William Maley

Seven years ago, Chinese automaker Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC) entered into a joint venture Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. Currently, the joint venture locally builds the Cherokee, Compass, and Renegade. The venture also imports the Grand Cherokee and Wrangler for Chinese buyers. It has proven to be successful as the venture saw its sales triple to nearly 150,000 vehicles in 2016. Because of this, GAC wants to strengthen their ties with FCA. "GAC has a real interest in deepening relations with Fiat Chrysler to expand outside China, especially in the U.S. Fiat hasn’t been able so far to catch up with competitors in China, so there is much room to improve," said Vincenzo Longo, a strategist at IG Markets in Milan. In an interview with Bloomberg, GAC President Feng Xingya said the two automakers are in discussions about deepening their partnership. The key items being focused in the discussions include models, production, and sales targets. Xingya also hinted that GAC wanted to work FCA in the U.S. when it plans to launch their unfortunately named Trumpchi brand by 2019. “We are very satisfied with our cooperation with FCA. We have yet to reach a conclusion on how to cooperate with FCA when we begin manufacturing in the U.S., and we have also not begun discussions with other Chinese automakers on whether to make cars together in the U.S,” said Xingya. Source: Bloomberg View full article

Next Tuesday at the LA Auto Show, Subaru will unveil their three-row Ascent crossover. Before then, Subaru has released a teaser photo of the Ascent. The photo gives us a good look at the roofline and greenhouse which scream Forester to us. There also appears to be flared fenders up front that were on the Ascent Concept that debuted earlier this year at the New York auto show. We know that the Ascent will be underpinned by Subaru's modular Global Platform that underpins the Impreza and Crosstrek. Source: Subaru View full article

The Lincoln MKC crossover has been around for a few years with no major changes. That changes next week as the company will be unveiling a refreshed version at the LA Auto Show next week. The biggest change for the 2019 MKC is the loss of the split-wing grille. In its place is a new grille that looks like it was lifted from the new Navigator. Other exterior changes include new LED headlights, a smoother hood shape, and extra chrome details for the rear. Lincoln has also added a number of active safety features for the 2019 MKC. Automatic emergency braking and forward collision warning come standard on all models. Optional safety equipment includes lane keep alert, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and active park assist. The interior doesn't see any changes with this refresh. Powertrains for the MKC are still a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder with 245 horsepower and a turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder with 285 horsepower. The 2019 Lincoln MKC arrives at dealers next summer. Source: Lincoln Press Release is on Page 2 New Lincoln MKC: Small SUV Amps Up Style, Connectivity To Stand Out From The Crowd New 2019 Lincoln MKC debuts with increased connectivity and enhanced ownership services – updates that luxury travelers want and need MKC is bringing new clients to Lincoln; one out of two Lincoln MKC sales come from other luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz and Lexus Lincoln’s small SUV introduces a suite of driver-focused technologies with the addition of Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, which can help drivers avoid potential front crashes, and can help reduce the severity of or even eliminate some front collisions involving other vehicles and pedestrians DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 21, 2017 – The new 2019 Lincoln MKC is poised to attract even more luxury SUV buyers, thanks to its commanding new design, driver-focused technologies like automatic emergency braking and pedestrian collision avoidance, and an effortless ownership experience that builds on Lincoln’s exclusive Pickup and Delivery service. Since its introduction in 2014, Lincoln MKC has introduced more people to the Lincoln brand than any other vehicle, with nearly half of all clients coming from other brands. Women account for more than half of MKC sales and, in turn, are driving growth in this luxury segment, which has increased 29 percent over the past decade. “Our redesigned Lincoln MKC offers style, substance and technologies that create an effortless ownership experience,” said Kumar Galhotra, president, The Lincoln Motor Company. “We recognize it takes a lot to attract a buyer from other luxury competitors, but the Lincoln MKC has that kind of appeal. We believe the new MKC will capture even more luxury clients.” Eye-catching from any angle The 2019 Lincoln MKC exemplifies the refined new face of Lincoln. The signature grille evokes a sense of confidence, and beautifully detailed LED headlamps illuminate the road with crisp lighting designed to minimize eyestrain. A new rear design features attractive chrome highlights that enhance the appearance from all angles. LED lighting in the lower front body and tail lamps subtly illuminates to greet clients upon approach, and a luminous Lincoln welcome mat appears beneath both front doors to light the way for driver and passenger. During the day, an available panoramic roof fills the cabin with natural light. Inside, the cabin is quiet, warm and inviting, replete with plush, soft-to-the-touch materials. Lincoln craftsmanship is apparent in every detail, from the available heated and cooled seats to standard WiFi and USB ports throughout, allowing everyone to stay connected.[WK1] For those seeking a more personalized experience, Lincoln Black Label is available for the new MKC. Lincoln Black Label not only provides the best level of materials in custom designer themes, but also offers a host of membership privileges. These include annual vehicle detailing, anytime carwashes, and access to a list of select restaurants where noted chefs will provide a curated dining experience. The three Lincoln Black Label themes for the new MKC have drawn inspiration from the realms of the arts, travel, fine food and culture. The themes are: Modern Heritage: A timeless ensemble of elegance without ostentation, Modern Heritage is perfect for those who appreciate a clean, modern aesthetic. This theme features seats in Vianca [RC2] White Venetian leather finished with the Lincoln Black Label star insignia, with Argento wood accents. Indulgence: A rich, sumptuous interior, this theme is designed to match the most refined tastes. Visually enticing, Indulgence features surfaces trimmed in Venetian leather and Alcantara® cloth, in tempting hues like Truffle and Ganache, finished with accents from rich Ziricote wood – the same as you might find in the world of yachts or musical instruments. Center Stage: Inspired by the fashion of the theater, Center Stage captures the excitement of a curtain skirting across the main stage on opening night. It features an exclusive diamond-L perforation pattern on the Alcantara cloth inserts, finished with meticulously stitched Foxfire Red piping. Exotic wood accents enhance the architectural design, while Jet Black Venetian leather accented by Firefox Red adds a dramatic flair. In line with Lincoln’s commitment to offering inspired interior environments, the new Lincoln MKC also will feature a rich Rialto Green cabin with black ash wood accents, available on Reserve models. This new deep green is inspired by the vibrant tones emanating from the world of high fashion. Technology that inspires confidence Because today’s luxury clients expect to be constantly connected, the new Lincoln MKC offers standard SYNC® 3 with both Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ compatibility, enabling occupants to manage audio, phone, navigation and more from the vehicle touchscreen or steering wheel-mounted controls. A suite of driver-assist technologies designed to inspire confidence includes Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection. This system is designed to reduce the severity of – and in some cases eliminate – frontal collisions, including those involving pedestrians. It uses advanced radar and camera sensors to provide a collision warning to the driver. If the driver does not respond in time, the system can automatically apply the brakes. Available active park assist can reduce parking anxiety by helping guide drivers in to and out of tight parallel-parking spaces. Other available technologies include lane-keeping alert and Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert. Luxury meets performance Three technologies – turbocharging, direct injection and twin independent variable camshaft timing – are responsible for a powerful engine offering for the new Lincoln MKC. This twin-scroll turbocharged 2.3-liter engine producing 285 horsepower and 305 lb.-ft. of torque allows Lincoln MKC to offer an available towing capacity of 3,000 pounds when properly equipped. Both the powerful turbocharged 2.3-liter and the standard turbocharged 2.0-liter engine delivering 245 horsepower are designed to be exhilarating and fuel efficient. Either option can be paired to Lincoln’s intelligent all-wheel-drive system, which delivers enhanced all-weather capabilities and sportier performance. Effortless ownership Effortless ownership with the new Lincoln MKC is offered through the Lincoln Way™ app. Lincoln Way enables clients to start, lock, unlock and locate their MKC, as well as schedule remote starts to allow the vehicle to heat or cool to comfortable levels. Lincoln Concierge, which allows owners to schedule Pickup and Delivery for vehicle service, as well as find and reserve parking, is also available through the app. The brand’s increased focus on offerings that provide an effortless ownership experience now includes standard Pickup and Delivery. The service can pick up a client’s vehicle at an agreed location, then take it to a dealership for service, providing a complimentary Lincoln loaner vehicle. Once service is complete, clients can arrange for their washed and serviced vehicle to be returned to them at a location of their choice. Lincoln remains the only luxury automaker to provide Pickup and Delivery as a standard service for all vehicles to save its clients time and effort. Galhotra says Lincoln’s commitment to being a world-class brand goes well beyond its exceptional vehicles. “For Lincoln, every client is unique and and we want every element of the Lincoln shop, buy and own process to be a truly personalized and effortless experience,” he said. The new 2019 Lincoln MKC will be available at Lincoln dealers this summer. View full article

GMC had a bit of a surprise for the Dubai International Motor Show with the Desert Fox Middle East truck concept. Desert Fox was a special package available on the 1977 GMC C/K 1500 pickup that featured a tan (Buckskin) exterior color with color stripes running along the sides and hood. The package also featured a brush guard, bed mounted sports bar, additional lights, and tan colored wheels. This package was also available for the Jimmy SUV. This Sierra 1500-based concept brings this package into the modern era with the same paint color and stripe layout. It also comes outfitted with some off-road goodies such as an off-road bumper with a winch, beadlock wheels wrapped in desert-terrain tires, bed-mounted sports bar with LED lights, skid plates, and a new exhaust system. No mention of a powertrain but we're thinking it could the 5.3L V8. Source: Car and Driver View full article

Kia has revealed the pricing for the 2018 Stinger and Stinger GT that will be arriving at dealers next month. The base Stinger with a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder will begin at $32,800. The twin-turbo 3.3 V6 Stinger GT kicks off at $39,250. Prices include a $900 destination charge. The Stinger comes standard with 18-inch wheels, limited slip differential, leather upholstery, power adjustable front seats with heat, dual-zone climate control, keyless ignition, and a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Stinger GT models add adaptive dampers, Brembo brakes, and a nine-speaker audio system with external amplifier. All-wheel drive is available for an extra $2,200 with either engine. “Although the Stinger is unlike any other Kia that has come before it in terms of pure driving enjoyment, it is still very much a traditional Kia in that it offers consumers a very compelling value proposition, providing excellent performance and handling, premium features and functionality when compared to its much higher-priced competitors.” said Orth Hedrick, vice president of product planning for Kia Motor America. Source: Kia Press Release is on Page 2 KIA MOTORS AMERICA ANNOUNCES 2018 STINGER PRICING Fastback Performance Sedan Brings Kia to New Heights While Maintaining Remarkable Value Stinger delivers head-turning design, premium amenities and heart-pounding power at an incredibly value-packed price Combination of aggressive pricing and spirited performance makes Stinger a compelling alternative to substantially more expensive luxury sport sedans IRVINE, Calif., November 16, 2017 — Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced pricing for the highly anticipated all-new 2018 Stinger fastback sport sedan. Expected to arrive in Kia dealers in December1, the highest-performance production vehicle in the company’s history will be offered in five trim levels – Stinger, Stinger Premium, GT, GT1, and GT2. Stinger starts at $31,900 Stinger Premium starts at $37,100 GT starts at $38,350 GT1 starts at $43,250 GT2 starts at $49,200 All-wheel drive: $2,200 Destination: $900 “The Stinger is a prime example of Kia’s commitment to surpassing consumers’ expectations in everything we do,” said Orth Hedrick, vice president of product planning, KMA. “Although the Stinger is unlike any other Kia that has come before it in terms of pure driving enjoyment, it is still very much a traditional Kia in that it offers consumers a very compelling value proposition, providing excellent performance and handling, premium features and functionality when compared to its much higher-priced competitors.” Designed in Frankfurt, developed on the Nürburgring, and built by the brand ranked highest by J.D. Power in initial quality3, the Stinger is offered with multiple engine and drivetrain configurations and luxurious accommodations. All Stingers come standard with a leather-appointed interior, though ultra-soft Nappa leather is available. A thick hand-stitched multifunction leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters sits front and center of the driver, while the GT trim gets a flat-bottom steering wheel. All Stingers are available with a large color TFT instrument cluster with performance gauges including a track timer, and in true gran turismo fashion, the Stinger has a generous 23.3 cu.-ft. of cargo space that can be accessed via a power liftgate with available Smart Trunk functionality. The base Stinger rides on a passive suspension tuned to offer a balance of handling and ride comfort, while the GT is available with Kia’s first electronically controlled Dynamic Stability Damping Control and standard high-performance Brembo®4 disc brakes. Two turbocharged engines are available: The base Stinger and Premium trims get a 2.0-liter twin-scroll turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 255 horsepower at 6,200 rpm with 260 lb.-ft. of maximum torque available from 1,400 – 4,000 rpm. Stingers wearing the GT moniker get a more powerful 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 which produces 365 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and offers 376 lb.-ft. of torque from 1,300 – 4,500 rpm. Both engines are matched to a second-generation eight-speed rear-drive automatic transmission. All-wheel drive also is available across all trims. Multiple Advance Driver Assistance systems work together to enhance the driving experience, including Driver Attention Warning (DAW)5, Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA)6 with pedestrian detection, Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go (SCC w/ S&G)6, Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) 6, Blind Spot Collision Warning (BCW) 6, and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning (RCCW)6. A height-adjustable color Head-Up Display (HUD)7 display is also available. The base audio system for the 2.0-liter turbo features six speakers and a seven-inch color touchscreen with the latest version of UVO, Kia’s award-winning telematics systems8. The standard system found in the GT trim ups the speaker count to nine and includes an external amplifier. A premium Harman/Kardon®9 audio system that features Clari-Fi™10 and next-generation QuantumLogic™11 Surround Sound technology is also available. View full article

Ford is expanding their green options to governments with the launch of the Special Service Plug-In Hybrid Sedan. The model will be positioned for those who don't need a pursuit-rated vehicle such as Police and Fire Chiefs, detectives, and other government officials. Based on the Fusion Energi, the Special Service Plug-In Hybrid Sedan comes with the 2.0L Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder and a larger 7.6-kWh lithium-ion battery. Ford says the electric range of 21 miles should be enough for most folks to get through a shift without needing a recharge. If the battery does become depleted, the gas engine will kick on to provide a total range of over 500 miles. “This is the first Ford police vehicle that can potentially get through an entire shift using no gasoline whatsoever. Anyone can plug this in to any wall outlet to run gas- and emissions-free on battery-only operation,” said Stephen Tyler, Ford police brand marketing manager. Recharging is said to take about 7 hours from a conventional 110-volt outlet or 2.5 hours when using a 240-volt charger. Ford has fitted a number of features for those wearing a badge. The front seats come upholstered in heavy-duty cloth and feature smaller side bolsters for improved comfort. Anti-stab plates are installed in the backside of the front seats to provide extra protection. Optional equipment includes spot lights, storage vault for the trunk, and a dark-car feature that turns completely turns off all interior lighting for surveillance purposes. The order books for the Special Service Plug-In Hybrid Sedan open next month with deliveries beginning next summer. Source: Ford Press Release is on Page 2 FORD LAUNCHES ITS FIRST PLUG-IN HYBRID VEHICLE FOR POLICE AND GOVERNMENT CUSTOMERS New Ford police vehicle debuts offering battery-only electric mode, plus the driving range of a gasoline-electric hybrid New vehicle designed for police and fire chiefs, detectives, and other non-pursuit law enforcement personnel 7.6-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery propels new police Special Service Plug-In Hybrid Sedan up to 21 miles on a charge and up to 85 mph on battery power alone; new offering brings the added flexibility of a full hybrid-electric powertrain with a range surpassing 500 miles DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 20, 2017 – Earlier this year, Ford revealed the world’s first-ever pursuit-rated hybrid police vehicle. Today, the company is giving law enforcement an even more efficient option with the reveal of a plug-in hybrid vehicle capable of driving up to 21 miles without a drop of gas. The Special Service Plug-In Hybrid Sedan, the first plug-in hybrid police vehicle from Ford, is designed for police and fire chiefs, detectives, and other government personnel whose jobs don’t require a pursuit-rated vehicle. “This is the first Ford police vehicle that can potentially get through an entire shift using no gasoline whatsoever,” said Stephen Tyler, Ford police brand marketing manager. “Anyone can plug this in to any wall outlet to run gas- and emissions-free on battery-only operation.” The vehicle’s 3.3-kilowatt onboard charger allows agencies to fully charge the 7.6-kilowatt-hour battery in just 2.5 hours on a 240-volt, level-two charger. But Ford is confident most agencies won’t need anything more than a regular 120-volt wall outlet to recharge. The lithium-ion battery can move the vehicle up to 21 miles on a single charge and up to 85 mph on battery power alone. Once the battery runs down, the vehicle is powered by its gasoline-electric hybrid powerplant – with a range surpassing 500 miles – eliminating any concerns of range anxiety typically associated with battery-only electrics. The custom interior features heavy-duty cloth front seats with reduced bolsters, for officer comfort, and rear anti-stab plates, plus vinyl rear seating and flooring. Other highlights include a reinforced top tray for mounting equipment, metal console mounting plate, red and white task lighting in the overhead console, police engine-idle feature, unique alloy wheels and an auxiliary power distribution box in the trunk. Several unique options are available for the Special Service Plug-In Hybrid Sedan, including a driver spot lamp, a trunk storage vault, trunk ventilation system, and a rear door control-disabling feature. A special dark-car feature turns off interior lighting and allows the dash cluster to be dimmed 100 percent for surveillance, and several emergency lighting packages like those found on other Ford police vehicles are also available. The new Special Service Plug-In Hybrid Sedan joins two other Ford police vehicles revealed this year – Ford Police Responder Hybrid Sedan and F-150 Police Responder. Recently, both successfully completed rigorous testing conducted by Michigan State Police at Grattan Raceway in Belding, Michigan, and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, California. Customers will be able to order the Special Service Plug-In Hybrid Sedan in December with sales starting next summer. View full article