William Maley

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 20, 2012 The Honda CR-Z tries to blend sportiness and hybrid efficiency. However, it doesn't do so well on either one and has been a poor seller. Through October, Honda has only sold 3,705 CR-Zs (down 64.7% year over year in sales). Still Honda still believes in the CR-Z and has made some changes for the 2013 model year. Outside, the CR-Z gets a reworked front fascia, new wheels, and a rear diffuser. Other outside changes include two new paint colors and and optional LED daytime running lights. Honda has also made small changes inside with new trim, redesigned door panels and new standard features like a rearview camera and Bluetooth. The biggest change deals with the battery. Honda changed out nickel metal hydride (Ni-MH) battery pack for a lithium-ion pack. The switch helps bump horsepower and torque to 130 and up to 140 (increases of 8 HP and 12 lb-ft). Fuel economy has also increased a little bit, with the manual getting 31 City and 38 Highway, while CVT-equipped cars get 36 City and 39 Highway. Other drivetrain changes include a reworked manual transmission with a larger clutch and lower final drive ratio, and a new Plus Sport System that gives the system an extra boost of acceleration under certain conditions. Pricing for the 2013 CR-Z starts at $19,975* for the base model and $21,655* for the CR-Z EX (pricing doesn't include $790 destination charge). The new CR-Z arrives at Honda dealers this week. Source: Honda 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. Press Release is on Page 2 2013 Honda CR-Z Sport Hybrid Coupe Gets Performance Enhancements, Fresh Styling and Host of Feature Upgrades The only manual-transmission hybrid for sale in the U.S. adds more horsepower and value to its efficient, fun-to-drive appeal 11/19/2012 - TORRANCE, Calif. The 2013 Honda CR-Z goes on sale November 21, 2012, with a host of powertrain, styling and feature upgrades adding to its sleek appeal and sporty handling. More power from an all-new Lithium-Ion battery pack improves performance while also improving the CR-Z's already impressive EPA mpg ratings. Styling upgrades include revised interior trim along with a new front fascia, a new finish for the 16-inch alloy wheels, an aerodynamically functional new rear diffuser and two new exterior colors – Passion Berry Pearl and Polished Metal Metallic. Standard features on all 2013 Honda CR-Z models include Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, Bluetooth® Audio, rearview camera, an Expanded View Driver's Mirror, AM/FM/CD/USB audio system with six speakers, automatic climate control, power windows and door locks, remote entry and cruise control. To give drivers even more access to the CR-Z's performance capabilities, the 2013 Honda CR-Z is also equipped with a new Plus Sport System, which allows additional on-demand electric boost via a steering wheel-mounted "S+" button. With a starting MSRP of $19,9751, two CR-Z models are offered for 2013, including the well-equipped base CR-Z and the feature-rich CR-Z EX. A six-speed manual transmission is standard equipment and an automatic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is available. The up-level CR-Z EX adds Auto-On/Off High-Intensity Discharge (HID) Headlights, LED daytime running lights (DRL), a 360-Watt AM/FM/CD Premium Audio System with seven speakers including subwoofer, perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel, and more. The CR-Z EX is also available with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™2 with FM traffic and voice recognition, Pandora® Interface and an SMS text messaging function. The improved horsepower and torque on the 2013 Honda CR-Z does not come with a fuel-economy penalty, as the new, more powerful Lithium-Ion battery pack helps boost EPA-rated fuel economy figures by 1 mpg city for CVT equipped models, and 1 mpg highway for CR-Z models equipped with the six-speed manual transmission. Summary of Changes for 2013 -Revised front fascia styling -New 16-inch alloy wheel finish -New rear diffuser -New Lithium-Ion battery pack -Increased horsepower and torque -New Plus Sport System -Revised interior trim -Available two-tone combi (black/red) seats -StandardExpanded View Driver's Mirror -Standard Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® -Standard Bluetooth® Audio -Standardrearview camera -Available Pandora® Interface and SMS text message function -Available LED daytime running lights (DRL) -New Passion Berry Pearl and Polished Metal Metallic exterior colors Powertrain The CR-Z hybrid powertrain is a unique variation of Honda's original IMA (Integrated Motor Assist) technology, which debuted on the 2000 Honda Insight, the first hybrid vehicle available for sale in North America. The system in the CR-Z utilizes a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder, 16-valve, single-overhead cam engine with "intelligent" Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (i-VTEC) that receives additional power from the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system's DC brushless electric motor. The hybrid CR-Z's electric motor assists in acceleration and also acts as a generator during braking or coasting to capture kinetic energy that recharges the new Lithium-Ion battery pack. The gasoline engine can automatically turn off during vehicle stops to improve efficiency. When starting on steep inclines from a stop with the manual transmission, hill start assist temporarily prevents the vehicle from rolling backwards during the moment between releasing the brake, depressing the throttle and releasing the clutch. For 2013, assist from the electric motor has jumped from 10 kW to 15 kW, thanks to the new higher voltage (144-volt) Lithium-Ion battery pack. The CR-Z now delivers a combined peak output of 130 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 140 lb-ft. of torque (127 lb-ft. on CVT-equipped models), a gain of eight horsepower and 12 lb-ft of torque (4 lb-ft on CVT equipped models). Manual-transmission versions also receive both a larger clutch and a new lower final drive ratio. Even with better performance, EPA fuel economy3 ratings for the 2013 Honda CR-Z have improved. On CVT-equipped models, the EPA city/hwy/combined rating is up 1 mpg city to 36/39/37 mpg, while models equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission see an EPA mpg rating of 31/38/34, a gain of 1 mpg highway. The CR-Z is also rated as an Advanced Technology-Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV) in states that adhere to California Air Resource Board (CARB) ZEV standards (EPA Tier 2, Bin 2 in all states). To help drivers make use of this improved performance, a new Plus Sport System is standard on the 2013 Honda CR-Z. If the battery is more than 50 percent charged and the CR-Z is traveling over 19 mph, the driver can activate this feature using the "S+" button on the steering wheel. When activated and the accelerator is pressed, electric boost begins, delivering increased acceleration for up to five seconds. A flashing gauge on the dashboard indicates when the Plus Sport System is active. The Plus Sport System can be used in Econ, Normal or Sport modes. Enhanced 3-Mode Drive System Activated via three backlit buttons to the left of the steering wheel, the CR-Z's 3-mode drive system allows the driver to choose among three individual performance modes: -Sport mode enhances engine throttle responsiveness, electric power steering effort and the electric motor power assist. -Normal mode standardizes steering, engine response, motor assist and air conditioning settings. -Econ mode can increase the potential for enhanced fuel efficiency by optimizing throttle angle for smooth acceleration, lower engine rpm and limiting power and torque by approximately 4-percent (except at wide-open throttle). It can also reduce the air conditioning's overall load on the engine and modify the cruise control to operate more efficiently. Body The CR-Z's "one-motion" exterior wedge shape begins at its low-slung hood to form a broad forward stance, with its side profile's deeply inset beltline adding a dynamic element. For 2013, a new front fascia and mesh grille help widen the presence of the CR-Z, and this effect is increased by the new "floating" lower front spoiler lip. New brighter chrome plating on the headlight assemblies tinged with blue clearcoat hint at the CR-Z's hybrid powertrain. The new rear diffuser mimics the floating lip of the front spoiler while also improving aerodynamic performance, and the lower portion of the tail lights receive the same blue clearcoat treatment. Exterior colors include Crystal Black Pearl, Milano Red, North Shore Blue Pearl, Premium White Pearl, new Passion Berry Pearl (exclusive to the Honda CR-Z), and new Polished Metal Metallic. Chassis The CR-Z's front MacPherson strut and rear H-shaped torsion beam suspension are tuned to provide a sporty driving experience. All 2013 CR-Z models are equipped with new darker-tinged 16x6-inch aluminum wheels with finished spoke tips and 195/55R-16 tires, while accessory 17x7 alloy wheels with 205/45R-17 tires are available. The standard anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake distribution (EBD) uses ventilated front discs and solid rear discs. The low vehicle height, short wheelbase and placement of the battery and other hybrid components beneath the rear cargo area further contribute to a low center of gravity and responsive, sporty handling. Electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering enhances steering performance and improves efficiency. Interior A high-tech appearance and intuitive controls define the CR-Z's newly revised interior. For 2013, interior changes include new metallic trim on the door pulls and latches, center console, speaker grilles and lower steering-wheel spokes. The inner door panel has been redesigned to provide easier access to the storage space, with the horizontal bar on the speaker housing eliminated, and a bottle holder added to the pocket. The door-pad trim has also been upgraded with a new, more upscale lamination. For 2013, CR-Z EX and Navi trims will provide an all-new black and red interior trim combination that adds new two-toned combi seats, and colored accents to the door panels and floor mats. The CR-Z's ultra-modern instrument panel gauges illuminate with a 3-dimensional blue color theme resulting in a multi-layered appearance. The upper portion of the dashboard extends toward the driver to provide a wraparound cockpit environment. Premium sport-oriented seats are designed to provide firm lateral support along with everyday driving comfort. A mid-ship console behind the front seats optimizes cargo space, and a hard-shell separator can be closed to create additional hidden storage. The CR-Z features a 6-speaker, 160-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with an auxiliary input jack for connection to a portable audio player, and all models include a USB audio interface4 for connecting an iPod®5 or other compatible audio device. Other audio features include speed-sensitive volume control and CD/MP3 text readout. The radio data system shows supplemental programming information from participating radio stations while also offering search-by-genre capability (not available on the CR-Z EX with navigation). Now standard, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® and a rearview camera further expand the CR-Z's appeal. A Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™2 is available on the CR-Z EX model and features a 6.5-inch screen and rearview camera display. For 2013, CR-Z EX Navi models add FM traffic, Pandora® and an SMS text messaging function. The navigation system database includes more than 7-million points of interest and integrates the audio system, while the voice recognition feature is capable of inputting numbers, street names and cities, in addition to more than 600 commands. Safety The CR-Z demonstrates a commitment to safety in its design and construction. The Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure helps protect vehicle occupants in a frontal collision. Additional safety technologies include: standard dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags; standard front-side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); side-curtain airbags, active head restraints; an anti-lock braking system (ABS); a tire pressure monitoring system; and a pedestrian injury mitigation design in the front of the vehicle. The Honda CR-Z earned a TOP SAFETY PICK rating from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) and 4-star Overall Vehicle Score in federal National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) crash tests. Warranty The 2013 Honda CR-Z is covered by a 3-year/36,000-mile new-car limited warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, and a 5-year/unlimited-mile corrosion limited warranty, as well as a 15-year/150,000-mile emissions warranty when the vehicle is registered and normally operated in California and certain states that have adopted California Zero-Emission Vehicle regulations. Connect with Honda: For consumers: http://automobiles.honda.com/cr-z/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/honda Flickr: www.flickr.com/hondanews Twitter: www.twitter.com/honda Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Honda Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/honda/ Google+: https://plus.google.com/+Honda/posts 1 MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $790 destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary. 2 The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ is available on the CR-Z EX in the United States, except Alaska. Please see your Honda dealer for details. 3 Based on 2013 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle. 4 The USB Audio Interface is used for direct connection to and control of some current digital audio players and other USB devices that contain MP3, WMA or AAC music files. Some USB devices with security software and digital rights-protected files may not work. Please see your Honda dealer for details. 5 iPod not included. Compatible devices include fifth-generation iPods and later and iPod Nano. View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 19, 2012 At the Paris Motor Show earlier this year, Ford unveiled a 1.0L three-cylinder EcoBoost engine for the new B-Max. The engine has since gone into other vehicles in Ford's European lineup, including the Fiesta and Focus. We've been wondering if the the three-cylinder would be coming to the U.S. and the word has come out it will. Today, Ford announced that 1.0L EcoBoost will be coming in the 2014 Fiesta. The 1.0L EcoBoost produces 123 HP and and 148 lb-ft of torque, an increase of 3 HP and 36 lb-ft from the current 1.6L four-cylinder. Ford expects the EcoBoost-equipped Fiesta to be the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid car sold in the US. The new engine will come out sometime next year. Source: Ford 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. Press Release is on Page 2 Award-Winning 1.0-Liter EcoBoost Engine Coming to North America Next Year in the New Ford Fiesta - Ford's newest EcoBoost® engine is expected to deliver the best fuel economy of any non-hybrid car sold in America - Ford's patented 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine will be the most refined and powerful in its class - Global sales of EcoBoost engines are at 520,000 units and growing fast DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 19, 2012 – The new 2014 Ford Fiesta on sale next year will be the first vehicle available in the United States with Ford's award-winning 1.0-liter EcoBoost® engine. Though the car has not yet undergone EPA testing, it is expected to be certified as the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid car available in the United States. The smallest engine available in its class, Ford's patented 1.0-liter EcoBoost won't be short on power, torque or refinement. The smooth, quiet-running engine is projected to produce 123 horsepower and peak torque of 148 lb.-ft. "Customers are going to be pleasantly surprised at what the smallest member of the EcoBoost engine family can do," said Joe Bakaj, Ford vice president of Powertrain Engineering. "Most customers are not going to be thinking about the number of cylinders under the hood when they drive the new 1.0-liter EcoBoost Fiesta. They'll notice an extremely smooth and quiet idle, terrific acceleration accompanied by a sporty sound at high revs, and – most importantly – outstanding fuel economy." The newest member of Ford's global EcoBoost engine family, the 1.0-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. The 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine in the Fiesta expands Ford's power of choice strategy by giving customers interested in a very fuel-efficient car a new alternative. Pricing is not yet set, but as with the other EcoBoost engines available across Ford's car, truck, SUV and crossover lineup, the 1.0-liter will be a very affordable option. Adding an EcoBoost engine costs about $995 in most Ford vehicles. "Many customers would like the fuel efficiency of a modern diesel or a hybrid, but can't stretch their budgets to cover the cost premium," said Bakaj. "That's where the EcoBoost Fiesta fits in. It will offer a highly fuel-efficient alternative at a lower cost." Newest EcoBoost engine – a game changer The 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine is unlike any engine in Ford's 109-year history. Not only is it the company's first three-cylinder engine, but it debuts many new technologies never before seen in a Ford vehicle. These include an offset crankshaft; variable oil pump; split cooling system; external-balancing, super-small, responsive turbocharger; and a timing belt immersed in engine oil. The result of the 1.0-liter's advanced design is a quiet, smooth-running engine that develops roughly the same output as a 1.6-liter four-cylinder. But with about 25 percent fewer moving parts, the 1.0-liter EcoBoost is able to deliver higher fuel economy and lower emissions. "We really focused on reducing the amount of energy the 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine uses by paying very close attention to such things as bearing sizes, piston ring tension and thermal management," said Bob Fascetti, director, Ford Global Engine Engineering. "For instance, we decided not to use a balance shaft in the engine because it adds weight and increases friction or parasitic losses. So we balance the engine externally with the crankshaft pulley and flywheel." Super-successful debut Since being launched in the spring in the Ford Focus in Europe, the 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine has established itself as one of the most noteworthy engines of 2012. In April it was voted International Engine of the Year by a jury of 76 journalists from 36 countries. In June it set 16 land speed records at a racetrack in France. In October the 1.0-liter EcoBoost was given a Breakthrough Award from Popular Mechanics magazine, and this month the engine won the prestigious DeWar Trophy in Great Britain. In Europe, where the diesel engine is king, the 1.0-liter engine now accounts for about 30 percent of sales in the Focus. The 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine is just now launching in the B-MAX and C-MAX, and will also be offered in the all-new Mondeo. The 1.0-liter engine is the fourth member of Ford's global EcoBoost engine family. Since launch in 2009, Ford has sold more than 520,000 EcoBoost-equipped vehicles globally and expects volume to grow to 1.6 million in 2013. Ford has more than 125 patents on its EcoBoost engine technology, and the number of patents continues to grow. EcoBoost combines turbocharging with gasoline direct injection and variable valve timing to allow a smaller engine to replace a larger one with no loss of performance and at least a 20 percent gain in fuel economy. "We're extremely proud of the amazing success the 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine has achieved in such a short time," said Bakaj. "We think it will do extremely well here in the United States. With the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine in the F-150, we learned customers will embrace smaller engines as long as you don't ask them to sacrifice performance. The 1.0-liter will deliver three things that matter most to our customers – value for the dollar, terrific fuel economy and great performance." View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 19, 2012 Opel has put a halt on plans of doing an electric version of the new Adam, citing sticker shock if it was to go on sale. "It was a business decision. We could not charge the customer the price needed to make it work on the cost side," said Dieter Metz, chief engineer for the Adam. Documents obtained by Automotive News Europe last year showed the company was cancelling it due to "excessively high additional investments.” Automotive News Europe also reports that the Adam EV had reached the prototype stage with an Adam using components from the Chevrolet Spark EV. In other Adam news, Evo magazine is reporting that Opel is considering an OPC version of the Adam to take on the Fiat 500 Abarth and MINI Cooper S. Power would come from a 1.4L turbo four-cylinder mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. A source tells magazine that the horsepower rating could be around 180 HP. There will also be changes to the suspension, braking, and body. If given the green light, the Adam OPC could be shown as a concept at the Geneva Motor Show next March with a production model following sometime in 2014. Source: Automotive News Europe (Subscription Required), Evo Magazine 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 November 19, 2012 Mercedes-Benz's performance arm, AMG is looking to using AWD in more of their vehicles. "We will not only have all-wheel-drive in the SUVs and the compact cars, we will also have that in the performance sedans," said Friedrich Eichlers, AMG's of engines and powertrains. The reasoning with going towards AWD is due to the amount of power the current crop of AMG vehicles is overwhelming the rear wheels. "If you want to be a member of the club with cars that have 0-100km/h times of around 3.0 seconds, then you need to have all-wheel-drive for your sports cars. The traction is a little bit of a problem for us, and we can solve this problem with all-wheel-drive. It's a good idea to have all-wheel-drive. We just think about that because we won't bring the power and the torque to the road if you always lose the grip and the [traction control system] kills all the power and torque," said Eichlers. Now AMG won't be moving all of their vehicles to AWD. There will be RWD models along with the AWD. "I think we will have both [rear- and all-wheel-drive models]," Eichlers says. "Some people like two-wheel-drive because the steering is a little bit lighter and you can have more fun, with drift, when the rear of the car comes around. Some people like that." Source: Drive.com.au 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 November 16, 2012 General Motors CEO Dan Akerson told Opel employees this week that the company will not sell or "simply close up shop and leave". "As a global auto company, GM needs a strong design, engineering, manufacturing and sales presence in Europe. There's room for Chevrolet in Europe but Opel fulfills that role," Akerson said in a speech. "Recommendations that we 'cut and run' show you that some people simply do not see how important Opel is to our success." Opel and Vauxhall have been a big loser for General Motors with the brands posting losses for the past few quarters. The two are expected to post a loss between $1.5 to $1.8 billion loss in the next fiscal year. Still, GM is very hopefully the brand will break even by 2015. Akerson also mentioned PSA during his speech saying, "The fact is we lack economies of scale in critical areas and if we can achieve scale by partnering with PSA, that's what we are going to do." 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. Related Stories: GM and PSA Tie-Up Talks Come To Halt View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 16, 2012 Fiat has released a few teaser pictures of the new 500e ahead of its official debut at the LA Auto Show. The electric version of the 500 differentiates from the normal 500 by going with a accenting color grille, new wheels and badging, and a push-button drive selector. We'll have more info when the 500e is officially revealed later this month. Source: Fiat 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 November 15, 2012 Work on the next-generation Toyota Prius is already underway. A few weeks ago, we reported on Toyota considering a new design for the Prius. Now, we have gotten word on some mechanical changes. Auto Express is reporting that next-gen Prius and Prius Plug-In will come equipped with a e-4WD system. “The rear wheels will be driven by a motor in an e-4WD system. Targeting snowy areas, they will operate at up to 37mph,” a source tells the magazine. Also in the cards for the new Prius will be a weight drop of about 154 lbs thanks to a new platform. Other changes will include a more aerodynamic body, a modified 1.8L four-cylinder, and downsized inverter and electric motor. Those changes will make the Prius quicker and possibly deliver 90 MPG. One item that won't change are the nickel-metal hydride batteries. Toyota engineers still believe the nickel-metal hydride batteries are still the best at managing power delivery during intensive use and charging. 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. Related Stories: Rumorpile: Toyota To Change Design Of Next Prius? View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 15, 2012 The National Transportation Safety Board announced their 2013 Most Wanted safety list which is used to "increase awareness of, and support for, the most critical changes needed to reduce transportation accidents and save lives." On this year's list, the NTSB put "Collision-Avoidance" technologies to be standard on all new vehicles. What the NTSB means by "Collision-Avoidance" technologies are features like rear-end collision warning, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and advanced braking systems. Most of these features are either standard or optional on luxury vehicles or high-trim models. The NTSB wants to see these features on new models. The NTSB cites data from NHTSA which says forward collision warning can prevent 879 fatal car crashes annually and lane departure warning can prevent 247 fatal crashes annually. "What they are recommending is a safety system for cars where you have a multitude of things that cooperate together to dramatically improve safety in a vehicle," said Clarence Ditlow, executive director of the Center for Auto Safety. Automakers aren't happy with this suggestion, saying that adding this equipment to their vehicle could add thousands to the base price. The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers say collision warning systems could add between $1,000 to $3,000 per vehicle, while collision warning systems that activate the brakes cost around $3,500 per vehicle. The NTSB shot back to the claims of the Alliance saying that "many of the safety features rely on the same electronic sensors and computers." "Some of this technology can be done for literally just a few dollars. I don't think we're talking about adding thousands of dollars to a car," said NTSB board member Robert Sumwalt. Source: Associated Press 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 November 14, 2012 During an event in San Francisco, GM's product chief Mary Barra announced the company their green-car will focus on plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles. "A major focus for GM's electrification strategy will center on the plug," said Barra. She went onto say that plug-ins offer "a unique opportunity to change the way people commute.” GM's original strategy for green cars included the development of different powertrains, including hybrids. That plan has proven to be too expensive and not efficient. "We need to make educated bets on which technologies hold the most potential for creating values for our customers and our company," said Barra. GM's mild-hybrid system, branded the eAssist system will be sticking around. GM is hoping by 2017 to sell 500,000 vehicles with some sort of electrification. 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 November 14, 2012 The talks between General Motors and PSA-Peugeot/Citroën have come to halt. According to Reuters, the talks were stopped due to worsening finances and a government-backed bailout. As we have been reporting since February, General Motors and PSA have been in talks about expanding their alliance. Rumors have ranged from 50/50 deal, selling Opel to PSA, buying up PSA's auto division, and putting Citroën, Opel, and Peugeot into one new entity. Sources close to talks tell Reuters the talks have been off after Peugeot agreed to take a bailout from the French Government. Peugeot/Citroën are currently burning through 160 million euros (about $200 million) a month. Taking the bailout also means PSA can't shed anymore jobs and factories, nor make any deeper ties with GM. "They now consider that any deeper tie-up is unlikely before 2014, when the market picks up," a source told Reuters. "The government bailout conditions rule out French job cuts, which means a deal can't happen any faster. It would be politically impossible to have all the cuts falling on the German side." For the time being, GM and PSA's basic agreement stands. 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. Related Stories: An Alliance Is Formed: GM Buys 7% Stake Into PSA Peugeot Citroën Rumorpile: Is There More To The GM-PSA Deal? GM and PSA Announce Four New Co-Developed Platforms View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 13, 2012 This past week, a picture of a slideshow made its way onto the VWVortex forums. The picture shows what BMW might have planned for diesels in the U.S. in next couple of years. Starting next year, the 3-Series sedan will bring back a diesel option in the first quarter. The second quarter BMW will introduce the 3-Series wagon with a diesel. In the third quarter, the 5-Series diesel will come out and will be followed by the new X5 diesel at the end of the year. For 2014, the 7-Series and X3 join in on the diesel fun. What engines are in play with this plan? We know that a single-turbo 2.0L four-cylinder and a twin-turbo, 3.0L diesel inline-six are the two engines destined for the U.S. Car and Driver speculates the four-cylinder will go into the 3-Series, X3, and 5-Series, while the 7-Series and X5 go with the six. When reached for comment by Car and Driver, BMW neither confirmed or denied the plans on the slide. Source: VWVortex, Car and Driver Related Stories: BMW Bringing Back Diesels View full article