William Maley

Porsche Reports Record Sales In 2013; 21 Percent Increase Over 2012 Atlanta. Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), the exclusive U.S. importer of Porsche sports cars including the Macan and Cayenne SUVs and the Panamera sports sedan, today announced it has once again set an all-time U.S. sales record, with 42,323 cars sold in 2013 (plus 21 percent over 2012). The previous record year for Porsche in the U.S. was 2012 when 35,043 cars were sold. In December 2013, Porsche dealers sold 3,246 cars, an increase of 10 percent over last December. “Exceeding 40,000 sales for the first time in the history of Porsche in the U.S. makes us very proud,” said Detlev von Platen, President and CEO, Porsche Cars North America, Inc. “This success was possible only through the combination of a strong product offering, a highly professional sales organization and a team of dedicated dealers,” he added. “Since introducing 22 new models and variants into the U.S. market in 2013, we are entering the New Year with our youngest product line ever – thus, we are confident that we can continue writing the success story of Porsche in the U.S. over the next 12 months.” The flagship 911 completed a strong anniversary year in 2013, with 10,442 units sold and the introduction of six new model variants including the limited-edition “50th Anniversary” model. In December, the top-of-the-line 911 models (GT3, Turbo, Turbo Cabriolet) arrived at U.S. dealers, with those models accounting for four percent of December 911 sales. Sales of the mid-engine Boxster and Cayman models were equally strong, with a combined total of 7,953 units, representing a 137 percent increase year-over-year. The newly-launched Cayman and Cayman S models were popular as well, with 3,383 units sold. The Cayenne line carried equal weight in the automaker’s 2013 sales success, with 18,507 sold in all of 2013 (plus 16 percent over last year). With sales of 5,386, the Cayenne Diesel had a 29 percent share of overall Cayenne sales. With the arrival of the Macan compact SUV, its fifth model line, in the spring of 2014 Porsche will be entering into the fastest-growing vehicle market with the sportiest cross-over in that segment. A new-generation Panamera range debuted last year with refined exterior design changes and significant novelties under the hood. New, state-of-the-art V6 engines, a long wheelbase Executive version and a first in the luxury car segment, a plug-in hybrid, the Panamera S E-Hybrid were introduced in the U.S. over the past few months. With the arrival at Porsche dealerships of the first Panamera S E-Hybrids in December the entire model line now consists of seven new models from the Panamera to the Panamera Turbo S Executive. Last year, Porsche recorded a roughly even split of sales between its four-door and two-door sports cars (57 percent/43 percent). Certified Pre-Owned Sales finished 2013 at 10,130 units, up 7 percent over 2012 (9,506).

Toyota Division No. 1. Retail Brand in 2013 Camry ends 2013 as best-selling car in America for 12th year in a row; TMS hybrids set all-time sales record in 2013 TORRANCE, Calif. (Jan. 3, 2014) – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported December 2013 sales results of 190,843 units, an increase of 2.2 percent over December 2012 on a daily selling rate (DSR) basis. On a raw-volume basis, unadjusted for 25 selling days in December 2013 versus 26 selling days in December 2012, TMS sales decreased 1.7 percent from year-ago month. Toyota division posted December 2013 sales of 156,086 units, down 0.7 percent year-over-year on a DSR basis. Volume-wise, Toyota division sales decreased 4.6 percent over December 2012. With the same number of selling days in 2013 and 2012, TMS reported annual sales of 2,236,042 vehicles, up 7.4 percent versus last year on both a DSR and raw-volume basis. “The auto industry was a consistent bright spot in the economic recovery throughout 2013,” said Bill Fay, Toyota division group vice president and general manager. “We expect the economy will continue to gain strength in 2014, with car sales rising to pre-recession levels.” Lexus reported December sales of 34,757 units, an 18.1 percent increase on a DSR basis and a 13.6 percent increase on a raw volume basis, both year-over-year. “Lexus had its best sales month in seven years and the luxury segment outperformed the overall auto industry in December” said Jeff Bracken, Lexus group vice president and general manager. “We expect the luxury market will continue to expand in 2014.” Other Highlights: Camry is best-selling car in America in 2013 Avalon up more than 20 percent in December; posts triple digit gains annually All-new Corolla records monthly sales of more than 22,500 units; up about 4 percent for the year TMS hybrids retain about 60 percent of the market and set all-time sales record in 2013 Prius family posts sales of 15,720 units in December Toyota division trucks record best December since 2007; up nearly 11 percent year-over-year All-new RAV4 up 46 percent with best-ever December; up 27 percent annually Highlander posts monthly sales of more than 12,300 units Toyota division pickups up 12 percent for the year Tacoma up almost 13 percent annually All-new Tundra up more than 7 percent in December; up nearly 11 percent year-over-year All-new Lexus IS posts triple-digit gains in December; up 26.4 for the year Lexus ES is volume car leader with monthly sales of 8,213 units; up almost 30 percent annually Lexus RX posts sales of more than 13,000 units in December; up 9 percent over 2012 Lexus GX up 30 percent for the month; up 10 percent for the year

BMW Group U.S. Reports December and 2013 Sales BMW Group U.S. breaks all-time sales record BMW brand sets new record MINI brand sets new records Woodcliff Lake, NJ – January 3, 2014… The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported December sales of 43,981 vehicles, an increase of 0.3 percent from the 43,855 vehicles sold in the same month a year ago. At year end, the BMW Group (BMW and MINI combined) is up 8.1 percent on sales of 375,782 compared to 347,583 in 2012, a new record for the BMW Group U.S. “Deep freeze and blizzards didn’t slow us down as BMW Group in the U.S. shattered previous sales records in 2013, including BMW and MINI brands individually,” said Ludwig Willisch, President and CEO, BMW of North America. “We are already picking up speed in 2014 with the new models we’ll show at Detroit in a week, then our sponsorship of Team USA at the Winter Olympics and that’s just the beginning.” BMW Brand Sales Sales of BMW brand vehicles in December totaled 37,389 compared to 37,399 vehicles sold in December, 2012. For the year, the BMW brand is up 9.9 percent in 2013 on sales of 309,280 compared to 281,460 sold in 2012. BMW sales of 309,280 in 2013 smashed the previous record set in pre-recession 2007 (293,795). In December, best performing vehicles included the 3 and 4 Series, up 55.8 percent to 16,737 units; and the 1 series up 37.3 percent to 1,039. MINI Brand Sales – best year and month ever MINI USA reported the best December ever with sales of 6,592 automobiles, an increase of 2.1 percent from the 6,456 sold in the same month a year ago. For the year, MINI sales in the U.S. are up 0.6 percent to 66,502 compared to 66,123 in 2012, a new record.

Honda Sets All-Time December Sales Record to Earn 2nd Best Annual Sales Total for American Honda; Acura Light Trucks Post Best Year in Brand History CR-V annual sales top 300,000 for first time, joining Accord and Civic Accord posts best annual sales since 2008 with double-digit gain plus strong December RDX posts 20th straight monthly increase, smashes previous mark with sales up 51.6 percent for the year MDX has best sales month in model history TORRANCE, Calif., Jan. 3, 2014 – American Honda Motor Co., Inc. today reported total 2013 vehicle sales of 1,525,312 units, an increase of 7.2 percent for the year and the second-best result in company history. A total of 135,255 Honda and Acura vehicles were sold in December, eclipsing last December's strong sales by 1.9 percent (5.9 percent based on the Daily Selling Rate, or DSR*). Honda Division annual sales reached 1,359,876 units in 2013, a year-over-year increase of 7.4 percent and the second best all-time sales total for the Honda brand. The Acura Division posted year-to-date sales of 165,436, a 5.9-percent gain and the best result since 2007. Honda Division sold 119,504 vehicles in December, a 2.4-percent increase from the previous December. Acura Division posted December sales of 15,751. Honda Honda core products continued to show substantial sales strength throughout 2013. Based on the latest R.L. Polk data, Accord, Civic, CR-V and Odyssey continue to lead retail sales in their respective segments, with the Pilot SUV also gaining significantly. With respect to total CY2013 sales: CR-V surpassed 300,000 sales for the first time while posting a December best of 28,759 units. Accord sales were up to 10.5 percent to 366,678 units, its best showing since 2008. Civic sales were up 5.7 percent to 336,180 units, its best result since 2008 and the third best in its 40-year history. Odyssey sales surged 32.7 percent in December for a yearly total of 128,987 units. Pilot sales rose 10.3 percent to 126,678 units. "Breaking our December sales record is a great way to finish a near-record year, but perhaps more significantly, the CR-V joins Accord and Civic as the third Honda vehicle to sell more than 300,000 units per year for the first time in our history," said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales at American Honda. "In a hotly competitive market, where every manufacturer brought their best products, our core models demonstrated significant growth without having to resort to fleet sales to drive volume as some of our competitors do." Acura Acura light trucks continued to break sales records in 2013 with RDX smashing previous bests and the all-new MDX completing a strong fourth quarter with its best-ever month to push Acura trucks to their best sales year ever. RDX recorded monthly bests for 20 straight months, completing its record run in 2013 with a total sales increase of 51.6 percent for the year. MDX sales continued to rise sharply, delivering a 29.0-percent increase in December for its best month in history on strong customer demand and improving vehicle inventories. Full-year sales were up 4.3 percent to 53,040. RLX brought solid growth to the luxury sedan segment for Acura in an abbreviated model year, posting sales of 5,053 since going on sale last Spring. "Customers are finding the combination of luxury, comfort, performance and utility in the RDX and MDX to be pretty irresistible," said Jeff Conrad, vice president and general manager of Acura Sales. "With the strongest light truck lineup in our history, we're now turning our focus on our sedan lineup with the all-new TLX to deliver further growth for Acura in 2014." *The daily selling rate (DSR) is calculated with 25 days for December 2013 and 26 days for December 2012. Year-to-date, the DSR is calculated with 307 days for 2013 and 307 days for 2012. All other percentages in release are unadjusted; see table for adjusted DSR figures.

JAGUAR LAND ROVER REPORTS U.S. SALES FOR DECEMBER 2013 2013 Jaguar Land Rover North America sales increase 20 percent for 2013 with 66,962 units sold Land Rover sets new U.S. full year sales record for the brand of 50,010 units with increase of 15 percent for 2013 All new aluminum Range Rover increases 56 percent for 2013 Jaguar finishes 2013 as one of the fastest growing automotive brands in the United States with 41 percent growth versus 2012 reaching 16,952 units All-wheel drive and new powertrains helps Jaguar XF achieve a 43 percent gain for 2013 Autobytel names Jaguar F-TYPE and Land Rover Range Rover its Car and Truck of the Year for 2014. December Jaguar Land Rover North America increases 17 percent in December, for its best retail sales month since 2006 Jaguar continues industry-leading growth with 47 percent growth in December, driven by 53 percent increase in XF sales Land Rover brand increases 11 percent with Range Rover Evoque having its highest retails sales month ever (MAHWAH, NJ) - January 3, 2014 - Jaguar Land Rover North America today reported December 2013 U.S. sales: Jaguar sales were 1,544 units, 47 percent up from 1,049 units in December 2012; Land Rover sales reached 5,764 units, up 11 percent from 5,174 units in December 2012. Jaguar Land Rover North America December U.S. sales for both brands hit 7,308 units, a 17 percent increase from 6,223 units in December 2012. Jaguar Land Rover also reported full year 2013 sales: Land Rover sales for the year achieved an all-time high of 50,010 up 15 percent from 43,664 in 2012; Jaguar sales for the year were 16,952 up 41 percent from 12,011 in 2012; Jaguar Land Rover North America sales for the year were 66,962; up 20 percent from 55,675 units in 2012. "The combination of a strong luxury market and a dramatic increase in consumer interest in both of our brands has led Jaguar Land Rover's U.S. business to outpace the general market with a 20 percent full year increase," said Joe Eberhardt, President, Jaguar Land Rover North America. "The Jaguar brand has been one of the fastest growing brands driven by multiple products enhancements and the addition of the award-winning F-TYPE convertible. Land Rover has its best sales year in its U.S. history with the next generation Range Rover and Range Rover Sport SUVs establishing new benchmarks for luxury and capability. Congratulations to all of Jaguar Land Rover's U.S. retailers and employees for a fantastic achievement in 2013." U.S. BRAND HIGHLIGHTS Land Rover In December, Land Rover brand reached 5,764 units for the highest December sales since 2007. For the full year, 2013, the Land Rover brand set a new U.S. sales record of 50,010 units, up 15 percent from 2012. Range Rover sales were 1,340 units, up 30 percent from 1,034 units in December, 2012. For the full year 2013, the Range Rover model is up 56 percent from 2012. In the 2013 J.D. Power 2013 U.S. APEAL Study, the Range Rover was the industry's highest scoring model. Range Rover Evoque had its highest monthly sales total ever in December with an increase of 6 percent to 1,186 units from 1,117 units in December, 2012. For the full year 2013, the Range Rover Evoque is up 28 percent to 11,405 units. In December, the all new Range Rover Sport increased 15 percent to 2,305 units from 2,003 units in December, 2012. The new Range Rover and Range Rover Sport were honored with numerous accolades from automotive media in 2013 including: Range Rover Sport was named the '2014 Four Wheeler of the Year' by Four Wheeler magazine Range Rover Sport has been named to Road & Track's first ever "Best Cars" list of 2013 in the "SUV" category Range Rover Autobiography was named Robb Report's 'Best of the Best' winner of the 'Sport Utility Vehicle' category. Jaguar In December, Jaguar brand rose 47 percent for its highest December sales total since 2005. For the full year 2013, Jaguar has been one of the fastest growing brands with sales of 16,952 up 41 percent from 12,011 sales, with both XJ and XF sales increasing on the appeal of new powertrains and all-wheel-drive. For the month of December, the Jaguar XF was the Jaguar volume and growth leader with 805 units sold, up 53 percent from 527 sales in December 2012. For the full year 2013, the XF is up 43 percent. The current MY XF lineup includes the new 2.0T model as well as all-wheel-drive and V-6 options. The Jaguar XJ sales were 449 units, up 15 percent from 389 in December, 2012. For the full year 2013, Jaguar XJ sales are up 12 percent with all-wheel-drive models now make up approximately half of all XJ sales. The F-TYPE convertible sports car added 185 units in its first December. With sales starting in May, Jaguar F-TYPE sales totaled 2,250 units in 2013. The Jaguar F-TYPE received accolades from automotive media for its design, performance and value, including the following honors: The '2014 Automotive Excellence Award for Design' from Popular Mechanics magazine The Robb Report's 'Best of the Best' winner of the 'Convertible' category 2013 World Car Design of the Year The F-TYPE Coupe was introduced at the Los Angeles International Automobile Show in December and goes on sale in spring, 2014.

Mercedes-Benz Achieves Its Highest Year Ever With 312,534 Units Sold In 2013 MBUSA hits new benchmark at 343,614, up 12.6% January 03, 2014 - MONTVALE, N.J. Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today reported the highest annual sales volumes in its history with 312,534 units sold for the Mercedes-Benz brand in 2013, representing a 14.0% increase from the 274,134 vehicles sold in 2012. Sprinter Vans achieved an annual sales total of 21,816, gaining 4.2%. Adding 9,264 units from smart, MBUSA's year-end total hit a record 343,614, increasing 12.6% from the 305,072 vehicles sold the previous year. "It's been an incredible year for Mercedes-Benz in every way," said Steve Cannon, president and CEO of MBUSA. "We saw record sales, flexed our muscles across the entire product line from top to bottom and brought the customer experience to an all-time high. With the help of our dealer partners and the entire organization behind us, we expect this beautifully choreographed series of product debuts to lead us to another phenomenal year in 2014." Impressive increases were made in both the Mercedes-Benz passenger car and light truck categories, climbing 16.0% and 10.4%, respectively, from 2012. Annual retail volumes for the Mercedes-Benz brand were led by the C-, E- and M-Class model lines. The sporty C-Class took the top spot for the year at 88,251 units, rising 8.0% from 2012, followed by the E-Class with annual sales of 69,803, up 7.1%. The brand's top-selling SUV, the M-Class, rounded out the top three at 41,326, up 8.5% over the previous year. Strong gains also were seen at the high end. The flagship S-Class, which reset the luxury benchmark with an all-new generation for model year 2014, posted an annual increase of 12.8% to 13,303 units. Total sales for the SL-Class roadster rose 43.0% at 7,007. A best-ever December for the Mercedes-Benz brand yielded sales of 33,007, increasing 17.3% from the 28,145 vehicles sold in December 2012. The E-Class model line was the top volume performer for the month, jumping 25% to 8,727. Sprinter Vans, which launched a redesigned 2014 lineup in September, saw continued growth at 2,828 for the month, up 26.8%. Adding volumes of 855 at smart, MBUSA December sales reached a landmark 36,690 units, increasing 17.0% from the 31,372 vehicles sold during the same month last year. Sales of Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC diesel models totaled 1,575 in December and finished the year at 14,943. The company's high-performance AMG models delivered strong December sales of 1,109, bringing the year-end total to 6,906, a 3.7% increase from 2012. Separately, Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) recorded sales of 9,726 vehicles in December, an increase of 40.0% compared to the 6,949 units sold in December 2012. For the year, MBCPO sold 99,075 vehicles, climbing 23.3% from the 80,380 vehicles sold in 2012.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA HAS BEST YEAR EVER December also the best in company history Sonata and Elantra both top 200K in sales Santa Fe family up 25 percent for the year; Elantra up 23 percent COSTA MESA, Calif., Jan. 3, 2014 – Hyundai Motor America today announced sales for the month of December of 63,005 units, up six percent versus the same period in 2013, representing the best December in company history and the first December to break the 60,000 mark. Annual sales were 720,783 units, up 2.5 percent over a record setting 2012. “An exceptionally strong post-Christmas sales blitz enabled Hyundai to shatter our annual sales record which was set just last year,” said Dave Zuchowski, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor America. “All year-end indicators appear to be signaling a robust economic environment for 2014. Home prices are back to their pre-recession levels, jobless rates are continuing to decline, and consumer confidence is on the upswing. This is welcome news for the automotive sector and at Hyundai we’re particularly excited to be ringing in the New Year.” Hyundai’s all-new Genesis sedan will launch later this month at the North American International Auto Show and the completely redesigned Sonata will arrive later in the spring, taking the breadth and depth of the Hyundai line-up to unparalleled heights. The U.S.-built Elantra and Santa Fe families set full-year records with sales of 247,912 and 88,844, up 23 percent and 25 percent, respectively. Sonata Hybrid finished the year up 26 percent over 2012 with sales of 22,716. Fleet sales represented 21 percent of total sales in December and 17 percent for the full year. Certified Pre-Owned vehicle sales for the month were 6,029 down six percent; full year sales were 75,941 up eight percent over 2012.

MITSUBISHI MOTORS ROARS INTO THE NEW YEAR WITH A 56 PERCENT INCREASE IN DECEMBER Best December for Mitsubishi in Seven Years Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) today reported December sales of 6,423, up 56.2 percent compared to December 2012. Mitsubishi sales were up 7.7 percent for the year. The U.S.-built Outlander Sport led the way with 2,358 units sold, an increase of 33.2 percent for the month compared to prior year sales. Sales of the all-new 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander were 1,289 units, a year-over-year gain of 102.0 percent. The all-new Mitsubishi Mirage had 1,388 units sold in the vehicle's second full month of sales, an increase of nearly 32 percent from its first full month in November 2013. "This marked MMNA's best December sales in seven years,” said MMNA President & CEO Yoichi Yokozawa. "Our sales were up 27 percent July through December compared to the prior year, so we are pleased to take tremendous momentum into the New Year.” "We believe customers are growing in confidence that Mitsubishi offers a unique combination of safety and fuel efficiency in our vehicles,” Yokozawa added. "These are attributes of our brand that will resonate with consumers into 2014 and beyond.” More highlights of December sales: This marks the first back-to-back months of more than 6,000 sales for Mitsubishi since July/August 2011. December saw Mitsubishi's highest monthly sales total since March 2012. December was Outlander Sport's third best-ever month since its introduction in 2010. Outlander Sport sales were up almost 38 percent for the year. This marked Outlander's best December of sales since 2006. Outlander sales were up 58.5 percent for the year. Lancer sales were up 13.7 percent in December and 22.7 percent for the year. Lancer Evolution sales increased 2.1 percent in calendar-year 2013 compared to 2012. Sales of the all-electric Mitsubishi i-MiEV were up 75.0 percent in 2013 compared to 2012.

NISSAN GROUP REPORTS DECEMBER AND 2013 YEAR-END U.S. SALES NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nissan announced today total U.S. sales for December 2013 of 109,758 units, an increase of 10.5 percent compared to last year. In 2013, Nissan sold 1,248,420 vehicles in the U.S., an increase of 9.4 percent over 2012 and the best annual sales total in Nissan's history. Nissan Division December & 2013 highlights: Nissan Division set annual records in 2013 for total deliveries, as well as Altima, Rogue, Versa, Pathfinder, LEAF, JUKE and NV. Rogue crossover sales in December were up 27.8 percent to 14,676 in the first full month of sales of the all-new 2014 model. All-electric Nissan LEAF sales totalled 2,529, up 69.8 percent and marking the best sales month since the model's launch in Dec. 2010. Sentra sales were up more than 39.3 percent to 10,799. Nissan will unveil the Sports Sedan Concept on Jan. 14 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Infiniti Reports December U.S. Sales NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Infiniti today reported U.S. sales of 13,232 units, an increase of 4.8 percent versus 12,627 units a year earlier. This was the best December in the luxury automaker’s history. The all-new Infiniti Q50 luxury sports sedan saw deliveries of 4,568 units in December. Overall sales of Infiniti sports sedans, which include the Infiniti G37, rose more than 13.4 percent for the month. The Infiniti QX60 7-passenger luxury crossover also had its best December ever with sales of 3,744 units, an increase of 38.3 percent. At the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 14, Infiniti will debut the Q50 Eau Rouge Concept, a high-performance sports sedan featuring aerodynamic design inspiration from the technical collaboration between Infiniti and four-time Formula One World Champions Infiniti Red Bull Racing.

01.03.2014 VOLKSWAGEN REPORTS DECEMBER 2013 AND YEAR-END RESULTS - December sales total 34,015 units, second best December since 1972 - - For the first time in 40 years company delivers over 400,000 vehicles in back-to-back years- • High-mileage, TDI® Clean Diesel models account for 17.8 percent in December, 23.5 of sales in 2013 and selling 95,823 units for the year, the best year on record • Chattanooga-built Passat sold 9,254 units in December; 109,652 units for the year • Jetta Sedan sales total 13,719 units in December; 141,259 year-to-date • 2013 Beetle and Beetle Convertible achieved 2,819 units in December; 43,134 units for the year Herndon, VA - Volkswagen of America, Inc. (VWoA) today reported 407,704 units delivered in 2013. December deliveries totaled 34,015. Volkswagen’s high-mileage, TDI® Clean Diesel models totaled 95,823 units for the year accounting for 23.5 percent of sales in 2013 and 17.8 percent in December. Since 2,000, Volkswagen of America has delivered over 500,000 TDI® Clean Diesel vehicles. “Volkswagen is now operating at a new plateau, delivering over 400,000 units for the second consecutive year in over 40 years,” said Mark McNabb, chief operating officer, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “We look forward to 2014, with the introduction of the new Golf family, continued increased awareness and enthusiasm for the brand’s core models and the strength of our TDI offerings, we are well positioned for our next phase of growth to come over the next few years.” The Chattanooga-built Volkswagen Passat continues to demonstrate its strong appeal in the market with 9,254 units sold in December and 109,652 for the year. Clean Diesel TDI Passat sales were the best year on record with 34,963 vehicles delivered, accounting for 32 percent of sales of the year. Jetta sedan sales totaled in 13,719 in December and 141,259 for the year, demonstrating that affordable, German Engineering is a key selling point for the brand.

Jan 3, 2014 , HERNDON, Va. Audi establishes U.S. sales record of 158,061 vehicles sold in 2013 With December 2013 coming in as 36th consecutive record sales month, Audi concluded its fourth record year in a row December 2013 sales of 17,013 stand as the first time Audi sold more than 15,000 vehicles in any month Audi Q5 finishes as the best selling model for Audi in the US in 2013; strong demand seen throughout product lineup in 2013 Audi achieved its fourth-consecutive year of record U.S. demand by recording full-year sales of 158,061, a 13.5% increase over the previous annual record set a year earlier. In addition, Audi set an all-time monthly sales record in December 2013 with sales of 17,013 new models, a 14.6% improvement over the previous monthly sales record set in December 2012. The most recent month also stands as the first time Audi monthly sales have ever topped 15,000 vehicles. December 2013 was also established the 36th consecutive monthly sales record for Audi in the U.S. market. “After 36 consecutive record sales months, 2013 was another year to thank America for embracing Audi,” said Mark Del Rosso, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Audi of America. “These record results show the payoff from our longstanding strategy to build the Audi brand through exciting products, committed dealer partners and a sustainable business model.” December results were bolstered by sales of Audi luxury SUVs, with a record month for the Audi Q5 crossover posting a 32.2% gain in December with 4,794 units delivered for the month. Sales of the Audi Q7 increased 52.6% to 2,279 vehicles sold for the month. Year-to-date sales for the Audi Q5 increased 40.8% to a total of 40,355 vehicles sold for the year, while YTD sales for the Audi Q7 increased 45.1% to a total of 15,978 vehicles. Through December, sales of the Audi A6, A7, A8 and Q7 made up one of every three models the brand sold. That compares to a 19% mix for the most exclusive models just four years ago. Luxury sedan sales remain strong as the Audi A6 increased 43.3% to 2,686 vehicles sold for the month, while YTD sales increased 18.1% to 22,428 vehicles sold. There has been high demand for the updated 2014 Audi R8 models, including the Audi R8 V8, Audi R8 V10 and Audi R8 V10 plus. Customers have responded well to the changes in the vehicle’s transmission showing an increase of sales to 37.3% MTD. December 2013 was also the top sales result for Audi Certified pre-owned vehicles sales with an increase of 21.1% for the month, to a total of 4,022 vehicles. For the full year, Audi CPO sales increased 10.2% to a total of 40,190 vehicles, also an all-time record for Audi of America. Highlights: • Sales of Audi premium category vehicles (Audi A6, Audi A7, Audi A8, and Audi Q7) increased 19.2% YTD, representing 33.7% of total Audi sales year-to-date and 46% of the Audi year-to-date sales gain. • Sales mix for Audi S performance variants finished the month at 16.1% for the S4 sedan; 39.7% for the S5/ RS 5; 4.6% for the S6; 26.1% for the S7 and RS 7; 10.2% for the S8; 27% for the TTS / TT RS and TTS Roadster, and 8.6% for the SQ5 crossover. • Sales of Audi A6 increased 43.3% compared to December 2012; YTD sales grew 18.1% compared to previous period. • Sales of the Audi Q5 increased 32.2% compared to December 2012; YTD sales grew 40.8% compared to previous period. • Sales of the Audi Q7 increased 52.6% compared to December 2012; YTD sales grew 45.1% compared to previous period. • Audi R8 sales up 37.3% compared to December 2012. • Sales mix for Audi A6 TDI finished the month at 12.5%, for the Audi A7 TDI at 11%, for the A8 TDI to 12.8%, the Audi Q5 TDI at 16%, and for the Audi Q7 TDI at 28.7%. • Audi Certified pre-owned sales increased 21.1% to 4,022 vehicles in December; YTD increased 10.2% to 40,190 vehicles sold. • The Audi A3 is being phased out in advance of the all-new A3 sedan arriving in the U.S. market next spring.

GM’s U.S. Dealers Deliver 2.8 Million Vehicles in 2013 All Four GM Brands Gained Retail Market Share for the Year DETROIT – General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) dealers delivered 2.8 million vehicles in the United States in 2013. Retail sales increased 11 percent and total sales were up 7 percent compared with 2012. Dealers delivered 230,157 vehicles in December, down 6 percent versus a year ago. Retail sales were down 6 percent and fleet sales were down 9 percent. “2013 was the year that GM and the auto industry put the last traces of the recession in the rearview mirror, so now we can devote our full attention to the things that matter most to customers: compelling design, world-class quality and delivering the best ownership experience in the business,” said Kurt McNeil, vice president, U.S. sales operations. “GM has laid a strong foundation to pursue all of these goals. We have announced more than $10 billion in capital investments in the United States since 2009 and plowed billions more into R&D to refresh our product portfolio at twice the rate of the last few years.” Major upcoming launches include all-new large SUVs for Cadillac, GMC and Chevrolet, the award-winning Cadillac ELR and all-new heavy-duty and mid-size pickups for Chevrolet and GMC. In addition, GM will begin the industry’s largest deployment of high-speed mobile broadband later this year. Additional details will be released at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas next week. 2013 Highlights (versus 2012) GM became the first American auto company in history to top the J.D. Power Initial Quality Study, with eight individual model awards, including five for Chevrolet. Chevrolet redesigned iconic products, including the Silverado 1500, Corvette and Impala, all of which won numerous awards for product excellence. Cadillac finished the year as the industry’s fastest-growing full-line luxury brand. Buick had its best sales year since 2006 as the brand expanded into new segments with the Verano sedan and the Encore small crossover. The all-new Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 helped the company increase its full-size pickup sales by 14 percent. GMC sales were the strongest since 2007, and the Sierra now has the highest average transaction prices of any full-size pickup truck line in the industry, according to J.D. Power PIN estimates. Overall, GM’s share of the $40,000 and up light-duty pickup segment, which is about one-third of the market, has increased 7 percentage points to 36 percent. Combined sales of GM’s mini, small and compact cars increased by 10 percent, bolstered by best-ever sales of the Chevrolet Sonic and Cruze, and a remarkable year for the new Chevrolet Spark, which saw more than 34,000 deliveries. Crossover deliveries were strong all year long, increasing by 14 percent. New products like the Buick Encore drove the growth along with stalwarts like the Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain, which had their best sales years ever. The GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave also had their best years ever. December Sales Highlights (vs. 2012) Sales in the fourth quarter increased 6 percent and December’s volume was the highest since August. The Chevrolet Corvette had its best December sales since 2006. The redesigned Chevrolet Malibu and the all-new Impala were up 33 percent and 10 percent, respectively. Crossover and SUV sales were strong, with the Chevrolet Traverse and Tahoe, and the GMC Acadia and Yukon XL all posting higher sales. The Acadia was up 53 percent, for its best-ever December. Small business customers took delivery of 26,231 vehicles in December up 20 percent. For the year, small business deliveries were up 35 percent. “December started a little slow but sales were stronger later in the month, especially in the week between Christmas and New Year’s,” McNeil said. “We didn’t make any big changes to our ‘go-to-market’ strategy during the month, which is to offer competitive incentives and market aggressively, and we are carrying good momentum heading into January.”

Maserati North America, Inc. - Up 216% Mitsubishi Motors North America - Up 56.2% Jaguar Land Rover North America - Up 17.4% Mercedes-Benz USA - Up 17% Audi of America - Up 14.6% Nissan North America - Up 10.5% Porsche Cars North America, Inc. - Up 10% Subaru of America, Inc. - Up 9.6% Chrysler Group LLC - Up 6.0% Hyundai Motor America - Up 6.0% American Honda Motor Co. - Up 1.9% Ford Motor Company - Up 1.8% BMW Group U.S. - Up 0.3% Toyota Motor Sales - Down 1.7% General Motors Co. - Down 6.3% Kia Motors America - Down 14.2% Mazda North American Operations - Down 15.7% Volvo Cars of North America, LLC - Down 20.5% Volkswagen of America - Down 22.7% Brands: Maserati - Up 216% Mitsubishi - Up 56.2% Jaguar - Up 47.2% Jeep - Up 34% Sprinter - Up 26.8% Mercedes-Benz - Up 17.3% Ram - Up 17% Audi - Up 14.6% Lexus - Up 13.6% Land Rover - Up 11.4% Nissan - Up 11.4% Porsche - Up 10% Subaru - Up 9.6% Lincoln - Up 8.1% Hyundai - Up 6.0% Infiniti - Up 4.8% Honda - Up 2.4% MINI - Up 2.1% Ford - Up 1.6% Fiat - Up 1% BMW - 0% Cadillac - Down 0.5% Acura - Down 1.8% GMC - Down 1.8% Toyota - Down 4.6% Buick - Down 6.6% Chevrolet - Down 8.1% Dodge - Down 9% Kia - Down 14.2% Smart - Down 14.2% Mazda - Down 15.7% Chrysler - Down 21% Volvo - Down 20.5% Volkswagen - Down 22.7% William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article

FORD MOTOR COMPANY DELIVERS BEST SALES YEAR SINCE 2006; FORD IS TOP BRAND WITH RECORDS FOR FIESTA, FUSION, ESCAPE Ford brand 2013 retail sales up 14 percent, with cars up 12 percent, utilities up 13 percent, trucks up 17 percent; Ford is best-selling brand for fourth consecutive year Ford Motor Company total December sales up 2 percent, with retail sales up 3 percent for best December since 2005 Ford Fusion sales up 27 percent for a record December; both Ford Fusion and Ford Fiesta hit annual sales records in 2013 Ford Escape sales up 22 percent, helping the vehicle to an annual sales record in 2013 Ford F-Series tops 70,000 sales following eight straight months of sales above 60,000 vehicles; F-Series now best-selling truck for 37 years and best-selling vehicle for 32 years DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 3, 2014 – Ford reigns as America’s best-selling vehicle brand in 2013 for a fourth consecutive year, with annual sales records set for Ford Fiesta, Fusion and Escape, and F-Series continuing as the country’s best-selling truck and vehicle for another straight year. Ford Motor Company 2013 U.S. sales totaled 2,493,918 vehicles. For December, total sales are 218,058 vehicles up 2 percent – with retail up 3 percent. Ford brand U.S. retail sales are up 14 percent for the year. Overall, the Ford brand closes out 2013 with 2,412,224 vehicles sold. Ford produced double-digit annual retail gains across its lineup – cars up 12, utilities up 13 percent, and trucks are up 17 percent – with higher average transaction prices. Retail sales gains for the Ford brand are strongest in the West, where sales are up 21 percent, and the Southeast, with sales up 17 percent for the year. “December was a strong close to an even better year for Ford Motor Company,” said John Felice, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “We saw strong growth across the entire Ford lineup and made significant gains in the import-dominated coastal markets. “Strong demand for our new cars, utilities, hybrids and trucks provided Ford with the largest share point gain of any full-line automaker in 2013,” Felice continued. Ford Fusion December performance is up 27 percent with 24,408 sales, setting a record for the month. Fusion sales of 295,280 vehicles in 2013 represent a 22 percent increase, setting an annual record. Fusion continues to be a significant driver to the company’s growth in the U.S. western and southeastern regions, where retail sales are up 61 percent and 29 percent, respectively in 2013. Ford Fiesta sales of 71,073 vehicles for the year mark a record, as well – and up 25 percent over 2012. Ford Escape sales are up 22 percent for the month, with 24,462 vehicles sold. For the year, Escape sales of 295,993 vehicles represent a 13 percent gain, setting an annual record. December sales of 74,592 Ford F-Series vehicles extend the truck’s string of selling more than 60,000 units a month to eight. Sales of 763,402 F-Series vehicles in 2013 represent the truck’s highest level since 2006. F-Series remains America’s best-selling truck for 37 straight years and the country’s best-selling vehicle for 32 consecutive years. Lincoln MKZ December sales increase 73 percent, with 2,823 cars sold, providing the Lincoln brand with an overall increase of 8 percent.

Chrysler Group LLC Reports December 2013 U.S. Sales Increased 6 Percent – Best December Sales in Six Years; Full-Year Sales Up 9 Percent – Strongest Annual Sales Since 2007 45th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains Chrysler Group full-year U.S. sales increase 9 percent in 2013; fourth-consecutive year of annual sales growth Jeep® and Ram Truck brands each post double-digit sales increases in December compared with same month a year ago Jeep brand posts best December sales ever with 34 percent sales gain; brand sets global sales record in 2013 All-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee sales top 15,000 units in its second full month of sales; sales up 48 percent compared with previous month of November Motor Trend selects Ram 1500 as its 2014 Truck of the Year; Ram pickup sales up 11 percent in December 2014 Dodge Dart, Dodge Avenger and Chrysler 200 sedans earn Top Safety Pick ratings from Insurance Institute for Highway Safety January 3, 2014 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group LLC today reported U.S. sales of 161,007 units, a 6 percent increase compared with sales in December 2012 (152,367 units), and the group’s best December sales since 2007. The Jeep® and Ram Truck brands each posted double-digit percentage sales gains in December compared with the same month a year ago. The Jeep brand’s 34 percent increase was the largest sales gain of any Chrysler Group brand during the month. FIAT brand sales were up 1 percent. Chrysler Group extended its streak of year-over-year sales gains to 45-consecutive months in December. “Chrysler Group ended the year with a 6 percent sales gain in December and our 45th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains,” said Reid Bigland, Head of U.S. Sales. “Our Jeep and Ram Truck brands had a strong finish led by the all-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee and the Ram pickup truck, Motor Trend’s 2014 Truck of the Year. Sales of the new Cherokee topped 15,000 units in December as our newest SUV continues its solid sales performance out of the gate.” In its second full month of sales, the new Cherokee mid-size SUV recorded sales of 15,038 units, surpassing sales of the Jeep Wrangler. The Jeep brand recorded its best December sales ever. In addition, the Wrangler and Jeep Patriot each recorded their best December sales ever. Full-year Chrysler Group sales were up 9 percent in 2013, compared with sales during 2012. It was the fourth-consecutive year of Chrysler Group sales growth. The Ram Truck brand, with its 22 percent increase in 2013, had the largest full-year sales gain of any Chrysler Group brand. Chrysler Group realized sales growth in both its car and truck segments during the year. Chrysler Group car sales in the U.S. were up 11 percent in 2013, while truck sales were up 8 percent. The Jeep brand set a global sales record in 2013. Chrysler Group finished the month of December with a 79 days supply of inventory (508,615 units). U.S. industry sales figures for December are internally projected at an estimated 15.8 million units Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR). December 2013 U.S. Sales Highlights by Brand Jeep® Brand Jeep brand sales were up 34 percent in December, its best December sales ever and the largest percentage sales gain of any Chrysler Group brand for the month. The Jeep brand’s December sales were second only to record sales in July 2005. Sales of the all-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee were up 48 percent compared with the previous month of November. Jeep brand dealers sold 15,038 units of the new Cherokee during December, its second full month of sales. The Cherokee topped Jeep Wrangler sales in December as it continued its strong sales launch. The Cherokee was crowned the “Best New SUV/CUV Under $35,000” in December by the Automobile Journalist Association of Canada. The new Cherokee bested a quartet of rivals from one of the country’s most popular and hard-fought vehicle segments. The Wrangler, Jeep Patriot and Jeep Compass each posted year-over-year sales gains in December. The Patriot compact SUV, with its 35 percent increase, logged the largest percentage sales gain of any Jeep brand model in December. Wrangler sales were up 4 percent in December, compared with the same month a year ago. Both the Wrangler and Patriot each posted their best December sales ever. Ram Truck Brand Sales of the Ram pickup truck were up 11 percent in December, its 44th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains and its best December sales since 2004. Sales of the Ram Heavy Duty pickups were up 16 percent, while Ram Light Duty sales increased 7 percent. Motor Trend selected the Ram 1500 in December as its 2014 Truck of the Year, its first ever back-to-back winner. Nine Truck of the Year contenders were put through an extensive battery of testing designed to evaluate virtually every aspect of each vehicle. The judges were particularly impressed with the performance of the Ram 1500’s all-new EcoDiesel V-6 engine as well as its eight-speed TorqueFlite transmission, a combination that boasts a towing capacity of up to 9,200 pounds. The 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 is among Ward’s 10 Best Engines for 2014. Ram Truck brand sales were up 17 percent in December compared with the same month a year ago. Sales of the all-new 2014 Ram ProMaster van were up 126 percent, compared with the previous month of November. The ProMaster van went on sale in the U.S. in October. The Ram Commercial Truck division in December announced that it will offer an all-new small van for the North American market. Joining the larger ProMaster as an additional van offering, the 2015 Ram ProMaster City will compete with small commercial and passenger vans. Full-year Ram Truck brand sales were up 22 percent in 2013, the largest percentage sales increase of any Chrysler Group brand for the year. FIAT Brand FIAT brand sales were up 1 percent in December compared with the same month a year ago. The FIAT brand recorded nine months of year-over-year sales gains during 2013. Sales of the new Fiat 500L, which debuted in June, were up 52 percent in December compared with the previous month of November. The all-electric Fiat 500e Battery-Electric Drive System was among Ward’s 10 Best Engines for 2014 and the lone representative of electric-vehicle technology. The battery-electric drive system in the 500e hatchback delivers the best-in-class range of 87 miles. Dodge Brand Dodge brand sales were down 9 percent in December, but full-year sales in 2013 were up 14 percent on strong Dodge Dart, Dodge Durango, and Dodge Challenger sales. Sales of the Durango full-size SUV were up 3 percent in December compared with the same month a year ago, extending its run of year-over-year sales gains to 14-consecutive months. It was the Durango’s best December sales in eight years. Sales of the Dodge Charger were up 29 percent in December. The 2014 Dart and Dodge Avenger sedans earned Top Safety Pick ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in December. The announcement marks the fifth-consecutive year that the IIHS has commended the Avenger mid-size sedan. Meanwhile, the insurance industry organization has hailed the Dart compact sedan each year since it arrived on the market in 2012. The Dodge sedans feature significant advanced-technology steel content, which enhances structural integrity. The Dart’s 68 percent content ratio of high-strength steel is among the highest in the industry. The Dart also boasts a 5-star safety rating based on crash tests performed by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Chrysler Brand Chrysler brand sales were down 21 percent in December, but sales of the award-winning Chrysler Town & Country minivan were up 5 percent compared with the same month a year ago. It was the Town & Country’s best December sales in three years. For the full year, Town & Country sales were up 9 percent in 2013. Chrysler 200 sedan sales were up 3 percent for the full year, compared with sales in 2012. The 2014 Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan earned a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in December, the model’s fourth-consecutive Top Safety Pick from the insurance industry organization.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has submitted revised rule to the White House and missed two self imposed deadlines. We'll start with the revised rule. On December 25th, NHTSA submitted a revised rule which could cause automakers to make backup cameras standard on vehicles. The regulation would set new rear visibility standards for light vehicles sold in the United States. Details on the regulation were not given. This is aimed at reducing the number of kids being run over and killed when a vehicle is put into reverse. Automotive News says that automakers might install backup cameras on their whole line dependent on how strict the regulations are. NHTSA hopes to have a rule finalized by next January. As for the two missed self imposed deadlines, The Detroit News reports that NHTSA missed deadlines on automatic braking and requiring vehicle to vehicle communication in the next-generation of vehicles. Last January, then NHTSA Administrator David Strickland said he planned to make a decision by December 31 on whether or not the agency would make automakers to install devices to allow vehicles to communicate with each other as a way to avoid collisions. The added benefit of this tech is the improvement in traffic flow. “The Department of Transportation and NHTSA have made significant progress in determining the best course of action for proceeding with additional vehicle-to-vehicle communication activities and expect to announce a decision in the coming weeks,” said NHTSA. NHTSA and the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor conducted a 3,000 car study looking at this tech. Then in May, Strickland said a decision would be made at the end of year as to whether or not new vehicles should be required to have automatic braking systems to prevent forward collisions. This technology has been shown to reduce the number of injuries and deaths on the roads. At this time, no decision has been made on this. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), The Detroit News William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article

We're just a couple weeks away from the Detroit Auto Show and Kia has given us a glimpse of what they'll be showing. Meet the the GT4 Stinger Concept, a 2+2 sports car. From what we can tell from this teaser shot, the concept will feature the automaker's signature grill and a set of vertical LED headlamps along either side. There is also a cooling vents for the brakes and carbon fiber front splitter. More intriguing is what's under the hood - a turbocharged 2.0L (we're thinking four-cylinder) that makes 315 horsepower and sends it to the rear wheels. We'll have more information on the GT4 Stinger when it debuts at the Detroit Auto Show on January 13th. Source: Kia William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 Behold, the Kia GT4 Stinger... Kia faithful will immediately notice the latest iteration of the signature grille resting mere inches from the ground. The surround glows white and is flanked by vertical LED headlamps. Front-brake cooling vents funnel air around custom 20-inch wheels. A carbon fiber front splitter mounted below the bumper provides added downforce for the car and keeps the GT4 Stinger's front tires firmly planted to the tarmac. Under the hood you ask? A turbocharged 2.0-liter that pumps 315 horsepower to the rear wheels. More to come. Stay tuned. View full article

I don't know. I drove an S60 with the 2.5 T5 and think that's the best engine for it. (Review coming soon on why I think that).

Volvo quietly announced the pricing for the brand new 2015 V60 that will be available at dealers this month. The new wagon will have a starting price tag of $36,215* (includes a $915 destination charge) and that nets you the base T5 Drive-E model. This model features the brand new turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder Drive-E engine that makes 240 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic and front wheel drive gets paired with the 2.0L. Want AWD? Then you'll have to pony up $41,365 and the 2.0L Drive-E gets swapped for the older turbocharged 2.5L five-cylinder which produces 250 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. The 2.5L comes paired with a six-speed automatic. Those looking for more power will be wanting the T6 AWD R-Design which packs a turbocharged inline-six that makes 325 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. Much like the T5 AWD, the T6 will also come with a six-speed automatic. The V60 T6 AWD R-Design will start at $45,215. Source: Volvo William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article

The first day of 2014 brings some good news to Fiat. The company announced that it and the UAW's VEBA Trust have reached a deal to purchase the remaining 41.46 percent stake of Chrysler. The terms of deal will see Fiat paying the VEBA trust a total of $4.35 billion. $3.65 billion of that will go towards the remaining stake. Also, Fiat will pay the trust $700 million annually over the course of the next four years. “In the life of every major organization and its people, there are defining moments that go down in the history books. For Fiat and Chrysler, the agreement just reached with the VEBA is clearly one of those moments,” said Fiat-Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne. Fiat says the deal is expected to happen on January 20th. Source: Chrysler Press Release is on Page 2 Chrysler Group Announces Agreement With UAW Calling for Contributions to VEBA Trust and Also Announces a Special Distribution January 1, 2014 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group and the International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (the “UAW”) have agreed to a memorandum of understanding to supplement Chrysler Group’s existing collective bargaining agreement. Under the MoU, Chrysler Group will provide additional contributions to the VEBA Trust of an aggregate of $700 million in four equal annual installments. The initial payment will be made on closing of a transaction in which the VEBA Trust will sell to Fiat North America, one of Fiat’s wholly owned subsidiaries, all of the VEBA Trust’s equity interest in Chrysler. Additional payments of $175 million will be payable on each of the next three anniversaries of the initial payment. Chrysler Group expects to fund the initial contribution to the VEBA Trust from available cash on hand. In consideration for these contributions, the UAW will agree to certain commitments to continue to support the industrial operations at Chrysler Group and the further implementation of the Fiat-Chrysler alliance, including to use best efforts to cooperate in the continued roll-out of Fiat-Chrysler World Class Manufacturing programs, actively participate in benchmarking efforts associated with implementation of these programs across all of Fiat-Chrysler manufacturing sites to ensure objective performance assessments and provide for proper application of WCM principles and actively assist in the achievement of the Group’s long-term business plan. The Chrysler Group Board of Directors has also determined to support the declaration and payment by Chrysler Group of a special distribution in an aggregate amount of approximately $1,900 million,1 subject to the Board completing its diligence and receiving independent assurance regarding the distribution payment capacity of Chrysler Group, a process that management expects will be completed on or before January 20, 2014 View full article