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Friday, December 31, 2010
LED Truck Trailer Light, OEM Orders are Welcome
Supplier and product information updated December 06, 2010. Global Sources verifies information published here via regular supplier visits.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
LED Tail Light with 5/8-inch Harness Connector, Fits 2-inch Hitch Receivers
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Wednesday, December 29, 2010
19-piece LED Work Lamp with 12/24V DC Voltage and Metal Bracket, Water/Shockproof
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Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Roadside Caution Flasher, 8 High Visibility Steady or Flashing LED Lights Draw
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Monday, December 27, 2010
Halogen Lights with 10 to 30V DC, Epoxy Resin Sealed, Waterproof
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LED Truck Tail Light with 24V Voltage and Long Lifespan
Supplier and product information updated December 08, 2010. Global Sources verifies information published here via regular supplier visits.
Sunday, December 26, 2010
LED Car Tail Light with Anti-fog Technology, OEM Services are Welcome
Key Contact:
Mr Zhang, Mikey
Export Manager
Export Trading
Mr Tu, Kevin
Manager
Export Department
KUAFU INT'L CO.,LTD
P.O. Box: lgzhangsc@gmail.com
Room 2204, Block 2, Flat A.
Xin Hua Hao Ting
No.29 Xin Hua Xia RD
Wuhan
Hubei
China (mainland) 430017
Tel: (86 27) 85629392
Fax: (86 27) 85629395
Key Contact:
Mr Zhang, Mikey
Export Manager
Export Department
Supplier and product information updated December 08, 2010. Global Sources verifies information published here via regular supplier visits.
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Porsche RUF CTR3 – The Third Generation CTR
CTR3 is the third generation model of the CTR and it is tuned by RUF, the famous German tuning house. The record-setting 700 horsepower energy output and an awesome 235mph speed entitle the CTR3 to be called as the fastest Porsche on offer. The 3.8-liter flat-6 engine of the new Porsche is powered with a twin-turbo and has a displacement of 229 cu in. The power 700bhp is available at 7000rpm and it produces a torque of 657 lb-ft.
The body of the latest CTR is recreated by the RUF’s aluminum and carbon-fiber fittings. The new fittings, thus, reduces the weight of this sporty model considerably making its function more smooth on the roads. The lattice tubing space frame that is applied in its body work is another important feature that contributed for the weight reduction.
The six-speed sequential manual gearbox is responsible for the top speed achieved by this super model. It can achieve acceleration from 0-62 mph in a span of 3.2 seconds. The body of CTR3 has got an elegant sporty look with its vented roof, the aerodynamic front and the flattened rear. The body appearance alone will catch the attention of the car aficionado all over the world. On the other hand, the interior looks sanguine with more red added in each component of it.
It was exactly 20 years back the original CTR was launched, and since then, the CTR has been known for beating many of its competitors. The story of CTR3 is not going to be different at all, according to Porsche and RUF.
The base price of CTR3 is fixed as $510,000. Are you ready?
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2008 Honda S 2000 CR Concept
The American Honda Motor Co. launched the race-inspired model of the S2000 roadster at the recent New York International Show. The racer model will be available at the dealers by September 2007.
The entire body of the roadster is reworked to fit the new model in a racer’s shoe. The aerodynamic body package is the most important feature of this aggressive performer on the roads. The body weight has been reduced considerably and the chassis balance is improved giving an easy feel to it in stressful driving conditions.
The chassis is featured with Bridgestone Potenza RE070 tires. Apart from the bigger rear tyre and better springs and dampers, the new model is provided with larger stabilizer bars and a new wheel design, ensuring a quicker steering ratio.
The body is now featured with a removable hard aluminum top to replace the original soft top present in the S2000 base model. When removed, the weight of the car gets reduced by 90 pounds.
Then comes the engine efficiency. Capable of delivering 237 horsepower at 7,800 rpm and a 162 lb-ft of torque at 6,8000 rpm, this engine is not far behind its counterparts on the racing roads. The performance guarantee is strengthened by the additional care taken in modifying the front and rear double wishbone suspension and adding an electric power steering and a torque-sensing limited slip differential.
The interior has been reworked considering the growing demands from the car enthusiasts across the world. The new cloth seating, the spherical aluminum shifter and the carbon fiber-style trim panels are innovative interior features of S2000 CR. The car also comes with optional air conditioning and AM/FM stereo and CD player.
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Subaru Impreza2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 – Superbly powered RoadsterPorsche RUF CTR3 – The Third Generation CTRLamborghini Gallardo Superleggera2007 Ford Focus World Rally Car (WRC)This entry was posted on Monday, April 23rd, 2007 at 8:15 am and is filed under Auto News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.Subaru Impreza
Subaru Impreza, the elegant model from Subaru, has its debut at the New York International Auto Show, and the product will be available in the market soon this summer.
The important modifications of the new model include the chic style and interior design along with additional space and comfort to ensure a smooth driving environment.
The Subaru is provided with the Symmetrical All –Wheel drive facility with the help of horizontally opposed engine.
The engine has a capacity of 2.5 liter. The SOHC feature of this engine enables it to deliver mid to low-end torque and improve the fuel efficiency considerably. The intake manifold, intercooler and turbocharger are also redesigned in order to fit them to the new model. There are both transmissions available, both manual and automatic.
The additional contributing factors for the higher efficiency of the Impreza is its new body construction, chassis and the drivetrain. To improve the suspension and shock absorbing features, the Impreza is provided with double-wishbone rear suspension. The Boxer engine used in the Impreza is characterized by its ability to lower the center of gravity and thus ensure better balance on the roads.
The Impreza body features attractive unique panel curves and sweeping lines on the side. The projecting front fenders and rear quarters give the perfect sporty look to the sports model. The interior is modified to add more space and comfort. The aluminum-look insets, the navigation screen and elegant dashboard, and the high-quality fabric seat are among the important interior features.
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2008 Honda S 2000 CR ConceptAudi Abt R8Porsche RUF CTR3 – The Third Generation CTRThe New BMW M32008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 AMG Black SeriesThis entry was posted on Monday, May 7th, 2007 at 9:26 am and is filed under Auto News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.Thursday, December 23, 2010
2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 AMG Black Series
This sporty model is derived from the Official F1 Safety Car. Originally a coup, the CLK 63 is powered with AMG 6.3liter engine that is capable of delivering a 500bhp power and 470 lb-ft torque. With the 25bhp upgraded power, the super car now accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds, faster than the earlier 475bhp model. The top speed achieved is 186 mph (300km/h).
There are effective modifications done on the suspension and wheel system. The new model is characterized by the sophisticated AMG suspension along with the 19-inch AMG forged wheel system. To face the challenges on the road, the car is provided with a large cooling intake system with larger radiator, an optimized power steering cooler, and an additional transmission cooler in the left front wheel arch. Other significant modifications include the AMG-powered brake system with the composite disks, flared wheel arches, diffuser-type rear apron, and carbon-fiber airflow breakway edge.
There are significant alterations made in the interior of the vehicle. By dispensing the rear seats, the new coupe has been changed into a two seater now. The AMG instrument panel is now provided with a lot of modern features. These include the status indicators for the current gear in action, engine oil status, temperature of the engine, and battery voltage, in addition to the innovative race timer. The race timer helps the driver to keep a watch on the lap times in a closed course and also enables him to record the fastest lap, average speed, maximum speed, etc.
Formula One technology is redefined here.
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2007 Nissan 350Z
This is the era of modifications for the Nissan. Having an origin from the 1970 Datsun 240 Z, the new 2007Nissan 350Z brings new definition for car style and performance.
The 2007 model comes with three chic colors – carbon silver, solar orange and San Marino Blue. To tempt the sporty car lovers, the Touring and Grand Touring Coupe models have been provided with a Bluetooth hands-free phone system.
The VQ35HR engine is worth of its value. With the extended power of this 3.5-liter engine, the vehicle can now boast of 306 horsepower power output at 6,88 rpm
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WHAT A COUPE!Jeep Grand Cherokee CRD LimitedThe New BMW M3Pontiac G6 – Sedan, Coupe, Convertible…Porsche RUF CTR3 – The Third Generation CTRThis entry was posted on Thursday, April 26th, 2007 at 9:49 pm and is filed under Auto News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.Tuesday, December 21, 2010
2007 Porsche Boxter – Box stir!
Undoubtedly, the Porsche Boxter has created quite a stir around. One of the best brands in the sports car segment, you can trust a Porsche with your eyes shut. Their 2007 release of the Boxter gives sports car enthusiasts what they have been waiting for- a car that they would kill to get.
When you see it, you will loose your mind over the sheer beauty of the car. It looks totally amazing and you can practically feel yourself whizzing by, the top down and your spirits up- such are the images conjured by one look at this car.
It is as comfortable as it is sexy. The seats are ergonomically engineered to make you feel like you are in heaven and are a dream to sit in. Though it is a two seater, it is not in the least cramped and makes driving bliss even for tall, long-legged drivers.
The engine- don’t get us started on that one. It has a 2.7 liter engine which gives as much as 245 horsepower- a totally amazing feeling. Not only this, but the pick up has also improved considerably. As if this was not enough, the Boxter is equipped with the new Porsche VarioCam plus setup – this is for better lift control and valve intake. The end result is a vroom machine which will blow your mind away.
So those of you who are completely mesmerized with the Porsche Boxter- go right ahead and check it out because this baby has your name written on it!
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Tesla Art Car Touted as Digital Masterpiece
Just the Facts: Absolut Vodka ad artist creates an original wrap for the Tesla Roadster.Potential buyers must negotiate the price with artist Laurence Gartel himself.Gartel has had his work featured at the Museum of Modern Art and the Smithsonian.
MIAMI — The digital artist known for his Absolut Vodka ads has turned his attention to the Tesla Roadster, swathing it in a psychedelic wrap composed of stripes, swirls and an unidentified portrait of a man on the hood. As expected, the rolling artwork is for sale — but the buyer must negotiate the price with the artist.
Be forewarned that works of Laurence Gartel, the man behind the Tesla Art Car, do not come cheap. A limited-edition of his new book, Auto-Motion, costs $1,500. But it includes a forward by Jason Castriota, Saab's new design chief. In July, Gartel told miamiartzine.com that he is working on a new book entitled Super Cars. He said it will "embrace all high-end makes and model automobiles like Lamborghini, Maybach, Aston Martin, Alfa Romeo, Koenigsegg, Porsche and Saleen." The new book will have a metal cover, he said.
"Tesla and Gartel are natural partners," the automaker said in a statement. "Both capitalizing on new technologies to break ground in the automotive and art worlds."
Gartel, a pioneer of the Digital Art Movement, has had his work featured at the Museum of Modern Art and the Smithsonian. Tesla is experimenting with art cars, something that has been a regular endeavor at Audi and BMW.
Inside Line says: In this case, the wrap is probably worth more than the Roadster — so expect to pay upward of $109,000. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Hertz To Offer Smart Fortwo EV
Just the Facts: Hertz begins a modest rollout of electric-vehicle rentals, starting in New York City.The Smart Fortwo Electric Drive will be available this month through Hertz.Next year, the Smart will be added to Hertz Rent-a-Car locations in San Francisco and Washington, D.C.
PARK RIDGE, New Jersey — Hertz Global EV, a unit of Hertz Global Holdings, said it will add the Smart Fortwo Electric Drive to its growing fleet of hybrid and electric vehicles.
The electric city car will be available to rent this month through the Connect by Hertz car-sharing program in New York City and early next year will be added to Hertz Rent-a-Car locations in San Francisco and Washington, D.C.
Hertz previously had ordered electric vehicles from Nissan and Coda Automotive.
Smart has been putting the 2011 Fortwo ED into selected fleets in the U.S., in advance of production in 2012 of the third-generation edition.
Inside Line says: Hertz Global EV said it plans to be "the first company to provide a range of all-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles and charging stations on a car-sharing and rental basis" in locations around the world. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
Saturday, December 18, 2010
2011 Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid Gets Federal Tax Credit, But Others Expire
Just the Facts: 2011 Cayenne S Hybrid buyers may earn a tax credit of up to $1,800.The hybrid has been certified as being eligible for the Alternative Motor Vehicle Tax Credit.But other hybrid and diesel tax credits are set to expire by the end of the year.
ATLANTA — Consumers who buy a 2011 Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid before December 31 may be eligible for a tax credit of up to $1,800. But other hybrid and diesel tax credits are set to expire by the end of the year.
Porsche made the announcement about the tax benefit of buying its first production hybrid on Monday. It said the hybrid has been certified as being eligible for the Alternative Motor Vehicle Tax Credit. The tax credit shaves a bit off the Cayenne S Hybrid's base price of $68,675, including a $975 destination charge.
In the meantime, the tax credits on many hybrids made by Toyota, Honda and Ford have already expired, according to the EPA. The EPA notes that credit amounts begin to phase out for a manufacturer once it has sold more than 60,000 eligible vehicles. Hybrids purchased or placed into service after December 31, 2005, may be eligible for a federal income tax credit of up to $3,400, says the EPA.
The IRS notes that tax credits are still available on certain BMW, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, Mercedes-Benz and Nissan vehicles.
They include $2,350 on the 2011 Nissan Altima Hybrid, $2,200 on the 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML450 Hybrid and $2,200 on the 2011 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid in 2WD and 4WD. Other credits include $900 on the 2011 BMW Active Hybrid 750i and Active Hybrid Li, as well as $1,550 on the 2011 BMW Active Hybrid X6. The General Motors full-size SUV and pickup hybrids, including the 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid C1500 and the Silverado Hybrid C15, are eligible for a $2,200 credit, according to the IRS. All of these credits expire on December 31.
Several diesel vehicles are also eligible for a tax credit before year's end. They include $1,800 on the 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL350 Bluetec and $1,800 on the BMW X5 xDrive35d.
The $7,500 tax credit for newer vehicles such as the 2011 Chevrolet Volt and 2011 Nissan Leaf have many years left. But government grants that give consumers 15,000 free electric-car chargers are due to expire on December 31.
Inside Line says: Time is running out to take advantage of tax credits on some hybrid and diesel vehicles. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
Renault Fluence Sedan Rolls Out in Brazil
Just the Facts: Renault has launched its Fluence sedan for the Brazil market.Fluence replaces the Renault Megane.The Fluence was unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show and is already on sale in Europe.
SAO PAULO, Brazil —Renault has launched its Fluence sedan for the Brazil market, replacing the nearly four-year-old Megane. The Fluence was unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show and is already on sale in Europe. Renault is looking to attract customers from the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic that dominate the segment here.
The new Renault started production in South Korea, then in Turkey and is now also being assembled in Cordoba, Argentina.
Although based on the Megane G3 platform, the new model is slightly longer (181.9 vs. 177.9 inches), wider (69.9 vs. 71.2 inches without mirrors) and taller (57.5 vs. 57.9 inches). Wheelbase has been increased from 105.7 to 106.3 inches.
Power comes from an all-aluminum Nissan 16-valve, four-cylinder 2.0-liter engine. The flex-fuel engine makes 141 horsepower and 147 pound-feet of torque, an improvement over the Renault 2.0-liter engine that makes 136 hp and 139 lb-ft when it runs on ethanol. The entry-level Dynamique with manual six-speed transmission gets from zero to 60 mph in less than 9.7 seconds, with a top speed of 125 mph. An Xtronic continuously variable transmission is optional, getting the Fluence to 60 mph in less than 9.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 122 mph.
The good news for Brazilian customers is the ability of the Nissan engine to run also on ethanol-free gasoline of the neighboring countries, unlike most domestic cars, which are calibrated to run on E20 minimum. In fact, all Renault models are "international" in this aspect.
The Fluence starts at the equivalent of $34,600 in Brazil, with the top-level Privilege version — which has GPS, sunroof, traction control, cruise control and other perks — retailing at $44,000. Sales start in February, and Renault is targeting 20,000 sales each year.
Renault is keeping its Megane Grand Tour station wagon in production with 1.6-liter engine only, repositioning it at an inviting price of $27,450.
Inside Line says: For some reason, the Megane did not appeal to Brazilian customers the way the company expected. This time Renault looks to have done a far better job. — Bob Sharp, Correspondent
Friday, December 17, 2010
Proton Lekir: 2010 Kuala Lumpur Auto Show
Just the Facts: A rebadged Lotus Europa, named Lekir, is on display as a Proton concept at a Malaysian auto show.The Lekir concept has mildly revised bumpers, some unappealing black trim and new wheels.Proton says the Lekir could be powered by either a turbocharged 1.6-liter or 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — The Proton Lekir unveiled here at the 2010 Kuala Lumpur Auto Show looks vaguely familiar — and it should. It's a barely warmed-over version of the Lotus Europa, which was last updated in Europe in 2008.
And why not? Proton owns Lotus, so a rebadged and lower-priced Europa makes a certain amount of sense, if not a compelling business case.
According to the Malaysian Web site PaulTan.org, the Europa started life in Malaysia as the Proton Sepang project. Now, the Lekir concept appears to be the reincarnation of the Europa, with mildly revised bumpers, some unappealing black trim and new wheels.
Proton says the Lekir could be powered by either a turbocharged 1.6-liter or 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, and would be priced at just under $50,000.
Inside Line says: If the Lekir makes the cut for production, its volume potential will be extremely limited. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Bernie Ecclestone Stars in Black-Eye Tie-In Ad
Just the Facts: Hublot luxury watches gets a memorable ad starring the beaten-up face of Bernie Ecclestone, who was mugged for his watch recently.Hublot is the official watch of Formula 1.
LONDON — In perhaps the most unusual ad for a luxury item ever seen, Formula 1 chief Bernie Ecclestone has allowed his bruised and battered face to be used to market Hublot luxury watches. Ecclestone was famously mugged in London late last month and robbed of jewelry including a personalized Hublot watch that reportedly is worth more than $300,000.
The Swiss watchmaker was named official watchmaker of Formula 1 last March and rolled out an official F1 watch, the Hublot F1 King, which bears the F1 logo in white gold. A Limited Edition Series was announced at the Bahrain Grand Prix; it will feature watches in the styles and colors of "the most prestigious Grands Prix," including, for example, the Monza edition in red sapphire.
Ecclestone, who is 80, was beaten severely by the still-at-large muggers, although his female companion, in her 30s, was unharmed. The tag line on the ad, which will run on Wednesday only in the Financial Times and International Herald Tribune newspapers, is: "See what people will do for a Hublot?" The U.K.'s Daily Mail newspaper quoted Ecclestone as saying the ad was his own idea.
Inside Line says: See what people will do for a high-dollar sponsorship? — Laura Sky Brown, Correspondent
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Judge Says Toyota Must Face Acceleration Injury and Death Cases
Just the Facts: Toyota's attempt to dismiss lawsuits claiming deaths and injuries caused by unintended sudden acceleration of its vehicles was tentatively rejected by a U.S. District judge.Another hearing in the case is scheduled for today, as lawyers plan to discuss the latest tentative ruling.Toyota is facing hundreds of lawsuits alleging decreased vehicle value or injury or death from sudden acceleration, following the recall of more than 8 million vehicles.
SANTA ANA, California — Toyota's attempt to dismiss lawsuits claiming deaths and injuries caused by sudden unintended acceleration (SUA) of its vehicles was tentatively rejected by U.S. District Judge James V. Selna on Wednesday.
This means that Toyota continues to face a double whammy — grappling with personal injury cases at the same time as a looming consumer class action lawsuit on behalf of Toyota owners who may not have experienced sudden acceleration, but who say that Toyota's massive recalls reduced the value of their cars. Toyota did not comment on the latest ruling as of Thursday morning.
"Rather than disclosing the SUA defects to consumers, Toyota often blamed consumers for SUA-related problems," Selna wrote.
In November, Selna turned aside Toyota's request to dismiss the economic lawsuits. He said there is evidence that Toyota knew more about the problems than it disclosed to the public and that Toyota's failure to act swiftly decreased the value of cars that worked properly.
Toyota has said in court filings and in statements on its Web site that the plaintiffs in the case haven't provided specific allegations of an actual defect and that it hasn't hidden any problems.
Another hearing in the case is scheduled for today, as lawyers plan to discuss the latest tentative ruling. Selna previously issued a tentative ruling in the economic loss complaint and then quickly followed it up with a final ruling. It is not known when or if the final ruling in the personal injury side of the Toyota lawsuits will be filed.
Toyota is facing hundreds of lawsuits alleging decreased vehicle value or injury or death from sudden acceleration, following the recall of more than 8 million vehicles.
Inside Line says: Put your money on the prospect that the Toyota lawsuits will go forward. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Saab Eyes Russian Expansion
Just the Facts: Saab plans to grow its business in Russia and China.The automaker plans to build a plant in the Kaliningrad region for the production of Saab models with a total capacity of 10,000 cars per year.Saab intends to open 10 to 15 new dealers in China.
TROLLHATTAN, Sweden — Swedish automaker Saab is considering expanding in Russia and China in the near future, through the establishment of its own production facilities as well as resumption of distribution in both countries.
In the case of Russia, according to Jan-Ake Johnson, managing director of Saab, the new plant might be established in the Far East. Earlier this year, Russian media also reported about the plans of Spyker, new owner of Saab, to build a plant in the Kaliningrad region for the production of Saab models with a total capacity of 10,000 cars per year.
According to some Russian analysts, the new plant may specialize in the production of new Saab models including the 9-3 sedan for the Russian, Ukrainian and Kazakh markets, priced no higher than $12,000.
Saab puts big hopes on the Russia market, considering it as one of the most promising in the world for sales of its cars and in particular its new 9-4X crossover.
Financial details of the project as well as estimated production volumes were not disclosed.
At the same time in China, Saab is planning to open 10 to 15 dealerships, under a single network, which is expected to allow it to sell up to 5,000 cars in the country a year. In addition, there is also a possibility of launching the production of a new generation of 9-3 sedan in this country in 2012.
Inside Line says: Saab looks forward and eastward. — Evgeniy Vorotnikov, Correspondent
2009-'10 Mazda 5 Recalled for Faulty Fuel Pump Connector
Just the Facts: Mazda is recalling 16,200 2009-'10 Mazda 5 vehicles because of a defective fuel pump connector.The issue could lead to an engine stall and the inability to restart the engine.The recall is expected to begin on December 11.
WASHINGTON — Mazda is recalling 16,200 2009-10 Mazda 5 vehicles because of a defective fuel pump connector that could lead to engine stall and the inability to restart the engine, said the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
"Water may not have been removed completely from the harness connector of the fuel pump due to variations in the fuel tank leak check process performed before vehicle assembly," said NHTSA in its recall summary of the problem. "The connector pin may corrode, potentially causing the pin to break. This could lead to an inoperative fuel pump, engine stall and the inability to restart the engine, increasing the risk of a crash."
The affected vehicles were built from June 29, 2009, through April 28, 2010. In other documentation filed with the federal government, Mazda said it received the first report of trouble in December 2009 from a customer in the China market who described an "engine no-start condition."
Mazda dealers will inspect the fuel pump connector and, if necessary, replace it and repair the harness. The recall is expected to begin on December 11. Owners can contact Mazda at (800) 222-5500.
Inside Line says: If you own the aforementioned Mazda 5, have it checked out ASAP with your dealer. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
Monday, December 13, 2010
2011 Nissan Leaf Gets Set for Main Street
Just the Facts: The first production Leaf in the U.S. goes to an unnamed Bay Area man.The man was the first person to process his order through Nissan's online system.Nissan says no celebrity cars will be delivered in the first batch.
FRANKLIN, Tennessee — Kickoff of deliveries of the electric 2011 Nissan Leaf is this Saturday. The first production Leaf in the U.S. goes to an unnamed Bay Area man who was the "very first person to process his order through our online ordering system," Nissan tells Inside Line on Tuesday.
When Inside Line asked whether any celebrities would be included in the first round of deliveries, Nissan spokesperson Katherine Zachary replied in an e-mailed message: "No celebs in the first delivery batch."
Earlier this fall, Tour de France legend and Nissan spokesman Lance Armstrong took delivery of a pre-production Leaf. Zachary describes that arrangement as a "long-term loan."
Zachary said the automaker will not disclose any information about the owner of the first production Leaf "other than to say Bay Area." She added: "San Diego follows, then Phoenix, then Portland, then Seattle, then Tennessee."
"These deliveries are the first of many," wrote Zachary. "A second shipment arrives to the U.S. in about two weeks, towards the end of December, and those vehicles are destined to consumers' driveways shortly thereafter."
The primary launches are taking place in communities where Nissan has formed partnerships that are designed to help communities become "EV Ready."
"EV Ready means permits and processes are in place that foster the development/eliminate the barriers to EV ownership," said Zachary. "[They] also help in the creation of an EV charging network."
Earlier, Nissan told Inside Line that the average Leaf buyer is a 45-year-old Baby Boomer who owns a Toyota Prius.
December 16 is also shaping up to be a critical day for the Leaf. That's the day when the three truck finalists and three car finalists will be announced in the race for 2011 North American Car of the Year and North American Truck of the Year. The Leaf is on the short list of car candidates, which also includes the Chevrolet Volt, Hyundai Sonata/2.0T/Hybrid, Chevrolet Cruze and Ford Fiesta.
Inside Line says: And now we wait and see if the Leaf will become as ubiquitous as the Prius on American roads. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Priced: 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon
Just the Facts: 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon starts at $31,820.The Sport wagon is powered by a 2.4-liter inline-4 mated to a five-speed automatic transmission.The wagon goes on sale on December 21.
TORRANCE, California — The 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon will go on sale December 21 with a base price of $31,820, including an $860 destination charge. That positions the Japanese wagon below competitors from Audi and Cadillac.
The uplevel TSX Sport Wagon, equipped with an optional technology package with an LED backlit navigation system, starts at $35,470, including shipping. In comparison, the base 2011 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon with a 3.0-liter V6 starts at $39,090, including an $825 destination charge. The base 2011 Audi A4 Avant with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine starts at $36,815, including an $875 destination charge.
The TSX Sport Wagon features a multiconfigurable rear cargo area and an optional power tailgate. It is equipped with a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine and a five-speed automatic transmission. Honda said it delivers an estimated 22 mpg in city driving and 30 mpg on the highway. The EPA has yet to rate it on its Web site.
Inside Line says: Should be interesting to see if consumers turn to this Acura wagon as an alternative to a crossover or compact SUV. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
Saturday, December 11, 2010
2012 Lexus LFA To Get Inflatable Front Seatbelt System
Just the Facts: The Lexus LFA will be fitted with a new inflatable "airbelt" system for front-seat passengers, according to its supplier, Takata Corp.
AUBURN HILLS, Michigan — If you want to one-up your friends in the auto safety department, look to the 2012 Lexus LFA. The $350,000 Japanese supercar will be fitted with a new inflatable "airbelt" system for front-seat passengers, according to Takata Corp., one of its suppliers.
"The SRS Seat Belt Airbag being fitted to the Lexus LFA has an airbag built into the webbing of the seatbelt, which inflates on impact to provide additional protection to the shoulder and critical head area," said Takata in a statement. "The system is the first of its kind in the world for passenger cars."
In a frontal crash, the belt expands directly to spread the "shock load" over a wider area of the occupant's chest, said Takata. In a side impact, the belt inflates between the shoulder and head to reduce lateral head movement and provide protection from impact with the side window.
Takata did not say when the new safety technology would be rolled out on more everyday products. The LFA begins production this month in Toyota City, Japan. Toyota said a limited run of just 500 units of the LFA will be built.
Ford last year announced that it would be offering optional inflatable seatbelts for rear-seat passengers on the 2011 Ford Explorer. Ford says that feature will be coming in winter 2011. Pricing is expected to be about $395. The inflatable rear seatbelts will be available for the two outboard passengers in the second row only. They are designed to reduce head and neck injuries in a crash.
Inside Line says: Expect this new safety technology to filter down to your new vehicle in a few years. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
Toyota Prius on Record Sales Pace in Japan
Just the Facts: The Toyota Prius is expected to top the single-year sales mark in Japan, set by the Toyota Corolla.Corolla set the current record of 300,008 in 1990.Prius has already has passed the 300,000-unit mark.
TOKYO — The Toyota Prius is on track to set a new single-year sales record in Japan, where the hybrid car already has passed the 300,000-unit mark. The current mark of 300,008 was set by the Toyota Corolla 20 years ago, in 1990.
Through November, the Prius had sold 297,563 units in Japan, according to the Nikkei business daily, and it has been Japan's best-selling model each month for the past year and a half.
In the U.S., Prius sold just over 125,000 units in the first 11 months, down slightly from a year ago. Worldwide, Toyota's well-publicized hybrid, now in its third generation, has sold nearly half a million units so far in 2010.
There is some concern in Japan, however, that the recent expiration of government incentives will send Prius sales lower in the coming year.
Inside Line says: The Wall Street Journal refers to the Prius as the "prince of eco-cars." Its ample global sales would seem to support that title. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
Friday, December 10, 2010
Third American <em>Top Gear</em> Episode Holds Steady in Ratings
Just the Facts: Ratings have the third episode of America's Top Gear attracting 1.304 million viewers on the History cable channel.That is just 29,000 more viewers than the second episode — more or less within the margin of error for the sampling.Against tough competition, the lack of audience erosion is encouraging for Top Gear.
HOLLYWOOD, California — The good news for the American version of Top Gear is that its third episode attracted an audience slightly larger than what the second episode did. According to Web site TV by the Numbers, this past Sunday a total of 1.304 million viewers tuned in to watch the third episode on the History cable channel. For all intents and purposes that's identical to the 1.275 million viewers audience that watched episode two.
But it's better news in the context of the show's competition. After all, NBC's Sunday Night Football featured one of the best games of the season: the Pittsburgh Steelers' dramatic 13-10 victory over division rivals the Baltimore Ravens. And over on AMC, the season finale of the The Walking Dead series was shown. Holding your own against Troy Polamalu's spectacular defensive play for the Steelers and The Walking Dead's zombie apocalypse is an encouraging ratings performance.
Incidentally the Steelers/Ravens struggle attracted a staggering 22.509 million viewers. And The Walking Dead snagged a thick 5.972 million — truly awesome for a basic cable show.
Less encouragingly, Top Gear continues to fail to hold onto the audience handed to it by its lead-in, Ice Road Truckers. Ice Road Truckers roped in 2.132 million viewers on History at 9:00 p.m. (EST) before handing off to Top Gear at 10:00 p.m. That means between the end of Ice Road Truckers and beginning of Top Gear, at least 800,000 people (about 39 percent of the IRT audience) changed the channel or turned off the TV altogether.
Another worrying sign for Top Gear is that the data indicates a tenth of a rating point drop in the desirable-to-advertisers 18-49 demographic.
The fourth episode of America's Top Gear will find itself in a different competitive environment next Sunday night. Without a new episode of The Walking Dead available, AMC will be running Bing Crosby's 1954 film White Christmas. And the Sunday Night Football match-up on NBC will have the Michael Vick-led Philadelphia Eagles facing off against the less-than-fearsome (but lately resurgent) Dallas Cowboys.
Inside Line says: We're still waiting for TG's Adam Ferrara, Tanner Foust and Rutledge Wood to make us really laugh. Or thrill us. Or something. The Cowboys may be patsies, but Vick is so spectacular this year we may just stick with the NFL. — Lee Pray, Correspondent
Thursday, December 9, 2010
GM Considering Ampera Sub-Brand for Europe in 2015
Just the Facts: General Motors will expand its Ampera series in Europe to three extended-range vehicles over the next five years.GM is already is developing the second-generation Ampera, a sister car to the Chevrolet Volt.The Ampera is built alongside the Volt at GM's Detroit-Hamtramck plant.
LONDON — General Motors will expand its Ampera series in Europe to three extended-range vehicles over the next five years and is considering whether to sell the cars under the Ampera sub-brand.
In an interview with Britain's Autocar, GM Europe President Nick Reilly said the company already is developing the second-generation Ampera, a sister car to the Chevrolet Volt.
Reilly said the Ampera family by 2015 will include a compact hatchback about the size of today's Opel Astra, a slightly larger sedan to replace the current Ampera and a five-passenger crossover vehicle similar to the Chevrolet Volt MPV5 crossover that was unveiled earlier this year at the 2010 Beijing Auto Show.
In the U.S., GM spokesman Robert Peterson told Inside Line: "We're very bullish about the market potential for the Volt, Ampera and Voltec system and intrigued by the possibility of extending the technology into other areas of the portfolio. However, we have not committed to any sub-branding strategies or future product offerings — for the Volt or Ampera. We are simply studying how to leverage the enthusiasm for this technology."
In Europe, Reilly introduced the production version of the Ampera at the 2010 Geneva Auto Show. Since then, it has garnered considerable attention in Europe, most recently from President Obama, who sat in the car in late November during a NATO summit in Lisbon.
The Ampera is built alongside the Volt at GM's Detroit-Hamtramck plant. The Ampera retails in Europe for the equivalent of $58,000, compared with the Volt's $41,000 sticker in the U.S.
Reilly said if demand warrants, GM could shift production of the next-generation Ampera and its derivatives to Europe, possibly to the U.K., according to Autocar. Reilly said the next-generation hybrids will cost less, with better range.
Inside Line says: GM also is considering whether to build and sell the Volt MPV in North America. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
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