William Maley

State

I thought the red car was a Camry Wagon..

Number Of Vehicles In Junkyards Increase William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com March 13, 2011 With car sales on the rise, the number of vehicles being scrapped is increasing. According to Experian Automotive, a firm that tracks sales and registration of vehicles says the amount of vehicles being scrapped increased during the fourth quarter of 2010. The number of passenger vehicles scrapped went up by 28.3% while the number of trucks and SUV's scrapped went up to an astounding 58.2%. To put this in focus, last year's scrappage rate was 5.3% for passenger cars and and 3.5% for trucks. Also, the numbers dwarf the amount of vehicles scrapped during Cash for Clunkers in 2009. Source: The Detroit Bureau

Where, Oh Where Did The Pontiac Owners Go? William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com March 12, 2011 When Pontiac shut their doors in 2010, the question of whether GM could keep owners in the fold was asked. Polk automotive has finished up a survey that sheds some light on where former Pontiac owners went. Out of the 57,641 Pontiac owners who bought new cars in 2010, GM was able to retain 53.3% (about 30,723 owners). 35.5% of Pontiac owners went with Chevrolet, 11.7% with GMC, 6.7% to Buick, and 1.5% to Cadillac. Other domestic brands also took a nice chunk of Pontiac owners. Ford got 10.5% while Chrysler got 4.9% of owners. Imports took nearly 31% of Pontiac owners. The big winners there were Toyota (7.7% ), Honda (7.5% ), and Nissan (5.9% ). Source: Polk Automotive

Ditto, camo is covering too much to for me give a thought about this.. One thing, When I walk into a Cadillac dealer, will I be able to order the XTS with the camo pkg?

Update on the nuclear reactor.. "FLASH: #Japan nuclear authorities say high possibility of meltdown at Fukushima Daiichi No. 1 reactor - Jiji" from Reuters

Thanks DD I know people are reading the stuff I post here on C&G, I see the view number when I check on my stuff. Every single thing I post, I'm not expecting a comment. But when someone does comment, that kind of makes my day.

Well they build it Mexico... I guess that's where they'll come from

Hey, You Look Familiar - GM Introduces Chevrolet Captiva Sport For Fleets Chevrolet Captiva Sport to Help Meet Fleet Customer Demand for Compact Crossovers March 11, 2011 - DETROIT – Chevrolet will introduce the Captiva Sport, a new entry to the U.S market, later this year to help satisfy growing demand for compact crossovers by fleet customers. The Captiva Sport is a variant of the globally successful Chevrolet Captiva compact crossover. Variants of the compact crossover are sold in more than 50 markets across Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, the Middle East and South America. The U.S.-specific version will give fleet customers a contemporary five-seat crossover with a comprehensive range of features and amenities, and will also address their need for roominess, utility and fuel efficiency. “It says a lot about our ability to draw on international programs and proven, quality crossovers that we were able to identify and federalize a strong new entrant such as Captiva Sport for the U.S. market,” said Alan Batey, U.S. vice president, Chevrolet Sales and Service. “We turned to our global network for a solution to quickly meet the rising demand from local fleet customers and continue to meet strong retail demand for the Equinox.” The Captiva Sport will be available for delivery in the fourth quarter of 2011, as a 2012 model. The Chevrolet Equinox continues to show strong retail sales growth, with retail sales up 98 percent in February compared with the same month last year. Chevrolet expects sales retail sales to remain strong, in part due to its 32 mpg highway fuel economy rating, higher than the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, or Ford Escape. The Captiva Sport features either an Ecotec 2.4L direct-injected four-cylinder or 3.0L direct-injected V-6 engine – each matched with a fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmission. Because the crossover is based on a proven GM global architecture, only minor revisions are required to meet federal standards, allowing Chevrolet to fast-track the Captiva Sport for the United States. The Captiva Sport will be offered in LS and LT models, with four trim packages, including an all-wheel-drive model (LTZ). All models feature 17-inch aluminum wheels, XM Satellite Radio, six-speaker sound system, four-wheel disc brakes with antilock, traction control, StabiliTrak electronic stability control, air conditioning, power locks and windows (with driver’s express down) and remote keyless entry. Uplevel LT and LTZ models include the V-6 engine (with dual exhaust), along with OnStar and Bluetooth phone connectivity. A rear-view camera and leather trim package – including leather-trimmed and heated front seats – are standard on LTZ and available on other trims. The LTZ trim also includes a 10-speaker sound system and a sunroof. “The range of features offered by the Captiva Sport is as rich as any Chevrolet vehicle,” said Batey. “Our fleet customers will find it to be a versatile vehicle that gives them the cargo capacity they need, in a fuel efficient package that will help keep their ownership costs in check.” Under the skin At the core of the Captiva Sport is a European-inspired driving character, with a stiff, steel body-frame integral structure complemented by a MacPherson strut independent front suspension and independent multi-link rear suspension. An isolated engine cradle enhances quietness and contributes to a smooth ride. Standard on all models are four-wheel antilock disc brakes, traction control and StabiliTrak electronic stability control – systems that work together to provide outstanding vehicle control In addition to handling features such as StabiliTrak that help drivers avoid crashes, the Captiva Sport helps protect occupants with its high-strength steel structure and a long list of standard occupant-protection safety features. Dual-stage front-seat air bags, front-seat side thorax air bags and rollover capable head curtain air bags covering front and rear rows are standard on all models. Other standard safety features include front-row safety belt pretensioners, Pedal Release System that decouples the brake pedal in a crash to avoid injuries, active head restraints, tire pressure monitoring system, automatic power door locks and side turn signal lamps.

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/mis/2258999169.html Someone posted this on twitter..

See I think Chrysler went the extreme route. The agency fired the guy and implemented steps to make sure this doesn't happen again, but you still drop the agency? I think this makes Chrysler look worse. This is the guy using an Nuclear Bomb to kill a fly.. too extreme Agreed, they also should have given him a Caliber SE with the CVT From what I have been hearing, New Media New Media Strategies was actually doing a great job for Chrysler. I can understand why they would hire an outside agency.

Chrysler Drops Social Media Agency After F-Bomb Tweet William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com March 10, 2011 Chrysler has dismissed New Media Strategies a day after an employee tweeted this out, “I find it ironic that Detroit is known as the #motorcity and yet no one here knows how to f—ing drive.” The tweet was deleted moments after, but not before it was retweeted accross the world. A statement released today by Chrysler says, "Chrysler Group LLC will not renew its contract with New Media Strategies (NMS) for the remainder of 2011. NMS has agreed to support us with an orderly transition until a new agency has been named. We thank them for the work they have provided to us and wish them the best as they move forward." CEO of New Media Strategies Pete Snyder say in a statement, "New Media Strategies regrets this unfortunate incident. It certainly doesn’t accurately reflect the overall high-quality work we have produced for Chrysler. We respect their decision and will work with them to ensure an effective transition of this business going forward."

If you have that kind of money to lease a Lamborghini, I don't think you'll car about the price per mile..

Lamborghini Offering Leases William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com March 10, 2011 Thought Lamborghinis were only reserved for the super rich, think again. Lamborgnini North America is partnering with Premier Financial Services to offer leases for Lamborghinis. The offer only applies to Gallardo and is limited to 27 months and 3,500 miles per year. Prices range from $2,372 per month for the Gallardo LP550-2 to an eye-watering $3,484 per month on the LP560-4 Spyder. The lease offer ends on March 31st. Source: AutoGuide.com Source: duPont Registry

Red AMC Eagle wagon parked behind a restraunt

GM CFO Chris Liddell Leaves William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com March 10, 2011 Chris Liddell, GM's chief financial officer for fourteen months has announced he will be leaving the company on April 1st. Liddell, who came from Microsoft helped GM through the largest IPO in Wall Street history. In a statement released today, Liddell said, “I came to General Motors to be part of something great. My objective was to help rebuild this iconic company and I am particularly pleased that through this process," His successor is Dan Ammann, GM's Treasurer. Ammann joined GM in March 2010 after a stint as managing director and head of industrials investment banking for Morgan Stanley. "Chris and I have worked together very closely during this time and I am committed to a seamless transition and to building on what we started," Ammann said in a statement. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) Press Release is below GM Announces CFO Transition Chris Liddell Steps Down After Record IPO Treasurer Dan Ammann to assume CFO Role DETROIT – General Motors Vice Chairman and Chief Financial Officer Chris Liddell today announced that he will leave the company April 1, 2011, having completed the largest public offering in history and stabilizing the company’s financial operations. Liddell, 52, joined GM in January, 2010 and led the company’s financial and accounting operations on a global basis. “Chris was a major contributor during a pivotal time in the company’s history,” said Dan Akerson, GM chairman and CEO. “He guided the company’s IPO process and established a good financial foundation for the future.” In addition to the successful IPO, Akerson recognized Liddell’s leadership over the last year noting four quarters of sustained profitability, a strengthened balance sheet and the elimination of material weakness in the financial reporting process. Dan Ammann will succeed Liddell as General Motors chief financial officer, effective April 1, 2011. Ammann, 38, is currently GM vice president, finance and treasurer. “Dan’s depth of knowledge of the financial community and our business will be instrumental as we continue to earn the trust of global investors and customers,” said Akerson. “He is held in high regard on Wall Street and within the company and, as we move our financial strategy forward, his credibility and leadership will be invaluable.” Ammann has played a major role in the key financial decisions at the new GM. He has been actively engaged in setting the financial strategy and reducing debt. Ammann was also integral in the IPO process. “We’ve made great strides this last year in setting the financial strategy for the company,” said Ammann. “Chris and I have worked together very closely during this time and I am committed to a seamless transition and to building on what we started.” Since joining the company in March, 2010, Ammann has led the GM Treasurer’s Office, based in New York, with operations around the world. Prior to GM, Ammann was managing director and head of Industrials Investment Banking for Morgan Stanley and was instrumental in many high profile assignments spanning a variety of technology, service, and manufacturing clients. “I came to General Motors to be part of something great,” said Liddell. “My objective was to help rebuild this iconic company and I am particularly pleased that through this process, we have also developed a strong successor in Dan Ammann.” A successor for Ammann in GM’s Treasurer’s Office will be announced at a later date.

Ram Introduces the Cargo Van William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com March 8, 2011 Ram C/V Gallery At the 2011 NTEA Work Truck Show today, Ram pulled the covers off their first cargo van called the C/V. The C/V is a Dodge Caravan catered to small business owners who need a vehicle. The engine for the C/V is the 3.6 Pentastar V6 producing 283 HP and 260 lb-ft of torque going through a six speed automatic. Fuel economy is around 25 mpg for the 3.6. Also, the C/V will come with a "driver-selectable fuel economizer mode th can change the transaxle shift schedule with a flip of a switch to maximize their fuel economy." The Van can tow up to 3,600 pounds, the most in its class. Inside, the name of the game is cargo capacity. The van has 144.4 cubic feet of space and has a max payload of 1,800 lbs. The load floor is able to swallow a 4-by-8-foot sheet of plywood and has the option of Stow 'n Go bins. Standard equipment include 16-inch steel wheels, a 160-amp alternator, all-season extra-load capacity tires, 730-amp maintenance-free battery, commercial-duty suspension, engine oil cooler, quad halogen headlamps, load leveling and height control, power rack-and-pinion steering, electronic stability control, and fold-away power exterior mirrors with heating element. Pricing hasn’t been announced for the Ram C/V. Production begins sometime in the third quarter at the Windsor Assembly Plant. Source: PickupTrucks.com Press Release is below Ram Truck Unveils Cargo Van Cargo Van (C/V) now offered by Ram Truck brand Solid side panels and flat load floor tailored to small-business needs Ram C/V offers best-in-class cargo space, payload and class-exclusive towing capability Commercial-tuned ride and heavy-duty, load-leveling suspension maximize payload capability Pentastar V-6 engine delivers best-in-class horsepower and torque March 8, 2011 , Indianapolis - The Ram Truck Brand today unveiled its new 2012 Ram Cargo Van. The Ram Cargo Van – or Ram C/V – features solid sliding door, rear quarter window and backlight privacy panels in place of clear glass windows. However, buyers have the option of equipping their Ram C/V with several combinations of solid and glass panels, including a choice of solid or glass backlight. "We see growth in the Class 1 light commercial vehicle market," said Fred Diaz, President and CEO – Ram Truck Brand and Lead Executive for U.S. Sales, Chrysler Group LLC. "With its class-leading capability and a lower total cost of ownership, the highly versatile Ram Cargo Van is a great vehicle choice for small businesses and commercial fleets." The Ram Cargo Van also receives a structural aluminum rear load floor. Two flooring options will be available, including one with a flat, uninterrupted, high-capacity surface. A second, optional floor provides through-the-floor access to three exclusive storage bins and load floor tie-downs. With more than 25 years of minivan engineering behind it, and as the inventor of the first minivan-based cargo van, the Ram Truck brand understands the versatility needs for both small and large businesses. Ram C/V utilizes the convenience features and city-friendly dimensions that have made Chrysler Group minivans segment leaders, while maximizing cargo, convenience and capability attributes. Ram C/V offers small businesses many competitive advantages. Among them, Ram C/V provides a Class 1 commercial vehicle-leading 1,800-lb. cargo payload and category-exclusive towing capability, up to 3,600 lbs. A 20-gallon fuel tank and 25 mpg highway also deliver best-in-class fuel range. Ram Cargo Van is engineered to meet small business and commercial needs. A commercial-tuned ride and heavy-duty load-leveling suspension offer maximum hauling capability. A heavy-duty radiator and heavy-duty transmission oil cooler help meet heavier powertrain demands. Ram C/V is also engineered with unique hydraulic power-assist rack-and-pinion steering, front anti-sway bar and rear twist-beam axle with coil springs. Ram C/V has a maximum Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of 8,750 lbs. With standard electronic stability control (ESC), commercial load-tuned tire-pressure monitoring (TPM), four-wheel anti-lock disc brake system (ABS) and ideal command-of-the road seating, the Ram Cargo Van offers capability, comfort and convenience with great road manners. New Pentastar V-6 Engine At the heart of the 2012 Ram Cargo Van is new, 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine mated to a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transaxle. The Pentastar V-6 is a high-tech, high-performing engine with variable valve timing that hits the sweet spot between power and efficiency. It delivers best-in-class horsepower (283) and torque (260 lb.-ft.) without sacrificing fuel economy. The Ram C/V also features a new driver-selectable fuel economizer mode. Drivers can change the transaxle shift schedule with a flip of a switch to maximize their fuel economy. In addition, a rear spoiler and reduced brake caliper and rear bearing drag all contribute to Ram Cargo Van's class-leading aerodynamics and excellent fuel economy. Interior When Chrysler Group's minivan lineup was refreshed for 2011, interiors were given a world-class makeover. A modern, new one piece instrument panel is more intuitive for the customer with improved ergonomics and larger, redesigned gauges. Trim rings in the console glow and ambient blue-green color, allowing passengers to find items they are looking for at night. With 144.4 cubic feet of interior storage, Ram C/V leads the segment, and unlike other Class 1 competitors, provides ample space to haul four by 4x8 sheets of building materials. Cargo access is maximized via the front seats, Ram C/V's rear liftgate and dual sliding doors. Exterior The new 2012 Ram Cargo Van also benefits from the exterior redesign given to Chrysler Group's passenger minivans. Exterior improvements include a new front fascia, new hood and quad headlamps. A new, more sculpted rear fascia and liftgate and new LED taillamps complete the look front to back. The Ram Cargo Van is distinguished by prominent Ram badging, front and rear. Standard Equipment The Ram Cargo Van features a monochromatic paint scheme with body-colored front and rear fascias and side moldings. It also receives a special chrome C/V badge. Standard features include covered 16-inch steel wheels, a 160-amp alternator, 20-gallon fuel tank, all-season extra-load capacity tires, 730-amp maintenance-free battery, commercial-duty suspension, engine oil cooler, quad halogen headlamps, load leveling and height control, power rack-and-pinion steering and fold-away power exterior mirrors with heating element. Inside, Ram Cargo Van gets air conditioning with dual-zone temperature control, an instrument cluster with 120 mph speedometer and tachometer, outside temperature display, an overhead console, A-pillar passenger assist handle, 120-volt auxiliary power outlet, 12-volt front and rear DC power outlets, air filtering, audio jack input for mobile devices, AutoStick automatic transmission, cloth low-back bucket seats, "Ram" interior accents, door courtesy lamps, driver and passenger-side sun visors with mirrors, rearview auto-dim mirror, dual glove boxes, front courtesy / map lamps, headlamp shut-off delay, cargo compartment observation mirror, a liftgate floodlamp, lower instrument panel storage bin, dual sliding doors with alert warning, power locks, power front windows, rear dome lamp, speed control, steering wheel mounted audio controls, tilting and telescoping steering wheel, tip start and variable intermittent windshield wipers. Safety features include active head restraints, advanced multistage front airbags, four-wheel antilock disc brakes, LATCH-ready child seat anchor system, tire-pressure monitoring sensor, drivers side inflatable knee bolster air bag, electronic stability control, keyless entry with immobilizer and a tire pressure monitoring warning lamp. The 2012 Ram Cargo Van is available in four paint colors: Bright Silver Metallic, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl, Stone White and True Blue Pearl. Ram Cargo Van options include an engine block heater, media center with 30 GB hard drive and 6.5-inch touch-screen display, audio jack input for mobile devices, Garmin® navigation system, ParkView® back-up camera, a Mopar® cargo compartment floor mat, Mopar exterior vinyl window shading, a Mopar full-width cargo divider, power eight-way driver's seat with lumbar adjust, front and rear power windows, security alarm, Sirius Satellite Radio and Uconnect handsfree voice command with Bluetooth®, remote USB port, rearview auto-dim mirror, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, rear window defroster, rear window wiper and washer and supplemental side curtain airbags. The 2012 Ram Cargo Van will be built at the Chrysler Group Windsor (Ontario) Assembly Plant and will go on sale third quarter 2011. The Ram Cargo Van will replace the Dodge Grand Caravan C/V in the Chrysler Group's product lineup. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.

Update: There could be another van coming as well. From PickupTrucks.com