William Maley

Rumorpile: GM & BMW To Team Up? William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com September 12, 2011 The past few weeks in the automotive world has been all about the alliances; Ford and Toyota teaming up to work on hybrids, Suzuki and Volkswagen breaking off their two year alliance, and if a report from Spiegel Online is true, BMW and GM could be the next alliance. According to the report, GM is interested in the Barvarian's gasoline and diesel engines. Also, GM's board member in charge of strategy, Stephen Girsky has begun talks with the company on "far-reaching joint projects." This is unconfirmed at the moment. In turn, Speigel reports BMW is interested in the Voltec powertrain that's used the Chevrolet Volt/Opel Ampera. This should come as no surprise as BMW's head of Research & Development, Frank Weber was the former lead engineer of the Volt. Neither company could be reached for comment. Source: Fox Business

(Looks at ad.. Looks at bank account... Sighs) If I had the money and the ability to get out there, I would be driving it back to Michigan in a heartbeat.

UAW Seeking A Record $8,000 To $10,000 Signing Bonus William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com September 10, 2011 Previous UAW contract negotiations with the big three would center around increased hourly wages and top benefits. But during this round of contract negotiations, the UAW could give up the increases and go for the lump sum. In a report done by Bloomberg, the UAW could ask Chrysler, Ford, and General Motors for a signing bonus of of $8,000 to $10,000 per member. The amount is three times the current $3,000 signing bonus the big three agreed to in 2007. “A signing bonus in this range would get some attention and is meant to serve as a down-payment on something negotiators want workers to view positively. It’s serves as a statement that says, ‘The gains this contract offers are real.’ There’s nothing as real as a check up front,” said Harley Shaiken, a labor professor at the University of California at Berkeley. If the increased signing bonuses go through, it would cost GM $470 million, Ford $410 million, and Chrysler $250 million. A source says the automakers aren't too keen on the idea of larger bonuses. When asked about the enlarged bonuses, a UAW spokesperson said, “It’s inaccurate and it creates false expectations,” The UAW's current contract ends on September 14. Source: Bloomberg

Porsche Ponders A Return Of The 4-Cylinder William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com September 10, 2011 The last time Porsche offered a 4-Cylinder in any of their vehicles was the 968, which left the US after the 1995 model year. Since then, the smallest engine you could get was a 2.7L, now 2.9L flat-six used in the Boxster and Cayman. Now, Porsche is back at work developing a new four-cylinder engines. Autoweek is reporting that high ranking officials from Porsche’s Weissach research and development center in Germany say the company is hard at work on a new family of horizontally-opposed four-cylinder engines. The engines, expected to come in a 2.0L and 2.5L forms will share certain traits with the larger flat-six engines. The four-cylinders are expected to come with turbochargers and direct-injection. The engines are expected to be placed into a new entry-level, mid-engine sports car that sources inside Porsche say its a spiritual successor the famed 550 Spider. The engines will also find a home in the Boxster and Cayman. Source: Autoweek

Camaro ZL1 Delivers 580 Horsepower and Exclusive Technologies Supercharged, 6.2L LSA V-8 delivers 580 horsepower (432 kW) and 556 lb.-ft. of torque (754 Nm) ZL1 power complemented by exclusive Magnetic Ride Control and Performance Traction Management Track-capable standard equipment includes high-performance fuel system, as well as engine, transmission and differential coolers 2011-09-09 - DETROIT – The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1’s supercharged 6.2L engine is SAE-rated at 580 horsepower (432 kW) and 556 lb.-ft. of torque (754 Nm) – making it the most-powerful production Camaro ever. The ZL1’s outstanding power is complemented by advanced powertrain and chassis technologies, including exclusive Performance Traction Management and third-generation Magnetic Ride Control. “The Camaro ZL1 delivers supercar performance and technology in the sports-car segment,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer. “For sheer power, the ZL1 delivers more horsepower than a Ferrari 458, more torque than an Aston Martin DB9 V12, and a better power-to-weight ratio than a Porsche 911 Carrera GTS. “The Camaro ZL1 also features exclusive chassis and traction technologies,” Oppenheiser said, “to offer the best of all worlds – including balanced handling for the track, acceleration for a drag strip, and the comfort of a daily driver.” The most-powerful production Camaro ever The 2012 Camaro ZL1’s surpasses the advertised power of the legendary 1969 Camaro ZL1’s 427 cubic-inch big block by more than 150 horsepower (112 kW) – while meeting modern emissions requirements. And, the new ZL1 is backed by General Motors’ five-year / 100,000-mile powertrain warranty. “The torque is going to make the ZL1 a car you won’t want to get out of,” said John Rydzewski, assistant chief engineer for small block engines. “Not only will the ZL1 have more power and torque than the competition, we’re making it available with an optional automatic transmission, to appeal to a wider group of sports car enthusiasts.” The all-aluminum LSA supercharged V-8 is part of GM’s legendary small-block engine family. For a solid foundation, the engine’s lower end uses six-bolt main bearing caps that clamp and lock in the forged steel crankshaft to the deep-skirt block. Its 1.9L Roots-style blower uses an efficient four-lobe rotor set and compact intercooler to deliver boosted air into the high-flow cylinder heads. For the Camaro ZL1, the LSA features a unique induction system, with a lower-restriction air filter, dual inlet paths, and improved airflow through the supercharger housing. Other changes include a higher-efficiency supercharger intercooler and electric power steering system, which consumes less engine power than hydraulic-steering systems. The ZL1 will be offered with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. The Tremec TR-6060 “MG9” manual features 30 percent more torque capacity than in the Camaro SS. The higher torque capacity results from a strengthened output shaft, high-strength rear housing, and additional roller bearing. The MG9 has also been tuned for improved shift feel, with a dual-mass flywheel, twin-disc clutch, and triple synchros for smooth, precise shifts. Similarly, the Hydra-Matic 6L90 automatic has been strengthened to handle the torque and horsepower produced by the 6.2L supercharged small block. The 6L90 features a strengthened input gearset with two additional pinion gears, additional clutch plate, and a strengthened output shaft and gearset. To make the ZL1 perform equally well on street and track, the 6L90 features three distinct drive modes: Drive: The shift pattern is calibrated for optimal fuel economy, including second-gear starts, while the shift feel is tuned for a smooth driving experience. Engaging the tap-shift feature on the steering wheel or shift lever engages temporary manual mode. Sport: The shift pattern is calibrated for more aggressing driving, including first-gear starts for maximum performance. The shift feel is also more aggressive, with a performance algorithm that holds the transmission in lower gears during aggressive driving. Manual: Here, the 6L90 offers the driver true manual control, with no automatic up shifts, and staged upshifts for incredibly fast shifts and maximum performance. Other track-ready features of the ZL1 include: An engine-oil cooler, identical to the system on the Corvette ZR1. The integral liquid-to-liquid system is so effective that both the manual and automatic transmissions are deemed to be fully track-capable with the standard factory-installed cooling package. A rear-differential cooler, which pumps transmission fluid to a heat exchanger, reduces temperatures in the differential by more than 100 F. A high-performance fuel system delivers fuel to the LSA engine under any performance driving condition. For example, the system features additional fuel pickups on the primary side, and the secondary fuel pickup is moved outboard for continuous fuel access during high-g cornering under low fuel conditions. Magnetic Ride Control 3.0 adjusts damping 1,000 times per second The Camaro ZL1 will feature the third-generation of Magnetic Ride Control (MRC). MRC employs valve-less damping and Magneto-Rheological (MR) fluid technology. MR fluid is a suspension of iron particles in a synthetic fluid. When the system is activated, the particles are magnetized and aligned into fibrous structures, changing flow resistance. By controlling the current to an electromagnetic coil inside the piston of the damper, the system varies the suspension firmness to match the road and driving conditions. “Traditional suspension systems at some point compromise ride quality for road-holding grip and body control,” said Oppenheiser. “With Magnetic Ride Control, we can offer customers the best of both worlds: A comfortable ride that makes the ZL1 appropriate as a daily driver and the incredibly precise body control that makes the ZL1 so enjoyable on the track.” For the third-generation, MRC uses new twin-wire/dual-coil dampers at all four corners. The smaller dual-coil system – with one coil at either end of the damper – replaces the larger single-core design of the previous generation. The new design allows even more precise control of the electrical current (and magnetic flux), allowing greater range between the softest setting for ride comfort and the firmest setting for track driving. The new dual-coil design also enables faster response, with damping levels now adjusted up to 1,000 times per second – about one adjustment per inch of vehicle travel at 60 mph – making the system exceptionally responsive to changing driving and road conditions. There are three settings for MRC in the ZL1: Tour, Sport, and Track. Exclusive Performance Traction Management for the race course, and the drag strip The Camaro ZL1 will also offer Performance Traction Management (PTM) as standard equipment, which is exclusive to General Motors. First introduced on the Corvette ZR1, PTM is an advanced system that integrates magnetic ride control, launch control, traction control and electronic stability control, to enhance performance on the racetrack and drag strip. For example, the launch control feature (manual transmission only) automatically modulates engine torque for the best possible acceleration without excessive wheel spin. When the driver pushes the throttle to the floor, the system holds a predetermined engine speed until the driver releases the clutch. Then, the system modulates engine torque 100 times per second to maximize the available traction. The system is capable of approaching a skilled driver’s best effort and repeats it consistently. Similarly, on a road course, the driver can apply full throttle when exiting a corner and PTM will automatically manage acceleration dynamics to maximize exit speed based on available traction. Five PTM performance levels or modes are available to accommodate the given ambient and track conditions, driver experience/vehicle familiarity and driver comfort levels. They include: Mode 1 – Traction control set for wet conditions, with stability control on and Magnetic Ride Control set on Tour. Mode 2 – Traction control set for dry conditions, with stability control on and Magnetic Ride Control set on Tour. Mode 3 – Traction control set on Sport 1, with stability control on and Magnetic Ride Control set on Sport. Mode 4 – Traction control set on Sport 2, with stability control off and Magnetic Ride Control set on Sport. Mode 5 – Traction control set on Race, with stability control off and Magnetic Ride Control set on Track. Launch control tuned for VHT-prepped drag strips. “Like the Magnetic Ride Control, the Performance Traction Management system improves the ZL1 experience as a daily driver and on the track,” said Oppenheiser. “By offering five distinct modes of traction management, the driver can select what’s best for them based on their experience and the driving conditions. As a result, novice drivers will find the ZL1 is very enjoyable to drive, while expert drivers will find PTM supplements their driving skill without interfering with their intentions.”

Yes and Yes

Are You The Maserati SUV? William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com September 9, 2011 Related: Maserati & Chrysler Become Best Buds Once Again Automotive News Europe this week released a booklet about the vehicles making the their world premier at the Frankfurt Auto Show next week. One of those vehicles in the booklet was an image of the new Maserati SUV. The image shows an X6 like vehicle riding on 20+ inch wheels. But upon further inspection of the picture, we're not sure if this real. The picture looks like to be an artist rendering with too many cues taken from the X6 and has the signature of the artist. Also, CarScoop believes this rendering was in the August issue of Italian car magazine, Quattroruote. Nevertheless, we'll find out if this Maserati X6 thing is the real deal or complete bunk next week. Source: Automotive News Europe (Subscription Required), Carscoop

Regal Wagon Is Not Happening William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com September 8, 2011 Earlier in the year, spy shots floated around of a Buick Regal Wagon parked outside at one of GM's buildings. The pictures added fuel to an already lit fire about GM possibly doing a Regal Wagon since the Regal essentially shares everything with the Opel/Vauxhall Insignia Wagon. Inside Line has gotten an answer on the record from a Buick spokesman on the Regal Wagon. The spokesman says, "Absolutely not. There is no Regal Wagon in our future plans." Source: Inside Line

Saab Denied Court Protection William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com September 8, 2011 Saab is running out of lives. Yesterday, the company filed a request in Swedish Court asking for protection, citing if approved, the company would undergo a voluntary reorganization. Today, a Swedish court has denied Saab's application. In a statement released by the Vanersborg district court in west Sweden, they believe the reorganization process wouldn't work for Saab. Saab say they're appealing the ruling. "Saab Automobile is disappointed with the ruling and will appeal the District Court's decision," the company said today. This leaves Saab in a precarious position. If the company's appeal fails or is not filed in time, the union could force the company into bankruptcy. "We will now thoroughly analyze the new situation. If the company doesn't find another solution or files a bankruptcy request themselves, we may be forced to do that in the next few days," said Stefan Lofven, head of IF Metall in a statement. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

GM’s Chief Marketer Not Worried About EcoBoost's Popularity William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com September 7, 2011 Ford's EcoBoost option on the F-150 has been a wild success, with 40% of F-150s sold being equipped with the option. Buyers love the fact the engine provide power and towing numbers a truck needs, while giving high MPG numbers. Through August, Ford has sold 340,783 F-150s. With Ford posting numbers like these, you'd think competitors would be worried and at work on technologies to compete. Not GM. “They’ve done very well with the EcoBoost, no doubt about it. But look at the numbers vs. our V-8. The miles-per-gallon aren’t significantly better,” said Chris Perry, GM’s Chief Marketer in a interview with Ward's Auto. “(Ford has) done a good job of marketing the EcoBoost, and that’s a challenge on our side to make sure that consumers understand you can get similar mpg out of a V-8 Silverado without sacrifice.” Currently, the Silverado/Sierra equipped with the 5.3L V8 gets 15 City and 21 Highway. The F-150 EcoBoost gets 16 city and 22 highway on 2WD models, and 15 city and 21 highway on 4WD models. Perry says GM is at work with a new set of technologies for the new Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra due out in 2013, that will blow Ford's EcoBoost out of the water. Source: Ward's Auto

When are cars going to have the same number of gears as do semi trucks?

Suzuki & Volkswagen Currently In A Mexican Standoff William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com September 6, 2011 Back in 2009, Volkswagen took a 20% stake in Suzuki to create an alliance between. Volkswagen would get access to Suzuki's knowledge on small vehicles and Suzuki would be able to get Volkswagen's diesel, hybrid, and electric powertrain technologies. Since then, the only thing that has been going on between the two is fighting. Earlier in the year, the two companies said cultural differences were the reason why the two companies haven't made any headway and the alliance is still on. Now, it looks like the two companies are having a Mexican Standoff. Neither company is talking to each other. “Volkswagen is not talking to us. We have no plans to talk to them,” said Osamu Suzuki, Suzuki's chairman. The non-talking began back in March when Volkswagen released their annual report. Volkswagen referred to Suzuki as an “associate” in the report. Also, Volkswagen said in the report that it could “significantly influence financial and operating policy decisions” at Suzuki. Suzuki wasn't impressed with the report, thinking the partnership was intended to be of equals. Since then, Suzuki's chairman has said to the Japanese press that he hasn't found any VW powertrains that he wanted in his vehicles. Instead, Suzuki announced they would purchase diesel engines from Fiat, and was open on creating alliances with other automakers. Volkswagen still believes there is hope for the partnership, even though they're not exactly pleased with Suzuki. VW Chief Financial Officer Hans Dieter Poetsch said on a conference call on July 28, the partnership is "under review" Source: Bloomberg

2012 Buick Verano Starts at $23,470 New addition to portfolio expected to attract new customers to luxury brand 2011-09-06 - DETROIT – The all-new 2012 Buick Verano luxury sedan, which goes on sale later this year, will have a starting price of $23,470 including $885 in destination charges. The Verano offers more passenger and cargo volume than the Acura TSX sedan or Lexus IS 250. “Verano is a great new addition to Buick because it expands the brand’s reach,” said Tony DiSalle, U.S. vice president of Buick Marketing. “With Verano, we’re inviting new customers into the Buick family, giving us the opportunity and privilege of building longtime Buick loyalty.” Verano is Buick’s third all-new model in the past three years and the first in the compact segment, delivering the premium features and luxury characteristics that have helped make Buick one of the fastest-growing automotive brands in North America. The car will be offered in three models, with the top model carrying a suggested retail price of $26,850, including destination charge. All models are powered by a fuel-efficient 2.4L four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that delivers 180 hp at 6,700 rpm with 171 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,900 rpm. The Verano’s exterior is distinguished by sleek lines, blue translucent projector beam headlamps and standard fog lamps and 18-inch multi-spoke, forged alloy, silver-finish wheels, with a premium 18-inch split spoke wheel design available on certain models. The Verano interior is designed for exceptional seat comfort and support, and contains Buick’s signature acoustic refinement and premium soft-touch materials inspired by the award-winning Buick LaCrosse. A dozen noise-reducing and noise-cancelling technologies are used in more than 50 areas of Verano’s body structure for increased cabin isolation and quietness. “Rich leather appointments, warm wood tones, metallic accents, soft ambient lighting and intelligent technologies make the cabin an inviting environment,” said David Lyon, executive director of Verano’s design. Verano standard features include leatherette seating, high-resolution 7-inch diagonal LED backlit color-touch radio display with IntelliLink technology and 10 standard air bags. Automatic climate control, remote start, power windows and steering wheel radio controls are also standard. The up-level model features the same leather materials used in the LaCrosse. The Verano’s seat heaters automatically activate in temperatures below 45 F (7 C) when using the remote start function, along with rear defogger on all models and heated outside mirrors. Verano also features an available heated steering wheel – an option not found vehicles like the Lexus IS250 or Infiniti G25. Push-button engine start is available on lower-level models, and is standard on the up-level model. The standard all-new Buick IntelliLink system uses Bluetooth or USB to connect a driver’s smartphone to the touch-screen display radio. IntelliLink expands on Buick’s current Bluetooth and USB capabilities to allow smartphone control via voice activation and steering wheel-mounted controls. It also enables streaming stereo audio from the phone through services like PANDORA® Internet radio and Stitcher SmartRadio®. Full functionality requires a compatible Smartphone and data plan rates apply. In addition to Buick IntelliLink, a nine-speaker Bose sound system specifically engineered for the Verano’s interior is available on all trim levels. OnStar is standard for six months on all Verano models. It uses GPS and cellular phone technology to call for help in the event of a collision. OnStar subscribers also can use the service to send help to other motorists and to call for help in other non-collision emergencies.

Coming To The Frankfurt Show: A Fisker Karma Shooting Brake William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com September 6, 2011 Fisker is busy at work on more models for their lineup. At this month's Frankfurt Auto Show, the company plans on showing a shooting brake (aka, two-door station) version of the Karma. The reason is due to customers complaining about the lack of trunk space in the regular Karma due to the plug-in hybrid drivetrain. Also coming out from Fisker is a new vehicle codenamed "Project Nina" that's expected to come out sometime in 2013. The Nina will be the first vehicle to come with a BMW Powertrain. Fisker and BMW signed an a exclusive deal earlier this week for BMW to supply Fisker with engines and "other components". "The BMW engine was an obvious choice for us, as BMW is known for producing the best and most fuel efficient gasoline engines in the world. We are very pleased to have signed this agreement with BMW," said Fisker CEO, Henrik Fisker. Source: Car Magazine

Alfa Romeo 159 Drives Off Into The Sunset William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com September 3, 2011 Alfa Romeo's 159 has been given it's pink slip. According to italiaspeed, Fiat has ended 159 production at a assembly plant in Naples to get it retooled for production of the Fiat Panda. In certain markets, the 159 has disappeared from order sheets; in other markets, 159s are available due to dealers stockpiling them. The 159 was the successor to the popular and well-received Alfa Romeo 156. Introduced in 2005, the 159 promised many things but didn't deliver. The design done by Giugiaro was well received, but would cause the 159 to have poor aerodynamics. The GM-sourced platform and range of engines didn't serve the car well. Also, the 159 was built with the mindset of selling it in the US, but that day has been pushed back and back and back some more. With the ending of 159 production this leaves both Alfa Romeo and Fiat between a Rock and a hard place. Aside from the Maserati Quattroporte and Lancia-badged Chrysler, the largest models on sale in the Fiat family are the the Golf-sized Alfa Giulietta, Lancia Delta and Fiat Bravo hatchbacks. The 159's successor, the Giulia isn't expected to come out till 2013 due to delays. Source: italiaspeed

rattle

GM Heads Back To The Drawing Board With Chevrolet's Tag Line William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com September 2, 2011 GM's campaign for Chevrolet, "Chevy Runs Deep" is getting retooled after almost a year of being out. In a report done by Bloomberg, GM found the campaign was bringing in steady sales, but not any increases. “‘Chevy Runs Deep’ has maintained the brand but it hasn’t really moved them in any direction. The campaign has not boosted showroom traffic,” said Alexander Edwards, president of the automotive division of Strategic Vision. Chevrolet adopted the tagline a month after Joel Ewanick became GM's new Chief Marketing Officer. The campaign was intended to emphasize Chevrolet's heritage in the US and make an emotional connection with consumers. GM says they will continue with the campaign with ads that performed the best with consumers throughout the fall. Source: Bloomberg

Good luck to you Chris

Guess Who Coming Back To Dinner? William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com September 2, 2011 Bob Lutz is making a return to Ren Cen. Today, GM announced the former vice-chairman will be retained to provide counsel to the automaker’s senior leadership team. The 79-year old will be available to executives on a part-time basis effective immediately. Lutz came to GM in 2005 and is credited for many of the products GM has brought out over the past few years. Lutz retired from the company last May. Currently, Lutz sits on several other firms advisory boards including Lotus. Press Release is Below General Motors Retains Bob Lutz as Advisor 2011-09-02 DETROIT – General Motors today announced the retention of former Vice Chairman Robert A. “Bob” Lutz to provide counsel to the senior leadership team of the company. Lutz will be available to executives on a part-time consultancy basis effective immediately. He brings a wealth of experience built over the course of more than 40 years in the industry, including two stints at GM. He has also been a senior executive at Ford, Chrysler, BMW and was CEO of Exide Batteries. Lutz has been providing advice to GM executives informally since retiring from the company in 2010.

Omega Likely To Be Approved For Cadillac Flagship, More Hybrids William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com September 1, 2011 In a report from the The Detroit Bureau, GM is expected to give the green light for the new Omega platform for a new Cadillac flagship. The news comes a few days after GM showed off the Cadillac Ciel concept at Pebble Beach and received much acclaim. The report says a sedan and a hard-top are in the works. No one is saying when the vehicle is expected to come out, but signs are pointing towards 2015. But that's not all. Cadillac is making it clear they will be offering a range of hybrid vehicles, starting with the new ELR. Source: The Detroit Bureau

Doesn't say, but I do know Infiniti does use a 7-Speed for their lineup.

Next Infiniti G Gets Some Help From Their New German Friends William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com September 1, 2011 Back at the New York Auto Show in April, Infiniti was planning on showing off the next generation G with sales beginning in September. But the showing never happened and now the next generation G is due out in... 2014! Why the long wait? Last April, Infiniti's parent company, Renault/Nissan signed a deal with Daimler (parent company of Mercedes-Benz) to share components (engines, platforms, etc). Their first fruits of this alliance will be shown in the next gen G. The next G will be using a brand new Mercedes-Benz platform. The decision has caused designers to re-style the exterior, which will allow designers to add design cues from the Etherea and Essence concepts. Under the hood, Infiniti will stick with the VQ V6 engine. The current 3.7L V6 will be downgraded to a 3.5L and fitted with a turbo to produce somewhere in the range of 300 horsepower and have the best fuel economy in the class. Infiniti is also considering using the hybrid powerplant in the M35h and a Mercedes-Benz diesel. The G is expected to be shown at the 2014 New York Auto Show. Source: Motor Trend