William Maley

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 5, 2013 2013 marks an important milestone for Dodge. This year is the 45th anniversary of the legendary “Scat Pack Club” which Dodge created to unite the brand's performance vehicle enthusiasts. Little did they know the club would transform and become so much more than that. The club morphed and became a over-arching performance philosophy which in turn created the need for more power. Dodge and Mopar responded with factory-engineered performance kits that would become known as “Scat Packages.” Tonight at the 2013 SEMA show, Dodge and Mopar are bringing back the “Scat Packages” for the Dodge Charger, Challenger, Dart. There will be three different levels of performance available that range from a cold air intake and exhaust to ported and polished heads and hi-flow performance headers. All packages will come with a badge denoting what package you have on your vehicle. “The Scat Pack performance philosophy has always been the core of Dodge DNA. Bringing back factory stage kits allows Dodge enthusiasts to extract the maximum performance from their vehicles without the fear and guesswork typically associated with modifying late-model vehicles,” said Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO of Dodge. The 'Scat Packages' go on sale next spring. Source: Dodge 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 Staged for Launch: Dodge Reveals New Scat Package Stage Kits with Mopar Performance Parts at 2013 SEMA Show Dodge and Mopar join forces to introduce new Scat Package performance upgrade kits for 2014 Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger and Dodge Dart Scat Package 1, Scat Package 2, and Scat Package 3 kits available for 2014 Dodge Challenger, Charger and Dart include optimized calibration and much more Multiple options make affordable performance upgrades available to owners ranging from the everyday enthusiast to the weekend warrior Vehicles on display at SEMA include various Mopar stand-alone parts, in addition to the Scat Package kits Scat Package kits to be available in the Spring of 2014 Good things are coming in many packages for Dodge owners who love performance and delving into Dodge‟s rich history. In honor of the 45th anniversary of the legendary “Scat Pack Club” that played a prominent role in Dodge heritage, Dodge and Mopar today announced the introduction of new Scat Package performance stage kits for the 2014 Dodge Challenger, 2014 Dodge Charger and 2014 Dodge Dart at the 2013 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas. In 1968, Dodge united the brand's performance vehicle enthusiasts through the creation of the Scat Pack Club. The Scat Pack Club quickly transformed and expanded from an enthusiast club into an over-arching Dodge performance philosophy. This shared philosophy ultimately evolved into the desire for even more performance. Dodge and Mopar brands partnered to respond to this need by delivering factory-engineered performance stage kits that would ultimately become known as “Scat Packages.” “The Scat Pack performance philosophy has always been the core of Dodge DNA,” said Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO, Dodge Brand. “Bringing back factory stage kits allows Dodge enthusiasts to extract the maximum performance from their vehicles without the fear and guesswork typically associated with modifying late-model vehicles.” Scat Package 1, 2 and 3 kits will be made available for the 2014 Dodge Challenger, Charger and Dart, all at a cost-effective price, allowing enthusiasts to step up performance at their own pace. Each Scat Package kit includes a numbered hard badge associated with its performance stage, so enthusiasts can proudly display the emblem on their vehicle as a badge of honor. “The new Scat Package kits reinforce our commitment to the performance arena,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC‟s service, parts and customer-care brand. “With multiple kits available, we can suit the performance upgrade needs of our owners.” The Scat Package performance upgrade kits will be available in the Spring of 2014. 2014 Dodge Challenger Scat Package 1 achieves a significant horsepower boost through three modifications, including a Mopar cold-air intake to provide increased air-flow into the engine, Mopar cat-back exhaust to free up downstream airflow, and an all-new performance calibrated engine controller, optimized to the 5.7-liter HEMI® engine. Scat Package 2 adds approximately double the horsepower bump and is geared towards the performance enthusiast looking for that competitive edge. In addition to a customized, optimized performance calibration feature tailored for Scat Package 2, a new Mopar performance camshaft works in conjunction with the components of the Scat Package 1 kit to take advantage of improved engine breathing and deliver that additional acceleration advantage. Scat Package 3 takes aim squarely at the competitive enthusiast who is looking for extreme performance and ultimate bragging rights. Gains of more than three-times that of Scat Package 1 are realized with the customized, optimized performance calibration tailored for Scat Package 3, new Mopar performance CNC-ported cylinder heads, Mopar performance camshaft and Mopar hi-flow headers. Complementing the 2014 Dodge Challenger's ultimate performance is Mopar's plethora of stand-alone performance products, which assure a commanding presence. The chassis sits on 20-inch Classic II forged aluminum wheels finished in Hyperblack II with a polished lip. The Scat Package kits offer additional performance upgrades, including an electronic variable quick-dump side exhaust, front and rear strut bars and an adjustable suspension kit with a coil-over kit and stabilizer bar, which guarantees an experience to please all the driving senses. Additional features include a black concept hood and side valence, along with a black fuel filler door, black hood pins and sequential tail lamps. The interior is truly unique, upgraded with Katzkin black performance leather seats and black performance leather door-panel inserts that carry the Dodge brand‟s stripes. The Dodge Challenger logo is embroidered in bright red on the front leather seats, and red stitching accents the seats, shifter boot and steering wheel. Dodge flat-bottom performance steering wheel and pistol grip shifter provide precision control of this ultimate performance Challenger. Subtle details continue with red seat-belt webbing and red carpet bindings, satin black and black chrome bezels, and gloss-black trim on the steering wheel, center stack, center console and door handles, giving this Challenger the customized looks to match its extreme performance attitude. SCAT PACKAGE 1 5.7-liter “Optimized” engine calibration – tailored to Scat Package 1 Mopar cold air intake Mopar cat-back exhaust Scat Package 1 badge SCAT PACKAGE 2 5.7-liter (Adds on top of Stage 1) “Optimized” engine calibration – tailored to Scat Package 2 Mopar performance camshaft Scat Package 2 badge SCAT PACKAGE 3 5.7-liter (Adds on top of Stage 2) “Optimized” engine calibration – tailored to Scat Package 3 Mopar performance ported and polished heads Mopar hi-flow performance headers Scat Package 3 badge 2014 Dodge Charger The Scat Package 1, Scat Package 2 and Scat Package 3 offerings for the Dodge Charger also mimic the Scat Package options for the 2014 Dodge Challenger, duplicating exactly the horsepower gains and lists of available modifications. Similar to the Dodge Challenger, the 2014 Dodge Charger shown at SEMA is customized with Mopar products separate from the Scat Package kits. The Charger rests on 20 x 9-inch unique lightweight wheels, embellished with black Mopar center caps and a Hyperblack II finish. The body is amplified with a side valence, a unique new front splitter and Redline rear spoiler. A Scat Pack hard badge in the rear quarter window provides a visual key of ultimate bragging rights. The interior feel of the 2014 Dodge Charger follows that of the Dodge Challenger displayed near it. It includes Katzkin black performance leather seats, black leather door panel inserts featuring red leather Dodge stripes and red accent stitching. Other unique touches include red seat-belt webbing, red carpet bindings, and red embroidered Dodge Charger logo in the front seats. Adding to the customized look on the interior are gloss-black steering-wheel spokes and black chrome on the door handles, cluster rings, instrument panel bezels, center console trim, and steering-wheel center ring. Mopar provides further appeal to the Dodge Charger with added bright pedal kit, pistol-grip shifter, door-sill guards, and advanced technology with a wireless charging pad. The Dodge Charger‟s Scat Package kits are supplemented with front and rear strut bars, an adjustable suspension kit featuring a coil-over kit and stabilizer bar and an electronic variable quick-dump side exhaust, combining performance enhancements that will be sure to stimulate all the senses. 2014 Dodge Dart Completing the Scat Package offerings for Dodge at SEMA is the 2014 Dodge Dart GT, powered by a 184 horsepower 2.4-liter Tigershark engine with six-speed manual transmission. The Dodge Dart offering consists of three kits, with Scat Package 1 providing a shot in the arm of performance and handling improvements from Mopar through a cold-air intake, performance brake pads and a new short-throw shifter. The next-level, Scat Package 2 amps up horsepower by providing Dodge Dart owners with a no- nonsense customized engine calibration to work in harmony with a Mopar cat-back exhaust. At the top level, Scat Package 3 provides the ultimate package for those seeking optimal track times. Included is a Mopar big brake kit, including 13-inch vented rotors, four-piston front calipers and stainless steel lines to maintain optimum temperatures during extreme braking maneuvers. Also included is a performance suspension comprising of adjustable springs for ride height, adjustable dampening struts and front and rear sway bars. Mopar modifications extend beyond the Scat Package kits with the dual vented functional aluminum hood, which captures cool air for the Mopar cold-air intake and exhausts hot air to achieve optimal operating temperature. The aero package from the limited-edition Mopar ‟13 Dart is imported into the 2014 Dodge Dart, with Mopar side sills, chin splitter and rear diffuser, and a unique new three-piece decklid spoiler to boost downforce. A new exhaust dump with side exhaust helps the engine breathe, and the Dart rides on concept 19 x 8-inch lightweight gloss black wheels, accented with Mopar logo center caps. As with the Dodge Challenger and Charger, Katzkin performance leather seats add a premium touch to Dodge Dart‟s interior. Door bolster inserts with a red border and red accent stitching on the seats, dash, armrest, wheel and shift boot are also found inside, along with red seat-belt webbing on the driver‟s side, red trim accents and premium floor mats with red piping. Black chrome graces the door pulls, HVAC bezels, and shifter cluster, while an array of Mopar accessories, including the bright-pedal kit, leather-wrapped shift knob, bright door-sill guards, molded cargo tray and wireless charging complete the interior. SCAT PACKAGE 1 2.4-liter Mopar cold-air intake Mopar short-throw shifter Mopar performance brakes, including slotted rotors and performance brake pads SCAT PACKAGE 2 2.4-liter “Optimized” engine calibration (premium octane) Mopar cat-back exhaust SCAT PACKAGE 3 2.4-liter Mopar big brake kit with stainless lines Performance suspension with adjustable springs and struts Upgraded performance front and rear sway bars View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 5, 2013 The Dodge Challenger is getting some love for the 2014 model year with the introduction of a new package and special edition at the 2013 SEMA Show tonight. First up is the return of the Shaker for the Challenger R/T. The Shaker refers to Shaker performance hood scoop which directs cool air to the HEMI V8 and 'shakes' with the engine. "The legendary Shaker performance hood is back, with its engine-mounted, fully floating scoop and exposed high-flow element that produces cold-air induction – making the new 2014 Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker the real deal," said said Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO of Dodge Brand. The R/T Shaker package includes the 'Shaker' hood scoop, Mopar cold-air intake, conical air filter, and optimized air box improve performance. Other goodies on the R/T Shaker includes the Super Track Pak, with a high-performance steering gear, brake linings, monotube shock absorbers, P245/45R20 Goodyear Eagle F1 Super Car three-season tires, and three-mode electronic stability control that can be fully turned off. Those looking for more performance for their R/T Shaker can check out the three different levels of Dodge's new 'Scat Packages'. Exterior changes for the R/T Shaker include a satin black hood, stripe graphics on the roof and decklid, a body-color grille surround, 20 x 8-inch polished five-spoke aluminum wheels, and Shaker badges on the hood scoop. Pricing for the 2014 Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker will start at $36,995 and arrives at dealers next year. The other debut at SEMA is the Mopar '14 Challenger. This is the fifth model Mopar has done and the second time the Challenger has been picked for this transformation. The Mopar '14 Challenger starts with the choice of either Bright White or Gloss Black paint, and 'Shaker style' stripe in 'Mopar Blue.' Those who want to stand out some more can choose either a triple stripe with "MOPAR" running across the doors, or a stripe that runs along the A-line and includes the Mopar "Omega M" logo on the rear quarter. The 'Shaker" hood scoop comes standard, as does a set of 20 x 8-inch Gloss Black aluminum wheels with Mopar center caps. Inside, the Mopar '14 Challenger is fitted with a set of sports seats with the Mopar logo embroidered on the seat backs and wrapped in black Nappa Leather. The dashboard features a serialized plaque, letting the owner know what number their vehicle was out of the 100 models that will be built. Those who want to maker their Mopar '14 Challenger stand out even more can add on accessories from Mopar either at the factory or the dealer. Dodge and Mopar aren't saying how much the Mopar '14 Challenger will cost. What they are saying is that the order books open up in March and deliveries start in the second quarter of 2014. Source: Dodge 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 3 HEMI® “Shaker” Returns – 2014 Challenger R/T and Mopar ’14 Challenger Models Deliver Power, Performance and Even More Heritage-inspired Style For Hardcore Dodge and Mopar Enthusiasts With its functional "Shaker" hood and unmistakable Dodge muscle-car cues, the new 2014 Challenger R/T Shaker marks the return of one of the brand‘s most coveted performance options Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker features the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine with unique hood and intake design combined with a functional exposed-element cold-air intake system New Mopar ‘14 Challenger model revealed: only 100 serialized coupes will be built, offering "Mopar-or-no-car" fans the rarest factory-produced Dodge Challenger model to date with unique "Moparized" equipment All-new Dodge Scat Packages unleash more horsepower and torque thanks to three Mopar- engineered stage kits arriving in Spring 2014 Dodge and Mopar brands are "shaking" it up at the 2013 Specialty Equipment Market Association‘s (SEMA) annual show in Las Vegas. The two Detroit-born brands are teaming up to reveal the new 2014 Challenger R/T Shaker and Mopar ‘14 Challenger models, all engineered for hard-core enthusiasts who demand more throwback style with easily upgradable performance. "The legendary Shaker performance hood is back, with its engine-mounted, fully floating scoop and exposed high-flow element that produces cold-air induction – making the new 2014 Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker the real deal," said Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO of Dodge Brand. "With Challenger having its best sales-year ever, the time is right to provide our most loyal fans with the return of the Shaker, and even more power with new 'Scat Package,' performance stage kits." "With Mopar engineers working alongside Dodge designers and engineers, we created these factory- proven products to amplify performance and style in a way that no one else can," said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC‘s service, parts and customer-care brand. "The 'Shaker', 'Scat Packages' and our new Mopar ‘14 celebrate customized performance." 2014 Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker Injecting a fresh shot of heritage into the Challenger lineup, the new 2014 R/T Shaker model features unique throwback muscle-car cues that link directly to Dodge brand‘s performance legacy. As the model name suggests, the legendary "cold-air grabbing" Shaker not only looks good with its Satin Black center-mounted hood scoop, snorkeling up from the engine compartment, it also directs cooler air back into the HEMI® V-8 engine. And like the original 1970 Challenger R/T with the Shaker hood, the new 2014 model continues the Dodge tradition of an engine-mounted hood scoop that "shakes" with the powertrain‘s movement. Designed for muscle-car buffs who can‘t help but tinker with their toys, the Challenger R/T Shaker features the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine producing over 400 lb.-ft. of torque, with a functional Shaker hood with Mopar cold-air intake, conical air filter and optimized air box for improved airflow and performance. Lift the hood and enthusiasts will also be treated to an under-hood "Shaker" badge – reminiscent of the 1970s original. In addition to its driver-selectable sport-mode powertrain calibration, performance-tuned suspension, four-wheel disc brakes and steering calibration, the Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker includes the Super Track Pak, with high-performance steering gear, brake linings and monotube shock absorbers, P245/45R20 Goodyear Eagle F1 Super Car three-season tires and three-mode electronic stability control (ESC) with "full off" mode. All-season performance tires are available at no extra charge. The new engine setup provides a new factory-designed foundation to maximize three all-new Dodge "Scat Packages," enabling customers to unleash even more power from their Challenger R/T Shaker. For a dynamically striking look, a new "Shaker style" Satin Black hood, roof and deck-lid stripe graphics visually translate this Dodge Challenger model‘s name, while a Satin Black deck-lid spoiler provides the added downforce needed for 155 mph max-speed runs. For contrast, a body-color grille surround and Gloss Black fuel-filler door are added, while all-new 20 x 8-inch polished-face aluminum wheels with black pockets and a satin "matte" clear coat feature a sculptured five-spoke design. For added detail, "Shaker" badges flank both sides of the hood scoop, while "HEMI" fender badges and a new "Challenger" grille badge in classic script completes the iconic exterior. On the inside, the new Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker features a unique three-spoke flat-bottom leather-wrapped performance steering wheel with black accent finish and integrated vehicle controls. Corresponding with the steering wheel is a unique "K-Black" painted instrument panel and center- console bezel for a discrete look. Matching the "Shaker" numbered dash plaque are door bolsters with graduated accent stitching that mirrors the logo‘s artistic reverberation. High-performance front seats with aggressive bolsters in premium Nappa Leather in Dark Slate Gray with Sepia accent stitching or Radar Red with Radar Red stitching, feature the "Shaker" logo embroidered on the seat back, along with unique graduated horizontal plow-throughs. For additional detail, the center console armrest is also leather wrapped and finished with accent thread. The aluminum pistol-grip shifter mated to a track- proven Tremec six-speed manual transmission is standard, while a black leather-wrapped shift-knob and die-cast paddle shifters on the back of the steering wheel are available for those who opt for the performance-tuned five-speed automatic. Adding to the customized interior environment, with one press of the start button, the Shaker logo appears on the available 6.5-inch Uconnect touchscreen. The new 2014 Challenger R/T Shaker will arrive at Dodge dealerships in the first-quarter of 2014 with pricing for this very well-equipped model starting at just $36,995 U.S. MSRP ($37,495 with the custom one-of-a-kind hood-to-tail stripes), representing a walk of only $2,500 from the Challenger R/T Classic for all of the unique features of this limited production model. The new Challenger R/T Shaker is available in Billet Silver Metallic, Bright White, Pitch Black, Plum Crazy, TorRed and vibrant Header Orange. Introducing the New Mopar ’14: Only 100 of the new limited-edition vehicles will be built Taking the new Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker one step further, the Mopar brand revealed its new Mopar ‘14 Challenger – the rarest limited-production Challenger model announced to date (only 100 to be made), with a distinct "Moparized" look. Additionally, the new Mopar ‘14 is engineered to take on any combination of the three all-new "Scat Packages." "The Mopar ‘14 is yet another factory-engineered example of how Mopar can make even limited-edition muscle cars like the Challenger even more special," said Gorlier. "With three new 'Scat Packages' and more than 100 proven, quality-tested Mopar performance parts and accessories available for the Dodge Challenger, Mopar makes it simple through its one-stop customization shop." The Mopar ‘14 Challenger features Bright White or Gloss Black exterior paint, and in keeping with tradition to its limited-edition predecessors — the Mopar ‘10 Challenger, Mopar ‘11 Charger, Mopar ‘12 300 and Mopar ‘13 Dart — is highlighted by the "Shaker style" stripe in "Mopar Blue." For an even more customized look, two additional Mopar Blue stripe options are available, including an all-new "rocker panel" bodyside triple stripe runs with "MOPAR" across the doors; or for an even bolder look, an all-new A-line bodyside stripe that wraps over the deck lid and includes the Mopar "Omega M" logo on the rear-quarter. Enthusiasts hungering for a taste of the new Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker‘s legendary heritage will find satisfaction in the Mopar ‘14 Challenger. Its all-new Satin Black Shaker hood scoop stands out with its raised profile and "Shaker" logo reverberating while the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 is running. Other unique design elements to contrast the Bright White paint include all-new 20 x 8-inch Gloss Black aluminum wheels with Mopar center caps, a unique Black Vapor grille surround, Black fuel-filler door and Gloss Black deck-lid spoiler with Gloss Black "Mopar Design" badge and "Mopar" quarter-glass decals. Providing a factory-customized look is the Mopar ‘14 model‘s Dark Slate interior embellished with unique Mopar appointments. Performance front seats with aggressive bolsters in premium black Nappa Leather feature Mopar Blue accent thread and Mopar Omega M logos embroidered on the seat backs. Additionally, Mopar Blue thread binds the seams of the armrest, pistol-grip shifter boot and three-spoke leather-wrapped performance steering wheel. As the Mopar ‘14 ownership should be as unique as the ride itself, Mopar created a serialized instrument panel plaque, customized monroney label and "Mopar" branded key fobs. The Mopar- designed vehicle tradition continues, as owners of the Mopar '14 Challenger will receive a custom- crafted personalized owner‘s kit with a Mopar ‘14 brochure, unique Mopar ‘14 memorabilia, and customized items crafted with the serial number of each vehicle. The new Mopar ‘14 takes vehicle customization to new heights. Already equipped with unique Mopar Design accessories from the factory, customers of the Mopar ‘14 will be able to add even more catalog accessories installed at the Mopar Custom Shop before arriving to their local dealer. And to take it even further, customers can choose to take it up another notch with Mopar accessories from their dealership. Available Mopar Custom Shop upfitted items include: Mopar short-throw shifter Mopar cat-back exhaust Mopar performance suspension Mopar lowering springs Mopar Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS) Mopar performance badges Mopar hood pin kit Mopar car cover Mopar door-sill guards Mopar sequential taillight kit Mopar premium floor mats or slush mats Mopar chrome exhaust tip Mopar fuel-filler door Mopar wheel locks Mopar interior trim bezel kit The limited-edition Mopar ‘14 Challenger is the fifth special-edition vehicle created by the Mopar brand, and will arrive straight from the factory in Brampton, Ontario, to dealerships in the second quarter of 2014. Pricing will be announced at a later date. Ordering will begin in March 2014. All-new Dodge “Scat Packages” "Mopar-or-no-car." A phrase Dodge and Mopar enthusiasts live by, and the reason these two brands have collaborated to revive the historic Dodge "Scat Packages" for hard-core "do-it-yourself" Challenger owners. From cold-air intakes, performance cam shafts and "optimized" engine calibrations, Scat Packages 1, 2 and 3 enable Challenger R/T Shaker — as well as other 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 Dodge Challenger and Charger models — maximum performance solutions designed and tested from the factory. View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 5, 2013 In a surprise move, Mitsubishi has announced they are teaming up with Nissan-Renault to build two new sedans; a new midsize sedan that would be sold in the U.S. and Canada, and a compact sedan that will be sold globally. The partnership will also look new projects which include products, technology and manufacturing capacity. “Nissan and Mitsubishi Motors have jointly benefited from several collaborations in the past, most recently the successful joint-venture on Kei cars in Japan. I welcome the direction being taken towards this broader cooperation, creating new opportunities for Renault in addition to further leveraging the productive relationship between Nissan and Mitsubishi Motors," said President and CEO of Renault-Nissan, Carlos Ghosn. The two vehicles in question will be based on platforms from Renault. No timetable has been set as to when we'll see either vehicle. This isn't the first time that Nissan and Mitsubishi have teamed up. A couple years ago, the two automakers started a joint-venture company called NMKV to work on Kei cars for the Japanese marketplace. The first vehicles of this joint-venture, the Nissan Dayz and Mitsubishi eK wagon, went on sale this year. 2013 Renault Latitude and 2013 Mitsubishi Galant. Could these two cars become one? Click Picture to Enlarge Source: Mitsubishi, Nissan/Renault 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 RENAULT-NISSAN ALLIANCE & MITSUBISHI MOTORS CORPORATION EXPLORE WIDE RANGING GLOBAL PRODUCT AND TECHNOLOGY COOPERATION New projects to drive global product coverage and capacity utilization AMSTERDAM, Netherlands and TOKYO, Japan – The Renault-Nissan Alliance and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation today announced their joint intention to explore several new projects covering shared products, technologies and manufacturing capacity among the automakers. As a consequence, it has been agreed that the strategic cooperation between Nissan and Mitsubishi Motors could be expanded across the broader Renault-Nissan Alliance. Between Nissan and Mitsubishi Motors, it is expected that the existing NMKV joint-venture company will be extended to co-develop a new small-segment car including a specific electric version that can be sold on a global basis. The basis for this product will be from a jointly developed “Kei car” platform of the type popular in the Japanese domestic market. Further details of all products, markets and manufacturing will be announced separately. The Renault-Nissan Alliance and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation are also confirming their intention to share technologies and product assets related to electric vehicles and latest-generation platforms. Renault, Nissan and Mitsubishi Motors were among the first to pioneer the introduction of mass-marketed zero emission products. Based on the current direction of discussions between Renault and Mitsubishi Motors, it is firstly expected that two new sedan models would be launched under the Mitsubishi brand, based on vehicles from the Renault portfolio. Secondary and additional studies around other projects will then be considered. The first sedan, to compete in the full-size D-segment markets of the United States and Canada and would be manufactured at the Renault-Samsung plant in Busan, South Korea. The second sedan model would compete in the global C-segment. The manufacturing location for this product is under discussion. President and CEO of the Renault-Nissan Alliance, Carlos Ghosn said: “Nissan and Mitsubishi Motors have jointly benefited from several collaborations in the past, most recently the successful joint-venture on Kei cars in Japan. I welcome the direction being taken towards this broader cooperation, creating new opportunities for Renault in addition to further leveraging the productive relationship between Nissan and Mitsubishi Motors." Osamu Masuko, President of Mitsubishi Motors Corporation commented: “As a result of the development of collaborative projects with Nissan Motor up to now, Mitsubishi Motors is pleased to work again with Nissan and now Renault towards achieving further collaborations. The new opportunities could be described as evidence that the ongoing collaborative projects between Mitsubishi Motors and Nissan have brought positive results, and Mitsubishi Motors hopes that any new collaborative projects with the Renault-Nissan Alliance would bring us further merits." Nissan and Mitsubishi Motors have an existing joint-venture company called NMKV which was established in June 2011 for the purpose of co-developing a range of Kei cars for both brands. The first of these products – the Nissan Dayz and Mitsubishi eK wagon – went on sale in Japan this year. Both products are manufactured at the Mitsubishi Mizushima plant in Japan. View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 5, 2013 October was a very good month for GM's pickup lineup. With the new Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra in the mix, GM was able to move 59,163 trucks this past month. Still that wasn't quite enough to beat the Ford F-Series which sold 63,803 units in the same timeframe. Part of the reason is that Ford has been laying on the incentives as a way to keep sales up. But Kurt McNeil, GM’s chief sales analyst tells Wards Auto there is another reason at play. “We are still over-weighted toward crew-cab and V-8 trucks. Our light-duty (pickup) mix will moderate over time as our launch progresses,” said McNeil. GM decided to give dealers an abundance of crew-cab models equipped with the 5.3L EcoTec V8 since that was considered to be the most popular model. But with supplies of leftover 2013 models, which are being sold at heavy incentives, are beginning to shrink, buyers who are on a budget or want to splurge are looking elsewhere instead of going for one the popular models. “We still have a little bit lower than our target” of double- and regular-cab pickups. We think by early in the new year, we’ll be in line with what our targets are. Early Q1, we should be there,” said Don Johnson, head of sales at Chevrolet. Source: Wards Auto 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