William Maley

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com March 9, 2012 Alfa Romeo's replacement for the 159, the Giulia has another delay. This time it deals with engines suitable for it are not ready. "We are not delaying the Alfa because of architecture but because of availability of powertrains that match the DNA of the brand," Fiat/Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne told What Car? at the Geneva Motor Show. This will push back the launch of Giulia back to 2014, two years after the original launch date. Source: What Car? View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com March 8, 2012 General Motors has revealed the power ratings for the new 2.0L Ecotec turbo-four in the Malibu due out in the summer. The new 2.0L turbo-four will produce 259 HP and 260 lb-ft of torque. Peak torque is available from 1,700 to 5,500 RPM. When equipped with the turbo, the Malibu can reach 60 MPH in 6.3 Seconds. Press Release is on Page 2 Power-Dense Powertrains Drive Malibu’s Global Rollout Chevrolet midsize style and performance introduced to more than 70 countries this year DETROIT – The all-new Ecotec 2.5L debuting on the 2013 Chevrolet Malibumidsize sedan this summer is one of the most-powerful naturally aspirated four-cylinder engines in the midsize segment, topping the output from the new Ford Fusion and Toyota Camry. It will be joined this fall by a new Ecotec 2.0L turbo engine, delivering more horsepower than any previous V-6 offered in a Malibu. Malibu’s Ecotec 2.5L delivers an SAE-certified 197 horsepower (147 kW) and 191 lb.-ft. of torque (259 Nm) – the most torque of any naturally aspirated four-cylinder in the segment. And when compared with the competition, it delivers 19 more horsepower (14 kW) and 21 more lb.-ft. of torque (28 Nm) than the 2012 Toyota Camry LE’s 2.5L I4 engine, and 27 more horsepower (20 kW) and 21 more lb.-ft. (28 Nm) than the 2013 Ford Fusion’s 2.5L four-cylinder. The Ecotec 2.0L turbo is SAE-certified at 259 horsepower (193 kW) and 260 lb.-ft. of torque (353 Nm). Its peak torque is sustained from 1,700 to 5,500 rpm – a broad range that provides an immediate feeling of power in all driving conditions and helps produce 0-60 performance in 6.3 seconds. The new engines feature direct injection for increased fuel efficiency and higher power, and help drive Malibu’s performance around the world. Both will be offered in the United States, Canada, Israel and other markets, while rounding out a diverse North American powertrain lineup that also includes the segment-exclusive, fuel-saving eAssist™ technology in the Malibu Eco. It combines start-stop technology with regenerative braking and a lightweight lithium-ion battery to provide an electric boost in certain conditions, delivering a GM-estimated 25 mpg in the city 37 mpg on the highway. That’s better fuel economy than any non-hybrid midsize sedan currently available. “The 2013 Malibu is the latest entry in Chevrolet’s growing global car portfolio, which has seen almost an entirely revamped lineup in the last 15 months,” said Chris Perry, global Chevrolet marketing vice president. “We sold 4.76 million Chevys worldwide in 2011 – one every 6.5 seconds – and the new Malibu will help us grow the brand globally even more this year, where it will be introduced for the first time in many markets.” The 2013 Malibu is Chevrolet’s first global midsize sedan and will eventually be sold in nearly 100 countries on six continents. It is already on sale in South Korea and China, with sales to begin this year in more than 70 additional countries, including Canada, throughout Europe, Scandinavia, the Middle East, Africa and other Asia-Pacific markets. In the United States, current generation Malibu sales are up 4.4 percent for the first two months of the year, building on 2011’s near-record U.S. sales of nearly 205,000. The new Malibu was designed to be the most finely tuned Chevrolet midsize sedan ever and is built on an award-winning global architecture that helps deliver a more confident, responsive and connected driving experience. The body structure is 20-percent stiffer for a greater feeling of solidity, quietness and quality. Inside, the 2013 Malibu delivers: 1.5 inches (38 mm) more front shoulder room 3.5 inches (89 mm) more rear shoulder room 2.7 inches (68 mm) more front hip room 2.8 inches (71 mm) more rear hip room More than 1 cubic foot (28 liters) more trunk space Nearly 4 cubic feet (113 liters) of additional EPA interior volume. Malibu’s driving experience is also enhanced with Chevrolet MyLink, an all-new in-car infotainment package that gives customers a higher level of wireless connectivity and customized infotainment options while building on the safety and security of OnStar. MyLink is safe and easy to use. It adds stereo audio streaming and wireless control of smartphones, building on the voice-activated Bluetooth hands-free calling capability already offered in most Chevy vehicles. MyLink is standard in LT, LTZ and Eco Malibu models, along with a seven-inch, high-resolution, full-color touch screen display that makes media selection easy to navigate. The radio face also swivels up to reveal a hidden and illuminated storage area. The Chevrolet Malibu Eco is on sale now and priced less than a full hybrid vehicle, with a suggested retail price of $25,995, including a $760 destination charge. Additional models go on sale this summer, followed by the Malibu Turbo this fall. View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com March 8, 2012 Ram has some big changes in store for the 2013 Ram 1500 in April, but a new SEC filing reveals some of the juicy details. The Ram will be getting Chrysler's 3.6L Pentastar V6 producing 280 HP. This will replace the current 3.7L V6 producing 210 HP. Also, the Ram will get a new eight-speed transmission. The new eight-speed transmission "reduces fuel consumption by up to 12 percent over our current five-speed transmissions" such as the one in the current Ram, the filing says. The filing also reveals the eight-speed transmission will make its way to the Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee in the 2013 model year. Source: Autoweek View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com March 8, 2012 Carbon Motors, the company behind the purpose-built E7 police vehicle will not be getting any of the $310 million in U.S. Department of Energy loans under the Advanced Technology Vehicle Manufacturing (ATVM) program that it applied for almost three years ago. Carbon Motors CEO William Santana Li says the company is a victim of politics. “We are outraged by the actions of the DOE and it is clear that this was a political decision in a highly-charged, election year environment. Since Solyndra became politicized last fall, the DOE has failed to make any other loans under the ATVM program, has pulled back one loan that it previously committed and, as of this month, the DOE has pushed aside the three remaining viable loans under active consideration," said Santana in a press release. "Each of these applicants has been caught for several years in a costly and extensive DOE due diligence process. Carbon Motors simply appears to be the last victim of this political gamesmanship. In failing to deploy the tax dollars that Congress allocated for the creation of advanced technology manufacturing jobs in the U.S., the DOE ATVM program represents a glaring failure of the Obama Administration to create jobs that are clearly within its power to create.” Back in December, Carbon Motors sent a letter to President Obama's Cabinet. The letter went point by point explaining why they should push the Department of Energy into approving their loans. When asked for comment, DOE Spokesman Damien LaVera said, “Over the last two and a half years, the department has worked with Carbon Motors to try to negotiate a deal that supported their business while protecting the taxpayers. While we were not able to come to an agreement on terms that would protect the taxpayers, we continue to believe that Carbon Motors is an innovative company with an interesting project and we wish them luck.” Carbon Motors says in their press release they're looking for alternatives to help them. Source: Bloomberg Press Release is on Page 2 Carbon Motors Announces That ATVM Loan Caught in DOE Political Crossfire States Decision Not to Proceed with ATVM Loan is a Failure of Leadership Company Exploring Strategic and Financing Alternatives CONNERSVILLE, Ind.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today Carbon Motors Corporation, a homeland security technology company, announced that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has indicated that it will not proceed with Carbon's $310 million application for a direct loan under the Advanced Technology Vehicle Manufacturing (ATVM) program. The ATVM program was established during the Bush administration and continued under the Obama administration. "Similar to the experiences of other applicants, we spent over 30 months responding to every request made of us by the DOE – many of which were at best challenging and at worst, unnatural" "We are outraged by the actions of the DOE and it is clear that this was a political decision in a highly-charged, election year environment. Since Solyndra became politicized last fall, the DOE has failed to make any other loans under the ATVM program, has pulled back one loan that it previously committed and, as of this month, the DOE has pushed aside the three remaining viable loans under active consideration," said William Santana Li, chairman and chief executive officer, Carbon Motors Corporation. "Each of these applicants has been caught for several years in a costly and extensive DOE due diligence process. Carbon Motors simply appears to be the last victim of this political gamesmanship. In failing to deploy the tax dollars that Congress allocated for the creation of advanced technology manufacturing jobs in the U.S., the DOE ATVM program represents a glaring failure of the Obama Administration to create jobs that are clearly within its power to create," commented Li. General Motors, Chrysler, Next Auto, Aptera, Bright Automotive and Carbon Motors all suffered through the horrendous DOE process that ended in nothing but a vote against the American worker. It clearly indicates an irrational pattern of rejecting or forcing withdrawals of viable applications of all sizes, both from established companies and promising manufacturing start-ups, according to Li. "Similar to the experiences of other applicants, we spent over 30 months responding to every request made of us by the DOE – many of which were at best challenging and at worst, unnatural," said Li. "During the past year we were in almost daily contact with the DOE staff and were neither advised that our application was coming up short in any way, nor told that there was anything we would need to do in order to finalize the loan that we did not satisfy. On the contrary, up until we were told the DOE would no longer work on our application, we had been assured that it was a top priority for the DOE and encouraged to continue with the multi-million dollar due diligence and negotiation process. Our experience, when viewed in light of the situation with other applicants, makes it hard to conclude that this action is anything other than a political decision to avoid further scrutiny of the ATVM loan program and of DOE officials," described Li. The Company noted that in recent months the DOE had gone so far as to send members of its loan monitoring team to meet with Carbon Motors in Indiana, and then subsequently requested a follow-up meeting in Washington DC. The loan monitoring team's role is to monitor DOE loans and work with borrowers after the loan has closed. These professionals do not play a material role in the process until a loan is finalized, which supported the Company's view that the DOE had not identified any material issues with the Carbon business plan that would impede the approval of the loan. In addition, in recent months the DOE staff held several meetings with Carbon's key partners, suppliers, investors and state and local officials and in each case, these parties were left with the impression that a positive decision on the loan was imminent. The Company expected the DOE to negotiate in good faith and, after several years of positive assurances, advise the Company if there were any real substantive issues with the plan that would need to be addressed in order to close the loan. The Company was not given any indication of any substantive issues and instead feels blindsided by government officials that simply failed to exhibit any real leadership in the face of typical election year political mudslinging. Carbon Motors is developing the world's first and only purpose-built law enforcement patrol vehicle, amid strong interest in its breakthrough "E7" product from law enforcement both domestic and foreign. The Company has received over 20,000 reservations for the "E7" vehicle from over 500 law enforcement agencies spread across all 50 U.S. states, in addition to interest in the product for export received from over 35 foreign law enforcement jurisdictions. As a truly purpose-built product, the E7 represents a substantial innovative step over the retail passenger vehicles that have historically been retrofitted in the aftermarket, with great improvements in areas such as occupant safety, operating cost, mission effectiveness and environmental impact, to mention just a few. "The E7 has been designed to meet all Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards with all law enforcement equipment installed, will increase fuel efficiency by up to 40% over the gas-guzzlers used today and, importantly, will satisfy substantially all requirements of the law enforcement mission," said Li. The Company's product strategy includes a state-of-the-art fuel-efficient clean diesel engine mated to an 8-speed transmission, and has been supported by over 50 world-class development partners and suppliers – many of whom have had their businesses materially impacted by this failure of leadership by the DOE, according to Li. The ATVM loan, together with the equity and other funding dedicated to the project was to be used to complete the development work on the vehicle in the U.S., as well as the tooling and facility costs necessary to produce the E7. The Company's plan submitted to the DOE included the creation of over 1,550 direct jobs in Connersville, Indiana, one of the areas hardest hit by the prevailing economic malaise, and approximately 10,000 total direct and indirect jobs throughout the country. "Bureaucrats in Washington may view inaction as the safest bet for them personally, but those who are without jobs today in Connersville and facing a very uncertain future have a very different view. Sadly, many of the people who are now in desperate need of a job in our country's heartland had contributed their hard earned tax dollars to the very fund that the DOE now appears unwilling to distribute to qualified candidates," said Li. The Company noted that the ATVM legislation passed by Congress and the Bush Administration included a loan loss assumption of 30% on the entire portfolio, which is reflective of the fact that there is always some inherent risk in funding a business of any size and new jobs will not be created in a risk-free environment – that is the essence of "Advanced Technology" reflected in the name of the program. "Although the DOE's new found focus on protecting taxpayer interest may be a good talking point for the media, in this particular case, it fails to ring true. The highly efficient Carbon E7 vehicle would have had dramatic savings for the U.S. taxpayer and every city, county and state struggling with budget deficits. The DOE's thoughtless decision just cost the U.S. taxpayer over $10 billion dollars of potential savings," noted Li. The Company sourced approximately $200 million of matching funds from a variety of private and state and local government sources, which, together with the ATVM loan, would put into effect one of the Company's stated goals of creating a true public-private partnership. "The truth is, government funds are already being used to pay for law enforcement vehicle substitutes – many of which function very effectively as retail passenger cars and none of which function well for the unique law enforcement mission," stated Stacy Dean Stephens, co-founder of Carbon Motors Corporation and a former law enforcement officer. "It is a basic role of government to protect its citizens. The Carbon ATVM loan (which would have been paid back with interest) would simply have ensured that the taxpayers were getting their money's worth as law enforcement end users would benefit from using safe and efficient products that actually work well for their mission," Stephens said. The decision is made even more puzzling when viewed in light of two of President Obama's Executive Orders: one calling for a 30% improvement in fuel efficiency among federal vehicle fleets, and one for coordinating policies on automotive communities and workers recovering from the Great Recession. "These goals are not going to be satisfied by simply wishing them to be – they require leadership by those in a position to deliver results," noted Stephens. By approving Carbon's ATVM loan, the DOE would have supported both of these Presidential Executive Orders putting 10,000 Americans back to work and reducing the fuel consumption of the 500,000+ law enforcement vehicles by up to 40%. The merits of the loan application were detailed in a letter to the President's Cabinet on December 15, 2011 (click here for letter). Carbon Motors has received substantial bipartisan political support of its business plan and mission to support the nearly 1 million law enforcement first responders in the U.S. "Our plan cuts across party lines and would have a positive impact on every highway, every street, every city, town, airport, road, port and congressional district. We remain honored to have had received so much support from leaders of all political stripes from around the country," said Li. The Company is actively examining its strategic and financing alternatives in support of its goal to provide law enforcement first responders with a purpose-built tool suitable for their critical mission. "Our country was not built by those who stood on the sidelines or by those who hid behind political convenience or by those too scared to lead. Our country was built by relentless entrepreneurs that despite the odds, despite the severity of the challenge, despite the roadblocks and despite the naysayers, rose to the occasion, led where there was no leader, and through innovation turned the impossible into the possible – no matter how long it took. We will continue the fight. We at Carbon Motors choose this path not because it is easy, but because it is hard, because it is just, because it is honorable and because we are Americans," exclaimed Li. About Carbon Motors Corporation Carbon Motors Corporation is a bold homeland security technology company on a critical mission to design, develop, manufacture, distribute, service, and recycle, the world's first and only portfolio of purpose-built law enforcement patrol vehicles. Learn more at www.carbonmotors.com. Contacts Carbon Motors Corporation Stacy Dean Stephens, 765-207-4044 ext. 718 View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com March 8, 2012 Yesterday, President Barack Obama announced a new proposal that would make alternative-energy cars and trucks more attractive to buyers. Part of his proposal calls on Congress to change the current tax credit for plug-in vehicles into a point-of-sale rebate. Also he is calling for an increase in the maximum credit from $7,500 to $10,000. But plug-ins won't be the only vehicles getting a tax credit. Obama said he would like to see a tax credit for buyers of electric and natural gas powered commercial trucks, including semis.The credit would be 50% of the additional cost for a electric or natural gas truck over a conventional one. Obama also talked about a "Race to the Top" challenge that would give a billion dollars to 10 to 15 communities "to invest in the necessary infrastructure, remove the regulatory barriers, and create the local incentives to support deployment of advanced vehicles at critical mass." The challenge allows "communities to determine if electrification, natural gas, or other alternative fuels would be the best fit." Finally, the White House also announced a new "EV Everywhere" plan. The plan was described as "a clean energy grand challenge to make electric-powered vehicles as affordable and convenient as gasoline-powered vehicles for the average American family within a decade." Also, the "EV Everywhere" plan "will invest in breakthrough R&D for advanced batteries, electric drivetrain technologies, lightweight vehicle structures, and fast charging technology." "Here is the truth. If we are going to control our energy future, then we've got to have an all-of-the-above strategy. We've got to develop every source of American energy – not just oil and gas, but wind power and solar power, nuclear power, biofuels. We need to invest in the technology that will help us use less oil in our cars and our trucks, in our buildings, in our factories. That's the only solution to the challenge. Because as we start using less, that lowers the demand, prices come down. It's pretty straightforward. That's the only solution to this challenge," said Obama to workers at the Daimler Trucks North America Mt. Holly Truck Manufacturing Plant in Mt. Holly, NC. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) Press Release is on Page 2 Fact Sheet: All-of-the-Above Approach to American Energy The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release March 07, 2012 President Obama Announces $1 billion National Community Deployment Challenge to spur deployment of clean, advanced vehicles and expansion of advanced vehicle tax credit During the State of the Union Address, the President laid out a blueprint for a new era of American energy – an economy fueled by homegrown and alternative energy sources that will be designed in America and produced by American workers. Today, the President will visit Daimler Trucks North America Mt. Holly Truck Manufacturing Plant in Mt. Holly, NC to deliver remarks on American energy. While at the Daimler Plant, the President will tour the assembly line, see several of the alternative fuel models built there, and discuss the importance of taking a sustained, all-of-the-above approach on energy, responsibly expanding domestic production of natural gas and oil, which is currently at an eight year high, improving the efficiency of our cars and trucks, and making the long-term investments in alternatives to oil to provide American families the choices we all deserve. This strategy is a win for the economy, a win for energy security, and a win for national security. In Mt. Holly, the President will announce a new $1 billion National Community Deployment Challenge to spur deployment of clean, advanced vehicles in communities around the country. The President will also announce a set of incentives to help consumers and businesses purchase new, advanced cars and trucks, including increasing and expanding the current tax credit for advanced vehicles, from the $7,500 credit that currently exists up to $10,000, while allowing the credit to be applied to additional types of technologies, not currently covered. In addition, the President is announcing a new research challenge that invests in breakthrough technologies to make electric vehicles as affordable and convenient to own and operate as gasoline-powered vehicles by the end of the decade. Today the President will also highlight Daimler's commitment to increasing fuel economy standards and manufacturing vehicles that will increase fuel economy and reduce oil consumption. Taken together, the Obama Administration's standards for cars and light-duty trucks span model years 2011 to 2025 and represent the first meaningful update in over three decades. Under this program, average fuel efficiency will reach a performance equivalent of 54.5 miles per gallon by 2025 and will save consumers $1.7 trillion at the pump overtime – or roughly $8,200 per vehicle and slash oil consumption by 2.2 million barrels a day by 2025. The Administration has also finalized the first-ever national fuel efficiency and greenhouse gas (GHG) emission standards for heavy-duty trucks, vans, and buses spanning model years 2014-2018, which will reduce oil consumption by over 500 million barrels, and save truck owners and operators more than $50 billion in fuel costs. Daimler Trucks North America is a partner in the Energy Department's SuperTruck initiative, which is focused on increasing the fuel efficiency of long haul trucks, or 18-wheelers, by 50 percent by 2015. While long-haul trucks represent only 4 percent of the on-road vehicles in America, they are responsible for almost 20 percent of the country's on-road fuel consumption, with this class of vehicle currently consuming more than 30 billion gallons of gasoline a year. To achieve this goal, companies like Daimler are developing and improving vehicle technologies in engine efficiency, aerodynamics, waste heat recovery, and hybridization, among other approaches. Through these types of improvements, the Energy Department estimates fuel economy increases could save long-haul truckers more than $15,000 per truck per year in fuel costs. The President's New Initiatives to Support Advanced Vehicles Launching a "Race to the Top" challenge for communities to encourage advanced vehicle adoption: The President is announcing a new $1 billion National Community Deployment Challenge to catalyze up to 10 to 15 model communities to invest in the necessary infrastructure, remove the regulatory barriers, and create the local incentives to support deployment of advanced vehicles at critical mass. This proposal embraces a strategy similar to that outlined by Senators Merkley and Alexander in their Promoting Electric Vehicles legislation. This proposal, however, would be 'fuel neutral', allowing communities to determine if electrification, natural gas, or other alternative fuels would be the best fit. Deployment Communities would serve as real-world laboratories, leveraging limited federal resources to develop different models to deploy advanced vehicles at scale. The program would also support the development of up to 5 regional Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) corridors where alternative fuel trucks can transport goods without using a drop of oil. Making advanced vehicles more affordable: The President proposes to improve the current tax credit for electric vehicles by Expanding eligibility for the credit to a broader range of advanced vehicle technologies; Increasing the amount from $7,500, making it scalable up to $10,000; Reforming the credit to make it available at the point-of-sale by making it transferable to the dealer or financier, allowing consumers to benefit when they purchase a vehicle rather than when they file their taxes; and Removing the cap on the number of vehicles per manufacturer eligible for the credit and, instead, ramping down and eventually eliminating the credit at the end of the decade. Accelerating deployment of alternative-fuel trucks: The President is proposing a new tax incentive for commercial trucks that provides a credit for 50% of the incremental cost of a dedicated alternative-fuel truck, including trucks powered by natural gas or electricity, for a five-year period. This incentive – paired with support through programs like the Energy Department's National Clean Fleets Partnership, which provides technical assistance to large company fleets interested in moving toward vehicles that rely on little or no oil – will not only drive down domestic demand for oil, but also drive up demand for the sorts of vehicles built at Freightliner's Mt. Holly Plant and, in turn, spur job creation in the American manufacturing sector. Launching 'EV Everywhere', a clean energy grand challenge to make electric-powered vehicles as affordable and convenient as gasoline-powered vehicles for the average American family within a decade: This national effort is the second in a series of Clean Energy Grand Challenges designed by the Department of Energy to bring together America's best and brightest scientists, engineers, and businesses to work together to solve the most pressing energy technology challenges of our time. EV Everywhere will enable companies in the U.S. to produce electric vehicles at lower cost, with an improved vehicle range and an increased fast-charging ability, so average American families will be able to own and drive an electric vehicle as affordable and convenient as today's gasoline-powered vehicles. The savings from using lower-cost electricity instead of gasoline, roughly $100 per month for the average driver, combined with the reduction of upfront vehicle cost, will lower energy costs for American consumers and businesses. The President's FY13 Budget includes $650 million to advance vehicle and battery technologies at the Energy Department, including investments that support this new grand challenge. EV Everywhere will invest in breakthrough R&D for advanced batteries, electric drivetrain technologies, lightweight vehicle structures, and fast charging technology. View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com March 7, 2012 We’re going long with this rumor, so bear that in mind. MotoriOnline, a Italian automotive site reports that Maserati has trademarked two names; Cinqueporte and Levante. MotoriOnline speculates the Cinqueporte will be the name for the new SUV due to the name translating to “five doors”. So what about Levante? Well, MotoriOnline says the name will most likely appear on the new small sedan that will sit under the Quattroporte. The new small sedan is due out in 2014. Source: MotoriOnline View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter- CheersandGears.com March 7, 2012 Last week, General Motors and PSA announced a new alliance that would have the two sharing components and give stronger purchasing power for both. The deal is "an additional tool to the toolkit in Europe" said GM Vice Chairman Stephen Girsky to reporters. When asked what would come next in GM's plan to save Opel, Girsky declined. "We can't tell you what our play is in Europe. We will tell you when it plays out over the next period of months and years ... I don't see the play in Europe showing up in one big bang." This has everyone worried about what the next move will be for Opel. Currently, European production capacity is estimated to be 20% higher than needed to keep companies profitable in a weakening market. "Excess capacity is not a GM issue, it's an industry issue," Girsky argued. Also, GM is keeping quiet on whether it will post a thirteen year of losses in the European market. This comes on the heels of Ford announcing a $500 to $600 million dollar loss in Europe this year due to an 8.5% drop in European auto sales. "It's not just investors who hate uncertainty. It's the workers, it's the employees. People are working really hard on this," Girsky said. However, analysts aren't liking the silent treatment from GM. Michelle Krebs, analyst with Edmunds.com told Reuters that GM was taking risk with investors and consumers by saying they have a plan and not reveal any specifics. Also, the PSA deal doesn't solve the whole excess capacity problem. "It's not solving their problem, which is stemming the losses, and they are basically asking us to trust that the payoff will come in the future," said Krebs. Source: Reuters View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com March 6, 2012 Lexus decided that the Geneva Motor Show was the best place to unveil the refreshed RX crossover. As we saw in pictures leaked back in February, the RX gains the "spindle grille" as seen on the GS and a strip of LED lights running around the headlights. The back end gets some new design tweaks. Inside, the RX is pretty much the same except for a redesigned steering wheel. The RX also gets an updated version of the Remote Touch interface that should make the infotainment system more intuitive. Engines are a carryover from the previous model. The RX350 sticks with the 3.5L V6 producing 270 HP and a six-speed automatic. The RX450h combines the 3.5L V6 and an electric motor for a total of 295 hp. To inject more sport into the RX, Lexus will offer the RX350 with the F-Sport package. The F-Sport package brings forth new body cladding, wheels, paddle shifters, and a lateral damping system which Lexus says improves steering response, agility, and ride comfort while reducing vibration and twist. As for the RX450h, there will be a sport driving mode which changes the setting for the modifies the throttle, power-steering, stability, and traction-control systems. Press Release is on Page 2 2013 RX Luxury Utility Vehicle Unveiled at Geneva Motor Show GENEVA – March 6, 2012 – Featuring the new bolder, signature Lexus spindle grille and upgraded interior, the new 2013 RX will continue to be the most popular choice in the luxury crossover segment it created over 10 years ago. The 2013 RX gets a fresh sportier look at the front with a new bumper, complemented with new headlamp design, LED daytime running lights and distinctive fog lamp bezels. The power back door and USB iPod/mp3 control are now standard. Tail lamps and the rear license plate surround get updated looks. The luxurious and spacious RX receives numerous interior enhancements. The steering wheel has been redesigned for a more comfortable and relaxing grip. A metallic accent enhances the look of the glove box. The center console has been redesigned for versatility and easy accessibility. In addition to ECO mode, the RX 450h features a Sport mode with revised steering effort, throttle mapping and transmission-shifting priorities to fully exploit the capabilities of the powertrain. In Sport mode, the meter light changes to red. The cabin of the 2013 RX also gets new Ebony Bird’s-Eye Maple wood trim and available Saddle Leather interior. To complement the available interior leather trim, a rich detailed contrast stitching is used on the seats, center console and door-mounted armrests. Four new exterior colors are available for the RX: Silver Lining Metallic, Claret Mica, Deep Sea Mica Fire Agate Pearl and, replacing Tungsten Pearl, Matador Red Mica and Cerulean Blue Metallic. Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance The Lexus RX 350 teams a 3.5-liter V6 engine with a six-speed Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) for an output of 270 horsepower at 6,200 rpm. Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) is used to control both intake and exhaust camshafts independently, optimizing engine performance at many speeds and loads. The RX 350’s six-speed automatic transmission yields quick shifting response with help from miniature high-flow linear solenoids that control transmission fluid line-pressure. The torque converter uses a low-speed lockup damper to enable lock-up from second to sixth gear to help improve the fuel economy. The Multi-Mode Sequential Shift Automatic Transmission allows the driver to shift manually when desired by first moving the gated shift lever to the “S” slot and then pushing it forward ("+") to up shift and backward ("-") to downshift. An Intelligent Shift Control sets shift patterns based on the vehicle speed and throttle position and estimates road conditions and driver input to automatically control the shift pattern. The RX 350 AWD model features an electronically controlled Active Torque Control AWD system. Active Torque Control AWD uses an electronically controlled coupling ahead of the rear differential to vary torque distribution anywhere from 100:0 to 50:50 front to rear, depending on driving dynamics and road conditions. When accelerating, or starting off on a low-grip surface, torque is quickly provided to all four wheels. At steady speeds, torque is sent only to the front wheels, enhancing fuel efficiency. The RX 450h’s Lexus Hybrid Drive features a 3.5-liter V6 Atkinson-cycle engine, electric motors, a small and light power-control unit and other fuel-saving innovations. It offers V8-like performance, 295 total system horsepower and combined fuel economy similar to an average four-cylinder mid-size sedan. The Front Wheel Drive (FWD) model delivers EPA-estimated 32 mpg city and 28 mpg highway (30 mpg combined) fuel economy ratings, while the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) model earned EPA ratings of 30 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, 29 mpg combined. As a full hybrid, the RX 450h can operate in electric-only or gas-engine-only modes as well as a mode that combines both. Extended electric-mode operation during low-speed or stop-and-go driving conditions helps reduce fuel consumption. Under certain circumstances, a driver-selectable EV mode can allow the vehicle to be driven short distances using only the electric motors. The RX 450h achieves Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) certification in California (Tier 2-Bin 3 in other states). A compact 288V DC Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) battery pack fits neatly under the rear seat. A boost converter efficiently raises voltage to 650V DC, and an inverter converts this to 650V AC for the front-mounted 123-kW electric motor-generator. The boost converter and inverter are enclosed in the power-control unit, which also houses the condenser. The RX 450h FWD model’s hybrid powertrain employs two motor-generators: MG1, the engine-driven generator, is a starter and can charge the battery pack or power other electric motors as needed; MG2 is the front-drive motor. Power from the gas engine and MG2 is distributed to the drive wheels via a planetary gear-type continuously variable transmission. MG1 controls the output speed of the transaxle through the planetary gear set, without clutches or a viscous coupling. MG2 delivers torque over a wide range for better response and smooth performance. When the RX 450h is coasting or braking, the electric motors function as generators, capturing energy that would normally be lost as heat through the brakes and transforming it into electricity to recharge the batteries. All-Wheel Drive The RX 450h AWD uses a separate rear electric motor-generator to provide power to the rear wheels when road conditions or throttle response dictates. When accelerating, or starting off on a low-grip surface, torque is quickly provided to all four wheels. At steady speeds, torque is sent only to the front wheels, enhancing fuel efficiency. For handling agility and control, the AWD system increases rear-wheel torque when the vehicle’s front tires start to lose traction and decreases rear-wheel torque when the vehicle’s rear tires start to lose traction. A SNOW mode slows accelerator-pedal response to help reduce the possibility of wheel spin. Chassis/Body/Suspension/ Brakes/Tires Lexus engineers provided the RX with an engaging driving experience, and a quiet and smooth ride. A key factor in the RX models’ handling agility is the uniquely designed double-wishbone rear suspension. Another key benefit of the rear suspension is that the packaging yields greater cargo area room. The front suspension geometry was optimized with a thick stabilizer bar. Inversely wound front coil springs compress in opposite directions, preventing the negative effects of suspension compression on steering. The standard electric power steering system contributes to agility and better steering feel while eliminating the parasitic losses of a hydraulic steering pump. Eliminating hydraulic oil also provides an environmental benefit and reduces maintenance. When driving conditions require minimal steering input, energy consumption is reduced, improving fuel economy by nearly three percent. Steering assist is automatically adjusted in response to vehicle speed, with greater assist at low speeds and greater feel at higher speeds. Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) handling technology is standard on the RX 450h. VDIM anticipates loss of vehicle control and governs all of the vehicle’s dynamic handling systems – the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC) – with the electronic throttle control system. The system employs them collectively and seamlessly to help make corrections while allowing higher dynamic capability. The RX stops with the help of two-piston front caliper brakes. Brake feel is enhanced by optimizing pads, pedal ratio and booster output characteristics. The system’s enhanced VSC function adds steering assist torque to help aid handling on a split-friction surface. The VDIM system also provides a limited slip differential effect. The TRAC and VSC functions can also be turned off, for example, when the driver needs to free the vehicle from mud or snow. Standard 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, which were designed to appear as if carved from a single block, have 235/60R18 tires. Two optional 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 235/55R19 tires are available. Safety/Security The RX features Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), which uses brake pressure to help prevent the vehicle from moving backward when starting out on an incline. This system does not wait to detect rollback, however. It can be controlled by the driver and works in both forward and reverse. While the vehicle is stopped and the brake pedal is depressed, pushing it further activates the feature. Brake pressure is then maintained for approximately two seconds after the brake pedal is released and the driver switches to the accelerator pedal. The optional Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control uses millimeter-wave radar to measure and help maintain a pre-set following distance from a vehicle traveling directly ahead. The radar sensor can detect certain obstacles in front of the car, and a PCS computer with vehicle speed, steering angle and yaw-rate inputs helps to determine whether a collision is imminent. In such a situation, PCS preemptively retracts front seat belts and pre-initializes BA so that increased braking will be applied the instant the driver depresses the pedal. A high-strength cabin design and comprehensive Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS) are designed to help provide a high level of crash-energy management. Approximately 42 percent of the entire structure uses high tensile strength sheet steel. The new structure was engineered to help provide collision compatibility with vehicles of varying heights and weights. RX models are equipped with a segment-leading 10 standard airbags, including side curtain airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, rear side airbags (for the outboard seating positions) and knee airbags for the driver and the front passenger. A roll sensor signals the side curtain airbags to inflate if a predetermined threshold of vehicle tip-up is detected. The front-passenger airbag is a dual stage, twin-chamber design that, when deployed, helps provide optimal protection. Active front headrests help to reduce the severity of a whiplash injury in the event of certain types of lower speed rear collisions. The RX also features standard Smart Stop Technology as an additional measure of consumer confidence. The braking system enhancement will automatically reduce engine power when the brake pedal and the accelerator pedal are applied simultaneously under certain driving conditions. Luxury/Comfort/Convenience Lexus luxury begins with how the customer first interacts with his or her vehicle. All RX models are equipped with the SmartAccess keyless entry with push-button start. As the driver approaches the vehicle, interior and exterior courtesy lamps illuminate. Opening the door, the instrument panel lighting gradually fades in. When the engine is started, the instrument gauge needles and markings illuminate, followed by the multi-information display. After the driver exits the vehicle, the lights fade out at different intervals. All RX models are equipped with a power tilt and telescopic steering column. To ease entry and exit, the seat automatically slides up to two inches rearward and the steering wheel tilts upward and slides forward when the engine is switched off. Upon pushing the “ON” switch, the seat and steering wheel return to their last position automatically. The standard 10-way power front seats are shaped to accommodate arm movement when operating the available Remote Touch, while also holding the occupants in place. Both the driver and passenger seats also feature power lumbar adjustment. The shape and texture of the armrests and switches offer an ideal combination of tactile feel and functionality. The leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel features integrated audio controls and a unique cross-section that is designed to provide a more natural grip than a conventional round-section wheel. An optional leather and wood-trimmed wheel is available for added luxury. Three seat materials include standard fabric, optional leather-trim or even softer semi-aniline leather. In addition to Light Gray, Black, and Saddle Tan, Parchment is available as an interior color for vehicles equipped with optional leather trim. Standard wood trim choices include Ebony Bird’s Eye Maple or Espresso Bird’s-eye Maple. The quiet climate-control system offers quick cooling and warming. A high-efficiency compressor detects refrigerant flow in order to optimize engine control and fuel economy. An available smog sensor is designed to detect harmful particles (CO, HC, NOx) in other vehicles’ exhaust emissions and automatically switch between fresh air and recirculation modes. The RX can accommodate a variety of music sources, providing auxiliary and USB inputs, Bluetooth® Audio wireless connectivity and a standard integrated SiriusXM Satellite Radio receiver (complimentary 90-day trial subscription included). Standard voice recognition and Bluetooth® technology allow phone calls to be made and received once paired with a compatible smartphone. When an iPod® is attached via the USB port, information such as artist name, track and album can be displayed on the available navigation or headunit, while the iPod can be controlled through the audio system. The large center console storage box easily accommodates a variety of electronic devices while keeping wires out of sight. The RX continues the tradition of offering the Lexus Premium Audio system as standard equipment, in this case a powerful nine-speaker system with a six-disc changer. Creative placement and angling of the speakers perfectly cross-channel sound to the occupant on the opposite side of the vehicle to transform the cabin into a clear, crisp acoustic environment. Luxury Options A Sport Appearance Package (not available on RX 350 AWD) is new for 2013 and offers an unique front bumper, halogen headlamps and 19-inch wheels with superchrome finish. The RX offers several additional luxurious amenities. A ventilation function for the front seats helps improve comfort on hot and humid days. A 12-speaker audio system featuring a DVD/CD player and HD radio with iTunes tagging comes with the optional Navigation Package and includes two-rear-door tweeters and a compact, L-shaped subwoofer in the rear-luggage compartment. The optional 15-speaker Mark Levinson® Surround Sound system allows listeners to enjoy 330 watts at 0.1 percent THD through 7.1-channel surround sound. The Mark Levinson system, a Lexus exclusive, features a center channel coaxial speaker, metal-cone midrange speakers, tweeters and a 100-watt amplified subwoofer. A 2.5-inch speaker built into each D-pillar provides the right and left surround-sound channels. The diffusion of sound provides each occupant the same level of audio quality. The available Hard Disc Drive (HDD) navigation system eliminates the need for DVD map discs and offers a unique voice recognition system, which accepts casual-language inputs on certain functions. The System includes Lexus Enform® with Safety Connect® (includes complimentary one-year trial subscription), Voice Command casual-language voice recognition and Bluetooth phonebook download. The system is controlled by a new, second generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI) that is more intuitive in its design and use. The Remote Touch allows the user to operate the climate, audio, phone controls, optional navigation system and more. The screen menus are selected with a controller conveniently located within easy reach on the center console. Remote Touch also reduces eye movement and helps users operate functions with reduced effort and distraction. The Lexus Enform® with Safety Connect® now comes with the next-generation Lexus Enform® Application Suite, the system that leverages the customers’ mobile phone technology to provide a new level of connectivity and information management. Users can conduct local searches through Bing, or utilize voice-enabled apps to make restaurant reservations through OpenTable, get movie tickets via MovieTickets.com or tap into internet radio, including Pandora® or iHeartRadio. Users will also appreciate the ability to check-in on Facebook places, and search for various business reviews including restaurants on Yelp. SiriusXM data services offer information on stocks, traffic, weather, sports and fuel prices. Enform® is supported on iPhone, Android and Blackberry. SiriusXM services offer complimentary a one year trial subscriptions and require separate audio and data subscriptions. An optional rear-seat entertainment system includes two high-definition seven-inch screens, one on each of the front seatbacks. Each screen can display video from separate sources. A remote control allows independent control of each screen. Rear-seat occupants can also choose to listen to audio through the wireless headphones instead of the vehicle speakers. The available back-up camera helps provide the driver with a wider range of visibility while in reverse. The back-up camera displays images on the central control screen. Exterior Design The Lexus RX models blend a dynamic version of L-finesse design to create a sleek profile that is accentuated by broad “shoulders” for an athletic yet elegant presence. Bright finish side-window moldings follow a subtly concaved line across the A– and C– pillars, extending at the front and rear ends. The new distinctive and contemporary front of the RX is highlighted with Lexus’ signature spindle grille. The upper edge of the grille is set lower than the upper edge of the headlamp assembly to establish a more aggressive look. The LED daytime running lights reflect the “L” design motif, as do the combination rear lamps. Fog lamps are integrated into the sculpted lower front bumper fascia. Pronounced front fenders flow into the doors, and integrated rear fender flares neatly sweep around to pull together the taut rear corners of the vehicle. The lower body emphasizes the standard 18-inch wheels. Passenger doors extend below the entry sill, helping keep out dirt and moisture. A distinctive feature of the door handles is that the surface subtly twists outward from the front to the rear to give a comfortable grip. The side mirrors feature integrated LED turn signal lamps. The rear spoiler’s primary function is to help lower the vehicle’s Coefficient of drag (Cd), but it also conceals the rear wiper and houses the AM/FM radio antenna and high-mount stop lamp. Interior Design Based on Lexus L-finesse philosophy, the dramatically designed interior clearly creates two distinct zones – the “display zone” to provide information, and the “operation zone” for interaction with controls. The shoulder of the door trim comfortably envelops the occupants, the clear line of the trim beginning inside the cabin and tapering outward toward the exterior. The design imbues a feeling of a continuous line encircling the occupants and defining the controls and displays. Neatly sculpted metallic surfaces, especially on the asymmetrical center stack, showcase a bold contrast of shadow and light. A high contrast white Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) is used for the multi-information display located next to the speedometer. Vibrant white characters are sharply displayed on a high-contrast black background for ease of use and a luxurious appearance. In addition to an Eco Driving indicator light, RX models feature an Eco driving indicator zone that displays current fuel economy and alerts the driver when they are achieving low fuel efficiency. To help reduce driver distraction and wasted movement, Lexus engineers strategically placed several features close to the driver including the multi-information switch, the Remote Touch console-mounted navigation controller and the optional Heads-Up Display. The available navigation and Lexus Display Audio screen and standard LCD audio/HVAC display are placed at a higher, more distant position, providing a more natural visual angle. A multi-information switch on the steering wheel allows the driver to access numerous function settings without taking hands off the steering wheel, and reduces the number of individual switches, contributing to a cleaner instrument panel. Vehicle settings can be customized, including personal door-lock preferences, interior/exterior light adjustments, driver’s seat easy exit, and window-closure settings. High-intensity LEDs, on the available Heads UP p Display, project high-contrast white figures onto the windshield, which are easier to read – and easier on the eyes. The HUD offers displays for speed, navigation, and audio. A wedge-shaped windshield interlayer for the HUD projection area eliminates the printed grid pattern seen on some other vehicles equipped with HUDs. Warranty All new Lexus vehicles come with a 48-month/50,000-mile basic limited warranty with roadside assistance for 48 months/unlimited miles. Powertrain and restraint system coverage is provided for 72 months/70,000 miles. Corrosion perforation protection is covered for 72 months, regardless of mileage. View full article