William Maley

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com December 10, 2012 NHTSA is expected to finalize a long-awaited proposal to make event data recorders, the 'black box' standard on all new vehicles. Last Thursday, the White House Office of Management Budget completed a review of the proposal which has cleared the way for NHTSA to finish up the final regulation. The proposed regulation would raise the percentage of vehicles required to have a black box from 91.6% today to 100%. The incremental cost is expected to be around $24.4 million if the sales of vehicles stand at 15.5 million per year. The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers agrees with the proposed rule but says the Government needs to take into account privacy of driver. "Event data recorders help our engineers understand how cars perform in the real world but looking forward, we need to make sure we preserve privacy. Automakers do not access EDR data without consumer permission, and any government requirements to install EDRs on all vehicles must include steps to protect consumer privacy," said spokeswoman Gloria Bergquist. Currently, if your vehicle has a EDR, its yours. If Law Enforcement wants a peek at it, they need to get a court order. 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

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com December 10, 2012 Ford has announced today that the new Transit will come with a 3.2L Power Stroke turbodiesel inline-5 to join alongside the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 when it goes on sale later next year. The 3.2L Power Stroke turbodiesel doesn't have any power ratings for the U.S. at the moment, but Ford does say the European version of this engine produces 197 HP and 347 lb-ft of torque - 90% of that torque is will be available between 1,700 and 3,500 rpm. While the 3.2L doesn't hold a candle in power to the recently phased out 6.0L Power Stroke (235 HP and 440 lb-ft of torque), the 3.2L is expected to be much cleaner and efficient. Also, the 3.2L is expected to run on B20 biodiesel fuel. Your sole transmission choice will be a six-speed automatic. The new 3.2L Power Stroke turbodiesel will be built in South Africa and exported to the Ford Kansas City Assembly Plant where the U.S.-spec Transit will be built. Source: Ford 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 Advanced, Fuel-Efficient 3.2-Liter Power Stroke Turbo Diesel Makes North American Debut in All-New 2014 Ford Transit Already a proven global workhorse, Ford adds 3.2-liter five-cylinder turbo diesel to fuel-efficient North American lineup in all-new Transit commercial van range This innovative engine features state-of-the-art fuel, turbo and emissions systems that meet stringent U.S. clean diesel standards The 3.2-liter Power Stroke® Diesel will deliver outstanding performance, exceptional fuel economy and low operating costs DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 10, 2012 – Ford’s all-new Transit full-size van, which goes on sale late next year, will be offered with a new clean-running 3.2-liter Power Stroke® five-cylinder diesel, further bolstering Ford’s lineup of fuel-efficient cars, trucks and SUVs. The new diesel, Ford’s second in North America, already has established a proven record for reliability, durability and refinement in the global Ford Ranger truck sold in world markets. The new Power Stroke Diesel will be the only five-cylinder diesel engine available in a commercial van in North America. “Commercial van drivers spend most of their working hours behind the wheel. We know they want a fuel-efficient diesel engine with smooth, responsive performance and low operating costs,” said Joe Bakaj, Ford vice president of Powertrain Engineering. “The 3.2-liter Power Stroke engine has been developed and proven globally to deliver a world-class combination of power, fuel economy and refinement.” The 3.2-liter will join the most fuel-efficient lineup in Ford Motor Company’s history. Next year, Ford will offer eight vehicles rated at 40 mpg or higher – double today’s total, and more than any other automaker. Ford tops Toyota in fuel economy in every segment in which both companies compete. While power has not been certified for North America, the new diesel engine is rated in Europe at 197 horsepower and 347 lb.-ft. of torque. Like the larger 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 offered in Ford F-Series Super Duty trucks, the fuel system has been carefully tailored and calibrated for combustion efficiency. It enables the newest Power Stroke to achieve exceptional fuel economy ratings without affecting power levels. The 3.2-liter turbo diesel features state-of-the-art piezoelectric fuel injectors fed through a high-pressure common rail fuel system, and advanced emissions technologies. Precise injection timing and calibration also ensures a smooth combustion process to reduce hard diesel combustion clatter, resulting in lower noise levels that are more like a gasoline engine.Each injector nozzle has eight spray holes and can deliver up to five injections per combustion cycle. A pilot injection controls noise levels and a main injection is used for power generation. Technical features of the new Power Stroke 3.2-liter include: Quick-start glow plugs that enable smooth and fast startups at temperatures down to 25 degrees F Durable, rigid sand-cast gray iron cylinder block Aluminum cylinder heads with double overhead cams and four valves per cylinder Advanced common rail piezoelectric fuel injectors that deliver multiple injections per stroke to improve performance and reduce NVH; maximum fuel pressure is 26,100 psi Variable nozzle turbocharger with electronic actuation; maximum impellor speed of 197,800 rpm First application of selective catalytic reduction for reduced nitrogen oxide emissions in a Ford van Integrated diesel oxidation catalyst and diesel particulate filter to save space Expected to be B20 biodiesel compatible Additionally, the engine features cast-aluminum, low-friction coated pistons with piston-cooling jets, which squirt oil on the underside of the pistons to keep the piston crowns cool under extreme operating conditions. Also included is a water-cooled high-performance electric-controlled exhaust gas recirculation valve that is better able to withstand coolant pressure drops. The 3.2-liter Power Stroke is one of several engines that will be available for Transit in North America, including the proven 3.5-liter EcoBoost® gasoline engine. All engines are mated to a Ford 6R80 six-speed automatic transmission. With a flat torque plateau – 90 percent of its peak torque is available from 1,700 to 3,500 rpm, providing better engine flexibility – Transit will be able to effortlessly haul full loads in town and on the highway, while offering flexible performance across each gear in the six-speed automatic transmission. “The Power Stroke name is synonymous with power, work and long-term durability,” said Bakaj. “We’re confident our commercial van customers will be extremely pleased with the 3.2-liter’s fuel economy, performance and running costs.” The Power Stroke 3.2-liter is manufactured in Ford’s Struandale Engine Plant in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. It will be exported to Ford’s Kansas City Assembly Plant in Claycomo, Mo., which received a $1.1 billion investment for the Transit. View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com December 10, 2012 According to Auto Express, Mazda is working a small crossover to compete with the likes of the Nissan Juke and Ford EcoSport. Reportedly named the CX-3, the vehicle will focus on fuel economy and engaging driving characteristics. Engines will be made up a 1.3L turbo-four and 1.6L turbodiesel. Front-wheel drive might be the only drivetrain choice due to two-wheel drive crossovers outsell all-wheel drive models. The model is expected to be shown in early 2014 with sales beginning sometime later. Source: Auto Express 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

Yes, the low-rolling resistance tires.. I think it rides ok, however the noise isn't pleasant.

They are noisy when you stick your foot into it.. Want more sound deading. Handling isn't terrible. I drive it like a normal car, not a sports car.

Happy Birthday BV

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com December 7, 2012 Today, Aston Martin announced that Italian private equity firm Investindustrial has purchased a 37.5% stake in the company for $241 million. Kuwaiti firm Investment Dar still holds a majority stake in the company. Aston Martin said the deal would allow them to pour $1 billion into new product, funding development through 2018. Investindustrial beat out Indian truck and tractor producer Mahindra and Mahindra. Andrea Bonomi, Investindustrial's senior principal said that the group hopes to transform Aston Martin in a similar way to its revamp of Italian motorcycle company Ducati by expanding Aston's model range and strengthening its global dealership network. Analysts are skeptical about this deal, saying that Investment Dar was trying to lure an automaker to buy up Aston and is settling with a temporary fix. "It doesn't look like a long-term solution. This deal doesn't sort scale, access to technology, emissions or entry to new segments," said Bernstein analyst Max Warburton to Reuters. Source: Reuters 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 December 6, 2012 In for review this week at the Cheers & Gears Detroit garage is the vehicle that started the hybrid revolution. I'm of course referring to the Toyota Prius. Our test Prius is the Prius Four, which is the almost top of the line model in the lineup. As tested price for this $33,118.00 (includes $760.00 destination charge) thanks mostly to a Deluxe Solar Roof Package which adds a solar powered ventilation system and a load of tech goodies including navigation and Toyota's Entune system. Spending a few moments in the Prius, I found the interior is much like the current crop of Toyota's passenger vehicles (aside from the new Avalon); hard plastics are abundant through the dash and the standard leather seats feel like the vinyl covering your grandma would throw over the furniture to protect it. Positive points include how much space is inside for front and most rear passengers, cargo space, how quiet the car is in electric mode, and of course the fuel economy. At the moment, I'm averaging around 52 MPG. Now, I have the Prius till next Thursday and will be updating during my time with it. In the meantime, if you have questions, drop them below. Update: November 9, 2012 Its been a few days since the Prius came into my care and I'm undecided on it so far. I wish there was more power so I can keep up with traffic a little bit better without switching to the power button or sticking my foot into it. I do like that I'm averaging so far around 50.1 MPG with mostly suburban driving. Some things are causing me to scratch my head. For example, who at Toyota decided to put the heated seat controls in the storage cubby right underneath the center stack? Also, no instant MPG readout? I'll be updating this once again after I take the Prius out on the highway and spend some more time with it. Get your questions in. 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 December 6, 2012 A month a after American Suzuki Corporation filled for bankruptcy and announced the closure of its automotive branch, 98% of its dealers (213 dealers) have agreed to a settlement offered by the company. The settlement would compensate dealers 50% within ten days of the agreement, with the rest following after the bankruptcy proceeding. The settlements also allow former dealers to operate as a service centers to provide warranty and repair services for Suzuki vehicles. "We greatly value our relationship with our customers, and it is very important to us that they continue to receive the necessary support from ASMC during and after our restructuring. As these agreements demonstrate, we are working within our current U.S. automotive dealer network to help structure a smooth transition from new automobile sales to exclusively parts and service operations," said Freddie Reiss, American Suzuki's chief restructuring officer. 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. Related Stories: Suzuki Vehicles Bid Adieu, Files Chapter 11 Suzuki Dealers Are Stuck Between A Rock And A Hard Place View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com December 6, 2012 The last we heard anything about a four-cylinder for Porsche was last September when a report from Autoweek said that Porsche was working on two turbocharged four-cylinder engines for the long-rumored and now killed entry-level roadster and Boxster/Cayman. Now, a Italian automotive website is reporting that Porsche will premiere a Cayman with a turbo-four at the 2013 Frankfurt Auto Show. 0-100.it reports the model, named the Cayman Turbo will use a 2.5L turbocharged boxer-four engine producing 350 HP and 369 lb-ft of torque, and will only come with Porsche's PDK transmission. Source: 0-100.it 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. Related Stories: Porsche Ponders A Return Of The 4-Cylinder View full article

Let me know what its spits out, I might need this info

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com December 5, 2012 For the past year or so, we been reporting on whether the next-generation BMW 3-Series coupe and convetible would be sticking with the 3-Series or moving up to the 4-Series. Well, BMW has made the decision to go with the 4-Series for the next-generation coupe and convertible as evidenced by BMW revealing the new 4-Series coupe concept. The 4-Series coupe concept shares a similar style to the 3-Series sedan, but the coupe sports more aggressive body work, including dramatic sculpting on the front bumper, a more pointed front grille, full LED headlights, and fender gills. The 4-Series coupe interior is the same as the 3-Series, but the 4-Series seating arrangement is a 2+2. Engines will likely be a 2.0L turbo-four (428i) and 3.0L turbo straight-six (435i). A eight-speed automatic and six-speed manual will possibly be the transmission choices. BMW isn't saying where the 4-Series coupe concept will appear, but everyone believes it will be Detroit. 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 The BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe. Aesthetics, dynamics, individuality. Munich. BMW presents the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe. The latest generation of the BMW 3 Series Coupe and Convertible leads the way worldwide in the premium mid-range coupe and convertible market. Indeed few, if any, rivals have made such a defining impact on this segment in terms of design, dynamics and efficiency. Now, with the unveiling of the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe, BMW is looking ahead to the fourth generation of its sporty mid-range coupe – and reasserting its global leadership credentials in the process. The “4” – a sign of greater exclusivity and presence. The BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe adds a new dimension to the qualities of the BMW 3 Series Coupe in terms of aesthetics, dynamics and elegance. The “4” doesn’t just mark the start of a new cycle, it represents the zenith of a development curve. BMW has given the new model its own individual character and a standalone design – and, in so doing, has turned “4” into segment shorthand for aesthetic and dynamic appeal. The latest addition to a nomenclature that sees BMW building on the fine tradition of its large BMW 6 Series and BMW 8 Series Coupes, the “4” stands for greater sportiness, greater exclusivity and even clearer differentiation from the BMW 3 Series range. The design: a development curve reaches its zenith. The BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe allows the driver to experience the essence of this new, sporting and elegant generation of car in the lap of contemporary luxury. An array of high-quality details provide an exclusive showcase for the car’s perfectly balanced coupe proportions. Inside, the expertise of BMW Individual, skilled handcraftsmanship and carefully selected materials combine to create a supreme interior. The role of BMW Individual in the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe’s development clearly underlines the brand’s commitment to challenging itself constantly in pursuit of perfection. Lower and wider stance sharpens dynamics before a wheel is turned. The dimensions of the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe imbue the car with a dynamic presence even when it is standing still. The wheelbase (2,810 mm) is 50 millimetres longer than that of the existing 3 Series Coupe, while 45 mm has been added to the front track (1,545 mm) and 80 mm to the rear track (1,593 mm). At 1,826 mm wide, the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe is 44 mm broader than its predecessor, its roof line is 16 mm lower (1,362 mm) and it is also longer (4,641 mm) – all of which makes for exceptionally dynamic proportions. Perfection in proportions. A BMW Coupe is surrounded by a halo of fascination, and one glance tells the observer all he needs to know about the driving experience on offer. The elegant lines and athletic surface interplay of the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe embody the qualities and expertise of BMW design and shine out through its sporting silhouette. The car’s proportions also fit the familiar BMW template: its long wheelbase, long sweeping bonnet, set-back passenger compartment and short overhangs propel the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe forwards even before its engine stirs into life. At the same time, its stretched proportions exude a very athletic elegance – the rear wheel arches mark the widest point of the car, emphasizing the point – and taut lines and surfaces etch emotion and precision into the body. The Coupe’s sophisticated detailing also captures the imagination on closer inspection. Functional elements such as air intakes and vents, door openers and exterior mirrors are given a stylistic lift by classy satin-finish aluminum accents. The exceptional dedication of the designers in achieving the right look for each particular function is evident in every one of these details. Precision and sportiness in the front seats. Precise contours and multifaceted surfaces define the striking face of the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe. The hallmark BMW front-end features, notably the kidney grille and twin circular headlights, have a slim, sporty design and ensure the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe is immediately recognisable as a BMW. The front-end design displays a clear link with the BMW 3 Series family, but its sporting take on the theme accentuates the dynamic leanings of the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe. The new concept car lavishes both front-end design icons with meticulous detail and three-dimensional depth. The kidney grille is closed off in the interests of optimizing aerodynamics and keeping fuel consumption low, and the areas between the elaborately designed, satin-finish grille slats are blanked off by dark surfaces. The full-LED headlights are a hexagonal, extremely technical-looking take on the customary BMW twin circular design. The dynamically chiselled, slimmer interpretation of this iconic design cue integrates seamlessly into the front end. The design of the headlights adopts the link between the lights and kidney grille familiar from the BMW 3 Series and takes it to the next level, rendering this connection visible in darkness as well. An optical fibre leads out from the inner headlight tube and forms a visual link between the inner headlight and the kidney grille. In so doing, it gives the front end of the Coupe an even broader look. The most eye-catching feature of the car’s nose beyond the familiar BMW kidney grille and twin circular headlights is the large air intake in the front apron. Its wide opening hints at the extra air required by the powerful engines and guides the eye around to the muscular flared wheel arches. The two vent surrounds on either side of the intake replicate the contours of the hexagonal headlight graphics to lend the front end an even wider and more sporting look. Three strikingly sculptured, satin-finish aluminum trim elements in the intake provide added presence. Eye-catching and extremely width-accentuating, they give the aperture a sporty three-way split. The sides of the two flanking vents are of differing thickness and lend the front end a particularly dynamic appearance. At the same time, they mark off specific areas of the intake for brake and oil cooling and for the Air Curtain. This EfficientDynamics feature channels the incoming air around the outside of the wheels, ensuring the airflow “hugs” the wheel arches and fuel consumption is noticeably reduced as a consequence. A side order of power and elegance. Flowing, typically BMW proportions and a stretched silhouette define the athletically elegant side view of the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe, with elongated lines and expressively contoured surfaces providing a lively interplay of light and shadow. The gently downward-sloping roofline – a classic coupe feature – creates a smooth transition into the rear, stretches the overall appearance of the car and takes the elegant route to accentuating the sporting appeal of the car’s flanks. The side windows also adhere to the slim and stretched theme. The striking exterior mirrors extend organically out of the shoulderline and provide another example of the eye for detail which allows aerodynamic function to be integrated neatly and with emotional appeal into the car’s form. The BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe boasts elegantly moulded shoulders, and surfaces and volumes blend harmoniously as the roof slopes down into the rear. The result is a sporty C-pillar design, which merges flawlessly into the sleek silhouette. Below the side windows, the “double swage line” familiar from the BMW 3 Series range lends the car a dynamic sense of forward motion. The shadowed surface above the rear wheel shrinks significantly below the swage line. This accentuates the muscular contours around the rear wheels, emphasising the car’s dynamic flair and hallmark BMW rear-wheel drive. The Air Breather, an aerodynamically effective aperture behind the front wheels, offers another pointer to the sophisticated aerodynamics of the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe. It draws a dynamic path between the two light surfaces of the car’s flanks, replicating the prominent form of the stylistic front-end elements. The Air Breather brings together the priorities of BMW EfficientDynamics and time-honoured BMW design, and works in tandem with the Air Curtain in the front apron to ensure an effective reduction in drag around the wheels. Exclusive 20-inch light-alloy wheels add the finishing touches to the car’s dynamically elegant silhouette. Their sophisticated, prominently three-dimensional multi-spoke design underscores their air of sporting elegance. Broad, sporty stance at the rear. The sporting character of the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe continues in the low-slung design of the rear. The prominent horizontal lines and stretched tail lights positioned at the outer edges of the rear draw extra attention to the muscular wheel arches and wide track. The design of the rear window has a lowering effect on the car’s tail and gives the body as a whole an even more powerful look. It also shows off the car’s broad shoulders with satisfying clarity. The horizontal lines of the rear end frame a subtle three-dimensionality, while a tightly structured concave indent in the rear creates shadowed surfaces and gives the car a forward-surging energy. This contrasting interplay of light and shadow brings extra vivacity to the rear end. The L-shaped rear lights of the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe blend harmoniously into the car’s overall design. They continue the path of the swage line to the side and are absorbed as an integral part of the exterior design. The tail lights taper in towards the centre of the rear end, but flare out powerfully towards the outer edges, underlining the Coupe’s broad, squat stance on the road. The inner elements of the rear lights recall a sculpture of contorted surfaces. A full-sized light element here reproduces the signature BMW “double L” in three-dimensional form and with impressive depth. While the emitting surfaces shine brightly, those at the back are rather darker, rendering the strong sense of three-dimensionality visible when the lights are hot as well. The most striking element of the rear end is the bumper, in which a clearly defined trim element in satin-finish aluminium provides a classy lower edge as the car drops down towards the road. The trim element adopts a similar three-way split to the front air intake, but in a width-emphasising form. It picks up the two exhaust tailpipes in a dynamic sweep at the outer edges of the rear apron before diverting the gaze to the wheels. Small upturns next to the tailpipes lend additional dynamic flair and finesse. Interior bathed in subtle beauty. The interior of the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe follows the traditional BMW recipe, blending sportiness and exclusivity stylishly into a single package. The interior wraps around the driver in typically BMW, driver-focused style. The most important controls for driving the car are grouped ergonomically around the driver to ensure all functions are within the easiest possible reach. The “layering” approach – whereby volumes are arranged into layers through the clever use of lines and surfaces – underlines the dynamic feeling inside the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe. This dynamic use of lines continues into the door design. All the lines streak backwards towards the rear of the car, thus pulling the focus of the interior clearly towards the front. At the same time, clearly defined surfaces around the window sills and door trim panels converge via the B-pillar into the rear in a tightly structured horizontal movement and connect the front and rear compartments. The arrangement of volumes around the doors, side walls and window sills forms a kind of cocoon around the passengers and generates a sporty and secure sense of space. Added to which, the strong contouring of the rear seats makes them appear like two individual seats joined together, emphasising once again the sporting instincts of the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe. Craftsmanship, sustainability and technical refinement. Developed by BMW Individual, the colour and materials design of the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe is tailored precisely to the geometry of the interior. The two-tone Black and Schiaparelli Brown trim provides a particularly effective showcase for the interplay of forms in the front cabin, and light contrast stitching adds a fresh touch to the leather-covered surfaces. This exclusive trim consists of sustainably tanned leather, which makes a convincing case for itself with its natural feel and soft texture, as well as the environment-friendly tanning process used to produce it. The fine detailing of the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe exterior is continued inside the car, numerous elements of which reflect the exceptional attention to detail with which the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe has been put together. As well as discreetly embossed “BMW Individual” lettering on the seats and door sillstrips, the seats are also home to very special hand-braided leather trim elements, which run vertically down the seats and enhance the interior’s feeling of class. The likewise leather-covered cup holders also adopt the braiding theme, as do the floor mats. A Natural Chestnut fine wood trim strip adds the finishing touch to the exclusive interior. The combination of carefully selected, high-grade materials, sophisticated details and the extensive use of hand craftsmanship fills the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe with an ambience defined by contemporary luxury. The Liquid Metal Silver exterior colour developed exclusively for the concept car shows off its expressive exterior design to excellent effect and injects an extra dose of energy into the interplay of contours and surfaces. View full article