Honoured with the EyesOn Design Award for the Best Concept Car at this year's Detroit Motor Show, the Lexus LF-LC, a new design concept for a hybrid 2+2 sports coupe, will make its European debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.

Powered by an advanced Lexus Hybrid Drive system, the LF-LC represents a new, more sporting image with an entirely driver-focused vehicle displaying a possible future design direction of the Lexus brand. The LF-LC showcases the new Lexus design language in a bold interpretation of the signature Lexus 'spindle' grille and rear architecture, demonstrating a fusion of distinctive style and engineering functionality.

All-new GS 450h

Also on display at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show will be the all-new, high-performance GS flagship, the full hybrid GS 450h, which goes on sale in Europe this summer.

All-new exterior and interior design combines commanding road presence with increased cabin room, luggage space (by more than 60%) and comfort for all occupants. The GS 450h's second generation Lexus Hybrid Drive combines superior engine performance and improved driving dynamics with a 23% reduction in fuel consumption to just 6.4 Ll/100 km, and CO2 emissions lowered to only 137 g/km.

Expanded F SPORT Model Range

The full range of Lexus F SPORT hybrid vehicles will be on display at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, including two new vehicles to be launched in 2012.

Offering customers the opportunity to experience the true spirit of F performance models in a wider range of Lexus models, the F SPORT grade brings bespoke design features and a new depth of driving engagement and ownership satisfaction.

The iconic hybrid, refreshed and better than ever: 2012 Prius offers the lowest MSRP in its history

2012-02-11T22:14:00.001-05:00

TOYOTA CANADA - Owning Canada's best-selling hybrid just got easier.

Starting at a remarkable $25,995, $1,805 less than 2011 model, the 2012 Prius is equipped with $766 worth of extra features as standard, including: all season floor mats, back monitor and display audio with USB input and Bluetooth connectivity.

Offering an updated interior and exterior with styling that packs plenty of advanced convenience and innovative technology features, there is a Prius for everyone in one of the four well-equipped trim levels.

"When Canadians think incredible fuel efficiency they think hybrid, and when they think hybrid, they think Prius," said Tony Wearing, Senior Managing Director, Toyota Canada Inc. "With over 23,000 Prius vehicles already sold in Canada, the updated 2012 Prius proves that there's never been a better time to join the Prius family and enjoy the many performance and cost benefits of advanced hybrid technology.

With a choice of available options packages Canadians can enjoy:

· The 2012 Toyota Prius w/Moonroof Upgrade Package: $29,245 MSRP is $2,620 less than equivalent 2011 model, and now includes a navigation system.

· The 2012 Toyota Prius w/Touring Package: $29,550 MSRP is $2,315 less than equivalent 2011 model, and now includes a navigation system.

· The 2012 Toyota Prius w/Technology Package: $34,080 MSRP is $3,315 less than equivalent 2011 model, with similar features.

The 2012 Toyota Prius is now on sale at Toyota Dealerships across Canada.

Multiple awards for Mercedes-Benz in the "Off Road" reader survey: Peak performance by the G-Class

2012-02-11T17:47:00.001-05:00

DAIMLER AG - After almost 33 years of unbroken production, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class remains unparalleled. This was the opinion of the "Off Road" magazine readers, who voted the G-Class "Off-roader of the year 2012" in two categories – making it a repeat of last year's success for the off-road legend. The G-Class eased to victory in the "Luxury off-roader" category and defended its top spot in the "Classic" category. The new M‑Class, eligible for the first time having been unveiled just last year, achieved second place in the "Luxury SUV" and "Newcomer" categories.

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class has been a permanent fixture in Mercedes-Benz's model line-up since as far back as 1979 and remains an off-roader par excellence. Its special position as an off-road icon is down to its continuous and systematic further development by Mercedes-Benz over a period spanning more than three decades. Hence the latest-generation G-Class features an impressive mix of state-of-the-art drive technology and high-calibre interior appointments whilst also maintaining its highly valued, hallmark attributes such as extreme robustness and outstanding off-road capability. This is already the ninth time it has won the "Off Road" magazine reader survey, giving it the title "Off-roader of the year" once more.

The "G" family currently has three body variants: short-wheelbase Station Wagon, long-wheelbase Station Wagon and Convertible, which can be combined with either a particularly environmentally-friendly V6 diesel engine featuring BlueTEC technology and with an output of 155 kW (210 hp) and 540 Nm of torque, or a powerful 5.5-litre V8 petrol engine developing 285 kW (388 hp) with a torque of 530 Nm. The flagship G 55 AMG model – available only as a four-door, long-wheelbase Station Wagon – is powered by a V8 supercharged engine developing 373 kW (507 hp) with an impressive peak torque of 700 Nm.

The superstar among off-roaders uses high-performance drive technology and dynamic handling control systems to deliver outstanding on-road and off-road performance. Standard equipment includes permanent all-wheel drive with a low-range ratio, the electronically controlled traction system 4ETS, three differential locks that can be engaged at the push of a button and the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission.

The G-Class Professional model, which won the award in the "Classic" category, is a pared-down utility version with the emphasis firmly on robustness and reliability. It is aimed at extreme professional applications such as rescue services, although private customers also choose this particular classic for tough off-road use.

The new awards are in addition to the almost countless accolades the legendary Mercedes-Benz off-roader has already received, underlining the position of the G-Class as one of the most popular and highly-decorated models on the off-roader scene.

Although the third-generation Mercedes-Benz M-Class was not delivered to its first customers until late autumn last year, it still managed to achieve second place in the "Luxury SUV" and "Newcomer" categories in the latest "Off Road" magazine reader survey. The M-Class impresses with outstanding energy efficiency: on average, the new models consume 25 percent less fuel than their predecessors. The fuel-consumption champion is the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC, with an NEDC figure of just 6.0 l/100 km (158 g CO2/km).
Further strengths of the premium SUV include exceptional safety and well-balanced ride comfort as well as excellent driving dynamics both on and off the road. What is more, the ML features permanent all-wheel drive, an array of new chassis developments and innovative dynamic handling control systems which further enhance both driving enjoyment and handling safety.

Black Diamond Contest winner gets A Slice of the Good Life by winning a New Toyota Highlander Hybrid

2012-02-09T16:35:00.000-05:00

TOYOTA CANADA - Black Diamond's "A Slice of the Good Life" contest wrapped up today when Smith Falls resident Susan Dewey drove off from Kanata Toyota with the grand prize of a new 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid.

"We're thrilled that Ms. Dewey will experience the joy of owning this great vehicle," said Warren Orton, Director, Marketing, Toyota Canada Inc. "The 2012 Highlander Hybrid has it all. It features the power and versatility of a mid-size crossover sport utility vehicle while also featuring excellent ride comfort, fuel efficiency and emissions benefits of the most advanced powertrain on the road and a class-leading safety system."

The contest involved specially-marked packages of Black Diamond Cheese Slices that came with an insert carrying a unique PIN code. The purchaser could then go online to blackdiamond.ca and enter their code number for a chance to win the vehicle. Each unique entry gave additional entries into the contest. One winner was selected via a random draw.

At dealers from May 2012 - A sharp mix of colours: smart fortwo sharpred

2012-02-09T16:31:00.000-05:00

DAIMLER AG - The latest edition from smart has been christened sharpred. This smart fortwo is a real eye-catcher as the intense red of the tridion safety cell and door mirror housing forms a striking contrast to the rest of the exterior in black. The smart fortwo sharpred is available as a coupé (from €14,490) and as a cabrio with a 52 kW mhd petrol engine or a 62 kW petrol engine. The exciting special model can be ordered now and the first vehicles of this limited series will reach dealers in May 2012.

The exterior of the smart fortwo edition sharpred is characterised by the striking contrast of elegant black and extravagant red – creating an effect like the red neon sign of an exclusive bar against a black night sky. The bright red paintwork of the tridion safety cell and door mirror housing catch the eye, whilst the rest of the exterior comes in black. The front apron and rear trim panel are grained and the side skirts boast a high-gloss black finish.

The front and rear axles are fitted with wide tyres measuring 175/55 R 15 (front) and 195/50 R 15 (rear). The 15" 3-double-spoke alloy wheels also have a brilliant black finish.

The interior also features striking contrasts with red double stitching on the seats and the instrument panel lending coloured accents. The seats come in black leather and the instrument panel and knee pad have a black leather look. The standard equipment includes the audio system basic and exclusive floor mats.

The special edition is limited to 1800 vehicles. It is based on the passion equipment line, which means that standard features include softouch automatic gear programme, electric windows, air conditioning with automatic temperature control and a panoramic roof with sunblind. Electric power steering, heated seats, a lockable glove compartment, the smart sound system with five loudspeakers, the smart audio system navigation/multimedia and further equipment are optionally available.

Here is an overview of the prices (incl. 19% VAT):

• smart fortwo sharpred coupé

1.0 l (52 kW/71 hp) petrol mhd

3-cyl. in-line naturally aspirated engine

999 cc

€14,490

1.0 l (62 kW/84 hp) petrol

3-cyl. in-line turbo engine

999 cc

€15,060

• smart fortwo sharpred cabrio

1.0 l (52 kW/71 hp) petrol mhd

3-cyl. in-line naturally aspirated engine

999 cc

€17,580

1.0 l (62 kW/84 hp) petrol

3-cyl. in-line turbo engine

999 cc

€18,150

New 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 Convertible Helps SVT Mark Its 20th Anniversary of Delivering High-Performance Vehicles

2012-02-08T18:57:00.000-05:00

FORD CANADA - The official launch of SVT came during the 1992 Chicago Auto Show with the unveiling of the 1993 SVT Mustang Cobra and SVT F-150 Lightning. Now Ford returns to Chicago to celebrate its past and look to the future with the 2013 Shelby GT500 convertible.

In honour of SVT's anniversary, a commemorative lighted sill plate will be used in the 2013 Shelby GT500 to celebrate the many years of performance vehicles. The 1993 SVT Mustang Cobra offered a 235-horsepower 5.0-litre V8 engine, which demonstrates just how far the products have come in 20 years. The 2013 Shelby GT500 with its 650-horsepower V8 marks the latest offering from one of the oldest and most successful automotive performance groups in the world.

"The Shelby GT500 convertible is every bit the performer that the coupe is," said Kerry Baldori, SVT Global Performance Vehicles chief engineer. "All of the significant changes we made in the program were instrumental in delivering a convertible that could really shine on the track but can still be driven on a daily basis."

The 2013 Shelby GT500 convertible with the optional Performance Package is faster around a track than the outgoing model. The new convertible shaved nearly 3.5 seconds off its lap time at Sebring International Raceway compared to the 2011 and 2012 models.

Keys to the improved lap times are the power boost from the new 5.8-litre supercharged V8 producing 650 horsepower, as well as the SVT-designed Bilstein electronic adjustable dampers available on the Performance Package and the all-new chassis tuning.

Accessed on the dash with a simple push of a button, normal mode gives customers a more comfortable ride over road irregularities. Sport mode is all about performance, delivering improved response time on the track and less body roll while cornering with reduced pitch under braking. The upgraded dampers allowed SVT engineers to tune the convertible more aggressively for the track, while still being able to maintain desirable on-road manners.

A new Brembo brake system also is a key enabler in boosting the performance of the convertible. The new brakes offer drivers enhanced stopping power to help keep their car under control, while new six-piston callipers in front along with larger front and rear rotors further improve braking performance. More aggressive brake pads also help the car achieve high deceleration and further robustness for more driver confidence.

20 years of high-performance innovation

Each of the more than 210,000 SVT vehicles produced since 1993 has been designed and developed with the four SVT attributes in mind: Performance, Substance, Exclusivity and Value. These hallmarks still guide the brand's vehicle development today.

"In the past 20 years, SVT has engineered world-class mid-engine supercars, front-wheel-drive performance cars, rear-wheel-drive muscle cars and high-performance on-road and off-road pickup trucks," said Jamal Hameedi, SVT chief engineer. "There is no other performance house in the world that can match that diverse résumé."

Since 1993 more than seven different SVT vehicles have been produced, including several versions of the Cobra and Shelby GT500, the F-150 Lightning performance pickup and F-150 SVT Raptor, the SVT Contour sports sedan, plus both three- and five-door versions of the SVT Focus. Special SVT Mustang Cobra R models were made in 1993, 1995 and 2000.

SVT has joined with Team RS in Europe to form the Performance Vehicles Group to devise a strategy for all future global performance Ford cars. The resulting Focus ST is Ford's first truly global performance car, giving drivers around the world the opportunity to share the exhilarating performance, excellent handling, addictive sound and sporty design Ford's ST badge represents. The Ford Fiesta ST Concept also signals the next step in Ford's global performance vehicle strategy and hints at how a future Fiesta ST model might look when it joins the Focus ST in the global small car portfolio.

2013 Ford Shelby GT500

The ultimate Ford Mustang – Shelby GT500 – raises the bar high on performance by delivering 650 horsepower and a track-tested top speed of more than 200 mph. The 5.8-litre supercharged V8 aluminum-block engine produces 650 horsepower and 600 lb.-ft. of torque, making it the most powerful production V8 in the world.

Nearly every part of the powertrain has been optimized for producing the additional horsepower, including a new supercharger, new cross-drilled block and heads, updated camshaft profiles, a new carbon fibre driveshaft and upgraded clutch, transmission and axle.

And nearly every gear on the 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 has been revised to manage the torque and use more of the power in a way that makes it more driver-friendly.

The 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 will be built at AutoAlliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Mich.

Nissan NV200 Compact Cargo Van offers efficient packaging with a large cargo space within a small footprint

2012-02-08T18:19:00.000-05:00

NISSAN CANADA - The all-new Nissan NV200 Compact Cargo Van, which makes its North American debut at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show, is set to join the growing lineup of Nissan Commercial Vehicles in early 2013 at 300 Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealerships nationwide. The NV200 follows the full-size Nissan NV Cargo, introduced in spring 2011, and the recently announced full-size Nissan NV Passenger that goes on sale this spring. The Nissan NV200 provides a new entry point for current cargo van and small pickup buyers looking for a compact, efficient alternative to their larger, less fuel-efficient vehicles.

"There is an increasing need for a 'right-sized' van that optimizes cargo space while offering the best possible fuel economy and an affordable price – the exact sweet spots of the innovative new Nissan NV200," said Michael Colleran, Regional Vice President of Field Sales and Sales Operations, Nissan Canada Inc. "Businesses today, both large and small, are also looking for vehicles that represent their brands in the best light – smart, innovative, and professional. NV200 does that and much more."

While new to North America, the Nissan NV200 compact van is already in use in more than 40 countries around the world, receiving acclaim from both users and media alike for its optimal functionality and smart design. It won the 2010 International Van of the Year award in Europe, the 2010 Commercial Delivery Van (CDV) of the Year in China, and the 2011 Universal Design Award from Universal Design GMbH, a German organization dedicated to promoting the convergence of design and the emerging importance of customer needs. NV200 has also established a presence as the strong segment leader in Japan with a wide-ranging lineup that includes a taxi version.

"Our global success provides a great foundation for the North American version, which we know will become an essential tool for business," added Colleran.

High Volume in a Small Footprint, Exceptional Ease of Use

As the next "innovation for business," NV200 offers a large cargo capacity of 3.48 cubic meters (123 cubic feet) (estimated using SAE J1100 rev 2009) with a small exterior footprint. Unique for North America, the NV200 body has been extended 7.9 inches (200 mm) versus the models sold in other global markets. This longer body length offers additional cargo carrying capability for North American customers.

Measuring just 472.9 cm (186.2 inches) in overall length, on a 292.6 cm (115.2-inch) wheelbase, NV200 is highly maneuverable in traffic and negotiating city parking spaces. Yet it allows for a 680.3 kg (1,500-pound) (estimated) maximum payload. The cargo area dimension between the efficiently designed wheelhouses allows for loading standard U.S. 40x48-inch pallets. Added utility is provided by the standard integrated mounting points, which allow installation of racks and shelves without drilling into the sidewalls, and six available floor mounted cargo hooks in the cargo area.

NV200's exterior design features a Nissan signature front grille, aerodynamic front end design, and functional cabin design. The large body side includes low-effort dual sliding side doors and large areas for business signage and graphics. In the rear, NV200 features tall 40/60 split opening doors with dual opening positions (90 and 180 degrees). The low floor height and tall interior cargo height aid easy loading and unloading. Other exterior features include halogen headlights, durable black front and rear bumpers, and outside mirrors with wide-angle spotter mirrors and available heated function.

"In many ways, choosing a new work van is like finding a new business partner. Beyond the basic necessities, it must instill trust that it can always get the job done – and that you are comfortable with for many years," said Colleran. "In that regard, along with the innovative cargo area features, NV200's interior is designed to offer comfort and convenience day in and day out."

The driver-focused cockpit includes both comfort and functional features. The driver's seat is 6-way adjustable with manual lumbar and armrest and is designed for durability with outboard vinyl wear patches. NV200 offers "Mobile Office" functionality with a centre console featuring laptop/hanging file folder storage, pen/pencil tray, CD holder, and dual cupholders. Recessed storage areas are provided on the upper instrument panel for folders and documents. In addition the passenger seat folds down to serve as a worktop or extends the cargo space for hauling longer items.

Power windows with auto up/down are standard. A 12-volt power outlet on the instrument panel is standard, along with an available 12-volt power point in rear of centre console. There is also a passenger-side underseat storage tray, drive computer, battery saver feature, AM/FM/CD with auxiliary input and two front door mounted speakers.

Available technology includes a Nissan Navigation System, Bluetooth wireless communications, XM Satellite Radio (XM subscription required, sold separately), RearView Monitor, and telematics pre-wiring (Nissan Fleet Tracker).

Standard safety features include the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS), roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags for front occupant head protection, front seat mounted driver and passenger side impact supplemental air bags, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Efficiency and Affordability

The 2013 Nissan NV200 is built on Nissan's proven compact commercial platform and features an efficient 2.0-litre 16-valve DOHC 4-cylinder engine. The engine is matched with a responsive and efficient Xtronic CVT transmission.

The suspension utilizes independent struts and stabilizer bar in front and a leaf spring design in the rear. Front disc/rear drum brakes with Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) are standard, along with electric power-assisted steering and 15-inch steel wheels mounted with 185/60R15 high-load all-season tires.

"The Nissan NV200 is designed as a durable work tool, with features such as the seating wear patches, low-effort sliding side doors and wide-opening rear doors," adds Colleran. "And since we fully understand how vans like this are used in business, it's also a very pleasant vehicle to drive and use as a mobile office."

One other key element of NV200, built in from the earliest planning, is low total cost of ownership. The 2013 Nissan NV200 will have a competitive price, excellent fuel efficiency, and reduced upfitting costs (due to the standard integrated mounting points), all of which will provide business owners with a low total cost of ownership.

Two Well-Equipped Models

Two well-equipped models are available, Nissan NV200 S and Nissan NV200 SV in a choice of five exterior colours, matched with a gray cloth interior.

In addition to the long list of standard features on the NV200 S, the SV model adds power heated outside mirrors, power door locks with auto-locking feature, remote keyless entry with two key fobs, rear cargo floor mat, additional 12V power point in the rear of the centre console, six floor-mounted cargo hooks in the cargo area, and full wheel covers.

Option packages will be available, including rear door glass and a Technology Package with Nissan Navigation System, RearView Monitor and XM Satellite Radio (XM subscription required, sold separately).

The new Nissan NV200 will be manufactured in Cuernavaca, Mexico and available through a select network of certified Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealers nationwide.

For updates and more information, please go to www.ncv.nissan.ca

Rio 2016 announces Nissan as automotive sponsor of the Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games

2012-02-08T16:20:00.000-05:00

NISSAN MOTOR COMPANY - The Rio 2016 Organising Committee for the Olympic and Paralympic Games has announced that Nissan has become the automotive sponsor of the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. The carmaker is now the Games' fifth tier one partner and the sixth domestic partner overall.

Nissan's winning bid delivered a total value in excess of the requirements from Rio 2016 for the category. "I am very happy with this historical achievement. This partnership demonstrates the value of the Rio 2016 brand and the strength and attractiveness of the Brazilian consumer market. Against this backdrop and after six months of negotiations that also involved other applicants, Nissan submitted a proposal that ensures a consistent mix of products, services and financial backing, proving to be the ideal automotive partner for the Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games", said the Rio 2016 President, Carlos Arthur Nuzman.

The deal guarantees the provision of 4,500 vehicles of different models which are required by Rio 2016 at Games time to transport clients, such as athletes, technical officials, media, operational teams, National Olympic Committees, International Sports Federations, the International Olympic Committee and commercial partners. The Games-time car fleet will prioritise the use of clean energy (ethanol or electricity) supporting Rio 2016's efforts to achieve sustainability targets across the Games. Furthermore, a proportion of the fleet will be wheelchair-accessible and vehicle models will include top sedans, medium size sedans and SUVs.

"Nissan is very proud to be a partner of Rio 2016," Carlos Ghosn, CEO and President of Nissan, said. "Our multiple connections with Brazil are deep; in 2014 we open a new world-class manufacturing plant in Resende, state of Rio de Janeiro. As a showcase for the energy and vision of Brazil, the Olympic Games are a natural fit for Nissan. We look forward to contributing towards making the Rio 2016 Games a world-class event for the city, state and country."

"Counting on a partner that helps us tackle operational challenges in a vital area such as transport and also assists us in delivering accessible and sustainable Games is a privilege Nissan is giving us with this agreement. We are looking forward to starting our collaboration," stated Leonardo Gryner, the CEO of the Rio 2016 Organising Committee for the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

In addition to the sustainability goals, Nissan has a comprehensive plan to support Rio 2016's goals that will include a programme to support young aspiring athletes on their road to the Games, legacy programmes which aim to create positive lasting social impact, and inclusive marketing programmes designed to spread the Olympic experience throughout Brazil.

To support the excellence of Games operations, Nissan will also provide a wide range of services, such as driver training and expertise for logistics solutions to meet the complexity of the event.

The Worldwide Olympic Partners who support the Rio 2016 Olympic Games and the National Olympic Committees around the world are Coca-Cola, Atos, Dow, GE, McDonald's, Omega, Panasonic, Procter and Gamble, Samsung and Visa.

The Rio 2016 Organising Committee for the Olympic and Paralympic Games has five tier one partners (official sponsors) – Bradesco, Bradesco Seguros, Claro, Embratel and Nissan. There is one tier two supporter – Ernst & Young Terco.

New Escape All-Wheel-Drive System Thinks Faster and Improves Handling, Giving Drivers More Control

2012-02-07T20:24:00.000-05:00

FORD CANADA - As winter rain, ice and snow slows travel across the country, the all-new Ford Escape’s all-wheel-drive system offers drivers extra traction in slippery and snow-ridden conditions.

Advanced Ford-developed software behind the new Escape’s intelligent all-wheel-drive system pre-emptively reassesses conditions about 20 times faster than it takes to blink an eye, readjusting the power split to give the driver the precise blend of handling and traction at all times.

If, for example, the front of the vehicle is on ice and the rear is on pavement, the all-wheel-drive system can send all the torque the powertrain can produce to the rear, putting power where the driver needs it.

“This is a very robust system, tested and tuned around the world in many conditions,” said Joe Torres, senior engineer, all-wheel-drive system development.

Using advanced software and sensors, the system gathers data from 25 external signals, including wheel speed, accelerator pedal position and steering wheel angle, to deliver outstanding driving performance in both wet and dry conditions as well as excellent off-road traction.

Greater confidence when entering and driving through turns is enabled by the technologies Torque Vectoring Control and Curve Control, which are available together for the first time in an SUV in the all-new Ford Escape.

The system always pre-emptively splits the torque produced by the powertrain between the front and rear axles. Splitting the torque offers several benefits to the driver. First, it transfers the power, which means when a driver corners hard, the vehicle will better follow the intended steering path. For example, if the vehicle is understeering – the tendency to go straight when cornering – the system will automatically split more torque to the rear wheels to help counteract that effect and provide more neutral steering.

Second, and new to this all-new SUV, are feedback sensors and software that calculate – based on the driver’s steering angle – where the driver wants to go versus where the vehicle is heading, and make the appropriate split.

An advanced computer uses all the inputs from an array of sensors and data – such as lateral acceleration, driver-demanded torque and steering angle – and processes that information to get the vehicle to turn in the direction the driver wants it to go. The Ford system builds on the pre-emptive actions by adding and subtracting torque as needed through an electromagnetic clutch.

All of these adjustments, corrections and calculations are made every 16 milliseconds, which is about 20 times faster than the blink of an eye.

Both the brains (the control software) and the brawn (the rear axle) were developed in-house by Ford.

The driver can see the power distribution displayed on a screen inside the dash.

The system faced rigorous testing from the mountains of New Zealand to the California desert. Testing included snowy conditions, long mountain passes, extended hill climbs and high-temperature, off-road environments.

2013 Nissan 370Z previewed at Chicago Auto Show - New front fascia and new wheels lead enhancements

2012-02-07T18:30:00.000-05:00

NISSAN CANADA - If it’s February in Chicago, it’s time for one thing – sports cars. Bringing a taste of hot performance to the Windy City winter, Nissan yesterday debuted the revised 2013 Nissan 370Z on the floor of the 2012 Chicago Auto Show. The new Z, which is scheduled to go on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide next June, features a number of enhancements designed to keep the legendary sports car fresh and exciting. For 2013, the Nissan 370Z will once again be available in Coupe, and Roadster configurations.

The updates for the new model year include:
• Refreshed front fascia with vertical LED daytime running lights
• Revised 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels (Sport Package equipped models)
• New 18-inch wheels for 370Z Coupe
• Red-finished brake calipers (Sport Package equipped models)
• Dark-finish fuel gauge trim
• Euro-tuned shock absorbers (Sport Package equipped models)
• And two new exterior colours – Magma Red and Midnight Blue

“Since the original 1970 Z was first introduced our goal has always been to keep the design moving forward. The changes for 2013, though subtle, go a long way in enhancing its dynamic appearance inside and out,” said Judy Wheeler, Director of Marketing, Nissan Canada Inc.

As in 2012, the 2013 370Z Coupe and 370Z Coupe Touring will each be available with a standard 332-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine and choice of 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed automatic transmission. The 2013 370Z Roadster and 370Z Roadster Touring will be offered with the same engine but with the 6-speed manual offered only with the Touring model (the 7-speed automatic transmission is available with both).

Additional details on the 2013 Nissan 370Z will be available closer to the June on-sale date.

Improved protection for rear passengers - New milestone of technology: active seat-belt buckle

2012-02-07T17:29:00.000-05:00

DAIMLER AG - Active seat-belt buckle is a new innovation for the rear seats which is currently under development by safety pioneer Mercedes-Benz and will shortly go into series production in one of the Stuttgart manufacturer's luxury-segment models. An electric motor extends and retracts the seat belt buckle automatically. In this way, the belt slack in the area of the pelvis and thorax can be reduced and passengers are secured more firmly in sideways and lengthways directions. Active seat-belt buckle fits in with Mercedes-Benz's integrated safety concept. In keeping with an all-embracing approach to safety, this concept covers all phases of automotive safety: from safety during driving through safety in hazardous situations and protection in the event of an accident to minimisation of the consequences of accidents.

The innovation is typically Mercedes-Benz, improving safety and comfort in one. Fastening seat belts in the rear is also made much simpler: the seat belt buckle emerges from the upholstery when the rear doors are opened and is provided with an illuminated insertion slot. Simplifying use of the seat belt in this manner may increase the percentage of rear passengers who buckle up. The innovation also makes it easier to assist children or people who require help in fastening their seat belts.

Active seat-belt buckle is also integrated in the PRE-SAFE preventive safety system. This means that whenever PRE-SAFE becomes active in critical driving situations or when a critical distance from other objects is detected, reversible belt tensioning is also effected in the rear via the active seat-belt buckle function. The restraint system and the passengers are thus better prepared for a possible accident situation. Active seat-belt buckle complements the pyrotechnic belt tensioning which has featured as standard on all outer rear seats in Mercedes-Benz vehicles for many years now. This pyrotechnic system is triggered in the event of actual impact.

The Mercedes safety experts have developed active seat-belt buckle using detailed computer models of the human body, as dummies are only able to simulate the human pelvic system along very rough lines.

"Active seat-belt buckle is another element of our 'PRE-SAFE' concept, which is intended to provide our customers with optimum protection in real accident scenarios," stresses Prof. Dr. Ing. Rodolfo Schöneburg, Head of Passive Safety and Vehicle Functions at Mercedes-Benz Cars. "After all, we aim to offer a high standard of safety not only in all model series, but also in all seats." Active seat-belt buckle has also been developed with an eye on new markets in which the level of occupied rear seats is up to 30 percent – markedly higher than in Europe. "In the rear of premium saloons in particular, passengers tend to sit in particularly relaxed positions in the generous space which is available," explains Schöneburg. "Active seat-belt buckle as part of PRE-SAFE unlocks the full potential of the on-board restraint systems."

Integration in the vehicle's PRE-SAFE system

Active seat-belt buckle is a moving belt buckle which can be extended by 70 millimetres and retracted by 40 millimetres via an electric motor. The belt buckle is attached via a cable to a spindle nut which runs on a spindle, translating the electric motor's rotary movement into a linear movement.

The following functions are carried out by means of this movement:

Seat belt reminder/easier fastening of the seat belt: Active seat-belt buckle is provided with an illuminated insertion slot, attracting the occupants' attention to the buckle. Particularly in the dark, the belt buckle is easier to find and to connect with the seat belt tongue. In addition, the belt buckle is extended by 70 millimetres when occupants enter the rear of the vehicle, to facilitate fastening of the seat belt. In extended state the belt buckle is more readily accessible and it is easier to insert the belt tongue. Both functions are activated when the doors are opened by passengers entering the rear of the vehicle.

Minimised belt slack: after the belt has been inserted, the belt buckle returns to its original position. This reduces any belt slack in the area of the pelvis and thorax, and the belt fits correctly in the pelvis area.

PRE-SAFE function for rear occupants: Active seat-belt buckle is fully integrated in the vehicle's PRE-SAFE system. Whenever PRE-SAFE becomes active in critical driving situations or when a critical distance from other objects is detected, reversible belt tensioning is also effected in the rear via the active seat-belt buckle function. The restraint system and the passengers are thus better prepared for a possible accident system. In contrast to its extended position to facilitate fastening of the seat belt, the belt buckle is retracted by approx. 40 millimetres. This reversible function increases the belt tensioning on the occupant by up to 80 millimetres. In addition, the belt buckle branches off at a lower point at the occupant's hip. This reduces the risk of the pelvis pushing through under the belt. Securing the occupants more effectively in this way reduces the stress to which they are exposed in the event of an accident. Active seat-belt buckle is set to replace the pyrotechnic belt tensioning which has featured as standard in Mercedes-Benz vehicles for many years now. This pyrotechnic system is triggered in the event of actual impact.

POST-SAFE functionality: to facilitate the rescue of occupants and to assist rescue personnel or the occupants themselves in unbuckling the seat belts, the belt buckle is extended once again as soon as the doors are opened by rescue personnel or the occupants themselves after the system has detected a crash and verified that the vehicle is stationary, provided that the on-board electrical system is intact. The raised belt buckle position allows better access from inside the vehicle, while illumination of the buckle draws attention to the belt's opening mechanism.

In keeping with Mercedes-Benz's integral safety concept, active seat-belt buckle covers all four areas of automotive safety – "Safe driving", "In the event of danger", "In an accident" and "After an accident".

Virtual human model as an unconventional development tool

The Mercedes-Benz safety experts have developed active seat-belt buckle with the aid of virtual human models, which provide a clearer picture of what happens to a vehicle's occupants in an accident than crash-test dummies. These digital models simulate not only the human body's outer form, but also its internal structures, such as bones and soft tissue.

"All the crucial biological features of humans – joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones – can only be simulated in very rough terms with dummies," explains Dr Hakan Ipek, expert for virtual human models at Mercedes-Benz. "Some seated positions, such as when a rear passenger is dozing and the belt does not pass over the pelvis in the correct manner, simply cannot be recreated with a dummy," he adds by way of example.

With virtual human models, the biomechanical characteristics of the human body are simulated in detail on a computer, enabling examination of the stress to which the model is exposed in a virtual crash test.

Canada's most popular car, the Canadian built Toyota Corolla, delivers greater value for 2012 with added standard equipment on all trim levels

2012-02-03T18:30:00.001-05:00

TOYOTA CANADA - The Corolla returns in 2012 to deliver reliability, excellent fuel efficiency, safety and exceptional value. With the 2012 models, Canadian drivers can enjoy better-than-ever Corolla value as Toyota Canada adds standard equipment to all trim levels while dropping the MSRP on most – including Canada's most popular model, the Toyota Corolla CE with Enhanced Convenience Package.

Highlights for 2012

· The Corolla CE with Enhanced Convenience Package receives $648 worth of upgrades for 2012, including a six-speaker audio system with steering wheel-mounted controls, Bluetooth capability and heated seats – even as the MSRP drops on this popular model by $500, to $17,945.

· The MSRP on the Corolla CE with Convenience Package drops by $535 while adding an upgraded six-speaker audio system with integrated Bluetooth and steering wheel-mounted audio controls.

· The Corolla S receives a new audio system, while the MSRP drops by $360, to $20,455. The Corolla S with Moonroof Package now includes automatic headlamps, automatic climate control and seats with colour contrast stitching, while the Corolla S with Leather and Moonroof Package now features the Smart Key System with Push Button Start.

· The Corolla XRS is now available in a single, fully-equipped version. Compared to last year's equivalent model, this top-line Corolla now feature automatic headlamps and automatic climate control as standard features and leather seat surfaces, while the MSRP drops by $170 to $24,840.

· The Corolla LE receives the biggest suite of updates – more than $1,400 worth, including Bluetooth, moon roof and heated seats – for a modest increase in MSRP of $325 to $20,990.

· The Corolla LE and Corolla S receive new Navigation packages. The Corolla S Navigation package starts at $25,110 and features Leather and Moonroof package plus Bluetooth Steering Wheel Controls, Display Audio with Navigation, 6.1-inch display audio, SMS and email-to-speech recognition, phonebook and streaming audio, XM satellite radio and display of artist, song and art for connected iPod. The LE starts at $24,740 and features the premium package plus the features listed above.

"The Toyota Corolla story has always been a story about value" said Tony Wearing, Senior Managing Director, Toyota Canada Inc. "In 2012 on average, we have added $490 worth of new equipment to the 2012 Corolla lineup, while delivering an average reduction in the MSRP of $320. What has never changed is the enduring value that Corolla represents – delivering reliability, comfort, quality and retained value that makes Corolla one of the most popular vehicles on Canadian roads today."

The 2012 Toyota Corolla CE, Corolla LE and Corolla S models are powered by a 132-horsepower, 1.8-litre 4-cylinder engine with Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (Dual VVT-i) that delivers performance and efficiency. For even more impressive performance, the 2012 Corolla XRS is fitted with a 158-horsepower, 2.4-litre 4-cylinder engine with Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i).

Driving confidence is assured with responsive steering and a smooth ride. Electric power steering is quick and precise at all speeds, while boosting fuel efficiency and reducing maintenance costs. Up front, Corolla's MacPherson struts are optimized to reduce vibration while a light, compact torsion beam suspension holds the rear. Both feature coil springs and are enhanced with stabilizer bars, while the XRS model's suspension benefits from road-hugging sport-tuning for fun-to-drive handling and agility.

From its impact absorbing structure to advanced active and passive safety systems, every 2012 Toyota Corolla is engineered to help prevent accidents, and to protect driver and passengers if an incident occurs, offering peace of mind to drivers and passengers, including the standard equipped Toyota Star Safety System.

Pricing and availability

The 2012 Toyota Corolla is now on sale at Canadian Toyota Dealers. The Corolla CE carries a manufacturer's suggested retail price starting at $15,450; the suggested starting price for the Corolla LE is $20,990; The Corolla S starts at a suggested $20,455; and the Corolla XRS carries an MSRP starting at $24,840.

Volvo S60 and V60 get five star safety ratings in Europe and the United States

2012-02-03T11:04:00.001-05:00

VOLVO CAR CORPORATION - Volvo Car Corporation's safety leadership is once again confirmed by full star results on both sides of the Atlantic.

The Volvo V60 received five stars and is named best car in the Large Family category in the 2011 Euro-NCAP rating.

In the United States, the Volvo S60 achieved an overall five star NHTSA crash test rating.

"It is very good news that our aim to offer customers the safest cars on the market is confirmed by several independent evaluations on different continents. However, this is just part of the complete picture of a car model's real life safety performance and the effort we dedicate to offering customers world-leading safety," says Thomas Broberg, Senior Safety Advisor at Volvo Car Corporation.

In addition to being the top achiever in the Euro-NCAP Large Car Family category, the Volvo V60 was also rewarded for the low-speed collision avoidance system City Safety.

Outstanding European car in the United States

In the United States, the S60 was rewarded with an overall five stars in the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) 5-Star Safety Ratings, also known as US-NCAP (New Car Assessment Program). The S60 was the only car that got five stars in each of the three crash tests (frontal, side pole and side barrier) - and it also received a five-star rollover rating.

The S60 is currently the only European luxury car in the U.S. that has these top NHTSA ratings, an IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) Top Safety Pick, and is available with all of the active safety technologies recommended by NHTSA.

More groundbreaking news in Geneva

"Volvo is leading the development of spearhead technology that helps the driver avoid collisions. All features are designed around the driver, helping him or her to stay alert and well informed to avoid collisions and dangerous situations," says Stefan Jacoby, President and CEO at Volvo Car Corporation. He concludes: "At the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, we will confirm this leadership by revealing new groundbreaking safety technologies."

Volvo 760 turns 30 - The car that saved Volvo Car Corporation

2012-02-03T10:56:00.001-05:00

VOLVO CANADA - In February 1982 - 30 years ago - the new Volvo 760 GLE was launched. No typical Volvo, yet unmistakably a Volvo. Seen as elegant and exciting with its characteristic design it was well received. The 760 became the car that actually saved Volvo Car Corporation back then and paved the way to the modern company of today.

When the first plans for the new car were drawn up around 1975 the automotive industry in general was experiencing a lot of difficulties, and Volvo in particular. The first oil crisis had just passed and at Volvo, problems were rising regarding the build quality of the new Volvo 240. It was also a very difficult economic time for the company. It was expensive to build cars in the Torslanda plant, too expensive in fact, and it was no longer profitable to export them.

The 200-series was soon to be complemented with a new generation of smaller cars from the Dutch subsidiary Volvo Car BV, but at the same time a new large volume-seller for the 1980s was desperately needed. A car designed and built to meet the continuously higher demands for fuel efficiency, exhaust emission control and safety that kept appearing. It was just as difficult to foresee what kind of car the customers of the 1980s would want.

A new way to tackle the task

The 760 was conceived in a time when conditions changed almost daily and in the company there were many strong and different opinions regarding the new car. There was no Internet to surf in order to broaden the views but Volvo made use of the best possible tool available at the time, a very thorough analysis of the surrounding world. Careful studies and large mental flexibility would lead the team on to the right track and along that track there was very little or no room for mistakes.

More car at less weight

It was decided that reliability, fuel efficiency, longevity, serviceability, low noise levels, design and performance in that order should guide the development work on the new project. It was also decided that rear-wheel drive should be employed, that the wheelbase should be 10 cm (4") longer than that of the 240. The car was also to be somewhat shorter than the 240 but have the same width and be 100 kg lighter. For cost reasons most of the technical content was to be carried over from the 200-series with only minor modifications. This was, for instance the case with transmissions, suspensions and many other system solutions. The exterior design, however, had to be brand new.

The project, which was now known as the P31, was subject to changes. The technical specifications were only finalized at about the same time as the final design was frozen. Choosing the right design is just as difficult and important as filling the car with the right technical content.

The introduction was initially planned for 1980 but was at this stage postponed until 1981.

Boxiness becomes a concept

There were many design proposals to consider, many of them from outside designers. Most of them were sedans but Volvo's head of design, Jan Wilsgaard, was more into a hatchback. The finance department, on the other hand, wanted a design with straight and flat surfaces, with angular lines, preferably 90 degrees, in order to reduce the production costs as much as possible.

In the end, the battle stood between the favourite of the marketing department and the engineering department alternative, when the sometimes very secretive Wilsgaard pulled an unknown contestant out of his sleeve. It was his own proposal which blended the properties in a different way: A car with a drawn out rear end in the estate fashion with straight body sides and with an abruptly cut-off rear, in other words a cut-back. This cut-back remained in the final discussions but eventually a modified version of it - a sedan with an almost vertical rear screen and boxy rear section - was chosen. The straight sides lent the interior a spacious feeling which was also very comfortable. And above all, the car had real character.

It soon proved to be the right choice. In the midst of the round and slippery soap dishes offered by other manufacturers, the Volvo boxiness was a hit and soon turned into a hallmark. Very valuable during this selective process was the use of so-called product clinics which Volvo used for the first time and at which people's reactions regarding the new car were investigated without revealing any details like the brand of car etc. The reactions were not entirely positive, but in the USA, the planned main market for the new car, people loved it and looked upon it as their type of car.

Guiding large parts of the development work and affecting the project, besides the design, was new legislation and the engine programme. There were still drawing boards in the engineering department but computers were used in an increasingly larger scale with advanced calculation models, especially in the safety development work. By now, the project entered its final phase and at the beginning of 1978 it was humorously re-named 1155, i.e. five to twelve. It was time to hurry up.

VCC - an appetizer

A lot of things happened before the 70s turned into the 80s. In the spring of 1978, the first driveable prototype was ready and many more test vehicles were quickly finished. The time-consuming and thorough field test work started and the cars covered a total of 3.200.000 km on three continents, in the hottest and coldest climates available, in order to sort every thinkable detail.

In 1979, the AB Volvo car division was turned into its own company - Volvo Car Corporation - with Håkan Frisinger as its first CEO and in 1980 an interesting concept car was shown which hinted more than just a little bit about what was coming a year later. The Volvo Concept Car was an updated version of Wilsgaard's cut-back which was the real design inspiration of the 760. Although shorter at the back than the 760 was to be, it was almost identical.

The VCC is today on display in the Volvo Museum. The name, in its shortened version, also stood for the initials of the company, Volvo Car Corporation. In terms of technical content, the VCC featured the constant-track rear suspension of the forthcoming 760 and a powerful turbodiesel which showed the enormous future potential of the compression engine principle.

Driving pleasure and common sense

The plans for the 760 launch at the 1981 Frankfurt Motor Show had to be pushed forward again and when Volvo finally presented the car, in February 1982, an elegant car with a completely new and unconventional design was shown; pleasant to drive, comfortable and offered with three different choices of engine: a four-cylinder turbo, the V6 now bored out to 2.8 litres and the Volkswagen-built but Volvo specified in line-six D24 turbodiesel. When fitted with this engine, the 760 was the quickest diesel car off the mark in the world at the time.

In Sweden, the new 760 GLE was priced just below the psychological SEK 100,000 limit - at SEK 99,800 - and for that money the customer got a car that was very well equipped: a V6 engine with automatic transmission, air conditioning, a sunroof and power steering. No wonder the sales took off instantly, both on the home market and abroad. In true Volvo manner, sales started from the top down, with the 760 GLE followed later by the 740 series, in four and five door versions.

The Volvo 760 became a turning point for Volvo Car Corporation, product wise and financially, and formed the basis for the continuation of the company. Without the 760 no 850, without the 850 no S80 and so on. But it was an investment of gigantic proportions, SEK 3.5 billion. The whole idea behind it was that the 760 and all future derivatives were to keep up the sales during the rest of the 1980s and the beginning of the 1990s, which they did. It wasn't until 1998 that production ended with the V90, the last Volvo car with its roots in 760 technologies.

In total 221,309 units of the 760 were made (1,230,704 including the 740) before it was replaced in the autumn of 1990 by the more modern 960. By then, the 760 had been a profit-maker and prestige-builder par excellence for Volvo Car Corporation for almost a decade.

Toyota Makes Things $10,000 Better for lucky Oakville Toyota owner

2012-02-02T16:57:00.000-05:00

TOYOTA CANADA - Toyota's 2011 "Make Things Better" contest came to a close today when Denisa Tucek, who purchased a 2011 Toyota RAV4 from Burlington Toyota last January, came to the dealership to pick up her cheque for $10,000.

"It's our pleasure to present this grand prize of $10,000 to Denisa Tucek to make things just a little bit better in her life," said Warren Orton, Director, Marketing, Toyota Canada Inc. "It's a fun way to reinforce the serious message that 'make things better' is an important call to action for Toyota Canada and our dealers as we strive to make a difference in communities all across the country".

For example, Burlington Toyota is proud to support major institutions in its local community, including Joseph Brant Memorial Hospital, The Burlington Arts Centre, and Wellington Square United Church, as well as various children's sports teams.

Tucek, an Oakville native, filled out her lucky ballot at last year's Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto, which she attended with her husband and two young sons. Tucek said she has yet to decide what she'll do with the prize money. "We'll get together as a family to discuss how some of the prize money can be used to support a charity, while the remainder might go towards a new Toyota. I really like the Sienna," she said.

Nissan Canada inc. announces records January sales

2012-02-02T07:04:00.000-05:00

NISSAN CANADA - Nissan Canada Inc. (NCI) yesterday announced its best January sales on record with a total of 5,351 units sold, an increase of 23.4 per cent over January 2011. Sales for the Nissan brand were 4,986 units, up 24.4 per cent while Infiniti sales grew by 10.6 per cent, with 365 units sold.

Nissan's core models continued to perform well with the Nissan Rogue leading Nissan sales, achieving a new January sales record with 1,071 units sold (up 18 per cent). Sales of Sentra and Murano increased significantly year-over-year up 70.1 and 62.6 per cent, respectively. Altima and Versa sales were also up with 863 and 655 units sold, respectively while the all-electric Nissan LEAF sold 30 units in January.

Nissan's truck/SUV sales were strong last month with significant year-over-year increases for the Frontier (223.5 per cent), Pathfinder (63.3 per cent) and Xterra (37.0 per cent).

Infiniti sales were up 10.6 per cent this month with the G line-up continuing to be Infiniti's top seller with 202 units sold, an increase of 42.3 per cent. The Infiniti FX continues to perform well in the Canadian winter with 56 units sold last month, an increase of 7.7 per cent.

"This is our third consecutive month achieving record sales," said Allen Childs, President of Nissan Canada Inc. "We're pleased to have such a strong start to the new year and with the exciting products coming to both the Nissan and Infiniti line-ups, we're sure this momentum will continue."

NCI January 2012 HIGHLIGHTS

Ø Nissan Canada Inc. recorded best January sales with 5,351 units sold, an increase of 23.4 per cent over 2011

Ø Best-ever January for Nissan with sales of 4,986 units sold, a year-over-year increase of 24.4 per cent

Ø Infiniti sales totaled 365 units, a 10.6 per cent increase over 2011

Ø Best January sales for:

1. Rogue - 1,071 units sold, an 18 per cent year-over-year increase

2. Frontier - 220 units sold, up 223.5 per cent

3. GT-R – 5 units sold, up 400 per cent

Ø Sales of the all-electric Nissan LEAF were 30 units in January

Ø Nissan Sentra sold 706 units, up 70.1 per cent

Ø Nissan Pathfinder sold 294 units, up 63.3 per cent

Ø Nissan Murano sold 418 units, a 62.6 per cent year-over-year increase

Ø Infiniti G is the strongest seller in the Infiniti line-up with 202 units sold

Toyota Canada Inc. launches into 2012 with best January in history

2012-02-02T06:49:00.000-05:00

TOYOTA CANADA - Toyota Canada Inc. (TCI) started the year off with a record-setting 10,660 sales in January.

Toyota sales highlights for January 2012 (vs. January 2011)

· Total Toyota sales: 9,565 (up 17.2%)

· Toyota car sales: 4,965 (up 13.4%)

o Yaris Hatch sales: 476 (up 188.5%)

o Prius/Prius v sales: 263 (up 176.8%)

o Camry/Camry Hybrid sales: 1,007 (up 168.5%), leads intermediate sedan segment for third month in a row

o Avalon sales: 39 (up 116.7%)

· Toyota truck sales: 4,600 (up 21.6%)

o RAV4 sales: 1,428 (up 34.5%)

o Venza sales: 791 (up 33.2%)

o Tacoma sales: 512 (up 22.8%)

o Sienna sales: 693 (up 18.7%)

o 4Runner sales: 234 (up 16.4%)

· Toyota hybrid sales: 501 (up 143.2%)

"We are proud to report TCI's best January in history, and we thank our customers. Our new 2012 models, including the Toyota Camry, Toyota Yaris Hatch, the all-new Prius v and the updated Tacoma, continue to be popular with Canadians," said Tony Wearing, Senior Managing Director, Toyota Canada Inc. "We're also looking forward to bringing Canadians 18 more new or refreshed vehicles in the coming months."

Lexus sales highlights for January 2012 (vs. January 2011)

· Total Lexus sales: 810 (up 11.3%)

· Lexus luxury cars: 329 (up 25.6%)

o CT 200h sales: 88 (first year of sales)

o IS 250 C / IS 350 C sales: 17 (up 88.9%)

· Lexus luxury SUVs: 481 (up 3.2%)

· Lexus hybrid sales: 153 (up 135.4%)

"Our Canadian guests continue to embrace the CT 200h compact luxury hybrid sportback, which delivers a new, contemporary interpretation of luxury," said Larry Hutchinson, Senior Executive Director. "With the imminent launch of the 2013 Lexus GS 350 and its hybrid edition, plus nine new or refreshed models arriving in the next 12 months, we look forward to continuing to help Canadian guests pursue more moments of perfection in 2012."

Scion sales highlights for January 2012 (vs. January 2011)

· Total Scion sales: 285 (up 75.9%) , best ever January

o xD: 54 (up 86.2%)

o tC: 89 (up 74.5%)

o iQ: 75 (first month of national sales)

"Scion started the year off strong, with our best-ever January, and the all-new Scion iQ was our second-best seller in its first full month of national sales," noted Larry Hutchinson, Senior Executive Director. "The introduction of our Release Series vehicles for the xD and tC powered sales of those models. We look forward to building momentum in 2012 with our line-up of highly-customizable, youth-oriented vehicles and our unique sales process."

Lyon Welcomes Innovative Mobility Service: 200 car2go Ready For Use

2012-02-02T01:04:00.000-05:00

DAIMLER AG - car2go Europe GmbH, a joint venture between car2go GmbH, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Daimler AG, and Europcar, the leader in car rental services in Europe, launched yesterday the car2go service in Lyon, France. car2go provides Lyon residents with a fleet of 200 low-emission, self-service smart fortwo micro compact cars. As the world's first mobility program with maximum flexibility and without fixed rental locations, car2go offers its members an opportunity to spontaneously rent vehicles anytime and anywhere without having to specify a time or place of return in advance.

"Innovative urban mobility solutions like car2go offer a way to help meet the challenges of urban congestion, reducing carbon emissions and improving quality of life," said Gérard Collomb, Mayor of Lyon and President of "'Grand Lyon". "Following the actions we initiated in 2005 with Velo'v, the first self-service bike sharing system, Lyon is innovating again with car2go, a new approach to car sharing which is complementary to other initiatives enabling our residents to move around town. Choosing Lyon, Europcar and Daimler strengthen the role of our city being one of the European leaders in terms of sustainable mobility."

"We are excited to make our French debut in a city which is well-known for its innovation in the sector of urban transportation," said Marcus Spickermann, Chief Financial Officer of the car2go Group. "More than 60.000 customers worldwide are using car2go in their daily lives, and we are convinced that car2go is a perfect fit for Lyon residents too."

The car2go vehicles can be rented and returned within an operating area of 44 square kilometres covering the Lyon city centre. Members can find car2go vehicles spontaneously on the street, via the internet at www.car2go.com, and with the help of several smartphone applications. The vehicle selected can be unlocked using a personal membership card. At the end of the trip, car2go drivers do not have to bring the car2go back to where the trip started. They can simply leave the car at their destination - at any public parking space and at all Lyon carsharing-stations inside the car2go business area. Parking fees are included in the per-minute rental fee at no additional cost.

Lyon residents can register at www.car2go.com, and at the new car2go shop at Le Terra Mundi – 2 place de Francfort in Lyon. Until February 11th, 2012, Lyon residents can benefit from the special launch discount and save more than 10 Euro by only paying 4,90 Euro registration fee and receiving 60 free driving minutes. For members who register after February 11th, 2012, there will be a one-time registration fee of 14,90 Euro.

Customers pay only for the actual time they use the vehicle, by the minute, with discounted rates for hourly and daily use. The rental prices in Lyon are 0,29 Euro per driving minute, 12,90 Euro per hour and 39 Euro per day (24 hours). During stopovers, which can be used for example while shopping, a special parking rate of 0,09 Euro per minute will be calculated. Fuel, insurance, taxes and parking costs are fully included in the price that furthermore includes mileage up to 20 kilometres. Additional kilometres will cost 0,29 Euro each. Experience shows that the average range of a car2go rental is between 5 and 10 kilometres so the extra mileage costs are only relevant for those members who wish to leave the city and come back.

"The 2010 Europcar's Transportation and Mobility Observatory showed that 47% of European urban drivers are considering giving up their cars and 61% of them consider that cars available in self service are an attractive mobility option. car2go will provide Lyon people with a fully-flexible service, combined with short term car rental services for a fully comprehensive mobility solution" said Philippe Guillemot, CEO of Europcar Groupe.

Thanks to a cooperation between car2go and the bikesharing service Vélo'v, Vélo'v customers will benefit from the reduced car2go registration fee of 9,90 Euro including 30 free driving minutes at any time.

car2go has already been successfully launched in seven cities: in Ulm and Hamburg (Germany), in Amsterdam (Netherlands), in Vienna (Austria), in Austin and San Diego (USA), and in Vancouver (Canada). The German city of Düsseldorf is going to follow soon – Lyon is the first home of car2go in France. A total of more than 2.000 car2go vehicles are currently on the road and more than 60.000 members have registered for the service worldwide.

Renault-Nissan Alliance posts record sales in 2011 for third consecutive year

2012-02-02T00:51:00.000-05:00

RENAULT-NISSAN ALLIANCE - The Renault-Nissan Alliance sold a record 8,029,222 units in 2011, a 10.3% increase from 2010, fuelled by robust sales in emerging markets and the United States.

Sales rose for the third consecutive year. Renault sold 2,722,062 units worldwide, up 3.6% from 2010. Nissan sold 4,669,981 units, up 14.4%. AvtoVAZ Lada accounted for 637,179 units, a 10.9 % increase compared to the previous year.

As a result, the Renault-Nissan Alliance captured 10.7%* of the global market in 2011, up from 10.3% the previous year.

"The Alliance capitalized on the resurgence of the US economy and gained significant market share in the regions that will drive growth in the 21st century," said Renault-Nissan Alliance CEO Carlos Ghosn. "Double-digit sales growth is solid progress – particularly during a year in which we faced Japan's earthquake and tsunami, the abnormal strength of the yen, and financial turmoil in Europe."

Renault group highlights

In 2011, Renault posted record global sales of 2.7 million units, up 3.6% compared with a year ago, with 43% of those sales generated outside Europe. Sales outside Europe totaled a record 1,172,686 units, up 19.2%, driven by fast-expanding markets such as Russia (+40%), Turkey (+13%) and Latin America (+10%).

In terms of sales by brand, Renault led with 2,260,694 units sold, up 6.8% compared with a year ago, and accounting for 83% of the Group's sales. Sales of Dacia fell 1.8% due to supply constraints caused by the tsunami in Japan. Renault Samsung Motors fell 27%.

*Total passenger car and light commercial vehicle sales based on Renault's estimate of 74,793,900 units in 2011.

In 2011, six out of the Group's top ten markets were located outside Europe with Brazil replacing Germany as Renault's second-biggest market after France. Renault's sales in Brazil, where it plans to expand capacity in 2013, grew 21% to a record 194,300 units in a market that expanded 3%. Its market share stood at 5.7%, up 0.9 percentage points from 2010 led by demand for models such as the Sandero hatchback, as well as the Logan and Clio small cars.

In Russia, Renault posted both record sales and market share. Sales jumped 60% to 154,734 units, making it Renault's fastest-growing market. Market share rose to 5.8%, up 0.7 percentage points from the previous year. Sales were led by the Logan, the Sandero and the Fluence luxury sedan.

Despite economic uncertainty and waning consumer confidence in Europe, Renault remained the No. 2 brand, taking an 8.6% share of the passenger car and light commercial vehicle (LCV) market. Its top-selling passenger cars in Europe were the medium-sized Megane, the Clio and the Twingo mini vehicle. Renault was also Europe's light commercial vehicle leader for the fourteenth consecutive year with a 15.6% market share.

Nissan highlights

Nissan posted record global sales of 4.67 million units in 2011, up 14.4% compared to 2010.

In China, Nissan's largest market, the company posted record sales of 1,247,738 units, a 21.9% increase over 2010, led by strong sales of the Sunny and Teana sedans.

In the Americas, Nissan reported record sales of 1,561,230 units for Nissan and Infiniti brand vehicles throughout the region encompassing North, Central and South America, up 17.2% compared with the previous year. The Nissan brand alone gained a market share of 7.5%, up 0.6 percentage points, becoming the No. 2 Asian automotive brand in the region.

The U.S., Mexico and Brazil posted the largest single-country gains. Sales in the US totaled a record 1,042,534 units, up 14.7% compared with 2010 led by the Versa compact car and the Rogue crossover. The Nissan Altima sedan also had a robust sales year and continues to rank among the best-selling vehicles in the country. Market share in the US grew to 8.2%.

In Mexico, where Nissan will open a third plant in 2013 to support its rapid growth across the Americas, sales grew 18.6% while its market share grew to a record 24.8%.

In Brazil, where Nissan plans to build its first plant in Resende in 2014, Nissan's sales nearly doubled to 67,097 units. Nissan was Brazil's fastest-growing automotive brand in 2011.

In Japan, Nissan reported sales of 591,312 units, down 8.4% year-on-year in a market that shrank 15%. Nissan's market share climbed one percentage point to 14%. Nissan Serena was the best-selling minivan in country with 84,359 units sold.

In Europe, Nissan posted record sales of 695,703 units, up 25.4% year-on-year thanks to booming demand for its Qashqai and Juke crossovers. Its market share rose to a record 3.7%, up from 3.1% in 2010. In Russia, its top market in Europe, sales jumped by 73.1%, or nearly 60,000 units.

AvtoVAZ Lada highlights:

Russia's number one automaker AvtoVAZ sold 637,179 units in 2011, up 10.9% compared with the previous year.

Sales in Russia amounted to 578,387 units, up 10.6% compared with 2010. Its global market share stood at 0.9%, and its share in Russia amounted to 21.6%.

Zero-emission highlights

In October, Renault began sales of the Kangoo Z.E. small van, named International Van of the Year 2012. Corporate clients have so far ordered more than 15,000 Kangoo Z.E. for fleet use. In December, Renault began sale of the Fluence Z.E., an all-electric luxury car based on the conventional Fluence sedan.

In spring of 2012, Renault will launch the Twizy zero-emission urban commuter vehicle. In the second half of the year, Renault will launch the ZOE zero-emission subcompact.

Nissan sold more than 22,000 Nissan LEAF family hatchbacks in 2011, making it the best-selling electric vehicle ever. Nissan began selling the car in December 2010. In 2011, the Nissan LEAF won the World Car of the Year, Japan Car of the Year and European Car of the Year awards.

More than 80 percent of Nissan LEAF owners in the United States had never previously owned a Nissan. Nissan is expanding LEAF availability to all 50 American states and more European countries in 2012.

The Alliance is the only automaker with a full family of zero-emission cars that can be charged with purely renewable energy. The Alliance plans to sell a cumulative 1.5 million zero-emission cars by 2016 across all brands.

Facelift focusing on the exterior - smart fortwo 2012: the new look

2012-02-02T00:20:00.000-05:00

DAIMLER AG - The spring of 2012 will see the smart fortwo making its mark in a striking new look, featuring an upgraded exterior and a fresh leather/fabric mix in the interior. The smart fortwo is available for ordering now. The first vehicles will reach dealers at the beginning of April.

The substantially revamped smart fortwo sports a markedly more dynamic appearance, featuring a larger radiator grille with integrated logo, striking front aprons in a new design, horizontally arranged LED daytime driving lights, muscular side skirts and modified rear aprons. "The way in which the fortwo now displays the smart logo more prominently stands for the brand's new self-confidence," notes smart boss Dr Annette Winkler." The smart fortwo has long become an icon that is a defining feature of urban traffic throughout the world."

The chrome-coloured logo is now positioned directly in the black radiator grille. The air inlets under the number plate have been combined into a single unit, lending the smart fortwo a bolder appearance. The new, optionally available LED daytime driving lights are now arranged horizontally. There is also a choice of three new alloy wheels: the smart fortwo passion comes with a new 9-spoke alloy wheel; two additional alloy wheels fitted with wide tyres and featuring a 3-spoke and 3-twin-spoke design respectively round off the range. The choice of colours comprises seven options, including matt anthracite for the first time. The smart fortwo BRABUS Xclusive is now also optionally available in white. In addition to the three soft top colours for the smart cabrio which were previously available from the smart programme (black, red, blue), the smart BRABUS tailor made programme offers six other soft top colours.

While the main focus of this facelift is on the exterior, there are changes inside the car, too. These include a new, high-quality interior package in crystal grey, comprising a fresh leather/fabric combination for the seats, an imitation leather/fabric mix for the door trims and black imitation leather for the instrument panel in combination with a grey knee pad.

The pulse and passion equipment lines are generally more colourful options than the basic pure model. pulse and passion highlight the frame of the front grille and the rear trim strip in silver, for example, while the front spoiler, side skirts and rear apron are painted in the car's exterior colour. The door mirror caps are finished in the tridion colour. On the smart pure, these components are black.

The five lines – pure, pulse, passion, BRABUS and BRABUS Xclusive – are to be retained. Similarly, the smart fortwo will continue to be available as a coupé and cabrio version and with six engine and motor variants. The spectrum ranges from the particularly environment-friendly electric power train in the fortwo electric drive and the efficient micro hybrid petrol engine through the powerful turbo petrol engine to the fuel-efficient cdi turbodiesel. Prices begin at € 10,275 for the smart fortwo 45 kW mhd pure.

The new model generation for 2012 represents the continuation of a unique success story for smart: as a trendsetter the smart fortwo has been redefining individual urban mobility for more than ten years now. It combines responsibility to the environment and high ecological standards with joie de vivre and a high fun factor. With its compact dimensions the two-seater takes up less road and parking space than any other car around.

More than 1.3 million smart fortwos have been delivered to customers since the first model was launched in 1998. 101,996 smart fortwos were handed over to customers worldwide in 2011 – 4.6 percent more than in the previous year.

The car2go mobility service is also attracting growing numbers of fans. Over 2000 smart fortwos are currently in operation for 60,000 customers in seven cities around the globe. car2go is already successfully up and running in Ulm and Hamburg (Germany), Austin and San Diego (USA), Vancouver (Canada), Vienna (Austria) and Amsterdam (Netherlands). car2go will be launching in Lyon (France), Düsseldorf, Stuttgart, Washington D.C. and other cities in 2012.

Chrysler Group Reports Full Year 2011 Net Income of $183 Million

2012-02-01T10:02:00.000-05:00

CHRYSLER GROUP LLC - Chrysler Group LLC today reported preliminary net income of $183 million for the full year 2011, up from a net loss of $652 million a year ago, exceeding the objective set in November 2009.

The Company's full year net income included a $551 million loss on extinguishment of debt recognized in the second quarter of 2011, when the Company repaid its outstanding obligations to the U.S. Treasury and Canadian governments in full, with interest, six years early. Excluding the charge, Adjusted Net Income(a) for the full year 2011 was $734 million, exceeding the Company's 2011 guidance and further delivering on the goals established two years ago.

For the fourth quarter, net income was $225 million, up from a loss of $199 million a year earlier, as the Company continues to increase sales of its successful new and significantly refreshed vehicles.

As of January 2012, Chrysler Group has achieved all three performance events set forth in its Amended and Restated LLC Operating Agreement. As a result of achieving these events, and in combination with other transactions, Fiat S.p.A. now owns 58.5 percent of the membership interests in Chrysler Group.

"The house is in good order. We are proud of the work we've done," said Sergio Marchionne, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Chrysler Group LLC. "Now we greet a new year of high expectations with our heads down, forging ahead and focused on executing the goals we've set for ourselves as a company."

Ford Uses Kenaf Plant Inside Doors in the All-New Escape, Saving Weight and Energy

2012-01-31T00:44:00.000-05:00

FORD MOTOR COMPANY - Drivers of the all-new Ford Escape may be surprised to find out there is a plant inside the door.

As part of its overall effort to make vehicles more sustainable, Ford is making the material inside the door – known as the bolster – in part from kenaf.

Kenaf is a tropical plant that looks similar to bamboo and is related to cotton. The plant replaces oil-based materials inside the doors of the all-new Ford Escape.

The use of kenaf is anticipated to offset nearly 140,000 kilograms of oil-based resin per year in North America; use of this eco-friendly material reduces the weight of the door bolsters by 25 per cent. Weight savings translate into fuel savings for drivers.

"Kenaf and the other renewable materials in the Escape have made the vehicle more environmentally friendly and fuel efficient," said Laura Sinclair, materials engineer for Escape.

Kenaf oil is used in cosmetics and kenaf fibre is used as an alternative to wood in the production of paper. The upper leaves and shoots of the plant are edible.

The kenaf is combined with polypropylene in a 50-50 mixture inside the door of the Escape. International Automotive Components (IAC) manufactures the door bolsters in Greencastle, Ind.

Kenaf part of a greener Escape

The all-new Escape, which will be available to customers this spring, features several eco-friendly components in addition to the kenaf inside the doors.

Materials that are recycled, renewable, and that reduce impact on the environment include soy foam in the seats and head restraints; plastic bottles and other post-consumer and post-industrial materials in the carpeting; climate control gaskets made from recycled tires; and more than nearly 5 kilograms of scrap cotton from the making of denim jeans.

Wide use of more environmentally friendly, recycled and recyclable materials complements the projected best-in-class fuel economy of the all-new Ford Escape, further boosting the vehicle's environmentally responsible credentials.

Ford to Triple EcoBoost Vehicle Production Capacity in 2012

2012-01-30T07:12:00.000-05:00

FORD CANADA - Ford aims to more than triple production capacity of cars, utilities and trucks using this fuel-efficient technology in 2012, using the EcoBoost fuel efficient technology.

Ford will expand its portfolio of fuel-efficient offerings this year with the fuel-saving 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine in the high-volume Escape compact utility vehicle and Fusion sedan nameplates, five new electrified vehicles, as well as with the introduction of auto start stop technology paired with the convenience of an automatic transmission.

"EcoBoost expansion and availability in high-volume nameplates such as the all-new Ford Escape and Fusion will take this affordable, fuel-saving technology to the heart of the market," said Ford Group Vice President of Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering Sue Cischke. "Ford is committed to delivering class-leading fuel economy for our customers, which benefits the environment."

The full-size Taurus sedan becomes the first Ford vehicle to offer customers a choice between two EcoBoost engines. It will offer a 2.0-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder making an estimated 237 horsepower and giving customers up to an anticipated class-leading 31 U.S. mpg, while the iconic Taurus SHO sport sedan features a 365-horsepower, twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 delivering 8.1 L per 100 km (25 U.S. mpg) highway.

The green and mean Focus ST arrives this year as a high-performance – yet fuel-efficient – sport compact EcoBoost application.

Additionally, Ford offers an EcoBoost-powered Police Interceptor for 2012. It is the first-ever turbocharged law-enforcement vehicle offering.

Ford's lineup of fuel-efficient cars, trucks, SUVs and crossovers underscores the company's commitment to continually improve fuel economy.

Of the 11 market segments in which Ford competes, the company leads in fuel economy customer satisfaction in six, according to the latest J.D. Power and Associates APEAL study, a third-party measure of buyer attitudes concerning recent vehicle purchases.

These findings show Ford customers are pleased with their fuel economy.

The power of choice

Ford's top-selling F-150 pickup provides another example of how the company is meeting its promise to lead or be among the leaders in fuel economy.

In 2010, all F-150 trucks sold featured a V8 engine. Just one year later, 45 per cent of 2011 F-150 customers bought pickups with a fuel-saving V6, either the base 305-horsepower 3.7-litre or the award-winning 365-horsepower 3.5-litre EcoBoost. These engines deliver both leading fuel economy and capability.

Ford's electrified vehicle portfolio expands this year with the introductions of the new C-MAX Hybrid, C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid, Fusion Hybrid, Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid and Focus Electric battery electric vehicle.

Nissan production, sales and export results for December and calendar year 2011

2012-01-30T07:03:00.000-05:00

NISSAN MOTOR COMPANY - Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. last week announced its production, sales and export figures for December and the calendar year 2011.

1. Production

December

Nissan's global production in December increased 13.1% year-on-year to 397,446 units, marking an all-time record for the month of December.

Production in Japan increased 24.6% year-on-year to 114,175 units, mainly due to increased exports of Rogue and Juke, and increased demand for Serena.

Production outside of Japan increased 9.1% year-on-year to 283,271 units, marking an all-time record for the month of December.

In the U.S., production increased 14.8% year-on-year to 44,105 units, mainly due to increased demand for Altima.

In Mexico, production increased 16.7% year-on-year to 45,626 units, due to increased demand for Versa and March.

In the U.K., production increased 15.7% year-on-year to 35,469 units, mainly due to increased demand for Juke and Qashqai.

In Spain, production decreased 11.2% year-on-year to 8,209 units.

In China, production increased 10.0% year-on-year to 109,489 units, mainly due to increased demand for Tiida, Sunny and Qashqai, marking an all-time record for the month of December.

Production in other regions decreased 5.5% year-on-year to 40,373 units.

Calendar Year 2011

Nissan's global production in 2011 increased 14.3% year-on-year to 4,632,375 units, achieving an all-time calendar year record.

Production in Japan decreased 1.8% year-on-year to 1,112,995 units, despite increased exports of Rogue and Juke, due to the impact of the earthquake on March 11 and the end of the government subsidy program for environmentally-friendly vehicles.

Overseas production increased 20.5% year-on-year to 3,519,380 units, reaching a record high for a calendar year.

Production increased in the U.S., the U.K., Mexico and Spain. In China, production increased 22.2% year-on-year to 1,237,468 units, marking an all-time calendar year record.

Production in other regions, mainly India and Brazil, increased 31.9% year-on-year to 476,832 units.

2. Sales

December

Global sales increased 19.4% year-on-year to 435,578 units, marking an all-time record for the month of December.

Including mini-vehicles, Nissan sold 45,160 units in Japan, up 31.6% year-on-year.

In Japan, vehicle registrations in December increased 37.2% year-on-year to 34,126 units, due to increased demand for Serena, Nissan LEAF and Lafesta Highway Star.

Mini-vehicle sales in Japan increased 16.7% year-on-year to 11,034 units, due to increased demand for Moco.

Sales outside of Japan increased 18.1% year-on-year to 390,418 units, marking an all-time record for a single month.

Sales in the U.S. increased 7.7% year-on-year to 100,927 units, mainly due to strong sales of Rogue and Altima.

In Europe, sales increased 20.1% year-on-year to 57,493 units, mainly due to favorable sales in Russia and increased demand for Juke.

In China, sales rose 26.7% year-on-year to 119,049 units, due to increased demand for Tiida, Sunny, Qashqai and Teana, marking an all-time record for the month of December.

Sales in other regions increased 18.3% year-on-year to 76,940 units, mainly due to increased demand in Brazil.

Calendar Year 2011

Global sales in 2011 increased 14.4% year-on-year to 4,669,981 units, setting an all-time calendar year record.

Including mini-vehicles, Nissan sold 591,312 units in Japan, down 8.4% year-on-year, despite the impact of the earthquake on March 11 and the end of the government subsidy program for environmentally-friendly vehicles. Market share in Japan was up one percentage point year-on-year to 14.0%.

In Japan, Nissan's vehicle registrations in 2011 decreased 10.7% year-on-year to 445,880 units, despite increased demand for Serena, Juke and Lafesta Highway Star.

Domestic sales of mini-vehicles were down 0.5% from the previous year to 145,432 units, despite increased demand for Moco.

Sales outside of Japan increased 18.7% year-on-year to 4,078,669 units, marking an all-time calendar year record.

Sales increased in the U.S., Europe, China and other regions. In China, sales increased 21.9% year-on-year to 1,247,738 units, setting an all-time calendar year record.

Sales in other regions, mainly Thailand, Brazil, Indonesia and India, increased 16.0% year-on-year to 782,138 units.

3. Japan Exports

December

Nissan's exports in December increased 3.3% year-on-year to 79,024 units.

Exports to North America increased 6.6% year-on-year to 52,729 units, mainly due to increased demand for Rogue.

Exports to Europe decreased 0.7% year-on-year to 7,884 units.

Calendar Year 2011

Nissan's exports for the year 2011 increased 6.8% year-on-year to 716,390 units.

Exports to North America increased 14.0% year-on-year to 411,952 units, mainly due to increased demand for Rogue and Juke.

Exports to Europe increased 39.9% year-on-year to 99,784 units, mainly due to increased demand for X-TRAIL and Juke.

Reader survey: "The best cars of 2012": The M-Class and SLS AMG Roadster are the best cars

2012-01-26T12:11:00.000-05:00

DAIMLER AG - The Mercedes-Benz M-Class is the best car among off-road vehicles, while the SLS AMG Roadster super sports car is the best cabriolet. These are the results of a reader survey conducted by specialist German motoring magazine "auto motor und sport". The SLS has now received the title of "Best car of the year" for the third time in a row.

The motoring magazine "auto motor und sport" has been conducting its vote for the "Best cars of the year" in ten different categories since 1977. This year around 210,000 readers from 14 European countries, as well as China and Brazil, took part in the longstanding survey to decide the best cars of 2012. When it came to off-road vehicles, the majority of readers voted for the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, thereby acknowledging not only its characteristically distinctive design and variable interior, with that all-important sense of wellbeing, but also its excellent energy efficiency and thus environmental acceptability. In addition, the permanent all-wheel drive system of the M-Class also impressed with its well-balanced ride comfort combined with excellent driving dynamics both on and off road, along with the car's outstanding range and high level of safety. The G-Class picked up second place.

In the case of the cabriolets, the readers of "auto motor und sport" placed the SLS AMG Roadster in pole position, honouring it as the best car of 2012 in its category and as such paying tribute to both its uniquely exciting design as well its exquisite engineering and technology. The super sports car excels with its uncompromising lightweight construction, superior driving dynamics and exemplary safety. These attributes are ensured by a unique technology package consisting of a lightweight aluminium spaceframe body, AMG 6.3-litre V8 front mid-engine producing 420 kW (571 hp), seven-speed dual clutch transmission and a sports suspension with aluminium double wishbone suspension. This combination guarantees dynamic performance at the very highest level.

Nissan to build new, $2.0 billion manufacturing complex in Aguascalientes, Mexico, grow capacity in the Americas

2012-01-26T10:44:00.000-05:00

NISSAN MOTOR COMPANY - Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. yesterday announced plans to invest up to $2.0 billion USD for an all-new manufacturing complex in Aguascalientes, Mexico, to support the company's Americas growth strategy. The facility, which will complement Nissan's two existing Mexican factories, is scheduled to begin operations in late 2013. During the initial phase of its development, the new complex will support production of up to 175,000 units annually of Nissan's 'B' platform products. Further expansion of the site will be considered in phases as product and capacity needs are formalized.

The new complex in Aguascalientes will allow Nissan's existing and future operations to share critical resources. An all-new supplier park also will be built on the site.

Up to 3,000 direct jobs will be created initially at the new facility, with approximately 9,000 positions to be generated within the supply chain and wider community. With these additional jobs, Nissan's total headcount in Mexico will expand to nearly 13,500.

"Mexico is a key engine for Nissan's growth in the Americas," said Carlos Ghosn, chairman and chief executive officer, Nissan Motor Co, Ltd. "Together with our new plant in Brazil, this new manufacturing facility in Aguascalientes is an important pillar in our strategy to ensure that Nissan has the capacity it needs to increase sales volume and market share across the Americas."

Investment in Aguascalientes

Nissan's $2.0 billion USD investment will support development of the site in Aguascalientes – Nissan's third in Mexico – and will lay the groundwork for the facility to expand in the future. While other Mexican locations were considered, the State of Aguascalientes was chosen for its proximity to Nissan's existing manufacturing plant in the same state, which offers direct access to skilled labor and suppliers.

The addition of an incremental production site in Aguascalientes will prepare Nissan to produce more than one million units annually in Mexico in the midterm. Today, Nissan operates two manufacturing facilities in Mexico – one 85 km south of Mexico City in Cuernavaca that produces small cars and light commercial and pickup truck models, and a second in Aguascalientes that produces small cars for the domestic, U.S. and Latin American markets. In 2011, Nissan set a domestic production record with more than 600,000 vehicles manufactured at its Mexican plants.

"In Aguascalientes, we reciprocate the trust that Nissan has deposited in our State for 30 years with work, dedication and effort," said Carlos Lozano de la Torre, Governor of the State of Aguascalientes, Mexico. "During this new stage, we are solidifying our friendship, which will translate into success for this great global company and a more international profile for Mexico and better quality of life for the people of Aguascalientes thanks to new employment and wealth. We would like to extend our gratitude to Carlos Ghosn and the great Nissan family for extending their support, so that Nissan's new manufacturing complex could become a reality here in our home and their home."

The first phase of development for the new Aguascalientes site will include installation of body, trim and chassis and paint manufacturing capability as well as associated parts warehousing and logistics operations. An on-site test track also will be constructed to allow for off-line quality assurance testing of all new-model production.

"No other automaker is investing in Mexico more than Nissan," said Jose Munoz, president and general director, Nissan Mexico. "Nissan's investment in new manufacturing, engineering and technology resources in Aguascalientes validates what thousands of our employees, suppliers and customers already know. Behind our market leadership is an unparalleled commitment to deliver the best vehicles for Mexico and more than 100 international markets."

Growing capacity to support Americas' market expansion

Nissan's expansion in Mexico follows the company's recent announcement that it will build an all-new manufacturing facility in Resende in the Brazilian state of Rio de Janeiro. That factory will begin production in the first half of 2014 and, together with the newly installed capacity in Mexico, will provide Nissan with the capacity to fuel its growth throughout the Americas region.

In 2011, Nissan's sales outpaced the Americas automotive industry, rising 17.2 percent to 1,561,230 units. This gain moved Nissan into the No. 2 ranking among Asian brands in the Americas with an overall market share of 7.5 percent, up from 7.0 percent one year earlier and 6.6 percent in 2009.

In the U.S., Nissan has gained market share for six consecutive years, ending 2011 with 8.2 percent of the U.S. market, up from 6 percent just a few years ago. In Mexico, Nissan has been the market leader for three consecutive years and ended 2011 with a record market share of 24.8 percent. In Brazil, Nissan's business has been rapidly expanding with sales that nearly doubled in 2011. Nissan was Brazil's fastest-growing automotive brand in 2011 and is now the 7th best-selling car brand in the country. In Latin America, Nissan finished 2011 with 10 percent market share, up 0.4 points from the year prior.

B 180 produces 16 percent less CO2 emissions than its predecessor. With Environmental Certificate: the new Mercedes B-Class

2012-01-25T10:54:00.000-05:00

DAIMLER AG - The neutral inspectors at the TÜV Süd technical inspection authority have confirmed the high environmental compatibility of the new Mercedes B-Class, awarding the compact sports tourer the Environmental Certificate in accordance with ISO standard TR 14062. This certification is based on a comprehensive ecological life cycle assessment of the B-Class, documenting every detail of ecological relevance.

"The new B-Class is the first model of a completely new generation of compact vehicles from Mercedes-Benz. It sets clear benchmarks in two fields which are crucial to efficiency – aerodynamics and the drive system," explains Professor Dr Herbert Kohler, Chief Environmental Officer at Daimler AG. "The high level of environmental compatibility goes beyond reductions in fuel consumption, as the Environmental Certificate in accordance with ISO standard TR 14062 now confirms."
Mercedes-Benz analyses the environmental compatibility of its models throughout their entire life cycle – from production through their long years of service to recycling at the end of their lives. This analysis goes far beyond the legal requirements. The Environmental Certificate and supplementary information are made available to the public in the "Life Cycle" documentation series, which can be found at http://www.mercedes-benz.com

Over the entire life cycle of the Mercedes-Benz B-Class – from production and service over 160,000 kilometres to recycling – the new model in the guise of the B 180 BlueEFFICIENCY with 7G-DCT dual clutch transmission causes 16 percent less CO2 emissions than its predecessor when the latter was discontinued in 2011. The energy balance shows a similarly positive picture, with primary energy consumption over the vehicle's entire life cycle cut by 14 percent in comparison to its predecessor. This corresponds to the energy content of around 2400 litres of petrol.

The marked reductions in fuel consumption represent a substantial contributory factor here. By way of example, the fuel consumption of the B 180 BlueEFFICIENCY petrol model with dual clutch transmission ranges – depending on the fitted tyres – from 5.9 to 6.2 l/100 km in comparison to 7.3 to 7.5 l/100 km for its predecessor (at the time of its discontinuation in 2011). This corresponds to a substantial reduction in fuel consumption of up to 19 percent. These fuel savings are ensured by an intelligent package of measures – the so-called BlueEFFICIENCY technologies. These include optimisation measures in the area of the powertrain, energy management, aerodynamics, tyres optimised for minimum rolling resistance, weight reduction through lightweight construction and driver information to encourage an energy-saving style of driving. An outstanding drag coefficient of Cd = 0.26 places the new B-Class at the forefront of its market segment.

The B-Class already meets the recycling rate of 95 percent by weight which will be mandatory as of 1 January 2015. In all, the B-Class incorporates 75 components representing a total weight of 39 kilograms which can be produced with the partial use of high-quality recycled plastics. This results in a 13 percent increase in the weight of approved recycled components in comparison to the previous model. Typical areas of use are wheel arch linings, cable ducts and underbody panels, which consist for the most part of polypropylene.

There is also an increased emphasis on closed automobile materials cycles: a recyclate is used for the front wheel arch linings, for example, which is produced from reprocessed vehicle components such as starter battery housings, bumper panels from the Mercedes-Benz Recycling System (MeRSy) and production waste from cockpit units.

21 components in the B-Class, representing a total weight of 20 kilograms, are produced using natural materials – an increase of 29 percent over the previous model. Natural materials employed in series production of the new B-Class consist primarily of coconut and wood fibres and honeycomb cardboard in combination with various polymer materials.

The modular body-in-white concept means that the B-Class is designed to accommodate versions with an alternative drive: appropriate interfaces in the body shell enable the main floor panel to be modified and a step to be produced for the "ENERGY SPACE" on the versions with alternative drive. An underfloor compartment covering part of the area under the rear bench seat offers space for alternative energy accumulators.

Quebec celebrities lace up their skates for a good cause

2012-01-25T09:35:00.000-05:00

FORD CANADA - Hockey fans will definitely want to mark their calendars for Sunday, March 4, 2012, the first edition of the Ford Celebrity Faceoff powered by CKOI. Two teams of Quebec personalities from various backgrounds will face off at the Bell Centre in a friendly hockey game. The event, presented in collaboration with Evenko, will raise funds for the Montreal Canadiens Children's Foundation.

The first edition of this benefit event is hoping to attract 10,000 spectators. Ford of Canada will make a donation equivalent to the number of people who attend, and donate $5,000 on behalf of the winning team.

Mario Tremblay and Michel Therrien will coach the two teams, supported by captains Louis Morissette and Patrice Bélanger. Also, a few announcements that will certainly pique the fans' interest are still to come before the game, such as the announcement of the referee, who will sing the national anthem and entertainment between periods.

"The Ford Celebrity Faceoff is an opportunity to combine two things that Quebecers love: hockey and their favourite personalities. We're very proud to invite people to this friendly hockey game to benefit the Montreal Canadiens Children's Foundation, which does incredible work on behalf of families and children in need," said Bertrand Lessard, general manager for the Quebec region at Ford of Canada. "It will be a highly exciting event, and I encourage people to turn out in large numbers."

The Ford Celebrity Faceoff will take place Sunday, March 4, starting at 1 p.m. at the Bell Centre. Tickets can be purchased for $7.50 including taxes at www.jesuisfan.ca or www.evenko.ca, and at the Bell Centre box office. Each ticket purchased will give the ticket holder a chance to win a 24-month lease for a 2013 Ford Escape, courtesy of the Quebec Ford Dealer Association.

Facebook: http://facebook.com/jesuisfan

Twitter: http://twitter.com/fordjesuisfan @fordjesuisfan

Hashtag: #faceaface

Drive a Prius Plug-In Hybrid for a Week with Toyota Canada’s Hybridizer contest

2012-01-25T09:20:00.000-05:00

TOYOTA CANADA - Wondering how much money driving a hybrid will save you? If an electric car will work for you? Or what emissions you are currently producing on your weekend get-away drive?

Toyota Canada introduces the Hybridizer, an online educational tool that allows Canadians to compare a conventional gasoline powered vehicle, a hybrid, a plug-in hybrid and an electric vehicle.

These powertrains are featured in typical driving scenarios like the daily commute, a weekend getaway or a road trip, and the Hybridizer tool shows drivers what fuel or electricity charging costs they face as well as charging times and total emissions.

And now Canadians have a chance to experience what it's like to drive in a hybrid that plugs in, with Toyota Canada's Hybridizer contest. Gas it up like a regular car or plug it in for electric-only operation - you decide what works best.

The contest, which runs until April 31, will offer five lucky winners the opportunity to drive a 2012 Prius Plug-In Hybrid vehicle (PHV) for a week.

"With rising gas prices, Canadians are always looking for the most fuel efficient way to handle their daily commute. The Prius PHV, which joins the Prius family this year, offers drivers exceptional fuel consumption due to Toyota's advanced Hybrid Synergy Drive technology," said Stephen Beatty, Chief Environmental Officer at Toyota Canada Inc. "The Hybridizer tool gives Canadians the opportunity to experience how a hybrid or electric vehicle can fit into their lives."

The 2012 Prius PHV, which arrives in Canada in 2012, is a five-passenger mid-size liftback that gives Canadians versatile packaging, perfect for short daily commutes, or long road trips. The 2012 Prius PHV will be revealed at this year's Canadian International Auto Show and features Toyota's renowned Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain system, and adds a lithium-ion battery pack that allows up to 25 kilometres of complete EV driving up to 100km/h, with a short charging time of only three hours using a regular household outlet. When the PHV's battery pack is depleted in EV range, the Prius PHV seamlessly switches to full-hybrid mode with regenerative braking, electric motor assist, and pure EV driving at low speeds and short distances.

To enter the Toyota 'Drive a Prius Plug-In Hybrid For a Week,' simply visit www.hybridizer.ca, follow the online instructions, submit an entry form and tell Toyota why you should drive a Prius Plug-In Hybrid for a week.

To see how much money you can save at the pumps driving a hybrid, and for full contest details, please visit www.hybridizer.ca

New 2013 Ford Fusion NASCAR Sprint Cup Car Brings the “Stock Car” Back to NASCAR

2012-01-25T08:47:00.000-05:00

FORD CANADA - The 2013 Ford Fusion NASCAR Sprint Cup car, unveiled yesterday as part of the Charlotte Motor Speedway Media Tour, was worked on by Ford designers in an effort to bring brand identity back to the sport. The result is undeniable with the 2013 Sprint Cup car mirroring the recently unveiled 2013 Ford Fusion production car.

Featuring a completely redesigned sleek new silhouette and fresh face, the 2013 Fusion Sprint Cup car was designed to be the face of a new era of stock car racing.

"We wanted Fusion to be the car that helped return 'stock car' to NASCAR," stated Jamie Allison, director, Ford Racing. "I think fans, when they see the car, are just going to smile and cheer. It is going to reengage them with the sport and make the sport better because there is just something natural about seeing race cars that look like cars in their driveways."

This marks the third time Ford simultaneously launched production and NASCAR versions of a new model. The first dual launch came in 1968, with the sleek fastback Ford Torino. Legendary NASCAR driver David Pearson drove the Torino to back-to-back NASCAR championships in 1968 and 1969. The second time came in 2006, when the then newly introduced Ford Fusion appeared in showrooms and on the track.

Ford took a different approach with the development of the 2013 Fusion racer. Ford Design Center staff, led by Garen Nicoghosian, and Ford aerodynamicist Bernie Marcus, spent the past year doing the early design development, freeing up the Ford race teams to concentrate on weekly NASCAR competition.

"This is a seminal moment in the sport where we had a chance to get it right once again and make sure the race cars are race versions of street cars. And I am proud because I believe we have accomplished just that," continued Allison. "The 2013 Fusion is a stunning car and the 2013 NASCAR Fusion is even more stunning and I can't wait to see it perform on the track and connect with race fans."

Ford designers, led by Nicoghosian, addressed three main issues to mirror the 2013 Sprint Cup Fusion to the 2013 production Fusion found on showroom floors.

Design Features of the 2013 Fusion Sprint Cup Car

· Designers addressed the overall proportion of the race car to reflect proportions found in the production Fusion.

· Brand and design cues in the side of the vehicle.

· An identifiable front end grill with the distinctive look of a Ford.

"It looks fun to drive and very much eager to go and tear up the track. It has a very aggressive stance from the outside and the inside. From all angles the vehicle exudes performance and I think it reflects our general attitude of how we go about setting up our cars very, very nicely," said Nicoghosian. "It brings a certain level of nimbleness and lightness and agility to the NASCAR platform, much like we do in our production cars, because all of our production cars have that nimbleness and agility and eagerness about them."

The new NASCAR Fusion entries will be tested throughout the 2012 campaign in preparation for their racing debut at the 2013 Daytona 500 in February.

Ford Brand Models in NASCAR

1949 – 1955: Ford

1956 - 1959: Ford Fairlane

1960 – 1968: Ford Thunderbird/Ford Galaxie

1968 – 1971: Ford Torino

1978 – 1997: Ford Thunderbird

1998 – 2005: Ford Taurus

2006 – Present: Ford Fusion

Volvo Car Corporation part of successful road train test - SARTRE project enters final phase

2012-01-24T12:07:00.000-05:00

VOLVO CAR CORPORATION - The SARTRE project (Safe Road Trains for the Environment) - with Volvo Car Corporation as the only participating car manufacturer - has successfully completed the first test demonstrations of a multiple vehicle platoon.

The test fleet included a lead truck followed by three cars driven entirely autonomously at speeds of up to 90 km/h - with no more than 6 metres gap between the vehicles.

"The aim is for the entire road train to be completed in autumn 2012. By then we will have four vehicles after one lead vehicle driving at 90 km/h," says Erik Coelingh, technical project manager at the Volvo Car Corporation.

The SARTRE project is being driven by seven European partners and is the only one of its kind to focus on the development of technology that can be implemented on conventional highways in which platooned traffic operates in a mixed environment with other road users.

Stakeholder dialogue

Recognizing that the challenge of implementing road train technology on Europe's highways is not solely a technical matter, SARTRE also includes a major study to identify what infrastructure changes will be needed for vehicle platooning to become a reality. A number of stakeholder discussions will therefore be held. The participants in the first discussion included technical experts, politicians, legislators and traffic safety researchers. At the workshop a number of non-technical challenges for road trains were discussed, such as legal regulations, product liability and driver acceptance of automated vehicles.

Key future requirements identified were the need to agree a common terminology for platooning, such as criteria for defining when a vehicle becomes fully, as opposed to partially or even highly automated, and the need to address multiple and varied national regulatory law or to harmonize regulatory law.

Many benefits

The main advantage of road trains is that the car driver has time over to do other things. Road trains promote safer transport since the vehicle platoons are led by a professional driver in e.g. a truck and inter-vehicle reaction response times are much quicker. Environmental impact is reduced since the cars follow close behind each other and benefit from the lower air drag. The energy saving is expected to be in the region of up to 20 percent. Road capacity will also be able to be utilised more efficiently.

Enter the Volvo Arctic Excursion contest with Volvo Cars of Canada

2012-01-24T11:57:00.000-05:00

VOLVO CANADA - Volvo Cars of Canada will be sending two lucky people to Sweden on the journey of a lifetime to take part in the Fjallraven Classic this August. This unique five day trek, 20 miles north of the Arctic Circle, features some of the most breathtaking views on the globe. Surrounded by majestic mountains and crystal clear streams, the hiking adventure follows a 110 km route through magnificent and rustic scenery comprised of green valleys and grassy moors.

"Fjallraven Classic was my way of getting Swedes out in the Swedish mountains," says Ake Norden, the founder of Fjallraven, "Now there are Scandinavians, Germans, Americans and people from as far as China."

Food and fuel are distributed at the six checkpoints and medical staff are available for support should participants require it. The grand prize includes flights, entrance fees, Fjallraven gear and a tent. For those who wish to rise to the challenge, visit the Volvo Cars of Canada Facebook fan page or visit the Volvo display at the Canadian International Autoshow next month in Toronto, or at the Vancouver International Autoshow in March.

Click the link below to witness the spectacular landscapes and learn more about the Fjallraven Classic: https://mail.marshall-fenn.com/owa/redir.aspx?C=d6d303dcb51d40cd8bdcf9f366b3722c&URL=http%3a%2f%2fwww.fjallraven.com%2foutdoor-life%2ffjallraven-classic%2f

Lexus announces pricing for the 2013 LX 570 Luxury Utility Vehicle

2012-01-24T10:39:00.000-05:00

TOYOTA CANADA - The 2013 Lexus LX 570 receives $1,310 worth of upgrades, including a 9-speaker premium sound system, off-road turn assist, multi-terrain traction control as standard -even as Lexus drops the MSRP by $ 2,950 to $87,000.

The MSRP for the 2013 LX 570 with Ultra Premium Package starts at $94,350, which is $6,450 less than the 2011 model.

The 2013 LX 570 will be on sale in Canadian dealerships in February.

Nissan becomes co-title sponsor of RadioShack Nissan Trek Professional Cycling Team

2012-01-24T10:36:00.000-05:00

NISSAN NORTH AMERICA - Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) yesterday announced an agreement with Leopard SA and CSE Pro Cycling, LLC to become co-title sponsor of the professional cycling team that will be racing globally as part of the World Tour.

RADIOSHACK NISSAN TREK consists of 30 professional riders from around the world, including Andy and Fränk Schleck, Fabian Cancellara, Andreas Kloden, plus Americans Chris Horner, Matthew Busche and Ben King. The team will compete in an extensive schedule of professional cycling races worldwide in 2012, including the Tour de France, the Tour of California and the USA Pro Cycling Challenge in Colorado.

“We built a solid foundation for Nissan through our cycling partnership with the team the past two seasons and are ready to take it to the next level now as one of the title sponsors of RADIOSHACK NISSAN TREK,” said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Nissan North America. “Our promotional activities tied to major cycling events such as the Tour of California and the Tour de France allows us to connect with millions of fans around the world. We plan to use these events to launch many exciting products here in the United States and around the globe in 2012.”

Nissan enjoys a strong presence in the health, wellness and personal fitness arena with partnerships with the Boston Marathon and New York Marathon, as well as the Country Music Marathon in Nashville, TN, where Nissan’s North American headquarters is located. Nissan also plans to actively support the RADIOSHACK NISSAN TREK pro cycling team at the Tour of California, Tour of Colorado, Tour de France and other major Pro Cycling events around the globe. The company views the partnership as a way to connect with the more than 22 million cyclists in the United States and over 40 million cycling fans that attended live events around the world in 2012.

"We're very excited to have Nissan increase their support of our team. Team vehicles and new innovations play a key role in the success of any professional cycling team and we look forward to using Nissan products as we race around the world,” said Chris Horner. “We know that Nissan has some exciting product launches on the horizon and we look forward to an excellent partnership with our Nissan friends for 2012."

“The 2011 season was filled with many great wins and we look forward to even more success in the coming season. RADIOSHACK NISSAN TREK has built a formidable group of talented riders that will be in the running to win from the spring classics right through the grand tours. We are thrilled to have the team continue to use the Nissan lineup of innovative vehicles as they compete on the world stage,” added Carolin.

"iF product design award 2012": Five-fold success for Mercedes-Benz design

2012-01-23T10:44:00.000-05:00

DAIMLER AG - The designers at Mercedes-Benz have picked up yet another prize for no fewer than four models in the form of the internationally renowned "iF product design award 2012". A top-class specialist jury has bestowed the award on the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, the SLK, the SLS AMG Roadster, and the Concept A-CLASS show car, as well as the smart electric mobility concept, all for their outstanding designs.

First presented in 1953, the "iF product design award" ranks among the world's most important design awards and represents the seal of approval for good design. For 2012 the 24-member jury was again faced with the task of choosing its favourites, this time from more than 2000 candidates. Four models from Mercedes-Benz stood out in particular: the M-Class, the SLK, the SLS AMG Roadster and the Concept A-CLASS show car.

The M-Class won thanks to its characteristically distinctive SUV design and its variable interior with high wellness factor. The open-top SLS AMG Roadster, meanwhile, owes its victory to its exciting lines, which are reminiscent of the legendary 300 SL from the 1950s. The SLK Roadster also dominated the competition with its powerful sports car design, which portrays its outstanding qualities to brilliant visual effect - stylish comfort, light-footed sportiness and exemplary ecology.

With the Mercedes-Benz Concept A-CLASS, the jury acknowledged the birth of a new vehicle generation which provides a glimpse of the expressive design of the future A-Class.

As an overall concept, the trend-setting developments achieved by the automotive brand smart in the field of electric mobility also received the coveted "iF product design award 2012". For its innovative e-mobility concept, smart created one-off vehicles such as the open-top smart forspeed, the smart e-scooter and also the smart e-bike, which is to be incorporated into the smart product line this year.

Nissan announces Canadian pricing for 2013 GT-R

2012-01-23T10:27:00.000-05:00

NISSAN CANADA - Nissan Canada, Inc. (NCI) last Friday announced Canadian pricing for the 2013 Nissan GT-R, which is on sale now at Nissan GT-R dealers nationwide. Following a major revision just last year, the 2013 Nissan GT-R receives a number of impressive performance enhancements, reinforcing the flagship supercar's spirit of continuous advancement. Horsepower has been boosted to 545 hp (from 530 hp), with torque now rated at 463 lb-ft (from 448 lb-ft). In addition, the suspension has been retuned to enhance both performance and comfort. Other changes for the 2013 model year include a standard RearView Monitor and the Black Edition receives a new dry carbon fibre rear spoiler.

The 2013 Nissan GT-R continues to be an incredible value, rivalling the fastest production supercars at a fraction of the price. The 2013 Nissan GT-R is available in two well-equipped models: GT-R Premium Edition and GT-R Black Edition with special lightweight black aluminum forged RAYS wheels, a unique red and black interior, Recaro leather-appointed seats and a new dry carbon fibre rear spoiler.

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) for the 2013 Nissan GT-R:

GT-R Premium / 6MT - $103,980

GT-R Black Edition / 6MT - $113,380

The 2013 Nissan GT-R is once again anchored by an advanced 3.8-litre twin turbo V6 engine matched with a high-performance 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. Engine efficiency has been improved for the new model year, which helps raise horsepower to 545 hp (versus the previous 530 hp) and torque to 463 lb-ft (versus the previous 448 lb-ft). The engine is hand-assembled in a special dust and temperature controlled clean room.

GT-R is built on an exclusive Premium Midship platform, which enables the use of the world's first independent rear transaxle ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive system. This system places the transmission, transfer case and final drive at the rear of the vehicle, optimizing weight distribution and maximizing handling capability. Total vehicle adjustability is provided by three "set-up switches" located in the center of the instrument panel, enabling the driver to adjust transmission shifts, shock absorbers and the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC-R) among three settings – Normal, Special or "R," for ultimate handling.

The Nissan GT-R suspension has been retuned and adjusted for optimal performance for 2013. The vehicle again utilizes a special Bilstein DampTronic system, and the braking system consists of Brembo full-floating cross-drilled rotors, low steel high stiffness brake pads and Brembo monoblock six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers. The 2013 Nissan GT-R's lightweight 10-spoke forged aluminum 20-inch RAYS wheels feature a premium dark (near black) finish, which provides a high quality, high-performance look. They are mounted with Dunlop Sports Max GT 600 DSST CTT tires – P255/40ZRF20 in front and P285/35ZRF20 in the rear. The Black Edition features special metallic black six-spoke RAYS lightweight wheels with Dunlop Sports Max GT 600 DSST CTT tires – P255/40ZRF20 in front and P285/35ZRF20 in the rear.

Nissan GT-R's aerodynamics were improved last year with increased downforce and the coefficient of drag reduced to 0.26 (from 0.27). A new front fascia with aggressive double rectifier fins and integrated high intensity LED running lights was also added, enhancing the car's strong visual presence. Other exterior features include high-mounted LED stoplights, bright LED rear combination taillights, "super wide beam" headlights, heated door mirrors and flat-blade windshield wipers.

The GT-R Black Edition's new rear spoiler is designed to be as slippery to the wind as it is attractive to the eyes. Handmade in a limited monthly production run, a special coating allows carbon fibre "weave" to be felt by the touch. The lightweight dry carbon fibre material** is also incredibly strong.

Six exterior colors are available for 2013: Deep Blue Pearl, Jet Black, Solid Red, Gun Metallic, Pearl White and a 4-stage metallic Super Silver.

Inside, Nissan GT-R's four-passenger cabin again balances functionality with a sense of ease and comfort. It features sculpted performance bucket seats for an optimal driving position, a cockpit-style instrument panel with a large center-mounted tachometer and multi-function display – which includes mechanical and driving information, as well as an on-board driving recorder, and carbon fibre trim. The Black Edition adds custom red and black Recaro leather-appointed seats, red and black interior trim and a dark headliner.

An 11-speaker Bose sound system with speakers mounted in rigid aluminum die cast panels, which provides sound quality suitable for a supercar, is standard. Additional standard equipment for 2013 includes a RearView Monitor, Nissan Navigation System with XM NavTraffic with Real-Time Traffic Information and NavWeather capabilities (XM subscription required, sold separately), and Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System.

The 2013 Nissan GT-R is sold and serviced through 34 Nissan GT-R dealers in Canada that have attained "GT-R Certification" status by meeting a number of strict sales, service and facilities commitments – including dedicating a master technician to GT-R service, special training for service managers and technicians, and designating dealer principals, executive managers and general managers as the primary communicators and negotiators in sales transactions.

**Dry carbon fibre requires specific maintenance. Please see Owner's Manual for details.

All-New Ford Escape Gives Drivers Quieter Ride Thanks in Part to Mirror That ‘Sees’ Sound

2012-01-20T10:12:00.000-05:00

FORD CANADA - When Ford engineers sought out innovative ways to reduce noise in the all-new Ford Escape, they looked in the mirror.

But these engineers did not look into any mirror; they focused their eyes on an elliptical acoustic mirror.

This high-tech device was used for the first time on Escape to reduce wind noise and deliver a quieter interior. The mirror resembles a satellite dish with a microphone. The mirror identifies "hot spots" where noise penetrates the interior of the vehicle, allowing drivers to listen to music or conversation inside the car instead of external noises.

This technology is deployed more commonly by European luxury vehicle manufacturers and is considered a breakthrough among U.S. manufacturers. The mirror measures noises on the surface of the vehicle and in the airflow.

Mirror reflects changes

The engineering team was able to make changes to the Escape shape, specifically the mirrors and A-pillar, while in the early clay model phase to test theories and validate expected results. Work was done in the Ford Aeroacoustic Wind Tunnel in Germany.

"We previously didn't have this tool available," said Peter Kleesattel, interior quietness development engineer. "Essentially we were able to optimize the shape earlier. In noise and vibration, the basic idea is you have noise sources outside the vehicle and you have the path.

"The path could be through the glass, door or insulation. Now we're able to optimize the shape early on, reduce the exterior source and create a quieter interior."

The optimized shape means the new Escape is quieter than the outgoing vehicle, and preliminary data show it will be among the leaders in interior quietness. In particular, the tuning work on the A-pillar helps ensure better noise performance in crosswind situations.

Wind noise performance has been optimized through more than 160 hours of engineering. In a typical eight-hour block, more than 20 configurations can be tested, including glass, mirror sealing and door sealing.

"Using the elliptical acoustic mirror helped the team pinpoint the source of the noise," said Bill Gulker, NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) supervisor. "Previous technologies required more of a trial-and-error approach to finding the issue."

The science behind acoustic mirrors dates back almost 100 years. The technology was a precursor to radar, used for "listening" for and detecting enemy aircraft along the coast of Great Britain during World War I.

World's first self-healing iPhone case

2012-01-18T12:17:00.000-05:00

NISSAN CANADA - Nissan yesterday announced the latest piece of must-have kit for the iPhone* – a ground-breaking self-healing iPhone case. The Nissan Scratch Shield iPhone case features the brand’s pioneering self-healing paint finish, a world first in paint technology developed in 2005. Now this ground-breaking technology has been applied to a product that’s prone to scratches through everyday use – the smartphone – with Nissan’s new Scratch Shield case meaning iPhone-lovers can keep their phone looking at its best for longer.

Developed by Nissan in collaboration with University of Tokyo and Advanced Softmaterials Inc., this technology is being trialled for the first time on a non-automotive product in Europe, with the Nissan Scratch Shield iPhone case.

The Nissan Scratch Shield iPhone case has been designed using several automotive engineering innovations to deliver a more durable and long-lasting paint coat, and closely fitting, tight case. The case has three key benefits: the highly flexible and elastic properties of Scratch Shield paint technology allows fine scratches to quickly mend themselves**; its tactile gel-like rather than glossy surface is more scratch-resistant than conventional paint and provides a better grip; and the case itself is made of ABS plastic – a high grade substance widely used in the automotive industry which is more rigid and robust than other plastics. The outer ‘paint’ is made from polyrotaxane, which means that when damage occurs to the coating in the form of a fine scratch, the chemical structure is able to react to change back to its original shape and fill the gap – 'healing' the blemish.

An initial batch of prototypes of the innovative Scratch Shield iPhone cases has been produced by Nissan for BETA testing with selected journalists and customers, but if demand proves strong, it will look to put the cases on general sale later this year.

Bob Laishley, Overseas Programme Director Business Development for Nissan in Europe, said: “We like to think laterally by taking the great innovations we’ve got from an automotive point of view, and looking at how they could be applied to improve everyday issues. The Scratch Shield iPhone case is a great example of us taking a Nissan automotive technology that has had a huge impact for our customers, and then shifting the boundaries to apply it to another everyday product.

“We're really excited about the possibilities provided by this technology. In Japan, we’ve already linked up with world-leading mobile operator NTT DoCoMo to allow them to use the Scratch Shield technology on its Style Series N-03B mobile phones, and we think this technology has real scope beyond the automotive world. We’re passionate about innovations that get people excited, and that means not being restricted to one industry or genre.”

Nissan has been licensing its unique technologies for various non-automotive applications since 2004. Other technologies that have been licensed include its Miniature Thermal Imaging Sensor: initially designed to make driving at night safer by detecting the presence of people even in places not illuminated by the car’s headlights; the technology has been licensed to create a device which allows customers to monitor heat generation, or collect temperature readings via infrared sensor. Nissan will continue to research and develop breakthrough technologies that can benefit other industries, and promote these non-automotive applications globally.

* The Nissan Scratch Shield iPhone case is compatible with the iPhone 4 and iPhone 4 S
**Scratch Shield can heal small scratches in as little as an hour, but more severe cases can take up to a week's time to heal.

Infiniti to present ETHEREA Concept, Infiniti JX at 2012 Canadian International Auto Show

2012-01-18T10:31:00.000-05:00

Infiniti ETHEREA

NISSAN CANADA - Yesterday, Infiniti Canada announced the Canadian debut of the Infiniti ETHEREA concept vehicle at the Canadian International Auto Show (CIAS) in Toronto, this February. A compact luxury model that previews how a future entry-level Infiniti could look, the ETHEREA concept is an exciting, segment redefining blend of coupé, sedan, hatchback and even crossover in one highly sculptural, near-mono volume form. Joining ETHEREA on the stand will be the latest addition to Infiniti's lineup, the 2013 Infiniti JX luxury crossover as well as the championship-winning, RB7 Red Bull Racing Formula 1 car.

"ETHEREA was designed to project both an evolving Infiniti identity and a profile that is distinctly different from any current vehicle available on the market," said Wendy Durward, Director of Infiniti Canada. "ETHEREA's segment-busting style exhibits the inspiration behind all Infiniti products and is a sign of new and exciting things to come from Infiniti."

A supercharged 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine developing 245 horsepower, provides quick response and strong acceleration throughout the performance range thanks to a continuously variable transmission. Boosting the engine's power when needed, and providing silent, emission-free driving at low speeds, is an electric motor. An independent suspension, regenerative braking and advanced drive-by-wire electric/hydraulic steering further enhance performance.

As an exploration of a future entry-level Infiniti production model, ETHEREA can be summed up as a four-door coupe with five-door practicality – a hatchback that doesn't look like a hatchback.

The all-new Infiniti JX will be presented as a regional debut in Toronto with a competitive starting MSRP of $44,900, the Infiniti JX is a bold new option in the luxury crossover segment and is designed to excel in the areas that luxury crossover buyers desire most – interior flexibility and roominess, safety and advanced hospitality features.

Loaded with world's first technologies, the Infiniti JX adds a new feature, Backup Collision Intervention (BCI), to the currently available Blind Spot Intervention (BSI) system. The addition of BCI is the latest of nine technologies that comprise the "All-around Safety Shield" of the new JX. Other available technology includes both Infiniti's Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) systems.

The RB7 Formula 1 car, representing the global partnership established last year between Red Bull Racing and Infiniti will also be proudly on display at CIAS. The RB7 F1 car will give the public an up-close-and-personal glimpse into the World Champion Red Bull team and the domain Infiniti's global brand ambassador, two-time World Champion driver, Sebastian Vettel.

Nissan e-NV200 Concept to make national debut at 2012 Canadian International Auto Show

2012-01-18T10:23:00.000-05:00

NISSAN CANADA - Yesterday, Nissan Canada announced the Canadian debut of the advanced, all-electric Nissan e-NV200 Concept at the 2012 Canadian International Auto Show (CIAS) in Toronto, one of several all-electric vehicles set to join the Nissan LEAF in dealerships in the coming years. Equally innovative, but on the other end of the automotive spectrum, the 2013 Nissan GT-R will make its Canadian debut in Toronto featuring some impressive enhancements under the hood.

“Innovation is our guiding principle at Nissan and our two premieres at the 2012 Canadian International Auto Show represent our dedication to offer exciting and sustainable mobility options to all types of Canadian drivers,” said Judy Wheeler, Director of Marketing at Nissan Canada Inc. “With its standout design and ‘no gas, no tailpipe, no emissions’ powertrain, the e-NV200 Concept is set to revitalize the van segment, while the latest modifications to Nissan’s legendary GT-R further pronounce that this sports car offers the best value in its class.”

In 2011, Nissan entered the commercial vehicle segment in Canada in a big way with the launch of the Nissan NV commercial van supported by a network of Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealers across the country. The fully-electric Nissan e-NV200 Concept provides a glimpse into a near-future production version of the van designed to provide businesses with flexible, roomy interior space, while achieving a dramatic CO2 footprint reduction.

Based on the Nissan NV200 which was selected as New York City’s “Taxi of Tomorrow”, combined with the Nissan LEAF’s advanced, all-electric powertrain, the e-NV200 is positioned to shake up the segment when it goes into production in 2014.

Also gracing the show floor is Nissan’s legendary flagship sports car– the Nissan GT-R. For model year 2013, the Nissan GT-R receives a number of engine and suspension enhancements, all designed to enhance its already iconic performance. The major refinements include: improved intake efficiency, reduced airflow resistance including an enlarged air intake duct for the intercooler, improved exhaust emissions efficiency and enhanced control. The 3.8-litre twin turbo V6 engine continues to be hand-assembled in a special clean room, and its efficiency was improved with horsepower up to 545 hp and torque 463 lb-ft. The 2013 Nissan GT-R is offered in two models – the new Nissan GT-R Premium and the Nissan GT-R Black Edition sporting special lightweight black aluminum forged RAYS wheels, unique read and black interior, Recaro leather-appointed seats and a new dry carbon fibre rear spoiler.

Natural Resources Canada awards Nissan LEAF most fuel efficient vehicle in its class for 2012

2012-01-17T10:53:00.000-05:00

NISSAN CANADA - Yesterday, the Honourable Joe Oliver, Minister of National Resources, announced the Government of Canada's 2012 ecoENERGY for Vehicles Awards, recognizing the most fuel-efficient vehicles that are helping Canadians to save on fuel costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Nissan LEAF was recognized as the most fuel efficient vehicle in the mid-size class for 2012.

This award joins a long list of accolades for the Nissan LEAF since its launch in 2010, including recognition as the 2011 World Car of the Year. Since the first delivery of a Nissan LEAF to a consumer in December 2010, over 21,000 all-electric cars have been sold around the globe.

"With no tailpipe and absolutely zero emissions, it's impossible to beat the all-electric Nissan LEAF for fuel efficiency," said Judy Wheeler, Director of Marketing at Nissan Canada Inc. "The Nissan LEAF is just the first of many all-electric vehicles we will bring to market in our commitment to electric mobility. At this year's Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto, visitors can see the e-NV200 concept demonstrating Nissan's all-electric technology applied to the commercial vehicle segment."

The Nissan LEAF has a range of 160km per full charge (EPA LA4 cycle) and with that, has the capacity to provide 90 per cent of Canadians with the range needed for daily commutes. At 107 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque, the Nissan LEAF provides a highly responsive, fun-to-drive experience that is ultra-quiet due to an electric drivetrain.

At a starting MSRP of $38,395, the Nissan LEAF is well-equipped with a long list of standard features. Since its launch in 2011, 170 Nissan LEAFs have been sold in Canada.

* disclaimer - based on fuel consumption ratings published by Natural Resources Canada

A perfect start of the season for AMG Customer Sports: A 1-2-3 for the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 in Dubai 24 Hours

2012-01-17T10:34:00.000-05:00

DAIMLER AG - The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 scored a commanding 1-2-3 in the Dubai 24-hour race (January 12th till 14th, 2012). The Abu Dhabi Black Falcon team claimed victory with Thomas Jäger (GER), Sean Edwards (ENG), Jeroen Bleekemolen (NED) and Khaled Al Qubaisi (UAE). After setting a new distance record of 628 race laps, final driver Al Qubaisi drove the Gullwing with starting number 3 across the finish line. This first place was also the maiden victory for the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 in a 24-hour race.

The first of HEICO Motorsport's Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3's came home second, two laps down. Driving duties in the car with starting number 6 were shared by Maximilian Buhk (GER), Christiaan Frankenhout (NED), Max Nilsson (SWE), Andreas Zuber (AUT) and Bernd Schneider (GER). Schneider, the five times' DTM champion and AMG brand ambassador, drove in both of HEICO Motorsport's cars as a part of AMG's Customer Sports driver support programme. In the team's sister car with starting number 16, he had been entered to partner Kenneth Heyer (GER), Andreas Simonsen (SWE) and Rodolfo Gonzalez (VEN). In a dramatic finish, final driver Simonsen managed to bring a small margin home to round out the clean sweep of the podium by finishing third.

The fourth of the four SLS AMG GT3s that were entered for the race also finished among the front-runners. The Gravity Charouz Racing team with Vincent Radermecker (BEL), Loris de Sordi (BEL), Eric Lux (LUX), Gerard Lopez (ESP) and Tomas Enge (CZE) was classified seventh to complete the good overall performance for the Gullwing cars.

All four Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3s put their mark on the Dubai 24-hour race by showing a commanding performance from the very beginning. In the field of the 72 cars, the Gullwings were among the fastest entries right away. Having started from 15th place on the grid, the Abu Dhabi Black Falcon SLS AMG GT3 moved up into the lead for the first time after two hours. Consistently fast lap times also allowed the other Gullwings to move up quickly into the ranks of the front-runners as well.

During the night, the teams from the AMG Customer Sports programme continued their largely trouble-free run on the 5.39 km long Grand Prix circuit, maintaining their fast lap times and partly alternating in the lead. After one third of the race, the Gullwing with starting number 3 finally took over the lead and held on to it until it crossed the finish line.

Thomas Jäger: "This is an optimal result for the Abu Dhabi Black Falcon team. It shows in an impressive way how performant and reliable the SLS AMG GT3 is. The driver changes went perfectly and, admittedly, we also had the necessary bit of luck: we didn't get involved in any collisions, which isn't self-evident with so many cars on such a short track. I want to thank the entire team for a great performance."

Marc Schramm, managing director Black Falcon: "We came to Dubai to win. That is what we have said prior to the race and we lived up to it thanks to a strong team performance. As usual, the focus of our strategy was on consistency and that worked out in a fantastic way. Of course, I am also happy with having covered a new record distance of 628 laps. Thanks to the entire team and, of course, also to Mercedes-AMG and HWA for the support."

Bernd Schneider: "During the night, we had a minor problem, that's why we stood in the pits for a couple of minutes. Had it not been for that, it could even have been slightly better. To be honest, I now feel a little bit knocked out after having raced with both cars, but the success more than makes up for this. After all, finishing second and third at the same time doesn't happen every day. Congratulations also to the Abu Dhabi Black Falcon team for this well-deserved race win."

Ola Källenius, chairman of the board, Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "This is a great success! Especially considering that the participation in Dubai was only the fifth 24-hour race for the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3. Today's clean sweep of the top three is a great reward for our efforts. I sincerely want to thank our customer teams, drivers and everyone involved. I am looking for a great 2012 motor racing season!"

Most successful newcomer in the 2011 motor sport season

This year's Dubai 24-hour race marks the beginning of the second racing season for the SLS AMG GT3. In its debut year of 2011, the Gullwing became probably the most successful newcomer in the 2011 motorsport season: from March 2011 on 40 race cars were delivered to international customer teams that took part in races on four continents and won a total of 25 races. The success story was crowned by the team title of the FIA GT3 European Championship for HEICO Motorsport and its two Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 – the first title for the Gullwing in its first full racing season.

The race car: performance and safety

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 is the racing version of the SLS AMG for the customer sport. It is designed for sprint and endurance races and is developed and produced by Mercedes-AMG in close cooperation with HWA AG. HWA is responsible for the development and deployment of the AMG-Mercedes DTM racing team on behalf of and in constant consultation with Mercedes-Benz Motorsport. The near-production SLS AMG GT3 provides not only an athletic performance but an exemplary level of safety that is unmatched by any other current GT3 car.

2012 Scion Release Series make dynamic Canadian auto show debut at Montreal International Auto Show

2012-01-13T13:25:00.000-05:00

2012 Scion xB Release Series 9.0

TOYOTA CANADA - Showing off their original designs and exclusive trims and features, the first-ever Canadian Scion Release Series vehicles made their Canadian auto show debut yesterday at the Montreal International Auto Show.

Boxy and bold, the 2012 Scion xB Release Series 9.0 sizzles in Hot Lava, with unique, eye-catching features:

· Hot Lava exterior

· Honeycomb grill featuring Scion name and side vent covers

· Illuminated vehicle locator badges

· Suede-style trimmed seats, colour-tuned seat stitching, embossed seat logo

· RS individually numbered illuminated badge

· Only 200 of these sizzling models will be for sale in Canada.

The new Scion xD Release Series 4.0 sends shivers with frosty Blizzard Pearl finish and exclusive features:

· Unique blizzard pearl finish

· 16" smoked platinum finish alloy wheels with locks

· Pearl white colour-tuned interior, colour-tuned seat surfaces

· Unique RS 4.0 all season floor mats

· RS individually numbered illuminated badge

· Only 100 of these frosty beauties will be available for sale in Canada.

2012 Scion tC Release Series 7.0 makes an immediate impact with bold colour and aggressive body kit:

· High Voltage Yellow exterior colour

· TRD body kit

· Unique 18" alloy wheels with a gloss black finish

· Colour-tuned seat fabric with accent stitching, yellow accent stitching on the steering wheel

· Smart Key with Push Button Start

· RS individually numbered illuminated badge

· Only 175 of these high impact vehicles will be available in Canada.

"The 2012 Scion Release Series vehicles make a bold statement for drivers looking for a vehicle with high impact," said Larry Hutchinson, Senior Executive Director of Scion in Canada. "What's more, these models give big performance, bold body styles, and full suite of comfort, convenience and safety features you demand. And with a number of accessories to choose from, you can take your Release Series model to the next level, to create a Scion that is uniquely yours."

The 2012 Scion Release Series vehicles are now on sale at Canadian Scion dealerships with a starting price of $20,290 for the Scion xB, $18,460 for the Scion xD and $23, 425 for the Scion tC.

Infiniti announces pricing for all-new JX luxury crossover at 2012 Montreal International Auto Show

2012-01-13T13:10:00.000-05:00

Infiniti JX 2013

NISSAN CANADA - Yesterday, Infiniti Canada took the wraps off the newest addition to its line-up, the 2013 Infiniti JX luxury crossover, at the 2012 Montreal International Auto Show (MIAS). With a competitive starting Canadian MSRP of $44,900, real 3rd row utility, a plethora of advanced technologies, and luxury features, the all-new JX offers Canadians a compelling new value proposition in the luxury crossover segment.

“Montreal consumers have a fantastic auto show in store for them this year, and at the Infiniti booth, they have the unique opportunity to be the first in Canada to see the latest Infiniti model to join the line-up,” says Wendy Durward, Director of Infiniti Canada. “With its striking design, highly functional seven-passenger seating, world’s first Backup Collision Intervention technology, and a powerful, yet efficient drivetrain, the new JX is an inspiring example of how Infiniti continues to reach higher levels of performance, safety, versatility and hospitality - all at a very compelling price.”

In line with its expanded partnership with Red Bull racing, Infiniti will also display the championship-winning RB7 Formula One car in its booth at the MIAS. This display marks the first time the Canadian general public will see up close, the car that drove the Red Bull Formula One team to a momentous championship season.

“2011 was an exciting year for Infiniti. Among the highlights, at the 2011 Geneva Motor show, Infiniti announced a global partnership with Red Bull racing, and in May, the designation of Sebastian Vettel - the youngest Formula One champion in history - as Infiniti’s global brand ambassador,” says Durward. “Switching gears from the track to the stage, but continuing with Inspiring Performances, we’re thrilled to continue our global partnership with Quebec’s own Cirque du Soleil.”

Standard with Intelligent-AWD, the all-new JX has a variety of option packages available including:

Premium Package - $5,000
Theatre Package - $2,300
Driver Assistance - $2,200
Deluxe Touring - $2,700
Technology (including Driver Assistance content) - $3,500
20” Wheel Option - $1,700

Nissan Canada debuts LEAF Nismo RC and NV passenger van at 2012 Montreal Auto Show

2012-01-13T12:37:00.000-05:00

Nissan LEAF Nismo RC

NISSAN CANADA - Yesterday, Nissan Canada presented the Nissan LEAF NISMO RC prototype for the first time in Canada and, the all-new Nissan NV Passenger Van for the first time in North America. The debuts at the 2012 Montreal International Auto Show are on either end of the automotive spectrum and highlight Nissan Canada’s broad range of innovative products and technologies.

“Bringing new technologies and exciting vehicles to market is an important part of our commitment to delivering innovation for all,” said Jean-Luc Lemire, Director of Sales and Operations for Nissan Canada Inc. “Over the next few years, we will continue to increase and improve our offerings to Canadians, including innovation in every segment, an average of 15 technologies per year and a strong focus on sustainable mobility.”

Following the success of the Nissan LEAF passenger vehicle, Nissan has moved into the racing world to demonstrate the untapped potential of electric vehicles. At the MIAS, Nissan presented the Nissan LEAF NISMO RC prototype, its first appearance in Canada. The powertrain is a 100% zero emission advanced Lithium-ion battery design, just like that found on the world’s first mass market all-electric vehicle. As indicted by the “RC” – for Racing Competition – this purpose-built prototype brings new meaning to the term “Racing Green.”

“After the successful launch of our most-researched product in North-American history, we are growing our commercial vehicle lineup with the addition of the Nissan Passenger Van, another great example of how this innovative vehicle can be customized for a variety of applications,” said Lemire.

Just one year after its entry into the commercial vehicle business in North America with the segment-changing Nissan NV commercial van series, Nissan is expanding the lineup with the debut in spring 2012 of a new NV3500 HD Passenger Van. Offered for both personal and fleet use, the 4-row/12-passenger Nissan NV3500 HD features the most flexible seating configurations in the full-size passenger van segment, along with one of the highest standard horsepower and torque ratings.

Lexus debuts 2013 Lexus GS at the Montreal International Auto Show

2012-01-13T10:42:00.000-05:00

Lexus GS350 2013

TOYOTA CANADA - At the 2012 Montreal International Auto Show, Lexus continues to deliver progressive luxury and a fresh, evocative design with the Canadian premiere of the 2013 Lexus GS.

Lexus adds performance, style, content and technology for the 2013 model year with the Lexus GS, as it prices the GS 350 to be the most competitive choice in the segment.

The new 2013 GS combines bold, dynamic styling, precise handling, innovative technology, and a spacious interior. In addition to the GS 350, the 2013 GS 350 hybrid model and an available F-Sport package will be launched in early 2012.

“We are very pleased to offer our Guests even greater enjoyment when they select the new GS 350, proving that all-new engineering, luxurious features, performance enhancing technology and an engaging driving experience that costs less than one might think,” continued Mr. Hutchinson. “From its signature spindle grille to its LED brake lamps, the new GS 350 is richly appointed. We’re offering this remarkable new model at the best price in the mid-luxury sedan segment.”

The GS 350 is all-new for 2013. Outside, a fresh exterior design features a lower, more dynamic stance, 18” alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, a new Lexus spindle grille, a moon roof, and HID headlamps. This is complemented by a more luxurious and spacious interior featuring all-white LED ambient lighting, analogue clock with LED indicators, leather instrument panel and changeable ambient illumination. A new Smart Key design is standard, while available options include an enhanced drive-mode select, the world’s first 12.3 inch navigation display, the enhanced 2nd generation Lexus Remote Touch interface, next generation Mark Levinson Audio and more.

All models may be outfitted with several options sets, including Navigation and F-Sport packages, while all-wheel-drive GS 350 models may be enhanced with a number of luxury and technology packages.

And along with the driving pleasure the GS offers, it also sets a new standard for pricing, as a remarkable machine at a remarkable price.

The new Lexus GS is offered in two models:

· The 2013 Lexus GS 350 RWD starts at $51,900 MSRP – $2,750 less than the previous entry level GS model and the lowest entry price in the segment;

· The 2013 Lexus GS 350 AWD starts at $54,900 MSRP – priced to match the current segment leader while offering more standard features, and $2,810 in additional content compared to the previous GS model.

“While all 2013 GS 350s offers a tremendous amount of options to build on, we have ensured that our most popular model, the Lexus GS 350 AWD with Navigation Package, also leads the field in pricing,” Hutchinson continued. “For 2013, the MSRP on this model starts at just $56,800, which is $2,350 less than the 2011MY while offering $1,320 in additional standard equipment.”

The 2013 GS 350 goes on sale at Lexus Dealerships across Canada in early 2012.

Toyota Reveals NS4 Advanced Plug-In Hybrid Concept

2012-01-11T10:34:00.000-05:00

TOYOTA CANADA - Toyota revealed the NS4 advanced plug-in hybrid concept vehicle yesterday at the 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The NS4 signifies Toyota's vision for future mobility with a focus on connectivity and the human interface.

Toyota engineers were challenged to design a new mid-sized concept for potential global market introduction by 2015. The NS4 concept is a dedicated plug-in hybrid, separate from the Prius family, designed with future mobility requirements in mind.

NS4's advanced powertrain targets a next-generation Hybrid Synergy Drive plug-in system featuring reductions in component size and weight with improved overall fuel economy, better acceleration and longer all-electric range, while maintaining a short charge time.

Sleek, Futuristic Styling

The NS4 concept signals a new styling direction for the Toyota brand aimed at creating an emotional connection with consumers. NS4 styling lines reflect a new take on the aerodynamics of the modified triangle, with a low height and cabin-forward tilt. The distinctive open trapezoid grille is accented by a floating lower spoiler and wing-like daytime running lights wrapping around to a sculpted fender. Rear lamps wrap around the sides of the vehicle to quarter sections layered into blistered fenders, while the rear lamp wings create a sharp edge and the effect of a rear spoiler.

The A-pillars are ultra thin for improved driver visibility while maintaining roof crush integrity. The roof line profile, lift back design and powered swan-wing doors create greater accessibility and efficient functionality.

Increased Connectivity

Traditional vehicle development cycles average four years, but this is rapidly changing in the digital age. Vehicles have become another communication hub in the connected-consumers lifestyle and automakers must integrate the latest technologies into their product offerings. In fact, connected vehicles are the third-fastest growing technological device, behind smartphones and tablets.

Toyota has formed special alliances with technology leaders such as Microsoft, Intel and Salesforce to explore the creation of seamless vehicle interfaces with emerging technologies. These alliances will help ensure Toyota is at the forefront of this emerging sector of the automotive market.

The NS4 concept's Human-Machine Interface (HMI) provides a user interface built around a multi-touch screen with the look and feel of a smartphone. The simple, intuitive operation conveys information quickly while minimizing distractions and maximizing driver awareness. The multimedia and vehicle-controls enhancement also will direct air conditioning, audio, battery-charge and navigation functions. The HMI system is even capable of "learning" driver preferences and habits to anticipate driver responses in specific environments and situations. This concept represents a truly connected vehicle, offering the latest technology in a responsible and convenient package.

State-of-the-Art Safety Features

The NS4 introduces a next generation Pre-Collision System (PCS) with lane departure, rear-end and pedestrian collision avoidance technologies designed to predict collisions under certain circumstances and help avoid them. This PCS uses millimetre-wave radar and stereo cameras mounted on the front of the vehicle to detect and react to lane departure, pedestrians and other vehicles. In addition, the system emits near-infrared beams to enhance PCS recognition at night. This driver assistance feature helps to avoid collisions with other vehicles, road-side obstructions, and pedestrians by applying the brakes and manipulating steering.

The current generation PCS, available in certain Lexus and Toyota vehicles, is designed to identify certain objects directly in the road ahead. If PCS determines that a collision is imminent, the brake assist system is placed in standby mode, a warning is displayed and a buzzer sounds. If PCS determines that a collision is unavoidable, the system still will alert the driver via a warning light, warning display and buzzer, apply the brakes and automatically retract the driver and front passenger seatbelts.

Adaptive Driving Beam (ADB) headlights help prevent vision-impairing glare to oncoming drivers and pedestrians. Using a camera mounted behind the front grille and partial shielding inside the headlights, this feature allows drivers to maintain near-high beam illumination to improve nighttime visibility.

The pop-up hood structure automatically raises the rear of the hood to increase the space underneath, helping to reduce pedestrian head injuries caused by a collision with the front of the vehicle, within certain speed ranges. This innovation is the result of testing and verification using both conventional crash-test dummies and Toyota's Total Human Model for Safety (THUMS) virtual model.

Using sub-millimetre wave radar, the Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) is designed to detect a vehicle in the adjacent lane and visually alerts the driver using visual indicators placed in the upper dash.

Four new glass technologies are integrated into the windshield and front triangle, door, and rear windows to improve driver visibility, gas mileage and electric driving mode mileage efficiency:

· Hydrophobic coating – Fluorine coated glass causes rain drops to form into semispherical shapes for improved visibility and rain drop elimination (also used on the roof solar panel)

· Anti-fog film – High performance resin material with anti-fogging characteristics and increased durability

· High ultraviolet (UV) absorbing inner-layer – Removes 99 percent of harmful UVA and UVB rays

· Anti-solar film with radio-wave transparency – Reduces the internal vehicle temperature and improves electronic device functionality

Inner and outer rear view mirrors have been replaced with cameras that provide the driver with a panoramic rearward view. The rearward image is displayed on a dedicated dashboard mounted screen above the navigation screen and provides a wider view than conventional rear view mirrors. The rearward panoramic camera view working in combination with the Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system enhances driving visibility.

"Toyota has had much success with the hybrid vehicles already on the market, which has laid a strong foundation to introduce future advanced technologies," said Tony Wearing, Senior Managing Director, Toyota Canada. "The NS4 is a demonstration of Toyota's continued commitment to create vehicles that are safe, efficient and convenient for all drivers."

Toyota Prius c completes the Prius family of vehicles

2012-01-11T09:36:00.000-05:00

TOYOTA CANADA - Following the U.S. debut of the all-new 2012 Prius c at the 2012 North American International Auto Show, Toyota Canada Inc. plans to bring this dynamically styled, five-door hatchback to market in March of 2012, and introduce Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive to the subcompact segment.

The letter "c" represents "city" in the Prius c name, designed to function as an urban-friendly vehicle with an engaging driving experience, hatchback utility, and a combined fuel consumption rating of 3.7 L/100 km, Prius c offers the lowest L/100 km rating of any vehicle without a plug. The all-new Prius c joins the Prius Family, which includes the third generation Prius liftback, the versatile new Prius v and the Prius Plug-in Hybrid, which will debut in 2012.

Beginning with the first generation fourteen years ago, over two million Prius units have been sold worldwide. Prius remains the world's premier eco-vehicle brand, and has made great strides establishing consumer trust in hybrid technology. With Prius c, Toyota Canada will make the market's most proven hybrid technology available to subcompact car shoppers with a starting MSRP below $21,000.

Unique Place in the Prius Family

A gateway product into the Prius Family, the new Prius c will find favour with younger shoppers seeking a smartly designed, fuel-efficient subcompact car packing advanced drivetrain and in-car technology. The Prius c will offer engaging driving dynamics with superior urban maneuverability. When the 2012 Prius c arrives in showrooms this spring, the all-new hatchback will offer:

• The highest rated fuel efficiency estimate of any vehicle without a plug*; at a combined rating of 3.7 L/100 km

• The most accessible Prius will feature a starting MSRP below $21,000 with proven hybrid powertrain and premium technology

• A premium subcompact car experience thanks to a wide array of available convenience and advanced in-car electronics features, including a standard 3.5in. full color LCD multi-information display, hands-free phone capability, USB port with iPod connectivity, and available Display Audio system with Navigation.

The scale of the all-new Prius c becomes apparent when compared to the familiar proportions of the midsize Prius Liftback. The Prius c is smaller and lighter than its midsize Prius stable mate with 19.1 inches less length (157.3 vs. 176.4 inches OAL) and 542 lbs. less weight than the Prius Liftback (2,500 vs. 3,042 lbs.). In adapting the Hybrid Synergy Drive to the smaller Prius c platform, each of the system's major components were re-designed to reduce weight, scale, and improve efficiency.

Four Grades with Generous Standard Equipment

The Prius c will be available in three trim levels offering desirable features, equipment, and enhanced capability giving consumers a compelling value proposition. Prius c provides many standard features such as automatic climate control, tilt-telescopic steering wheel with audio, climate, Multi-Information Display and Bluetooth hands-free controls, and remote keyless entry with illuminated entry among a long list of standard equipment.

Efficient Packaging

The Prius c's effective packaging design strategically locates key drivetrain components within the chassis to help optimize interior space and handling. The compact gasoline engine, transaxle and power-control unit are optimally placed within the vehicle to help enhance weight distribution and lower the center of gravity. In addition, the hybrid battery and fuel tank are positioned together beneath the rear seat, ideally distributing their mass within the wheelbase to improve weight distribution to help enhance handling. By locating the battery and fuel tank below the rear seat, the Prius c is able to offer 104 cu. ft. of interior volume (87.4 cu. ft. passenger volume, 17 cu. ft. cargo volume).

Prius c Hybrid Synergy Drive Propulsion

The Prius c's Hybrid Synergy Drive system integrates the operation of components that include a gasoline engine, an electric motor within a Continuously Variable Transaxle, a nickel-metal hydride battery, a power control unit (inverter), a DCDC converter, a step-up converter and a hybrid control computer. The hybrid control computer governs the seamless application of gasoline engine and electric power depending on driving demands and selected drive mode.

The Prius c relies on a Tier 2 Bin 3 rated 1.5-liter in-line, four-cylinder gasoline engine that utilizes an Atkinson cycle to increase efficiency. This engine produces 73 horsepower and 82 lb.-ft. of torque, contributing to a total hybrid system output of 99 hp.

The Prius c's hybrid system utilizes a 144-volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack that has been located under the rear passenger seat, near the center of the vehicle, and low in the chassis to help improve the center of gravity.

Prius c offers three distinct drive modes: Normal, Eco, and EV mode. Eco mode reduces overall energy consumption by governing climate control and throttle to improve vehicle efficiency. Under certain conditions, the EV mode allows the Prius c to be driven solely by electric power for a short distance (about one kilometre) while remaining below 40 km/h.

Vehicle Structure – Improved Handling and Safety

The Prius c's body structure makes extensive use of lightweight, high-strength steel to help reduce vehicle mass and improve fuel economy. The strategic use of high- tensile-strength steel contributes to the vehicle's ability to absorb and disperse impact energies helping enhance occupant safety. The high level of torsional rigidity afforded by the Prius c body structure allows the suspension to be more optimally tuned for ride and handling.

Suspension and Steering for Enhanced Handling

The front suspension uses a Macpherson strut design, and the rear rides on a tuned torsion beam. The coil-spring and shock-absorber characteristics of the Prius c have been tuned to enhance handling, flat turning, and smooth ride comfort. Prius c is available with 15- or 16-inch wheel-and-tire combinations. The 15-inch wheels are available in steel with wheel cover for base model or in aluminum alloy for elevated trim levels. Prius c models equipped with the available 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels enjoy enhanced handling thanks to a faster steering ratio (2.28 turns lock to lock), which helps quicken the vehicle's dynamic response.

Youthful Exterior and Interior Design

The Prius c exterior design helps project a fun, youthful attitude for this all-new addition to the Prius family, while offering excellent aerodynamic performance. Extensive aerodynamic features were engineered into the Prius c to help achieve a 0.28 coefficient of drag. Adding character to this subcompact, the Prius c's lower-body styling is wider below the beltline, featuring sculpted rear flares to help express a sturdy, athletic stance that communicates a more agile driving experience.

The Prius c's available exterior colors include vibrant hues that are unique and expressive. The available colors for Prius c include three new colors – Mandarin Orange, Aqua and Lime White Pearl – along with Blue Streak Metallic, Absolutely Red, Black Sand Pearl, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Classic Silver Metallic, and Alpine White.

The Prius c interior design seeks to create a space that is futuristic yet passenger friendly. Using blue/grey as a basic interior color, the door trim, seat surfaces, and instrument panel feature treatments in lighter colors to help create contrast.

Display Audio

The 2012 Prius c will offer two audio system configurations. A base audio system features 6 speakers, and includes AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability, auxiliary audio jack, USB port with iPod connectivity, hands-free phone capability, phone book access, and music streaming via Bluetooth wireless technology.

The second audio system adds Display Audio with Navigation and SiriusXM Satellite Radio capability.

Standard Safety Features

The Prius c is equipped with nine airbags strategically located to help protect the driver and passengers in the event of certain types of accidents. The new 2012 Prius c, like all Toyota models, is equipped with the standard Star Safety System, which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), and Smart Stop Technology (SST).

* Estimated mileage - actual mileage will vary.

Lexus Introduces 2013 LX 570 Luxury Utility Vehicle at North American International Auto Show

2012-01-10T12:35:00.000-05:00

TOYOTA CANADA - Sporting a new Lexus spindle grille, new 20-inch alloy wheel design and upgraded interior for the 2013 model year, the eight-passenger LX 570 continues to deliver on challenging off-road adventures as well as luxurious daily driving.

The 2013 LX 570 gets a new look at both the front and rear. New LED daytime running lights complement new headlamp design and new larger fog lamp bezels. Taillamps are also updated, while the rear license plate surround gets a revised look and the tow hitch cover is more integrated. Both front and rear bumpers are refreshed, and the rear bumper protector is enhanced by a chrome accent.

Turn signals have been added to the side mirrors, and wider bodyside moldings sport a new look.

The spacious, eight-passenger cabin of the LX 570 receives a number of upgrades and changes. The driver's seat gets a new Easy Access system, which makes entering and exiting the vehicle easier. The steering wheel and driver's seat automatically retract when the ignition is turned off. Front seats also feature improved cooling, and a 120-volt power outlet has been added to the middle row. The instrument panel has been updated and a new colour display is applied. A dark chrome finish for the centre instrument cluster and front side air vents, along with a new chrome accent above the glove box, freshen the look of the instrument panel as well.

The cabin of the 2013 LX 570 also gets mahogany wood trim. Parchment replaces Cashmere as an interior leather trim color. Two new exterior colors are available: Mercury Grey Metallic and Satin Cashmere Metallic, replacing Twilight Gray Metallic and Golden Almond Metallic.

Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance

The LX 570's 5.7-litre V8 delivers the punch and towing power demanded in this segment. The powerplant produces 383 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and peak torque of 403 lb.-ft at 3,600 rpm. Crucial to LX customers who tow with their vehicles, 90 percent of peak torque is available at just 2,200 rpm.

The LX 570 is equipped with an electronically-controlled six-speed automatic transmission that estimates road conditions and predicts the driver's intention in order to select the appropriate gear ratio for the vehicle's speed and the driving conditions. A sequential shift mode allows the driver to select gears manually. Even at very low speeds, such as trail driving, the transmission operates smoothly and imperceptibly.

The LX 570's transfer case provides full-time four-wheel drive that is equally adept at handling the rigors of slippery winter weather or deep mud or snow. The system uses a TORSEN limited-slip locking centre differential to distribute power 40:60 front-to-rear, directing more power to the wheels with the best grip should slippage occur. Four-wheel Active Traction Control (A-TRAC) employs both brake and throttle intervention to help control wheel spin. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) helps maintain directional control during cornering and can be disengaged via the "TRAC off" switch.

The updated Crawl Control feature provides optimum throttle and brake modulation when maneuvering over rough, uneven or difficult surfaces. The new Off-Road Turn Assist feature also helps by tightening the turning circles by adding more brake force to the inside rear wheel. The new Multi-terrain Select also allow you to optimize performance by choosing from five types of terrain. Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) helps provide additional control for off-road driving by helping to keep the vehicle from rolling back when your foot moves from the brake to the gas pedal on a steep incline or slippery surface.

Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes

The LX 570's highly capable chassis is equipped with an advanced suspension system. The high-mount, independent double-wishbone front suspension allows for nine inches of total front wheel travel for outstanding articulation over rough roads and obstacles. The four-link trailing-arm rear suspension retains the solid-axle configuration for strength and durability. Body-on-frame construction provides ruggedness and durability in challenging driving conditions, plus impressive ride isolation characteristics and a 7,000-pound towing capability.

The Active Height Control system lowers the chassis by about two inches for easy entry and exit and returns automatically to its normal height when the vehicle begins to accelerate. An Easy Access mode allows the driver to also lower the vehicle when it is parked. For improved aerodynamics, the AHC system lowers the vehicle at highway speeds. When the transfer case is shifted into low range, AHC raises the vehicle to provide additional ride height in driving situations where chassis clearance is at a premium.

The Adaptive Variable Suspension system provides three modes to control the spring rate and shock absorber damping force to provide optimal handling and comfort for on-road or trail driving. Comfort mode provides a softer response on extremely bumpy roads, while the Normal and Sport modes help provide increasingly greater levels of control for driving a heavily loaded vehicle, driving at higher speeds on paved roads, or driving on unpaved roads.

The standard split five-spoke, 20-inch alloy wheels with Liquid Graphite finish wear 285/50R20 tires. The multi-terrain ABS system determines road-surface conditions and automatically optimizes lock-up control, selecting the suitable ABS profile for on- and off-road driving surfaces. Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) employs the ABS to properly balance braking forces between the front and rear wheels, while Brake Assist (BA) provides auxiliary force to assist the driver during emergency braking.

Standard/Safety/Security Features

The LX 570 is equipped with 10 standard airbags, including driver- and front-passenger knee airbags, front and second-row seat-mounted side airbags in the outboard seating positions, and roll-sensing side curtain airbags that cover all three rows. All eight seating positions feature three-point seatbelts. The second-row seatbelts integrate pre-tensioners for the outboard seats and an ALR/ELR (Automatic Locking Retractor/Emergency Locking Retractor) seatbelt for the center seat.

The LX 570 was the first vehicle in its class to use Active Front Headrests which move upward and forward in the event of certain low speed rear-end collisions when the force of the occupant's body is applied to the seat back.

The LX 570 was also the first in its class to offer available Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. In addition, LX 570 was the first Lexus to offer the optional Wide-view Front and Side Camera feature designed for use in tight settings, such as parking garages. With cameras located within the front grille and under the passenger outside mirror, the driver can check hard-to-view areas by simply pressing a button on the dashboard and viewing the camera images on the standard navigation system screen. The Wide-view Front and Side Camera functions up to a vehicle speed of about 12 kph and can display the front and side views simultaneously in split-screen mode.

Luxury/Comfort/Convenience

A full array of standard luxury amenities includes four-zone independent climate control, heated and ventilated front seats and heated second-row seats (outboard position only), a rear back-up camera, Lexus Navigation System, casual-language voice recognition and nine-speaker Lexus Premium Sound system with iPod/USB connectivity, and streaming music and phonebook download via Bluetooth.

The standard power-sliding second-row seat slides forward and aft 88.9 mm (3.5 inches) for passenger comfort and cargo storage versatility. The second-row seatbacks provide a convenient 40/20/40 split. The second row seat is specially engineered to make tumbling it forward easy for anyone. A power retractable third-row seat is standard. The split rear tailgate features a power upper door, while the bottom section raises and lowers with minimal effort.

The LX 570 offers an optional Ultra Premium Package that includes a cool box for beverages; semi-aniline leather-trimmed upholstery with contrast stitching, heated steering wheel and mahogany wood trimmed door switch plates. The Ultra Premium Package also comes with additional safety features such as the Pre-Collision System and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

In addition to the Ultra Premium Package, the new LX 570 now features a rear dual screen rear-seat entertainment system with wireless headphones and three-prong electrical outlet. This system allows two video sources to be viewed at the same time – for instance, one can be used as a DVD player while the other as a game console or audio player.

For audiophiles, a 19-speaker Mark Levinson Reference Surround Sound audio system is also available with 450-watts maximum power and 15 channels.

Warranty

All new Lexus vehicles come with a 48-month/80,000 kilometre basic limited warranty with roadside assistance for 48 months/unlimited kilometres. Powertrain and restraint system coverage is provided for 72 months/110,000 kilometres. Corrosion perforation protection is covered for 72 months, regardless of kilometres.

Lexus Unveils Sleek Hybrid 2+2 Sport Coupe Design Concept at North American International Auto Show

2012-01-10T11:06:00.000-05:00

TOYOTA CANADA - Lexus yesterday unveiled a new design concept for a hybrid 2+2 sport coupe at the North American International Auto Show. Showcasing the future design direction for Lexus and emphasis on a driver-focused vehicle, the LF-LC concept will be at the Lexus display through January 22.

"The LF-LC concept showcases the evolution of the Lexus design which started with the popular CT 200h and the bold new GS sedan," said Larry Hutchinson, Senior Executive Director of Lexus in Canada. "This concept showcases Lexus' leadership in innovation, technology and performance all while liberating the idea of a sport coupe."

Challenged by the Lexus Center in Japan to come up with a design for a future hybrid sport coupe concept, the company's Calty design studio in Newport Beach, Calif. sought to advance the redefinition of Lexus with emotive, avant-garde beauty and advanced technology, yet remain within reach for premium buyers.

"Our entire studio worked to develop this beautiful interpretation of Lexus originality," said Kevin Hunter, president of Calty. "The LF-LC concept embodies our vision of what a premium sport coupe could be."

The LF-LC displays the new Lexus design language in its bold interpretation of the signature Lexus spindle grille and rear architecture. Sumptuous curves blend smoothly into dynamic angles, creating an inviting display of lines, shadows and corners.

Framed by a deep aluminum surround, the mesh pattern of the spindle grille takes 3D sculpture form, and functional air intakes in the bottom corners of the grille show the fusion of distinctive style and engineering functionality.

Daytime running lights are shaped like an "L" while the vertical fog lamps utilize a fading dot matrix pattern to suggest a sense of movement.

The profile of the LF-LC creates a powerful, dynamic silhouette that is unmistakably that of a serious driver's car. The lines of the vehicle emphasize direction and motion.

The concept car's glass roof features a lightweight, cantilevered pillar with a glass-to-glass juncture inspired by modern architecture. A rising, kick-up window graphic and polished aluminum trim are unexpected elements. Overall, the greenhouse design enhances driver visibility while adding to the sleek lines of the car.

The dynamic cabin lines are carried through to the rear deck, sculpturally integrating the spindle grille theme to echo the front of the vehicle while creating a unique sense of width. The tail lamps, inspired by the look of a jet afterburner at take-off, use inner lighting to create a remarkable sense of depth. The rear is also fitted with fog lamps, repeating the fading dot matrix pattern of the front fog lamps. Visually, the integrated tail and fog lamps repeat the "L" shape and lead the viewer's eye down to the powerful Lexus quad exhaust.

The interior of the LF-LC concept vehicle contrasts the cool ambience of advanced technology with soft textures and organic shapes to create a driver-focused synergy of form and function. The cockpit expresses a feeling of both openness and security. The driver is enveloped by deeply scooped side panels and a high, curved console. The effect is to focus the driver zone on the controls and on the road.

Based on Lexus' commitment to creating an intuitive driving experience, the LF-LC incorporates a remote touch-screen device that allows the driver to comfortably operate controls without shifting position or altering line-of-sight.

Twin 12.3-inch LCD screens provide information and navigation display. Inputs come from a touch-screen control board piercing the swept center console. Used to control the audio system, climate controls and navigation, the interface features a pop-up touch-screen keyboard for more complex entries. Similar touch-screen surfaces on each door operate the windows, mirrors, seat adjustments and personal entertainment settings.

Set directly in front of the driver, multi-level meters layer analog and LCD technologies. The bottom layer displays temperature, fuel and the background for the Eco meter. The middle layer is the tachometer mechanical center ring. The topmost layer provides indicators for the tachometer, speedometer and Eco meter.

Surfaces throughout the cabin are presented in a combination of smooth leather and suede, with brushed metal trim and wood accents. The lightweight, race-inspired front seats are formed of multiple layers and repeat the interlacing curves that define the cabin interior. The racing style steering wheel is also a lightweight design and contains integrated controls and start button. Beautiful stitch details emphasize organic movement throughout the interior.

The front-engine, rear-wheel drive LF-LC features Advanced Lexus Hybrid Drive, delivering both driving performance and fuel efficiency.

"What started as a design exercise has clearly become a strikingly creative concept," said Hutchinson. "The LF-LC promises to deliver a dynamic driving experience, while lessening environmental impact with its next-generation hybrid powertrain."

The world premiere of the new SL and two all-new hybrid models took centre stage on the Mercedes-Benz stand at the opening of the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

2012-01-10T10:49:00.000-05:00

DAIMLER AG - The new models from Mercedes-Benz delivered a strong impetus for the new automotive year and for the future of the brand as a whole – directly in the wake of the best sales year in company history. For the first time, the all-new SL Roadster is made almost entirely from aluminium and weighs up to 140 kg less than its predecessor thanks to intelligent lightweight design. The result is more agility and dynamic character combined with improved comfort and increased crash safety. The new BlueDIRECT engines are more powerful, yet up to 29 percent more fuel efficient than the engines in the outgoing model. More driving fun with even lower fuel consumption is also on offer from the two new E-Class hybrid models – the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is the world's most fuel-efficient full-size

car, consuming just 4.2 litres of diesel per 100 km (109 g CO2/km). The gasoline-powered E 400 HYBRID, which will be launched first in the USA, delivers fuel economy of 27 mpg (combined).

"In 2011 we sold more than 1.36 million cars worldwide – more than ever before. 2012 will see us push forward with our product offensive and repeat two things that worked extremely well last year – we will launch another six new models and we will set the bar even higher by making green cars cooler and cool cars greener," said Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, at the NAIAS press conference. To back this up, Mercedes-Benz presented the sixth generation SL. Compared with its highly successful predecessor, the new model offers a considerable boost in sporting character and comfort and sets new benchmarks in the luxury roadster class. Plus, it comes with a full serving of everyday usability.

Classic proportions and outstanding aerodynamics

The stylish luxury sports car has classic proportions with a long hood and a compact cockpit set well back. Finely honed details and air vents with chromed fins from the dynamic tradition of Mercedes-Benz Design add visual emphasis to the SL legend.

Dr. Dieter Zetsche: "There are around 900 million cars on this earth and thousands of models. But there is but a handful of automotive icons. Our SL is one of them – it has class, it has style, it is the embodiment of comfort and luxury. But it combines all of that with an unbelievably sporty and dynamic character."

Moreover, the new SL boasts outstanding aerodynamics. Alongside the lowest drag coefficient (cd = 0.27 in the SL 350), it also offers the lowest level of wind noise – almost on par with a closed saloon – as well as the very best airflow and noise characteristics with the top down.

"The new SL offers everything that defines an absolutely top-class premium roadster," said Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Mercedes-Benz Cars, Sales and Marketing. "It is two things rolled into one – a dynamic sports roadster and a luxurious coupé. Or, as we say, it is both athlete and connoisseur."

Mercedes-Benz hybrid offensive with the E-Class

With its two new E-Class hybrid models, Mercedes-Benz is turning a new chapter in the brand's core segment and thereby setting new benchmarks for full-size business saloons. The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID, which is available as both a saloon and estate, sets new records with its efficiency. The world's most fuel-efficient full-size model boasts exceptional fuel consumption figures (4.2 l/100 km) and outstanding performance. The four-cylinder diesel in the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID delivers 150 kW (204 hp) and generates 500 Nm of torque. The electric motor develops 20 kW and 250 Nm.

The V6 spark-ignition engine in the E 400 HYBRID delivers 225 kW (306 hp) and generates 370 Nm of torque, plus a further 20 kW and 250 Nm from the electric motor. The fuel economy in accordance with American CAFE standards stands at 24 mpg city, 31 mpg highway and 27 mpg combined.

"This modular hybrid technology opens the way for us to add hybrid models to other model ranges in the near future," said Prof. Dr. Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development."With a clear focus on the varying needs of the global markets, we can offer precisely those models that our customers are demanding. Alongside a considerable reduction in fuel consumption, the E‑Class hybrids are very impressive to drive – this is hybrid driving on a premium level."

The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is initially planned for the European market, while the E 400 HYBRID will be launched first on the American market and later offered in further countries such as Japan and China.

Volvo Car Corporation's Plug-in Hybrid - same world-class safety as all Volvo cars

2012-01-10T10:23:00.000-05:00

VOLVO CANADA - A Volvo Plug-in Hybrid includes a systematic approach to all safety aspects related to battery power.

The basic perspective is that a plug-in version must be as safe as any other new Volvo car - when it comes to owning and driving and also in the event of an accident.

"We apply the same high safety standards to all our products but the safety-related challenges may differ depending on the driveline and fuel being used. To us, electrification technology is another exciting challenge in our quest to build the safest cars on the market," says Jan Ivarsson, Senior Manager Safety Strategy & Requirements at Volvo Car Corporation. He adds: "It is understandable that a lot of questions about electrification safety are related to what will happen in an accident but it is important to have a holistic approach including all the aspects of day-to-day usage of the car."

Monitoring and encapsulation

Volvo Car Corporation is conducting wide-ranging and thorough analysis of a variety of safety scenarios for cars with electric power. Through advanced automatic monitoring of battery status and by encapsulating the battery and protecting it effectively in a collision, the result is a world-class safety level.

"A holistic, human centric approach and real-life traffic conditions are always the starting-point for our safety work. Based on our massive database with input from actual road incidents and accidents, we know where the focus must lie in everyday traffic conditions. The solutions we have developed for a Plug-in Hybrid take into account the situations that are unique to this type of car," says Jan Ivarsson. He adds:

"We will introduce the V60 Plug-in Hybrid in Europe during 2012. The rigorous test procedure developed for this diesel-electric car will of course also apply when we take the next step with a gasoline plug-in version."

Know-how from actual traffic

Volvo Car Corporation is using its unique know-how from actual traffic conditions to carry out detailed testing and verification. This test procedure also includes the general requirements and protocols of the industry's safety institutes.

When analysing traffic situations from a safety perspective, the engineers use a model that illustrates the sequence of events during the whole driving phase. The process is divided into five phases: from the normal driving situation to after the accident has occurred.

Unique solutions for electric cars

All established safety systems will also be available in a plug-in hybrid version. However, electric power also adds new possible safety scenarios to the overall picture and these too must be dealt with. Volvo's safety experts have meticulously analysed the five accident sequence phases and developed unique solutions for the battery and for protection of the occupants as necessary.

1. Normal driving: An advanced monitoring system keeps watch and ensures that each cell maintains the correct voltage level and optimal operating temperature by regulating the cooling system. This is of significance to safety as well as for battery capacity. In the event of any deviation, the battery is automatically shut down as a preventive measure.

2. Conflict: The battery pack adds weight that can create new conditions for the vehicle's dynamics and alter the car's behaviour, for instance in fast avoidance manoeuvres. The braking system can handle the increased mass, and DSTC (Dynamic Stability and Traction Control) helps the driver contain the situation.

3. Avoidance: If a frontal collision is imminent and the driver is acting too late to brake the car, automatic systems such as Collision Warning with Full Auto Brake and City Safety are activated to help avoid or reduce the effects of a collision.

4. Collision: In order to reduce the effects of a collision, the safety experts have focused on protecting all electrical components.

The rear structure has been modified to ensure a controlled deformation that helps protect the battery pack, which is located under the load floor. Steel beams and other parts of the structure are reinforced. The battery pack is also sturdily encapsulated.

The electric system is monitored by two systems:

Crash sensors linked to the battery measure the physical collision forces. At the very moment of collision, they send information about the collision to the car's computer, which automatically shuts off the power supply.

Insulation measurement reacts on deviations in the electrical system. The contactors are opened immediately to brake the power if an earth fault is detected. If the battery is damaged, resulting in gas leakage, there are special evacuation ducts that lead the gas out under the car. In the event of extreme heat, the occupants are shielded by the battery's encapsulation.

5. After the collision: Volvo Car Corporation will work together with the emergency rescue services, providing them with detailed instructions on how to safely make sure that the power supply is disconnected before the rescue work begins.

The high voltage in the battery is separated from the car. All high voltage cables are orange to make them easy to identify.

Stringent test regime

Volvo's safety tests take place in Volvo's technically advanced crash test facility in several different stages: at component level, for whole systems and the complete car is safety-tested virtually in the computer, and physically in Volvo Car Corporation's technically advanced crash-test centre. "Before introduction, a Plug-in Hybrid will go through the same test programme as all our new car models. This includes full-scale crash tests with different load cases, such as frontal collision, rear and side collisions to confirm that the battery technology fulfils our stringent safety requirements," explains Jan Ivarsson.

Volvo Car Corporation has defined a new, severe load case to ensure that the reinforced side structure works as intended.

The test programme also includes component tests of the battery pack. The results are used to determine how the collision forces affect the battery - and how much damage it can withstand before power has to be cut in an accident.

"We have decades of experience in how to protect a fuel tank in a collision. Now, we are building up the same knowledge when it comes to protecting batteries. The tests provide both ourselves and the battery supplier valuable input in the continuous product development," says Jan Ivarsson.

Safety when servicing and recycling

A Plug-in Hybrid is equipped with a service cut out to quickly and safely disconnect the vehicle's power supply in the workshop.

Volvo Car Corporation and the battery manufacturers have far-reaching product responsibility as regards both production and recycling. This ensures proper handling of the battery when it comes to the end of its life in the car.

Nissan e-NV200 Concept Makes World Debut at 2012 North American International Auto Show

2012-01-10T09:39:00.000-05:00

NISSAN CANADA - The innovative Nissan e-NV200 Concept makes its world debut yesterday at the 2012 North American Auto Show in Detroit. Based on the popular Nissan NV200 multi-usage vehicle, which is available in Japan, Europe and China, the Nissan e-NV200 Concept previews a near-future production version of a full electric vehicle. It is designed to provide businesses or families with flexible, roomy interior space, while achieving a dramatic CO2 footprint reduction.

"The Nissan e-NV200 serves as further evidence of Nissan's leadership position in the zero-emission automotive industry," said Hideto Murakami, corporate vice president, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. "As a potential mass production vehicle, the Nissan e-NV200 Concept would also provide a reduction in operating costs compared to current internal combustion engine vehicles."

The Nissan e-NV200 Concept combines a driving range similar to the Nissan LEAF with payload and cargo space similar to the current NV200. The production version would be targeted mainly at businesses, but also at private users or families in major regions.

The Nissan e-NV200 Concept exterior starts with a foundation of a production Nissan NV200, then adds strong visual cues from the breakthrough Nissan LEAF EV. The wide hood is accented by a large central charging port door, the blue–accented Nissan badge, and sweeping headlights with LED illuminated accents. Large front windows and long rear greenhouse combine with a pair of large glass roof panels to create an airy, open interior environment.

The exterior is painted in a customized colour, following the concept of the Nissan LEAF's Aqua Blue, which expresses a sense of environmental friendliness.

Inside, the Nissan e-NV200 Concept interior depicts a clean, modern Nissan EV identity through use of the EV meters, blue coloured accents and bright interior colour palette, while also retaining the NV200's strong functional feeling. The e-NV200 Concept interior also features advanced telematics and a flat C-cluster display that resembles and responds to user input like a tablet computer.

The Nissan e-NV200 Concept shares its major drivetrain components with the 2012 Nissan LEAF. Silent, zero emission power is supplied is by a lithium-ion battery composed of 48 compact modules and a high-response 80kW AC synchronous motor that generates 207 lb-ft (280 N-m/rpm) of torque. And, like the Nissan LEAF, the Nissan e-NV200 Concept offers a highly responsive, fun-to-drive experience that is in keeping with what consumers have come to expect from traditional, gasoline-powered vehicles. In line with the Nissan LEAF, the Nissan e-NV200 Concept offers excellent projected fuel economy – a critical factor for commercial vehicle operators.

The Nissan e-NV200 Concept will be on display, along with the dramatic new Nissan Pathfinder Concept, at the North American International Auto Show at Detroit's Cobo Centre from January 14 – 22.

For additional information on the Nissan e-NV200 Concept, please visit www.eNV200.com.