William Maley

Also should be included in this statement: Audi and BMW.

Come on, it could be worse. MK_ (Insert letter here)

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com August 14, 2013 Mercedes-Benz was hoping to keep the new 2015 GLA-Class under wraps till its official debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month. However, that was thwarted by someone who leaked out shots of the new model last night. Today, Mercedes-Benz has come clean and released information about it. The GLA-Class definitely shares the design DNA from the A-Class with wide front fenders, sculpting along the doors, and similar profiles. You might think the GLA-Class is about the same size as the A-Class, but it happens to be slightly bigger in many dimensions. Inside, the GLA-Class utilizes the same interior from A-Class. Power will come from a turbocharged and direct-injected 2.0L four-cylinder engine producing 208 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. A seven-speed dual-clutch is the sole transmission choice. Mercedes-Benz's 4Matic all-wheel drive system will be launched first in the U.S., followed by a front-wheel drive model. The GLA-Class is expected to arrive in the U.S. next fall. Source: Mercedes-Benz 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 Fit for off-road adventure Multi-talented: The all-new 2015MY Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class MONTVALE, NJ - Progressive design, serene day-to-day driving and off-road capability: easily handling various automotive applications, the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLA impressively reinterprets the compact SUV segment. It effortlessly masters day-to-day driving and is also robust enough for off-road excursions. The 2015 GLA-Class will arrive in U.S. showrooms in Fall of 2014. The first Mercedes-Benz in the fast-growing compact SUV segment is highly maneuverable around town (length 173.9" x width 71" x height 58.8"), lively on country roads and athletic and efficient on the highway. The high-quality appointments, developed with much attention to detail, and the versatile interior clearly position the GLA as a premium compact SUV. The 2015 GLA-Class is the first Mercedes-Benz SUV to be available with the new-generation permanent all-wheel drive system 4MATIC, with fully variable torque distribution. The new GLA rounds off the extensive SUV portfolio of Mercedes-Benz. With five model series (GLA, GLK, ML, GL and G), the company offers the widest range of any European premium manufacturer, and meets all the individual mobility wishes of its customers. "With the compact GLA we add a fifth attractive SUV variant to the Mercedes-Benz model portfolio in this constantly growing segment. The GLA impresses mainly with its progressive character and agile handling," says Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars. "So I am very confident that the GLA with its fascinating design and high everyday practicality will fill many new customers with enthusiasm for the Mercedes-Benz brand." As a serene day-to-day companion, the GLA has a flexible and variable interior. The rear seat backrests fold down completely, and the generous luggage compartment is well laid-out and can be loaded without difficulty thanks to the low loading sill and the wide tailgate, which can open automatically as an option. The especially rigid body structure provides a reliable basis for the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 208 hp and 258 lb.-ft. of torque. The all-new 2015 GLA-Class will celebrate its world premiere at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt in September. Design: quality and self-assurance Sensual clarity as an expression of modern luxury – this was the focus for the designers, and is the design philosophy of Mercedes-Benz. The goal is to create clear contours and smooth surfaces that communicate both high-tech sophistication as well as emotional appeal. The sensual clarity is reflected in the core design values of Tradition, Emotion and Progression. These are the guiding star, and are accentuated differently depending on the model. Mercedes-Benz creates a bridge between modernity and the avant-garde, between tradition and progression. Each model series has an assigned role and has a very specific character, depending on the attributes on which the design focuses. And yet a Mercedes-Benz is always recognizable as a Mercedes-Benz. Because in addition to incorporating new stylistic developments, and in the interests of keeping tradition alive, the designers draw from a gene-pool of styling features typical of the brand. "With its striking features, the GLA embodies our progressive thinking and enthralls with its off-road proportions," says Gorden Wagener, Vice President Design at Daimler AG. "The clearly defined surfaces convey power and serenity, and we have managed to combine as much emotional appeal as possible with as much clarity as necessary." As an SUV, the all-new GLA combines the design values of Progression and Tradition, and is the SUV of the future. It is a utility player with hallmark Mercedes-Benz SUV genes, but more youthful, sculptural and full of subtle drama. The low greenhouse, raised vehicle body and large wheel arches give the GLA great appeal. The clearly defined surfaces are supplemented with sharp lines that provide definition and precision, varying the sculptured contours of the vehicle body which is sensitively modeled and subtly dramatic. The prominent and self-assured, upright front end with a central star lends a muscular and superior impression to the GLA. Powerdomes grace the hood as sporty highlights, and the twin-louver grille accentuates the vehicle's width. An impressive front face is ensured by the headlamps and available LED daytime running lamps. This iconic Mercedes-Benz design feature was developed further using tri-functional fiber-optics, and gives the vehicle its characteristic light signature. The front bumper features diamond-pattern grilles in front of the cooling air intakes. The standard fog lamps are integrated into the front bumper. A simulated skid plate and contra sting dark-grey sill panels all-around emphasize the SUV characteristics of the GLA. The panels begin low down at the front bumper and provide protection against stone impact. The side view of the GLA likewise conveys power and serenity. Following the design philosophy, the "dropping line" emerges at the headlamp and extends to the rear wheel arch. The line of the beltline trim gradually rises from the rear door to the C-pillar. Together the light-catching contour on the curvature and the counter-line to the dropping line at side sill height create an interplay of lines that lends the car flowing power and subtle drama. The side panel has depressions shaped like an excavator's teeth to accentuate the SUV character. Chrome roof rails complete the side profile at the top as standard, and as an optional extra roof rails in high-gloss black are available. The GLA features 18-inch wheels as standard equipment, with 19-inch wheels available as an option. The muscular shoulders over the rear axle are emphasized even further by the inward taper of the C-pillars. In combination with the divided tail lights, this emphasizes the width of the rear end. Its shape is both dramatic and visually unified. This impression is heightened by the curved rear window and the sweeping chrome handle between the tail lights. Thanks to the divided tail lights, the cargo opening is conveniently wide. The large roof spoiler is another eye-catching feature. It shares the structure of the rear roof trim and accommodates the third brake light. In the area of the rear bumper trim there are other SUV-specific features such as a robust external loading sill guard and a skid plate available in silver-metallic. Interior: attractive design features and high quality The muscular and imposing appearance of the exterior is systematically continued into the interior. This has an especially high-quality feel that is achieved by the contours, choice and combinations of high-grade materials. All trim surfaces are galvanized in silver-shadow for material authenticity, resulting in a metallic finish with a "cool-touch" effect. The impression is one of perfect detail. The heavy emphasis on horizontals, the dynamic design and the highly attractive design features are other high-quality attributes. The same applies to the great precision of joints and gap dimensions. The dashboard consists of an upper and lower section, allowing surface structures that are different in look and feel. Matte and glossy 3D geometries (graining) create an attractive light effect. The three-dimensional trim section of aluminum or wood lends a new, modern touch to the interior. The available matte satin finish of the wood trim is a further enhancement to the modernity, and makes the surface especially pleasant to the touch. Five round air vents are integrated into the dashboard. As an exclusive GLA feature, the galvanized bezels around these circular vents echo the SUV-look of the skid plate and side sill panels. The direction of the airflow can be varied by butterfly-shaped inserts. The large, free-standing display has a high-gloss facing in piano-black and a flush-fitting surround in silver-shadow. This gives the display an especially high-quality look. A 3-spoke steering wheel with 12 function keys and a galvanized chrome clasp is standard equipment. When at rest the needles are in the 6 o'clock position. The needle inlays are always in silver. The choice of seat upholsteries (standard MB-Tex or optional leather) and color combinations allows plenty of scope for individualization. Sports seats with integrated head restraints are available as part of the optional Interior Package. The premium quality of the sports seats is emphasized by the opening in the lower section of the head restraint. On the rear of the front seats this space is framed by silver-shadow trim, and can have ambient lighting on request. Set into a galvanized surround, the controls for the standard power driver's seat adjustment with memory are arranged on the interior door panels in typical Mercedes style – a unique feature in this segment. The interior door panels are likewise of extremely high quality. The soft, matte surfaces extend right from the beltline to the door pocket. In combination with the equipment packages the door armrests have a high-quality chrome trim strip and standard ambient lighting. Aerodynamics: goodbye to box-shaped With the GLA, yet another model series becomes the leader in its segment with respect to aerodynamic efficiency. At 0.66 m2 the frontal area Cd x A, which greatly impacts fuel consumption from around 37 mph, is a top figure. The good air flow characteristics, which are a major factor in the vehicle's low fuel consumption in everyday conditions, result from numerous aerodynamic optimization measures. These include a low A-pillar step with suitable geometry and aerodynamically optimized exterior mirror housings. The rear end is also streamlined. The measures here include the roof spoiler lip and the aerodynamically shaped tail lights. Rear spoilers at the sides ensure that the airflow breaks off for optimal aerodynamic efficiency. Seals in the front bumper (radiator area incl. around the headlamps) round off the aerodynamic measures. Extensive underbody paneling, additional paneling in the middle area of the rear axle and an aerodynamically optimized rear silencer followed by a diffuser improve the flow of air beneath the underbody. Numerous measures have also been taken to reduce wind noise in the GLA. These include a multi-level door sealing concept, additional sealing of the joint between the tailgate and the roof and side seals on the tailgate. Especially rigid window frames prevent the airflow from pulling on the doors at higher speeds, and reduce vibrations. External noise has also been minimized by the low A-pillar and exterior mirrors connected to the body by a stem. Engine and transmission: dynamic claim to leadership A modern four-cylinder engine with turbocharging and direct injection, as well as an ECO start/stop function as standard, make for superior efficiency. The new GLA-Class also takes the lead in its segment with its dynamic performance figures. The 2015 GLA250 4MATIC features a turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine that generates 208 hp and 258 lb-ft. of torque. The GLA250 4MATIC sprints from zero to 60 mph in only 6.4 seconds, underlining the dynamic claim to leadership of the GLA-Class. It has a top speed of 145 mph. The engine is mated to a 7-speed dual clutch automatic transmission which unites comfort and sportiness. The front-wheel drive GLA250 will be available in the U.S. in early 2015. Suspension: for guaranteed recreational fun With the new GLA Mercedes-Benz is adding a new member to the successful SUV family. This compact model reinterprets the SUV concept in a new, modern way, because the GLA is less imposing than previous SUVs, and therefore fits perfectly into the day-to-day urban lifestyle. At the same time the optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive, the robust body structure and the variable interior concept guarantee plenty of recreational enjoyment. Motto: away from the daily routine. Rough terrain – the beach, loose ground, dirt roads, off the beaten path – all of these are no problem for the GLA. The chassis of the GLA features a McPherson front axle and an independent multilink rear suspension. Three control arms and one trailing arm per wheel manage the incoming forces. This means that longitudinal and lateral dynamics are independent of one another. The wheel carriers and spring control arms are made of aluminum to reduce unsprung masses. In the version with 4MATIC, the rear axle carrier is isolated with rubber bushings for the benefit of ride comfort. Compared to conventional systems, the electromechanical power steering provides better feedback to the driver and makes an important contribution to the vehicle's overall efficiency, as the servo assistance only requires energy when the vehicle is actually steered. It also allows various steering assistance functions that are initiated by the ESP® control unit. These include countersteering when the vehicle oversteers, steering corrections when braking on surfaces with different levels of grip, reducing the effects of front-wheel drive on the steering and compensation of cross-winds and road camber. The GLA has an extremely rigid body, and therefore the basis for stable and safe handling characteristics both on and off the road, as well as a high level of NVH comfort. There are additional reinforcements to the B-pillars, front damper domes, side members and underbody. Even more grip: 4MATIC all-wheel drive The GLA from Mercedes-Benz is optionally available with a new generation of the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive system, featuring fully variable torque distribution. This all-wheel drive system excels with even more grip and outstanding agility while also enhancing driving safety and energy efficiency. The components of the 4MATIC system include the power take-off to the rear axle that is integrated into the 7-speed dual clutch automatic transmission, and the rear-axle gear with integrated, electrohydraulically controlled multi-disc clutch. This set-up allows fully variable distribution of the drive torque between front and rear axles. Additional benefits of this design are a lower weight than is available from the competition, and high efficiency. Confident on light terrain: off-road functions Models with 4MATIC are equipped with DSR (Downhill Speed Regulation) and an off-road transmission mode as standard. DSR is activated by a control button in the center console, and assists the driver on demanding downhill stretches by maintaining a slow, manually selected vehicle speed within the physical limits when negotiating downhill gradients. This is done with the help of the engine and transmission control systems, and by specific braking intervention. When the off-road transmission mode is selected using the transmission mode switch, the gearshift points and accelerator characteristics are modified so that the requirements for driving on light off-road terrain and especially loose surfaces can be met. In combination with the standard single-disc CD audio system with USB Port, Bluetooth connectivity and HD Radio or optional COMAND system, the head unit can also be switched to an off-road display. The steering angle, the selected off-road transmission mode and a compass are displayed there. The roll angle in degrees, the gradient in percent and activation of Downhill Speed Regulation DSR are also indicated. Smart safety: advanced assistance systems Numerous driving assistance systems offer support in the GLA and reduce the driver's workload. Standard features for the SUV include ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection and radar-based COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST with adaptive Brake Assist, which now helps to protect against collisions from a speed of only 4 mph. This feature combines with DISTRONIC PLUS (part of the Driver Assistance Package) to become COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS. This incorporates an additional function: If a danger of collision arises and the driver fails to respond, the system is able to carry out autonomous braking at speeds of up to 124 mph, thereby reducing the severity of collisions with slower or stopping vehicles. The system also brakes in response to stationary vehicles at a speed of up to 18 mph, and is able to prevent rear-end collisions at speeds of up to 12 mph. Established assistance systems, such as Blind Spot and Lane Keeping Assist are also available for the GLA. PARKTRONIC w/ Park Assist (optional) allows automatic parking in parallel and perpendicular parking spaces. "Always on": the multimedia systems The latest multimedia generation deployed in the GLA boasts new functions and a modified graphic color scheme. Like all models in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, the GLA comes with the brand's acclaimed connectivity service mbrace2, providing users with an extensive range of online and concierge services and apps all linking seamlessly to smartphones for use inside and outside the car. By using cloud technology, mbrace2 is always up to date and offers users wide-ranging and flexible access to content. View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com August 13, 2013 Motor Trend dug deep and found some interesting information on Lexus' upcoming coupe, the RC. The report says the new RC will have a similar design to the LF-CC concept shown at the Paris Motor Show and have a shorter wheelbase than the IS. As for powertrains, the RC will come with a 2.0L turbo-four, 2.5L hybrid, and 3.5L V6. Then there is the RC-F which is coming locked and loaded. To start, the RC-F will pack a 5.0L V8 with 455 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission handles the shifting duties. Other items to make the RC-F a mean machine includes carbon-fiber panels, scooped hood, Brembo Brakes, beefed-up suspension, and a automatic decklid spoiler. Now earlier reports had the RC coming out in November at the Tokyo Motor Show. Motor Trend says differently. They say that the RC-F will make its official debut at the Detroit Auto Show in January, followed by the rest of the lineup at the New York Auto Show in April. Source: Motor Trend 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

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com August 12, 2013 Coming off a very successful year which saw its stock rise fivefold, Subaru is at a crossroad. Do they stay as a niche player or go mainstream? That's a question that executives at Subaru and Fuji Heavy will decide as a new report from Bloomberg says discussions will begin next month. "We're standing at a major turning point for Subaru. It shouldn't just be about volumes. We should be making cars only Subaru can make that are a little more expensive and more profitable than the competition," said Fuji Heavy President Yasuyuki Yoshinaga. "Some people in the company may want to make mass-market products or cheaper cars, but is this really the right direction for Subaru? We're not a carmaker that can grow as big as Toyota. And even if we could, reaching that sort of scale would mean we'd stop being Subaru." The discussions will focus on whether Subaru should stick to its core group of products, expand its current lineup, or develop cheaper vehicles for emerging markets. Source: Boomberg 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

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com August 11, 2013 The Toyota GT86/Scion FR-S could get be getting a big and small brother in the near future. Speaking with Car Advice, FR-S chief engineer Tatsuya Tada said, “Akio Toyoda always says to me, Toyota sports car [family] should be three sports car brothers. 86 is in the middle.” What are these two sports cars? We know the big brother will be the resurrection of Supra. The small brother will be sub-GT86 model. When asked about names for this new small model, Tada said its far too early for that. Possibly the most interesting bit of information from Car Advice's story is Tada saying that the new sports cars might be done in a joint calibration. The GT86/FR-S was done by Toyota and Subaru, and the new Supra is reportedly being worked on by Toyota and BMW. Source: Car Advice 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

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com August 9, 2013 Auto show season is just right around the corner with Frankfurt kicking off this season in September. Already, automakers are beginning to tease what they will be showing at the show. For example, Infiniti released teaser shots of their Q30 Concept. "This Infiniti Q30 Concept is a prelude to the product portfolio expansion which underpins our aggressive global growth strategy. In our quest to appeal to the modern, young-minded premium customer, the Infiniti Q30 Concept has a distinctive style and reaches new levels of product quality,"said Johan de Nysschen, President of Infiniti. The Q30 Concept to our eyes looks to be a more aggressive take on the Infiniti Etherea concept shown at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. The Q30 Concept has two firsts for the company, First Infiniti concept to come out under the company's new design director, Alfonso Albaisa First Infiniti vehicle that will have F1 Driver and Infiniti's Director of Performance, Sebastian Vettel develop (When it hits production) Source: Infiniti 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 Infiniti set to reveal Q30 Concept at IAA Frankfurt Motor Show Q30 Concept signals Infiniti's next step in its portfolio expansion into new premium segments Hong Kong – Infiniti will stage the world premiere of its Q30 Concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. The Infiniti Q30 Concept signals the contemporary design vision for a compact Infiniti vehicle which will target a new generation of premium customers. Set to be unveiled at Infiniti's press conference, scheduled for 10:15 am CET on September 10 in Frankfurt, the Q30 Concept is the next step in Infiniti's foray into new premium segments. It embodies Infiniti's vision to deliver head-turning design, innovative materials with precise fit and finish and passionate craftsmanship. "This Infiniti Q30 Concept is a prelude to the product portfolio expansion which underpins our aggressive global growth strategy," said Johan de Nysschen, President of Infiniti Motor Company, Ltd. "In our quest to appeal to the modern, young-minded premium customer, the Infiniti Q30 Concept has a distinctive style and reaches new levels of product quality." It represents the latest evolution of the Infiniti design philosophy introduced with the Infiniti Q50 which had its world premiere at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January. Like the Q50, the Infiniti Q30 Concept also incorporates dramatic design cues from the visionary Infiniti concept trilogy – Essence, Etherea and Emerg-e. Infiniti envisions provoking a radical shift in the premium compact segment. The adventurous design and graceful athleticism of Q30 Concept inspire greater expectations of what is possible beyond the designs dominant in the market today. "Q30 Concept is slender, sleek and seductive," said Alfonso Albaisa, Infiniti Executive Design Director. "When you see speedy big cats, like cheetahs, they have a slenderness and a lightweight stride. It's almost like they're floating. That's the muscularity we were aiming for with Q30 Concept." Infiniti's forthcoming compact premium entry will be the first Infiniti model Sebastian Vettel, Infiniti's Director of Performance, will influence from its inception. The three-time Formula One world champion from Infiniti Red Bull Racing, who was actively involved in honing the driving dynamics of the Infiniti Q50, is engaging with Infiniti's technical teams around the world as part of a commitment to infuse the brand with race-bred performance. View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com August 8, 2013 Volkswagen announced this week that the 2015 Beetle, Golf, Jetta, and Passat will come with a new turbodiesel engine. The aptly named EA288 TDI Clean Diesel will take the place of the current 2.0L TDI engine. Performance specs are 150 horsepower (up ten horsepower from the current engine) and 236 pound-feet of torque. Volkswagen made a number of changes to the engine that improves throttle response and lower emissions thanks to a complex exhaust-gas recirculation system and integrating the intercooler and the EGR valve with the intake manifold. The engine will arrive in the second half of 2014. Source: Volkswagen 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 08.06.2013 VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA UNDERLINES DIESEL STRATEGY WITH NEW ENGINE LINE Fuel efficient EA288 engine will debut second half of 2014 in the 2015 Golf, Jetta, Passat and Beetle Herndon, VA - Oliver Schmidt, General Manager, Energy and Environmental Office, Volkswagen Group of America confirmed the timing of the company’s newest, most fuel-efficient, TDI Clean Diesel engine, designated EA288. During a speech delivered at the Management Briefing Seminars in Traverse City, Mich., Schmidt announced that the new engine will power the 2015 Golf, Beetle, Passat, Jetta, which are set to hit dealer showrooms in the second half of 2014. The announcement underscores Volkswagen Group of America’s continued success with diesel technology: Year-to-date the Volkswagen Group of America has sold more than 47,000 clean diesel vehicles, including more than 10,000 in the month of July alone. This represents nearly 78 percent of the diesel sales for passenger cars in the United States this year. “The Volkswagen Group is a leader in clean diesel technology,” said Schmidt. “With the introduction of the new EA288 engine, we are excited that our family of TDI Clean Diesel vehicles is continuing to improve and will be even more clean, fuel efficient and powerful. “ The new EA288 will eventually replace all the 2.0-liter TDI Clean Diesel engines fitted in Audi and Volkswagen TDI Clean Diesel models. The engine is a turbocharged, common-rail, direct-injection four-cylinder engine that makes 150 horsepower—an increase of 10 hp over the current engine—and 236 pound-feet of torque. This powerplant shares only the bore spacing with the previous diesel engine that shared the same designation. A number of changes have been made to help reduce emissions, such as: use of a complex exhaust gas recirculation system (with high pressure EGR and a cooled low-pressure EGR); integration of the water-cooled intercooler and the EGR valve with the intake manifold, which also improves throttle response; and packaging the exhaust after-treatment components close to the engine by combining the DPF with the SCR Catalyst. The engine also has a number of modifications to help minimize friction and optimize fuel economy: there are low-friction bearings for the camshaft and balancer shafts, piston rings that have less pre-tension, and the oil pump is a two-stage device with volumetric flow regulation. View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com August 8, 2013 The Chicken Tax, a fifty year-old tariff put in place to tax 25 percent on all imported trucks could be gone in the near future. The U.S. is currently in talks currently in negotiations with the the Trans-Pacific Partnership over free-trade agreements. One of the countries in the Trans-Pacific Partnership is Japan, a country that currently imposes strict restrictions on U.S. imports. The U.S. is using the elimination of the Chicken Tax as bargaining chip in the negotiations to hopefully open up and let domestic automakers come in. “The automakers see it as some leverage to getting other countries to open up their markets. The tariff doesn’t seem to make any sense now, particularly since the industry has globalized, or at least regionalized, but this is what happens with transfer programs, with protectionism, with social safety nets," said Daniel Ikenson, director of the Cato Institute’s Herbert A. Stiefel Center for Trade Policy Studies. Cases in point: Honda, Nissan, and Toyota build their trucks in U.S. Ford and for a time Chrysler used a loophole in the Chicken Tax to bring their vans into U.S. The Chicken Tax has also hurt automakers. For example, MINI pulled the Clubvan in the U.S. partly due to the Chicken Tax. If the U.S. is not successful in their negotiations, the Chicken Tax could stay on the books for another 25 to 30 years. Source: 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

I'll agree with you on the steering wheel.. That I think looks completely out of place.. What is it about the interior layout you don't like?

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com August 7, 2013 Bob Lee, head of Fiat and Chrysler global Powertrain said that the company will not be investing in electrified powertrains till consumers are willing to pay for it. He said this at the 2013 CAR Management Briefing’s Advanced Powertrain Forum this week. Lee explained that consumers aren't willing to pony up the money to cost of battery packs, electric motors and chargers that hybrids and electric vehicles are saddle with. He said that it might take up to ten years before consumers are willing to pay for the tech. "Many customers want to reduce C02, but they aren't willing to change their lifestyle or pay the cost -- yet," said Lee. In the meantime, Chrysler will focus on developing more diesel and turbocharged engines to help improve fuel economy. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) 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

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com August 7, 2013 Yesterday at at the Center for Automotive Research’s Management Briefing Seminars, General Motors' Chief Economist Mustafa Mohatarem told attendees that the reason young people aren't buying cars because they're not interested. It's more to do with economic reasons. Mohatarem downplayed the reason that young kids are more interested in the internet and what's the latest hot thing in tech, and pushed the rising costs of cars, repairs, and insurance as some of the reasons why young people aren't buying vehicles. “I don’t see any evidence that the young people are losing interest in cars," Mohatarem said. He says the biggest problem facing young people buying cars is they are having a challenging time finding jobs. Also, high student loan debt are causing many to skip buying a car. “Buying a car is less attainable for the young, but that quickly changes as they get older," he said. Source: 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