William Maley

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com January 8, 2012 Joining the growing list of vehicles showing up before the embargo is the new Cadillac ATS. Pictures of the new model were released a few hours ago and show the ATS is gunning for the BMW 3-Series. Design of the new ATS takes many cues from its big brother, the CTS, but with some softer lines up front and on the flanks. Around back, the ATS sports Cadillac's trademark vertical tail lamps, plus a pair of inset exhaust tips. Cadillac is very confident that the new ATS will give the 3-Series a run for its money. The ATS boasts a nearly 50/50 weight distribution, and features a five-link independent rear suspension; a first for Cadillac. The ATS is also the lightest Cadillac, tipping the scales at 3,400 lbs. Power will come from engines; the base is a 2.5L four-cylinder producing an estimated 200 HP and 188 lb-ft of torque. Next is the 2.0L turbo-four producing 270 HP and 260 lb-ft of torque. And there is the stalwart 3.6L DI V6 producing 318 HP and 267 lb-ft of torque. Transmissions will include a six-speed manual or automatic. Inside, the ATS takes it up a notch, with eye-catching interior colors, the choice of either wood or carbon fiber trim, and cut-and-sew stitching on the dash and seats. The ATS will also feature Cadillac's CUE infotainment system which offers a eight-inch LCD touchscreen, Bluetooth, USB, auxiliary inputs, and a SD card slot. Cadillac hasn't announced pricing or fuel economy for the new ATS, but has said the ATS will be on dealer lots this summer. Press Release is on Page 2 For release: Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, 6 p.m. ET 2013 Cadillac ATS Challenges the Status Quo • All-new, lightweight, rear-wheel-drive architecture with one of the lowest curb weights in the segment – less than 3,400 pounds (1,542 kg) • Broad lineup of engines, including two four-cylinders and a V-6 for North America, capitalizes on lightweight structure for performance with efficiency • Cadillac CUE, a comprehensive, in-vehicle experience that merges intuitive design with auto industry-first controls and commands for information and entertainment data DETROIT – Cadillac today introduced the 2013 ATS, an all-new compact luxury sports sedan intended to challenge the world's best premium cars. Developed on an all-new, lightweight vehicle architecture, Cadillac's entry into the world's most significant luxury car segment goes on sale this summer. The rear-drive ATS brings Cadillac's blend of technologically driven performance, elegance and design to a new audience of spirited drivers. Its sophisticated driving experience is enhanced with Cadillac CUE, a comprehensive, in-vehicle user experience that merges intuitive design with industry-first controls and commands for information and media data. "Designed with quick, nimble and fun-to-drive dynamics, ATS expands Cadillac's portfolio into a crucial global segment," said Don Butler, vice president of marketing for Cadillac. "For a new group of luxury consumers, this is a car that will fit their lifestyle and challenge the segment's status quo." The Cadillac ATS is a new expression of Cadillac's Art & Science execution philosophy, built on a foundation of driving dynamics and mass efficiency. It is the most agile and lightweight Cadillac, with one of the lowest curb weights in the segment – less than 3,400 pounds (1,542 kg). Germany's famed Nürburgring served as one of the key testing grounds, along with additional roads, racetracks and laboratories around the globe, ATS engineers balanced performance with Cadillac's trademark refinement. Contributing components and features include: • Nearly 50/50 weight balance • Cadillac's first five-link independent rear suspension using lightweight, high-strength steel and efficient straight link designs • A multi-link double-pivot MacPherson-strut front suspension with direct-acting stabilizer bar • Driver-adjustable FE3 sport suspension with Magnetic Ride Control real-time damping • Underbody aerodynamic shields • Premium (belt driven) electric variable-effort steering gear from ZF Steering Systems • Four-channel ABS with available Brembo performance brakes • Available all-wheel drive "More than just another new entry, the ATS aims to change the status quo of the European-dominated segment," said Butler. "That is why our approach in all elements of its development is so extensive and focused." A broad lineup of engines – including two four-cylinders and a V-6 for North America – delivers strong power to the ATS and capitalizes on the car's lightweight structure to complement its performance with efficiency. The optional engines include an all-new 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder rated at 270 horsepower (201 kW) and Cadillac's award-winning 3.6L V-6, estimated at 318 horsepower (237 kW). At 135hp/L, the new 2.0T is one of the most power-dense engines in the industry, topping engines from European competitors. ATS will offer both manual and automatic transmission options, along with rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations. The ATS will deliver peak highway fuel economy of more than 30 mpg. A spirit of lightness and balance Making the ATS one of the segment's lightest cars was a fundamental criterion for and the guiding principle during its development, but it was done in a nuanced manner that ensures a refined driving experience. "Low weight gives the ATS a more nimble and controllable feel, while also optimizing the performance and efficiency of the powertrains," said David Masch, ATS chief engineer. "But we were careful to manage the weight while maintaining Cadillac's signature levels of refinement." Optimizing the ATS's mass was the result of a four-pronged philosophy that included strict adherence to original architectural goals, measured load management throughout the vehicle, benchmarking components to see if lighter solutions were available and an overall culture that "weighed" the mass of every component in the car against all aspects of its development. An aluminum hood, magnesium engine mount brackets and even lightweight, natural-fiber door trim panels contribute to the ATS's low overall mass – and reflect the systematic approach of evaluating every gram that went into the car. But some weight was deemed not only beneficial, but essential to the ATS's driving experience. An example is the cast iron differential: Engineers found they could improve fuel economy with a cast iron differential rather than a lighter aluminum version. And while the rear suspension is mostly steel, the focus on load management and straight links enabled significant weight savings without using alternate materials. This helps offset the weight of the engine and transmission at the front of the vehicle, helping the ATS deliver its near-perfect 50/50 weight balance, while also contributing to lower noise and vibration. A similar approach was taken on the wheels, where extra structural aluminum was strategically added to further reduce vibration. "We approached development by counting all the grams in the ATS," said Masch. "We minimized them where we could and put them to the best use where they were needed." Tailored design weaves in signature style and refinement The 2013 Cadillac ATS interprets Cadillac's Art & Science design language in a new proportion, tailoring the signature styling and refinement cues for the most compact Cadillac while upholding – and advancing – the exemplary attention to detail and technological elements for which the brand is known. A long, 109.3-inch (2,775 mm) wheelbase and wide front/rear tracks are the cornerstones of the ATS's firmly planted stance, which is enhanced by short overhangs and taut sheet metal that appears to wrap tightly around the tires. Seventeen-inch wheels are standard and 18-inch wheels are available. Bold vertical lighting elements – including new LED front signature lighting detail – as well as illuminating door handles and active grille shutters lend technologically advanced style and function to the ATS. The grille shutters close at certain highway speeds to reduce aerodynamic drag and enhance fuel economy. A driver-focused interior with integrated technology and crafted materials complements the exterior elements and supports the ATS's driving experience. Everything from the placement of the pedals to the position of the shifter is designed for effortless and intuitive performance driving. Available performance seats have power-adjustable bolsters to optimize lateral support during high-load cornering. Contributing to the interior's intuitive feel is an instrument panel that wraps into the doors and a center stack in the mid-instrument panel that flows into the center console. LED lighting for the bold gauge cluster enables clear, at-a-glance viewing in all lighting conditions, while ambient lighting accents functional elements of the console and doors. Real wood, plated metal plating and carbon fiber trim and Cadillac's cut-and-sew cut-and-sew instrument panel, console and doors enhance the emotional connection to the ATS. Choices of many interior color themes, each with unique accent trim material, cover a wide range of flavors – from light, open and warm to black and serious, to bold, technical and sporty. CUE and ATS technologies The ATS is offered with Cadillac CUE, a comprehensive, in-vehicle experience that merges intuitive design with auto industry-first controls and commands for information and entertainment data. It is designed to be unique for each consumer, from the "simple user" to the fully connected "super user." CUE, which stands for Cadillac User Experience, pairs entertainment and information data from up to 10 Bluetooth-enabled mobile devices, USBs, SD cards and MP3 players with a vehicle infotainment system that reduces complexity through customized information, voice commands and fewer buttons and larger icons. For example, most of today's luxury cars have around 20 buttons controlling the radio and entertainment functions. CUE has only four. The heart of CUE is the eight-inch LCD multi-touch sensitive screen, seamlessly integrated into the top of the central instrument panel and a motorized fully capacitive faceplate at the bottom concealing a 1.8L storage area. The vibrant LCD screen displays CUE's home page, which resembles a smart phone's screen by using large, easy-to-target icons to execute commands. Capacitive technology refers to using electrodes to sense the conductive properties of objects, such as a finger. In addition to CUE, the ATS is offered with other technologies, including: • Bluetooth phone connectivity with voice recognition • USB, auxiliary and SD memory card ports • SiriusXM Satellite Radio with three-month trial subscription • Keyless access and keyless push-button start • Reconfigurable 5.7-inch instrument panel cluster display • Full-color reconfigurable heads-up display. The ATS is offered as a well-equipped standard model and in Luxury, Performance and Premium Collections. A Bose® Cabin Surround audio system is offered on the standard model, as well as Luxury and Performance Collections. It is standard with the Premium Collection. A navigation system is also available with Luxury and Performance Collections and standard with the Premium Collection. 'Control and alert' safety strategy Safety in the ATS is based on Cadillac's "control and alert" strategy that employs advanced technologies – including radar, cameras and ultrasonic sensors – to help prevent crashes. The safety features bolster driver vision and awareness of road hazards, and intervenes to help the driver avert potential crashes. In some cases, Cadillac's advanced crash-avoidance systems will act without the driver, such as automatic braking, which will activate based on information indicating potential hazards. Among the most sophisticated of the features is Front and Rear Automatic Brakes. This relies on short-range radar technology and ultrasonic sensors to help the driver prevent front and rear low-speed collisions via a progression of alerts that extend to complete braking, if necessary. Optional advanced safety features include: • Full Speed Range Adaptive Cruise Control • Intelligent Brake Assist • Forward Collision Alert • Brake Pre-Fill Automatic Collision Preparation • Lane Departure Warning • Side Blind Zone Alert • Rear Vision Camera With Dynamic Guidelines • Adaptive Forward Lighting • Hill Hold/Start Assist (Standard, manual transmission) The advanced technology safety features complement the ATS's roster of other safety features, including eight standard air bags (10 with optional features), safety belt pretensioners and load limiters, StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with traction control and four-wheel disc brakes with four-channel ABS. ATS also features OnStar standard for one year. It can use GPS and cellular phone technology to automatically call for help in the event of a crash. OnStar service also includes myCadillac and OnStar myLink mobile apps, which offer vehicle information, controls and OnStar services via the customer's iPhone or Android smart phone. About Cadillac Cadillac has been a leading luxury auto brand since 1902. In recent years, Cadillac has engineered a historic renaissance led by artful engineering and advanced technology. More information on Cadillac can be found at media.cadillac.com. 2013 CADILLAC ATS PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS Overview Model: Cadillac ATS Sedan Body style / driveline: 4-door luxury sport luxury sedan, RWD/AWD Construction: Unitized welded steel body with direct-mounted front cradle and rubber-isolated, multi-link independent rear suspension EPA vehicle class: small car Manufacturing location: Lansing Grand River Assembly, Lansing, Mich. Engines 2.0L Turbo DI VVT 2.5L I-4 DI VVT 3.6L V-6 DI VVT Displacement (cu in / cc): 122 / 1998 150 / 2457 217 / 3564 Bore & stroke (in / mm): 3.39 x 3.39 / 86 x 86 3.46 x 3.97 / 88 x 101 3.7 x 3.37 / 94 x 85.6 Block material: cast aluminum cast aluminum cast aluminum Cylinder head material: cast aluminum cast aluminum cast aluminum Valvetrain: DOHC, four-valves per cylinder, continuously variable valve timing DOHC, four valves per cylinder, continuously variable valve timing DOHC, four valves per cylinder, continuously variable valve timing Fuel delivery: direct high-pressure fuel injection direct high-pressure fuel injection direct high-pressure fuel injection Compression ratio: 9.2:1 11.4:1 11.5:1 Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm): 270 / 201 @ 5300 (est) 200 / 149 @ 6200 (est) 318 / 237 @ 6800 (est - gas) Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm): 260 / 353 @ 2400 (est) 188 / 255 @ 4500 (est) 267 / 362 @ 4900 (est - gas) Recommended fuel: premium recommended but not required regular unleaded regular unleaded or E85 Maximum engine speed (rpm): 6350 7000 7200 Estimated fuel economy: TBD TBD TBD Transmissions Tremec M3L TR3160 Hydra-Matic 6L45 Type: fully synchronized six-speed manual with single overdrive six-speed, electronically controlled, automatic overdrive with torque converter clutch Gear ratios (:1): First: 4.12 4.06 Second: 2.62 2.37 Third: 1.81 1.55 Fourth: 1.30 1.16 Fifth: 1.00 0.85 Sixth: 0.80 0.67 Reverse: 3.75 3.20 Final drive ratio: 3.27 3.27 (2.5L, 3.6L) 3.45 (2.0T) Chassis / Suspension Configuration: rear-wheel drive Differential: open (FE2 suspension); mechanical limited-slip (FE3 suspension) Front: MacPherson-type with dual lower ball joints and direct-acting stabilizer bar; Magnetic Ride Control (FE3) Rear: independent five-link with monotube shock absorbers; Magnetic Ride Control (FE3) Steering type: ZF rack-mounted electric, power-assisted and variable assist Steering ratio: FE2: 16.8:1 FE3: 15.3:1 Steering turns, lock-to-lock: FE2: 3.16 FE3: 2.86 Turn circle (ft / m): FE2 RWD: 36.38 / 11.09 FE3 RWD: 35.99 / 10.97 FE2 AWD: 38.05 / 11.60 Chassis control: four-channel StabiliTrak w/ brake assist and traction control Wheels and Tires Wheel size and type: 17x8-inch aluminum (painted) 17x8-inch aluminum (polished) 18x8-inch aluminum (machined-face) 18x8-inch aluminum (polished) Tire size: P225/45R17 90H all-season P225/45R17 90V run-flat all-season 225/40R18 92V run-flat all-season 225/40R18 88W / 255/35R18 90W run-flat summer-only 225/35ZR19 88Y / 255/30ZR19 91Y run-flat all-season (LPO) Brakes Type: four-wheel disc with sliding calipers on base; four-channel ABS/TCS w/ DRP; Brembo brakes with fixed calipers on Luxury, Performance and Premium collections Rotor type and thickness (in / mm): Standard front: 11.8 x 1.02 (300 x 26) vented, with Ferritic Nitro Carbunized process for corrosion resistance Standard rear: 12.4 x 0.90 (315 x 23) vented, with Ferritic Nitro Carbunized process for corrosion resistance Uplevel front: 12.6 x 1.18 (321 x 30) vented, with Ferritic Nitro Carbunized process for corrosion resistance Uplevel rear: 12.4 x 0.90 (315 x 23) vented, with Ferritic Nitro Carbunized process for corrosion resistance Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase (in / mm): 109.3 / 2775 Length (in / mm): 182.8 / 4643 Height (in / mm): 55.9 / 1421 Width (in / mm): 71.1 / 1805 Track (in / mm): front: 59.5 / 1512 rear: 60.9 / 1548 Curb weight (lb / kg): less than 3,400 / 1,542 (approx.) Weight distribution (% front / rear): 51 / 49 Interior Legroom (in / mm): front: 42.5 / 1079 rear: 33.5 / 851 Headroom (in / mm): front: 38.6 / 980 rear: 36.8 / 935 Shoulder room (in / mm): front: 55.2 / 1345 rear: 53.9 / 1370 Hip room (in / mm): front: 53.0 / 1345 rear: 52.3 / 1328 Capacities Seating capacity (front / rear): 2 / 3 EPA passenger volume (cu ft / L): 90.9 / 2573 EPA trunk volume (cu ft / L): 10.2 / 290 Trailer towing maximum (lb / kg): 1000 / 454 (3.6L) Fuel tank (gal / L): 16 / 60.5 Engine oil (qt / L): TBD Cooling system (qt / L): 8.1 / 7.7 (2.0T) 7.1 / 6.7 (2.5L) 11 / 10.4 (3.6L) *SAE certified. Note: Information shown is current at time of publication.

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com January 8, 2011 Breaking embargos before an autoshow is the norm and the Detroit show is no different. Joining alongside the Mercedes-Benz SL and Dodge Dart is the new Ford Fusion. A Czech website Auto Forum have gotten two pictures of the new Fusion before its debut at Detroit. The pictures, while a bit pixelated, reveal how much infulence the Ford Evos concept had on the overall design. From the hexagonal grille, front headlights, fog lamps, and lower air inlet, the front end of the new Fusion shares many components with the concept. We'll learn more about the new Fusion tommrow morning at the Detroit Auto Show. Source: Auto Fourm

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com January 6, 2012 The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration today released their numbers of recalls done by automakers in 2011. The total for 2011 stands at 15.5 million vehicles and 593 recall campaigns. The numbers are less than 2010 totals of 20.1 million vehicles and 648 campaigns. Honda was the top automaker in recalls with 3.9 million vehicles recalled during 2011. Honda initially disputed the number put out by NHTSA, but later said it agreed to the number. Honda spokesman Chris Martin said the majority of Honda's recalls were to find a small number of faulty parts. "We're playing it safe. We want to make sure we find all of these parts," Martin told The Detroit News. Following behind Honda was Toyota with 3.5 million vehicles recalled in 13 campaigns. Toyota hasn't had any pending investgations for five months. "We're really just moving forward and working to satisfy our customers," said Toyota spokesman Brian Lyons. Third place went to Ford with 3.3 million vehicles recalled in 13 campaigns. Most of Ford's recalls dealt with older vehicles. "Ford is committed to providing our customers with top-quality vehicles. Part of this commitment includes addressing any issues quickly and responsibly. We don't focus on numbers as much as we focus on making sure we deliver safe and high-quality products to our customers," said Ford spokesman Daniel Pierce. NHTSA spokeswoman Lynda Tran said the numbers should be put into context. "There are a host of reasons why a manufacturer could have more or fewer recalls in a given year or over time, including its barometer for measuring risk which could be more conservative or liberal as contrasted to other manufacturers or the industry as a whole. Since these summary numbers do not factor in or weight averages based on production, the largest OEMs tend to top the list each year." Source: The Detroit News

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com January 6. 2012 Yesterday, Chrysler announced that a diesel version of the Jeep Grand Cherokee will be arriving in 2013. The diesel model will be built alongside the regular Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango at Chrysler's Jefferson North Assembly Plant in Detroit. No specifications or release date has been announced. Chrysler also announced they will be adding 1,100 new jobs at the Jefferson North Assembly to add a third shift. "It is in the Motor City, home of our industrial heritage and a resilient people, that we are entrusting the manufacture not only of the ultimate American sports car, the SRT Viper, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee — the most awarded SUV ever — but also a diesel version of the Jeep Grand Cherokee for North American markets," said Chrysler Group chairman and CEO, Sergio Marchionne in a statement. Press Release is on Page 2 Chrysler Group LLC Deepens Commitment to the City of Detroit with New Jobs and New Jeep® Grand Cherokee Diesel for North America - Chrysler Group to add a third crew and 1,100 jobs to Jefferson North Assembly Plant in Detroit - Chrysler Group to build Jeep® Grand Cherokee diesel for North America in Detroit next year - Chrysler Group to reopen Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit, adding 150 jobs January 5, 2012 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group LLC is strengthening its ties with the City of Detroit by adding a third crew and 1,100 new jobs at its Jefferson North Assembly Plant in Detroit (JNAP), expanding the Jeep® Grand Cherokee lineup to include a diesel version for North America in the city and reaffirming plans to add 150 jobs by reopening its Conner Avenue Assembly Plant, also located in the Motor City for production of the ultimate American sports car – the SRT Viper. "Our future, like the history of our brands, is interwoven with the City of Detroit," said Chrysler Group Chairman and CEO Sergio Marchionne. "Detroit long has been home to renowned innovators and craftsmen. So it is in the Motor City, home of our industrial heritage and a resilient people, that we are entrusting the manufacture not only of the ultimate American sports car, the SRT Viper, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee – the most awarded SUV ever – but also a diesel version of the Jeep Grand Cherokee for North American markets. "We believe that investing in Detroit is not only the right thing to do, but it is a smart thing to do as we work to write the next chapter in our shared history," Marchionne said. Through its new commitments in the Motor City – the city in which the Company has its earliest roots – Chrysler Group is embracing its Detroit heritage and weaving it into the fiber of its future plans, which include producing fuel-efficient, environmentally clean vehicles, such as a Jeep Grand Cherokee diesel. And by adding 1,250 jobs at its two downtown Detroit manufacturing plants, Chrysler Group is demonstrating its belief in the passion, skill and steadfast dedication of the Motor City to build luxurious, high-quality, state-of-the art vehicles that are true to a shared heritage and aspire to create a better and sustainable future. "We are pleased to have Chrysler Group acknowledge the contributions of the UAW here in the Motor City by relying on our workforce to produce two of its most acclaimed vehicles," said General Holiefield, UAW Vice President-Chrysler Department. "Our workers nationwide have had a rough couple of years along with the American auto industry and we are proud to be partners in building a future of success starting right here in Detroit." The new third crew of approximately 1,100 jobs that Chrysler Group is adding at JNAP, home of the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Dodge Durango, will be part of an operating pattern, called the 3-2-120 schedule, that allows each employee an additional 49 days off per year while enabling the plant an additional 49 days of annual production. JNAP was the first Chrysler Group plant in Michigan to add a second crew of production, or about 1,100 jobs, in July 2010. It also was the first Chrysler Group plant to add new hires to its ranks. Current employment at the plant is approximately 2,890. The new jobs and product announcements build upon Chrysler Group's existing commitment, announced last month, to reopen the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant to produce the next generation SRT Viper. With Conner's reopening, nearly 150 hourly and salaried jobs will return to the City of Detroit. The next generation Viper will make its return to the product lineup late this year as a 2013 model. Conner employees began reporting for training and orientation in the fall.

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com January 5, 2012 If there was one automaker who is happy to see Ford leaving the compact truck market, it would be Nissan. "We're really the beneficiary of Ford pulling out of the segment. We felt it was an opportunity to capture market share and we went after it last year, and we went after it without increasing incentives," said Nissan U.S.' sales boss Al Castignetti. Last summer, Nissan pushed sales of the Frontier compact truck. The move helped the company record their biggest sales in the U.S.. Nissan sold 51,700 Frontiers last year, an increase of 28% from 2010. But the number pales when compared to the 70,832 Rangers sold last year. To help boost 2012 sales of the Frontier, Nissan has created a new ad-campaign promoting it as a alternative to full-size trucks. "We got our dealers reinvigorated on the truck and got our marketing out there. We're having great success with it," said Castignetti. Source: Autoweek

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com January 5, 2012 A study done by consulting firm KPMG found out two-thirds of auto execs that combined hybrid and EV sales will account for as little as 6% of the market in the United States and Western Europe as late as 2025. However, the execs say they will still invest in the technology. "They are hedging their bets. They are saying that we don't know yet what the winning vehicle technology will be for the future, and so they are going to invest in all of it and let the market decide," said Gary Silberg, national auto industry leader for KPMG. The study, which asked 200 auto execs also revealed; 81 percent anticipate larger investments in battery packs and battery cell technology 85 percent believe automakers will invest in more electric motor production 76 percent expect more investment in electronics for electric vehicles Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com January 5, 2012 Today, General Motors announced structural and cooling system "safety enhancements" for the Chevrolet Volt to better protect the batteries in a crash. The enhancements include strengthening a portion of the Volt's vehicle safety structure, add a sensor in the battery coolant system reservoir, and add tamper-resistant bracket to the battery coolant reservoir. GM North America President Mark Reuss said that GM is treating this as a voluntary customer satisfaction issue, and therefor it's not a recall. But it feels like a recall due to the process to fix the roughly 12,000 Volts either at dealers or with owners taking 2-3 hours to fix. “The Volt has always been safe to drive. Now, we will go the extra mile to ensure our customers’ peace of mind in the days and weeks following a severe crash,” said Mary Barra, GM senior vice president of Global Product Development. GM also revealed today that out of the 8,000 Volts sold, 250 have either have requested either a loaner vehicle or a potential buyback. Reuss says the number could change in light of the news. Press Release is on Page 2 GM Announces Enhancements to Chevrolet Volt Changes follow NHTSA investigation into post-severe crash battery performance WARREN, Mich. – General Motors today announced enhancements to the vehicle structure and battery coolant system in the Chevrolet Volt that would further protect the battery from the possibility of an electrical fire occurring days or weeks after a severe crash. The enhancements come in response to a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Preliminary Evaluation to examine post-severe crash battery performance. NHTSA opened its Preliminary Evaluation on Nov. 25 following a severe-impact lab test on a battery pack that resulted in an electrical fire six days later. The test was conducted to reproduce a coolant leak that occurred in a full-scale vehicle crash test last May that resulted in an electrical fire three weeks later. The Volt is a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and has earned other safety awards from key third-party organizations. Through the first 11 months of 2011, Volt owners accumulated nearly 20 million miles without an incident similar to the results in the NHTSA tests. “The Volt has always been safe to drive. Now, we will go the extra mile to ensure our customers’ peace of mind in the days and weeks following a severe crash,” said Mary Barra, GM senior vice president of Global Product Development. GM will conduct a Customer Satisfaction Program to further protect the Volt battery from the possibility of an electrical fire occurring days or weeks after a severe side crash. Modifications will: Strengthen an existing portion of the Volt’s vehicle safety structure to further protect the battery pack in a severe side collision. Add a sensor in the reservoir of the battery coolant system to monitor coolant levels. Add a tamper-resistant bracket to the top of the battery coolant reservoir to help prevent potential coolant overfill. GM conducted four successful crash tests between Dec. 9 and 21 of Volts with the structural enhancement. The enhancement performed as intended. There was no intrusion into the battery pack and no coolant leakage in any of the tests. “These enhancements and modifications will address the concerns raised by the severe crash tests,” Barra said. “There are no changes to the Volt battery pack or cell chemistry as a result of these actions. We have tested the Volt’s battery system for more than 285,000 hours, or 25 years, of operation. We’re as confident as ever that the cell design is among the safest on the market.” Volt customers will be individually notified when the modifications are available for their vehicles. The enhancements are being incorporated into the Volt manufacturing process as production resumes this month. “We’re focused on one thing right now: doing what’s right by our customers,” said GM North America President Mark Reuss. “We’ll live up to our commitment to make sure our customers are delighted with their purchase.” Vehicle electrification technologies are important to future of the automotive industry, which is why GM will continue its leadership role in helping the Society of Automotive Engineers develop standards that will help tow truck operators, salvage yards and vehicle recyclers in the proper handling of electric vehicle components. GM will help develop educational materials that can be used by these stakeholders in the future.

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com January 5, 2012 Fiat has increased their ownership in Chrysler to 58.5% after the Dodge Dart in achieved 40 mpg in preliminary testing. The mpg goal was the last of three “performance benchmarks” set by the U.S. Treasury when Fiat bought 20% of Chrysler in July 2009. In January 2011, Fiat increased their stake into Chrysler to 25% when they announced they would be building the 1.4L MultiAir engine in Dundee, Michigan. In July, the stake was increased to 30% when Chrysler recorded $1.5 billion in revenues from countries outside North America, and agreed to sell Chrysler products in Brazil and Europe. The final benchmark for Fiat to meet was to have a compact car that achieved 40 mpg and was built in the U.S. The Dart in preliminary testing got 40 mpg and will be built at Chrysler's Belvidere, Illinois plant. It's unknown which engine was used during the testing. The Dart will come with three engines; two "Tigershark” inline-fours displacing 2.0 and 2.4L, as well as a turbocharged 1.4L MultiAir inline-four. Press Release is on Page 2 Chrysler Group LLC Completes Final Performance Event; Fiat S.p.A. Ownership Rises to 58.5 Percent; Fuel-Efficient Dodge Dart to Be Revealed at NAIAS on Jan. 9 Auburn Hills, Mich. , Jan 5, 2012 - Chrysler Group LLC today announced that Fiat S.p.A.'s ownership interest in the Company has increased to 58.5 percent, from 53.5 percent (fully diluted), upon the Company’s achievement of the final of three performance-related milestones. As provided in its June 10, 2009 Operating Agreement, Chrysler Group issued a letter to the U.S. Department of the Treasury stating that the Company has irrevocably committed to begin assembly of a vehicle with an unadjusted combined fuel economy of at least 40 mpg in commercial quantities in a production facility located in the United States. As a result, Fiat’s ownership interest increased automatically by 5 percent under the terms of the Operating Agreement. The ownership interests of Chrysler Group’s members are now: Fiat: 58.5 percent UAW VEBA: 41.5 percent In late December, Chrysler Group achieved the Fuel Economy Test, for an unadjusted combined rating of 40 mpg, with a pre-production version of the Dodge Dart, its new, state-of-the-art, four-door sedan. With the 2013 Dodge Dart, Chrysler Group is redefining performance in the compact car segment and delivering world-class aerodynamics. With Alfa Romeo DNA and Dodge’s passion for performance at its core, the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart is a thoroughly modern and fuel-efficient vehicle that’s beautifully designed and crafted, agile and brings driving fun back to the segment. The all-new Dodge Dart will be made in the United States at Chrysler Group’s Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Ill. The Dodge Dart is scheduled to be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on Jan. 9. This is the fifth time in the past year that Fiat has increased its ownership in Chrysler Group. In June 2009, Fiat initially received a 20 percent stake in Chrysler Group in exchange for sharing intellectual property and other resources with the Company. On Jan. 10, 2011, Fiat announced that its stake in the Company increased to 25 percent when Chrysler Group received the appropriate government approvals and committed to begin commercial production of the Fully Integrated Robotized Engine (FIRE) in its Dundee, Mich., facility. On April 12, Fiat’s ownership in Chrysler Group increased to 30 percent as Chrysler Group achieved cumulative revenue of more than $1.5 billion attributable to Company sales made outside of Canada, Mexico and the United States and entered into distribution agreements in Brazil and Europe, as well as a technology-use agreement. In connection with Chrysler Group refinancing and paying back its U.S. and Canadian government loans in full on May 24, six years early, Fiat exercised its call option to increase its ownership interest in Chrysler Group by an incremental 16 percent to 46 percent, on a fully diluted basis. And on July 21, Fiat reported that it paid $500 million to purchase the U.S. Treasury’s remaining 6 percent (fully diluted) ownership interest in Chrysler Group and $125 million to purchase the Canadian governments' remaining 1.5 percent (fully diluted) ownership interest, bringing its fully diluted ownership interest to 53.5 percent. In addition, Fiat paid $75 million to obtain assignment of the U.S. Treasury’s rights under the Equity Recapture Agreement. With the submission of the letter to the U.S. Treasury, Fiat’s stake in Chrysler Group is now 58.5 percent.

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com January 4, 2012 It's not any news that cars are getting heavier by the moment due to new safety reguations and luxuries like power windows and sound proofing. A new report shows how both have been detrimental to fuel economy gains. Christopher Knittel, a professor of applied economics at the M.I.T. Sloan School of Management published a paper in the American Economic Review stating that if weight, horsepower, and torque were held to levels in the 1980s and fuel efficiency techologies were improved, fuel economy for cars and light trucks could see an increase of by almost 60 percent from 1980 to 2006. In a interview with the New York Times, Knittel said the biggest contributor to the weight gain is due to consumers changing preferences. “In 1980, just 18 percent of new cars sold in the United States were light trucks. By 2004, it was 60 percent. That led to a 30 percent increase in weight over that time, and a doubling of horsepower.” Not surprisingly, the auto industry isn't taking too kindly to Knittel's report. “This year, automakers are selling 270 models that achieve 30 m.p.g. or more. The M.I.T. report stops at 2006, just when automakers began meeting greater consumer demand for fuel economy with new technologies. In 2008, when gas reached $4 a gallon, we couldn’t keep the most fuel-efficient autos on dealers’ lots,” said Gloria Bergquist, a spokeswoman for the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers in a email. Knittel acknowledged that gasoline costing $4 a gallon in 2008 led many buyers toward fuel-efficient vehicles and away from SUVs and pickups, but it wasn't indicative of an unstoppable trend. "They certainly were losing weight then, but as gas prices fell that shift has slowed. I’m not faulting the automakers. It’s the role of policymakers to incentivize fuel economy shifts,” So what does Knittel think should happen? Knittel favors a gas tax than the new CAFE standards. “Performance standards like CAFE are highly inefficient, but they’re politically palatable,” he said. Source: New York Times