William Maley

Saab Shows Off PhoeniX Concept William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com March 1, 2011 Saab PhoeniX Gallery It has been about five years since Saab showed their last concept vehicle, the Aero-X at the Geneva Motor Show. Five years later, Saab has pulled the wraps of their newest concept vehicle, the Saab PhoeniX. Done by designer Jason Castriota, the PhoeniX concept draws inspiration from Saab's first vehicle, the Ursaab. Castroita calls the design "aeromotional" - with it's teardrop shape, butterfly doors, and drag coefficient of 0.25 cd. The PhoeniX concept uses a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 200 HP and goes through Saab's new eXWD all-wheel-drive system. It uses a a 25 kW (34 hp) electric motor/generator and a small battery pack. Saab says eXWD reduces CO2 emissions and raise fuel economy. Inside, the seating arrangement is a 2+2 setup and features Saab's new IQon infotainment platform that uses Google's android platform. Saab has said the PhoeniX concept will not be built, but expect to see the IQon and eXWD coming into future Saab models. Press Release is below Saab PhoeniX concept: The Future is Already Here * 'Aeromotional' design inspired by Saab's aviation roots * Design and technical features to shape next generation of Saab cars * Minimalist cabin with ground-breaking Saab IQon infotainment system * Rightsized turbo engine and innovative Saab eXWD for electric rear drive * Showcases technologies in all-new vehicle architecture Sleek, innovative and exceptionally efficient: the Saab PhoeniX concept car showcases design features and technologies which will shape the next generation of cars from Saab. Based on an new architecture which will empower the next Saab 9-3 model, the PhoeniX introduces 'aeromotional' design: a visual evocation of the aerodynamic design principles and passion for innovation that inspired the creators of Saab's first car, the iconic Ursaab. The PhoeniX embraces teardrop, 'liquid metal' forms and a dramatic jet canopy-inspired glasshouse that gives fresh expression to Saab's signature 'wraparound' and translucent ice-block design themes. The clean, muscular shape enables an exceptionally low drag co-efficient of just 0.25 and also explores the potential for airflow management through the use of distinctive, side-mounted 'winglets'. Butterfly opening doors give easy access to a 2+2 cabin that blends simplicity with technology. It has a minimalist, 'stripped out' feel, including a new expression of Saab's driver-focused layout and a world debut for Saab's innovative IQon infotainment and communications system. In true Saab tradition, there is also a surprisingly versatile cargo deck. "The PhoeniX establishes a new reference point for the future of Saab product design," says Jason Castriota, Saab Automobile's Executive Design Director. "It symbolizes a renaissance of the innovative spirit and passion that drove Saab to build its first car. We're now taking the visual DNA forward with what we call 'aeromotional' design, adding emotion, power and fluidity. This design aesthetic will shape and differentiate future models in the Saab portfolio." Under its rippling bodywork, the Saab PhoeniX deploys an innovative driveline, with an electrically-driven rear axle mated to a sophisticated 200 hp, 1.6-liter gasoline turbo engine. The result is an intelligent, hybrid all-wheel-drive capability that enhances driving pleasure while reducing fuel consumption. Combined cycle fuel economy and CO2 emissions are projected to be just 5.0 l/100 km and 119 g/km. Aeromotional design The PhoeniX's 'aeromotional' design theme is inspired by Saab's aviation roots and draws expression from Ursaab, the prototype designed by aircraft engineers that spawned Saab's first generation of cars. The entire form of the PhoeniX is seemingly molded by the wind. Tightly-wrapped by a liquid-like skin, the teardrop cabin resembles a dark ice block and appears to erupt from the center of the muscular bodywork. Two prominent ripples flow along the hood into the disguised windshield pillars, as if barely able to contain a powerful structure underneath. At the rear, the dark screen also bursts through the outer skin of the rear deck, The tapering form hints at the teardrop rear styling of Ursaab, while the 'sawn off', kamm tail echoes a form from Saab's first coupé, the Sonett. The low, frontal styling features a stretched interpretation of Saab's signature three-port grille. A body-colored central wing is now dominant and, in keeping with the car's minimalist design, LED headlamps are almost invisibly located at its tips. The new grille and hood forms are among the styling themes likely to be seen in future Saab production cars. Butterfly-opening doors provide enhanced access to the low-slung cabin. There are no visible door handles or mirrors to disrupt airflow, and small cameras on slim stalks provide rearward vision. Roof-mounted 'winglets' enable PhoeniX to cleave the air as efficiently as possible. They channel airflow from the side of the car and direct it across the rear deck, reducing lift forces for greater stability without increasing drag. Minimalist interior In true Scandinavian tradition, the 2+2 cabin adopts a clean, minimalist look. It has the 'stripped out' feel of a competition car, with shell-like seats and metalized interior sections that mimic the exposed network of a rollover cage. Fresh expression is given to Saab's traditional, driver-focused instrument layout. A circular pod in front of the driver, shaped like the afterburner of a jet engine, presents data in tandem with the head-up display. Angled at 45º to the driver, a separate module accommodates Saab's advanced IQon infotainment and communications system. For good ergonomics, the 8-inch touch-screen is as close to the driver's finger tips as the steering wheel. Saab IQon (see separate release for full details) is a ground-breaking car communications platform using Google's AndroidTM operating system. Based on pioneering 'open innovation' with third-party service providers and applications developers, it comprises an embedded computer platform which seamlessly connects to the internet when the car's ignition is switched on. The touch-screen provides access to audio and entertainment streaming, online navigation, on-board music storage and smartphone-like downloading of applications. Red illumination for all instrument and ambient cabin lighting brings warmth and emotion to the cabin. This includes the floor, where LED light tubes are exposed by perforations in the black carpeting. It is all part of the new 'aeromotional' design strategy, incorporating 'fire and ice' effects. The PhoeniX's curvaceous rear deck disguises a deep-opening tailgate. It gives access to a flat cargo deck, including fold-flat rear seatbacks and a cargo track for adaptable load carrying. Efficient propulsion Under its sculpted hood and beneath its cargo deck, the PhoeniX advances Saab's rightsizing powertrain strategy. Its propulsion system combines a highly efficient, 1.6-liter turbo engine with innovative, electric rear wheel drive technology. The compact, all-aluminum gasoline engine packs 200 hp (147 kW) and includes variable valve timing and lift control, as well as start/stop functionality, minimal parasitic losses and a fuel cut-off function. A stainless steel tank is fitted, which is lighter and less expensive than a conventional plastic design. The engine is supported by Saab's innovative eXWD system. It comprises a rear drive unit housing a 25 kW (34 hp) electric motor/generator powered by a small battery pack. Regenerative braking is used to sustain the battery's charge. Now under development for the next generation of Saab cars, this hybrid propulsion system enables the benefits of all-wheel-drive while also reducing fuel consumption. Using a six-speed manual transmission, projected combined cycle fuel economy and CO2 emissions are just 5.0 l/100 km and 119 g/km. The driver can select one of three eXWD operating modes. The default Eco mode delivers optimal fuel and CO2 efficiency with power assistance to reduce load on the gasoline engine at low speeds; Sport mode includes maximum power assistance with torque vectoring across the rear axle for greater chassis control; and Traction mode enables optimal grip at take-off and in slippery conditions. Inside and out, the Saab PhoeniX showcases new design directions and technologies that will be part of forthcoming Saab products.

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US Treasury Plans For Early Sale Of GM Shares William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com February 27, 2011 The US government is planning to sell off the remaining share of GM it owns rather than wait for the stock price to get higher to max out the investment. Austan Goolsbee, the chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers spoke at a breakfast with reporters. "The writing is clearly on the wall that the government is getting out of the GM position. The government never wanted to be in the business of being majority shareholder of GM. It was only to prevent a wider spillover, negative event on the economy. So we're trying to get out of that," said Goolsbee. Some analysts analyzed Goolsbee's comments as the government would sell their shares, no matter the price. Certain people, including former automotive czar, Steven Rattner, say the government should hold onto the shares until the price gets higher. Asked about why the government isn't holding onto the shares until GM's stock price is higher Goolsbee said, The Treasury "is just trying to — in whatever is the most reasonable way — phase out of the government's involvement. We're not trying to be Warren Buffet and figure out what the market is doing." Last year, the US government sold 28% of their share in GM reducing their total to 33%. If the government was to sell their remaining shares at the current stock price, they would stand to lose $10 billion from their $49 billion investment. Source: The Detroit News: Treasury planning early sale of GM shares

Fiat's Dealer Rollout Running Behind William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com February 27, 2011 By the end of February 2011, Fiat was to have all 130 planned dealerships open. Now, their goal has been pushed back to September. Laura Soave, head of Fiat said about the delays, "We've approved all of the dealers' plans. So now it's just a matter of going through the process." She explained some of delays come from dealers waiting on approvals on permits from local governments. Right now, a dozen Fiat dealers are open with another eight to open by the end of February. By March, thirty to forty dealers will be open. Perfect timing since first shipments of 500s come in late March for dealers. Source: Automotive News (Sub Req) Chrysler: Fiat's U.S. rollout behind schedule

1. Put more money into the bank 2. Work on my writing and take some classes on it 3. Start a side gig to help earn money 4. Get a project car and learn how to fix it up 5. Network with more people 6. Get through more of College

Pretty much says it all

Subaru STI Convertible = Profit? William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com February 25, 2011 If you have been torn between choosing a convertible or a Subaru Impreza STI, a Subaru dealer in New Hampshire has an answer for you. They have in their showroom a Subaru Impreza STI convertible. Yeah, a Impreza STI convertible. The vehicle besides losing its roof is much of the same with a 305 HP turbocharged four cylinder, six speed manual, and all wheel drive. The Subaru dealer says there will be five convertibles in total. Pricing for the STI convertible is a jaw dropping $89,999. The only question is this, Why? Source: Manchester Subaru Source: NASIOC: Outrageous claim: 2011 STI

Fisker Announces Date For Karma Production.. We Think William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com February 25, 2011 A date has been set for March 21st for production of the Fisker Karma. Yes, you're reading this correctly. March 21st is the day the Karma begins rolling off the production line in Finland, with delivery starting in April. Fisker has a checkered history of delivering on their promises; they missed their November 2009 launch. Then it was pushed to September 2010 which was missed and finally missed their February 2011 production date. With all the delays, Fisker had to rethink their production goals for 2011. The goals for 2011 is to be building 1,500 Karmas by the end of October and then focusing on building 15,000 annually. Will Fisker meet their new date for production? We shall see. Source: VentureBeat: Fisker to release Karma hybrid (finally), with an extra $150M and possible IPO

Spyker goes with the new owners.. The owners of Saab are busy working on a new name which could include saab..

General Motors Posts First Full Year Profit William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com February 24, 2011 General Motors just released their annual earnings and its good news. GM reported a profit of $4.7 billion, it's first full profit since 2004. GM's revenue for the year totaled $135.6 billion. The results were under the $5.3 billion that analysts expected for GM for the year. GM announced they will be handing out profit sharing checks to 45,000 hourly workers of about $4,300 and 3,000 workers at GM Components Holdings will get about $3,200. Press Release is below. GM Announces First Full-Year Results as New Company 2011-02-24 GM achieves four consecutive quarters of profitability Calendar year net income of $4.7 billion, earnings per share of $2.89 on a diluted basis Calendar year earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) adjusted of $7.0 billion Material Weakness in Financial Reporting Eliminated DETROIT – General Motors Company (NYSE: GM) today announced its calendar year 2010 results marked by $4.7 billion of net income attributable to common stockholders for its first full year of operations. Revenue for the calendar year was $135.6 billion. Automotive cash flow from operating activities was $6.6 billion and automotive free cash flow was $2.4 billion, both reflecting the impact of a $4.0 billion voluntary cash contribution to the company's U.S. pension plans. "Last year was one of foundation building," said Dan Akerson, chairman and chief executive officer. "Particularly pleasing was that we demonstrated GM's ability to achieve sustainable profitability near the bottom of the U.S. industry cycle, with four consecutive profitable quarters." GM generated the following results: Fourth quarter net income attributable to common stockholders of $0.5 billion includes net charges of $0.4 billion, or a $0.21 reduction to fully diluted earnings per share, as a result of the previously disclosed $0.7 billion loss on the purchase of U.S. Treasury (UST) preferred shares, partially offset by the impact of EBIT adjustments. The company had approximately $0.3 billion in favorable EBIT adjustments including the previously disclosed $0.2 billion gain associated with the repayment of the VEBA Note, and $0.1 billion of cumulative gains on the sale of Nexteer and the purchase of the Strasbourg, France facility. GM North America (GMNA) had EBIT in the fourth quarter 2010 of $0.8 billion, up from a loss of $3.4 billion in the fourth quarter 2009. GM Europe (GME) had a loss before interest and taxes of $0.6 billion, an improvement from a loss of $0.8 billion in the same quarter a year ago. GM International Operations (GMIO) had EBIT of $0.3 billion, down from $0.4 billion in fourth quarter 2009. GM South America (GMSA) had EBIT of $0.2 billion for the fourth quarter, compared with $0.3 billion in the same quarter a year ago. GM began reporting GMSA results as an operating segment in the fourth quarter, and has revised the segment reporting for prior periods. Automotive net cash flow from operating activities for the fourth quarter was $1.7 billion, which reflects a $4.0 billion voluntary cash contribution to the U.S. pension plans. After deducting $1.1 billion of capital expenditures, automotive free cash flow was $2.8 billion. As a result of GM's 2010 financial performance, the company will pay profit sharing to approximately 45,000 eligible GM U.S. hourly employees, and approximately 3,000 eligible GM Components Holdings (GMCH) employees. The average payout per employee will be approximately $4,300 for GM employees and $3,200 for GMCH employees. In addition, GM announced today that after assessing remediation actions that it put in place to address the company's material weakness regarding the financial reporting process, the management team and Audit Committee of the Board of Directors concluded that the material weakness no longer exists as of December 31, 2010. "Our focus for 2011 is to build on our progress and continue to generate momentum in the marketplace. We expect our first quarter will be a strong start," said Chris Liddell, vice chairman and chief financial officer. <table id="table1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td valign="bottom">Fourth Quarter '10 </td> <td valign="bottom">Calendar Year '10 </td> <td> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="bottom">Revenue (bils.) </td> <td style="padding-right: 9pt;" valign="bottom">$36.9 </td> <td style="padding-right: 9pt;" valign="bottom">$135.6 </td> <td> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="border-top: 1pt solid black;" valign="bottom">Net income attributable to common stockholders (bils.) </td> <td style="border-top: 1pt solid black; padding-right: 9pt;" valign="bottom">$0.5 </td> <td style="border-top: 1pt solid black; padding-right: 9pt;" valign="bottom">$4.7 </td> <td> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="bottom"> - Adjustments and loss on preferred, included above (bils.) </td> <td style="padding-right: 6pt;" valign="bottom">$(0.4) </td> <td style="padding-right: 6pt;" valign="bottom">$(0.2) </td> <td> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="bottom">Earnings per share on a fully diluted basis ($/share) </td> <td style="padding-right: 9pt;" valign="bottom">$0.31 </td> <td style="padding-right: 9pt;" valign="bottom">$2.89 </td> <td> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="border-bottom: 1pt solid black;" valign="bottom"> - Adjustments and loss on preferred, included above ($/share) </td> <td style="border-bottom: 1pt solid black; padding-right: 6pt;" valign="bottom">$(0.21) </td> <td style="border-bottom: 1pt solid black; padding-right: 6pt;" valign="bottom">$(0.14) </td> <td> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="border-bottom: 1pt solid black;" valign="bottom">Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) adj. (bils.) </td> <td style="border-bottom: 1pt solid black; padding-right: 9pt;" valign="bottom">$1.0 </td> <td style="border-bottom: 1pt solid black; padding-right: 9pt;" valign="bottom">$7.0 </td> <td> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="border-top: 1pt solid black;" valign="bottom">Automotive net cash flow from operating activities (bils.) </td> <td style="border-top: 1pt solid black; padding-right: 6pt;" valign="bottom">$(1.7) </td> <td style="border-top: 1pt solid black; padding-right: 9pt;" valign="bottom">$6.6 </td> <td> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="bottom">Automotive free cash flow (bils.) </td> <td style="padding-right: 6pt;" valign="bottom">$(2. </td> <td style="padding-right: 9pt;" valign="bottom">$2.4 </td> <td> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="middle"> - Contribution to U.S. pension plans, included above (bils.) </td> <td style="padding-right: 6pt;" valign="bottom">$(4.0) </td> <td style="padding-right: 6pt;" valign="bottom">$(4.0) </td></tr></tbody></table>

Spyker Puts Their Sports Car Business On The Block William Maley - Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com February 24, 2011 Spyker Cars have agreed to sell their sports car business to CPP Global Holdings Ltd, a coach builder in Coventry, England. The move will allow Spyker to focus more on Saab and net them some much needed money. The sale will bring 15 million euros up front and then another 17 million euros over the next six years (A total of $44 million). The influx of money will help cut Spyker's debt which stands at 92 million euros ($126.8 million). "Spyker's (luxury car business) is a small fish in a large pond. Spyker would need additional funds, but to issue shares and dilute shareholders seemed like a very bad plan so we decided to divest these activities," said Spyker Cars CEO Victor Muller. CPP Global Holdings Ltd provided the chassis and body panels for Spyker vehicles and now handles entire production process of the new C8 Aileron, which is now ramping up. CPP's plan for the future will include expanding Spyker's lineup and building them in a new facility. “We have well-developed plans to expand the product range further, and the future of the Spyker brand is incredibly exciting,” said CPP managing director Brendan O’Toole. Source: Automotive News: Spyker to sell sports car business to focus on Saab (sub. req.) Source: Car Magazine: Victor Muller sells Spyker sports cars to CPP

Yeah, Pretty Much..