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Despite COVID-19, PSA Group Still Planning A Return By 2023
William Maley posted an article in Peugeot
It has been some time since we last reported on PSA Group's plan to re-enter the U.S. When we last checked in, Peugeot was chosen as the brand to be entering the U.S. by 2023 and rumors were swirling about a possible merger between PSA Group and FCA. A lot has changed since then as the two automakers begin to finalize plans for a merger, and the COVID-19 pandemic has no end in sight in the U.S. What does that mean for Peugeot's return to the U.S.? "My role is to grow the PSA business in North America, growing our mobility capability and preparing for the launch of Peugeot." said Larry Dominique, CEO of PSA North America to Automotive News. "From our standpoint, we're planning as if [the merger] doesn't exist. We're marching forward as if PSA was going to be there by themselves." Dominique is right now focused on the present with the top priority being building out a dealer network for both U.S. and Canada before the launch. He explained that the company is planning a two-prong approach, having franchised dealers and online retailing. "The future success for OEMs is the reduction of distribution costs while ensuring both retail and OEM margin sustainability. This has to be done through strong pricing power, not volume turnover," he said. Part of this is due to COVID-19 pandemic which has many automakers rethinking how they sell vehicles, something Dominique admits is a big challenge. "All my competitors are going to be focusing on digital, which means we have to step up our game and deliver an even stronger customer experience when we launch Peugeot in North America. We need to get out of an environment where the retailers are dependent upon just F&I and service to pay their bills." Another challenge facing Dominique, what models to sell in the U.S. The market has changed a lot since PSA Group announced its intentions to re-enter the U.S. Consumers now are focused on trucks and crossovers. "I don't have a full-sized truck,. But the C and D segments are what's relevant to us. The C and D segments are high volume and important to North America. That's where we're going to focus initially," To us, this hints at the 3008 and 5008 crossovers being some of the first models to be available. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) -
It has been some time since we last reported on PSA Group's plan to re-enter the U.S. When we last checked in, Peugeot was chosen as the brand to be entering the U.S. by 2023 and rumors were swirling about a possible merger between PSA Group and FCA. A lot has changed since then as the two automakers begin to finalize plans for a merger, and the COVID-19 pandemic has no end in sight in the U.S. What does that mean for Peugeot's return to the U.S.? "My role is to grow the PSA business in North America, growing our mobility capability and preparing for the launch of Peugeot." said Larry Dominique, CEO of PSA North America to Automotive News. "From our standpoint, we're planning as if [the merger] doesn't exist. We're marching forward as if PSA was going to be there by themselves." Dominique is right now focused on the present with the top priority being building out a dealer network for both U.S. and Canada before the launch. He explained that the company is planning a two-prong approach, having franchised dealers and online retailing. "The future success for OEMs is the reduction of distribution costs while ensuring both retail and OEM margin sustainability. This has to be done through strong pricing power, not volume turnover," he said. Part of this is due to COVID-19 pandemic which has many automakers rethinking how they sell vehicles, something Dominique admits is a big challenge. "All my competitors are going to be focusing on digital, which means we have to step up our game and deliver an even stronger customer experience when we launch Peugeot in North America. We need to get out of an environment where the retailers are dependent upon just F&I and service to pay their bills." Another challenge facing Dominique, what models to sell in the U.S. The market has changed a lot since PSA Group announced its intentions to re-enter the U.S. Consumers now are focused on trucks and crossovers. "I don't have a full-sized truck,. But the C and D segments are what's relevant to us. The C and D segments are high volume and important to North America. That's where we're going to focus initially," To us, this hints at the 3008 and 5008 crossovers being some of the first models to be available. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article
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Volkswagen was originally planning to roll out the Arteon in the U.S. towards the end of this year. But complications stemming from the European Union's Worldwide Harmonized Light-Duty Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) has caused the German automaker to push back the launch to early 2019. Automotive News reports that the first hint of the delay came when Volkswagen cancelled a media drive event in California that was scheduled for next month. A spokesman told the outlet the delay comes down to delays in the certification process caused by a backlog in meeting [new] WLTP worldwide emissions testing." Beginning this month, all new vehicles sold in the European Union must meet the new WLTP emissions parameters. But long delays in testing have meant that automakers only started receiving certification recently. This in turn has meant automakers are under immense pressure to keep an adequate supply of WLTP-compliant vehicles to dealers. The Arteon is one of those models and Volkswagen has made the decision to prioritize production for Europe for the time being. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) -
VW News: Volkswagen Delays Launch of Arteon To Early 2019
William Maley posted a topic in Volkswagen
Volkswagen was originally planning to roll out the Arteon in the U.S. towards the end of this year. But complications stemming from the European Union's Worldwide Harmonized Light-Duty Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) has caused the German automaker to push back the launch to early 2019. Automotive News reports that the first hint of the delay came when Volkswagen cancelled a media drive event in California that was scheduled for next month. A spokesman told the outlet the delay comes down to delays in the certification process caused by a backlog in meeting [new] WLTP worldwide emissions testing." Beginning this month, all new vehicles sold in the European Union must meet the new WLTP emissions parameters. But long delays in testing have meant that automakers only started receiving certification recently. This in turn has meant automakers are under immense pressure to keep an adequate supply of WLTP-compliant vehicles to dealers. The Arteon is one of those models and Volkswagen has made the decision to prioritize production for Europe for the time being. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article -
August 30th was going to be a momentous occasion for Audi. It would be unveiling the long-awaited e-tron crossover at an event in Brussels. Invitations to journalists had been sent out. But Automotive News reports that the event has been cancelled. Audi made the announcement yesterday, citing "organizational reasons". The event would now take place in the U.S. at a later date. Those "organizational reasons" are most likely due to the arrest of Audi CEO Rupert Stadler last week. Prosecutors took him into custody over concerns of evidence tampering. According to Bloomberg, Stadler will be spending another week in prison as he continues to be interviewed by prosecutors into his involvement in the diesel emission scandal. This is a big blow for Audi as they would have been the first German automaker to introduce a Tesla fighter. Mercedes-Benz will now get to be the first one with the introduction of the EQC crossover on September 4th in Stockholm. An Audi spokeswoman told Automotive News that the delay to the e-tron's unveiling will not affect the sales launch of the model, expected to happen later this year. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), Bloomberg (Subscription Required) -
August 30th was going to be a momentous occasion for Audi. It would be unveiling the long-awaited e-tron crossover at an event in Brussels. Invitations to journalists had been sent out. But Automotive News reports that the event has been cancelled. Audi made the announcement yesterday, citing "organizational reasons". The event would now take place in the U.S. at a later date. Those "organizational reasons" are most likely due to the arrest of Audi CEO Rupert Stadler last week. Prosecutors took him into custody over concerns of evidence tampering. According to Bloomberg, Stadler will be spending another week in prison as he continues to be interviewed by prosecutors into his involvement in the diesel emission scandal. This is a big blow for Audi as they would have been the first German automaker to introduce a Tesla fighter. Mercedes-Benz will now get to be the first one with the introduction of the EQC crossover on September 4th in Stockholm. An Audi spokeswoman told Automotive News that the delay to the e-tron's unveiling will not affect the sales launch of the model, expected to happen later this year. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), Bloomberg (Subscription Required) View full article
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While Polestar isn't expected to begin production on their first model, the 600 horsepower Polestar 1 coupe until 2019, they will soon be opening the order books for certain markets. Today, Polestar announced the launch markets for the 1 coupe. They include, United States China Germany The Netherlands Sweden The company explained the reason for picking these markets first was due in part to the level of interest expressed by possible buyers in those countries. Since October, buyers have been able to register their interest via the Polestar site. The plan is to change these over to orders when Polestar opens the order books early next year. These markets will be the first to also get Polestar "Spaces," basically a showroom for the 1 and future models. Polestar will be selling the 1 through a subscription similar to Volvo's Care by Volvo program where you pay a monthly fee that includes the vehicle, maintenance, insurance and other services. Polestar is considering letting buyers purchase the car outright, given they have the cash. Source: Polestar Press Release is on Page 2 Polestar announces initial launch markets for Polestar 1 as the new subscription model resonates with global customers Polestar, the new Electric Performance brand of Volvo Cars, has announced the initial launch markets for its first car, the Polestar 1. This follows Polestar’s successful brand launch in October that’s seen customers line up for the new Polestar 1 subscription, and expressions of interest in the Polestar 1 already outnumber early production slots, instantly affirming the car with performance and electric car aficionados alike. The initial launch markets where Polestar will open a Polestar Space – an environment where customers can physically interact with the brand - will be the U.S.A., China, Germany, Sweden, Norway, and the Netherlands. These Polestar Spaces are expected to be opened in the middle of 2019 and the countries have been selected, in part, due to the initial customer demand in those markets. More countries will be introduced across the world and confirmed at a later date. During the brand’s launch day in October, one customer per minute was registering their interest in being one of the first to receive the Polestar 1 using an all-new subscription model. Expressions of interest are made through www.polestar.com and these will be converted to vehicle orders when the formal order books for the Polestar 1 open in early 2018. The Polestar 1 and all future Polestar cars will be offered using the new subscription model. The no-deposit, all-inclusive monthly payment delivers hassle-free usage and covers insurance, depreciation, collection and delivery for inclusive servicing, and various on-demand benefits as-and-when required. The Polestar 1, the first car with the Polestar logo on the bonnet, is a 2+2 Grand Touring Coupé with a 600hp Electric Performance Hybrid powertrain yet with the ability to travel 150kms on pure electric power alone - the longest range on electric power of any hybrid in the world. Production of the Polestar 1 will start in mid-2019 in the new state-of-the-art, purpose-built Polestar Production Centre in Chengdu, China, where construction has already started. -
While Polestar isn't expected to begin production on their first model, the 600 horsepower Polestar 1 coupe until 2019, they will soon be opening the order books for certain markets. Today, Polestar announced the launch markets for the 1 coupe. They include, United States China Germany The Netherlands Sweden The company explained the reason for picking these markets first was due in part to the level of interest expressed by possible buyers in those countries. Since October, buyers have been able to register their interest via the Polestar site. The plan is to change these over to orders when Polestar opens the order books early next year. These markets will be the first to also get Polestar "Spaces," basically a showroom for the 1 and future models. Polestar will be selling the 1 through a subscription similar to Volvo's Care by Volvo program where you pay a monthly fee that includes the vehicle, maintenance, insurance and other services. Polestar is considering letting buyers purchase the car outright, given they have the cash. Source: Polestar Press Release is on Page 2 Polestar announces initial launch markets for Polestar 1 as the new subscription model resonates with global customers Polestar, the new Electric Performance brand of Volvo Cars, has announced the initial launch markets for its first car, the Polestar 1. This follows Polestar’s successful brand launch in October that’s seen customers line up for the new Polestar 1 subscription, and expressions of interest in the Polestar 1 already outnumber early production slots, instantly affirming the car with performance and electric car aficionados alike. The initial launch markets where Polestar will open a Polestar Space – an environment where customers can physically interact with the brand - will be the U.S.A., China, Germany, Sweden, Norway, and the Netherlands. These Polestar Spaces are expected to be opened in the middle of 2019 and the countries have been selected, in part, due to the initial customer demand in those markets. More countries will be introduced across the world and confirmed at a later date. During the brand’s launch day in October, one customer per minute was registering their interest in being one of the first to receive the Polestar 1 using an all-new subscription model. Expressions of interest are made through www.polestar.com and these will be converted to vehicle orders when the formal order books for the Polestar 1 open in early 2018. The Polestar 1 and all future Polestar cars will be offered using the new subscription model. The no-deposit, all-inclusive monthly payment delivers hassle-free usage and covers insurance, depreciation, collection and delivery for inclusive servicing, and various on-demand benefits as-and-when required. The Polestar 1, the first car with the Polestar logo on the bonnet, is a 2+2 Grand Touring Coupé with a 600hp Electric Performance Hybrid powertrain yet with the ability to travel 150kms on pure electric power alone - the longest range on electric power of any hybrid in the world. Production of the Polestar 1 will start in mid-2019 in the new state-of-the-art, purpose-built Polestar Production Centre in Chengdu, China, where construction has already started. View full article
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When Subaru launched their new modular global platform in the Impreza, they said the platform was designed to accept different powertrains such as hybrid and electric. According to a report from Autocar, Subaru's first electric model is just around the corner. Subaru's chief designer, Mamoru Ishii told the outlet that the electric vehicle would be a variant of one of their current models and will launch in 2020. “Subaru cars are designed to support people’s lifestyles, so it should not be a case of designing the car for the powertrain. If customers want change we’ll respond - our cars are about customers loving using them how they are designed - but we are not going to change our design focus just to highlight a new way of powering the car,” said Ishii. Ishii declined to say how far Subaru is in development of the EV, but sources tell Autocar that crash tests have started to determine if the battery location is safe. If we were to guess what model Subaru is using for their electric vehicle, the Impreza seems like a safe bet. Source: Autocar -
When Subaru launched their new modular global platform in the Impreza, they said the platform was designed to accept different powertrains such as hybrid and electric. According to a report from Autocar, Subaru's first electric model is just around the corner. Subaru's chief designer, Mamoru Ishii told the outlet that the electric vehicle would be a variant of one of their current models and will launch in 2020. “Subaru cars are designed to support people’s lifestyles, so it should not be a case of designing the car for the powertrain. If customers want change we’ll respond - our cars are about customers loving using them how they are designed - but we are not going to change our design focus just to highlight a new way of powering the car,” said Ishii. Ishii declined to say how far Subaru is in development of the EV, but sources tell Autocar that crash tests have started to determine if the battery location is safe. If we were to guess what model Subaru is using for their electric vehicle, the Impreza seems like a safe bet. Source: Autocar View full article
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Last October, Chinese automaker Geely unveiled a new global brand called Lynk & Co. This brand stood out in a few ways, Vehicles will be sold online Owners will be able to share their Lynk & Co vehicles to make some money An open application programming interface to develop in-car applications Recently announcing all of their vehicles would come with lifetime warranties The plan was for the brand to launch in China this year, with Europe and U.S. following in late 2018. But a new report from Automotive News says the launch for Europe and U.S. has been pushed back to 2019. “We think we will start in Europe between the first quarter and the first half of 2019 and enter the U.S. some months later,” said Alain Visser, Lynk & Co's senior vice president of marketing and sales. The reason for pushback comes down to Lynk & Co needing more time to establish a company-owned dealership network as it is taking slightly longer to find the locations. Visser said the company wants to build up a network of 500 dealers comprising of flagship and temporary pop-up stores. Despite having stores, vehicles will be sold online and delivered to the owner's house or office. Visser said plans for the Chinese launch is still on schedule with the 01 crossover launching towards the end of the year. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) Pic Credit: Newspress View full article
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Lynk & Co Pushes Back Launch For Europe and U.S.
William Maley posted an article in Automotive Industry
Last October, Chinese automaker Geely unveiled a new global brand called Lynk & Co. This brand stood out in a few ways, Vehicles will be sold online Owners will be able to share their Lynk & Co vehicles to make some money An open application programming interface to develop in-car applications Recently announcing all of their vehicles would come with lifetime warranties The plan was for the brand to launch in China this year, with Europe and U.S. following in late 2018. But a new report from Automotive News says the launch for Europe and U.S. has been pushed back to 2019. “We think we will start in Europe between the first quarter and the first half of 2019 and enter the U.S. some months later,” said Alain Visser, Lynk & Co's senior vice president of marketing and sales. The reason for pushback comes down to Lynk & Co needing more time to establish a company-owned dealership network as it is taking slightly longer to find the locations. Visser said the company wants to build up a network of 500 dealers comprising of flagship and temporary pop-up stores. Despite having stores, vehicles will be sold online and delivered to the owner's house or office. Visser said plans for the Chinese launch is still on schedule with the 01 crossover launching towards the end of the year. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) Pic Credit: Newspress -
As Volvo finishes up the launch of their 90 series lineup, the company's focus will turn to the 40 series lineup. Speaking with Autocar, Volvo's R&D boss Henrik Green revealed the XC40 compact crossover will launch this fall. The model is expected to look somewhat similar to the Concept 40.1 shown last year and utilize the all new CMA platform that was jointly worked on by Volvo and their parent company, Geely. Down the road, Volvo plans on launching other versions of the 40 Series such as a hatchback. Also launching this year is the second-generation XC60. This is an important model for Volvo as it is their most popular model. “The XC60 is our biggest-volume car that sells broadly in Europe, China and America. It brings significant profits so is crucial in many aspects. [The new model is] a fantastic car, a big step forward,” said Green. Source: Autocar View full article
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As Volvo finishes up the launch of their 90 series lineup, the company's focus will turn to the 40 series lineup. Speaking with Autocar, Volvo's R&D boss Henrik Green revealed the XC40 compact crossover will launch this fall. The model is expected to look somewhat similar to the Concept 40.1 shown last year and utilize the all new CMA platform that was jointly worked on by Volvo and their parent company, Geely. Down the road, Volvo plans on launching other versions of the 40 Series such as a hatchback. Also launching this year is the second-generation XC60. This is an important model for Volvo as it is their most popular model. “The XC60 is our biggest-volume car that sells broadly in Europe, China and America. It brings significant profits so is crucial in many aspects. [The new model is] a fantastic car, a big step forward,” said Green. Source: Autocar -
Ford had a special event in Cologne, Germany tonight where it introduced the next-generation Fiesta. It is clear that Ford didn't want to mess with the Fiesta's exterior design much. The basic shape is the same as the current one, but it appears some of the lines have been softened somewhat. It also looks like slightly larger, but Ford hasn't provided any dimensions to confirm this. Ford has unveiled four versions that will appear in Europe: Titanium: Stylish ST-Line: Sporty looks Vignale: Luxury Active: Crossover-esq Interior-wise, the Fiesta follows suit with the recently-announced EcoSport with new styling, improved materials, and an 8-inch touchscreen that floats above the center stack. Ford brags this new screen helped removed 20 buttons from the center stack (although we're a bit wary about that considering our experience with interfaces that rely heavily on touchscreens). Not much is known about engines for the next Fiesta, but we wouldn't be surprised if it's comprised of three and four-cylinders running on gas and diesel for Europe. We'll likely learn more details about the North American-spec of the Fiesta in the coming months. Expect a launch sometime late next year, possibly around the same time as the EcoSport. Source: Ford Press Release is on Page 2 FORD REVEALS NEXT-GENERATION FIESTA, SMART MOBILITY NEWS AND MORE AT “GO FURTHER” EVENT Ford unveils the next-generation Ford Fiesta in four production variants – upscale Vignale, sporty ST-Line, stylish Titanium and Active crossover – at “Go Further” event in Cologne Company outlines latest findings on life-enhancing qualities of self-driving cars, announces testing of autonomous cars on European roads will begin next year Multi-award-winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine will be the first three-cylinder engine in the world to enhance fuel efficiency with innovative cylinder deactivation technology Ford GT and heritage Ford GT40 race cars join exclusive LEGO Speed Champions range of models celebrating Ford’s emphatic win at Le Mans in 1966 and 2016 Ford Motor Company today delivered the global debut of the next-generation Ford Fiesta at a special “Go Further” event in Cologne, Germany. Jim Farley, executive vice president and president, Europe Middle East and Africa, Ford Motor Company, was joined by Mark Fields, president and chief executive officer, Ford Motor Company, to unveil four new production versions of the next generation Fiesta to an audience of 2,500 dealers, employees and media at the company’s Cologne Niehl manufacturing facility – the home of Fiesta. Supported by members of the Ford teams from around Europe who have helped to transform the company, Ford at Go Further also: Revealed new research that underscores the potential for Ford’s self-driving vehicle technologies to improve quality of life for customers and announced testing of autonomous cars on European roads will begin next year Unveiled distinctive and sporty new Ford Transit Custom Black Edition and Sport series vans; as well as the new Ford Edge ST-Line sports utility vehicle (SUV) Announced new cylinder deactivation technology for the the multi-award-winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost – an industry first for a three-cylinder engine Revealed that the Le Mans-winning 2016 Ford GT and 1966 Ford GT40 race cars will be available as part of the exclusive LEGO Speed Champions range of models “Four years ago, at the first Go Further event, Ford promised a leaner, smarter business in Europe with great products and new technologies – and we’ve over-delivered through the talent, ingenuity and passion of our people,” Farley said. “We have delivered an all-new SUV line-up; set the performance car segment alight with our Focus RS and Ford Mustang; strengthened the backbone of our business with our award-winning commercial vehicle range; and re-written the rulebook on compact engines with our 1.0-litre EcoBoost – and that’s before we get to the next generation Fiesta.” Not one, not two, but four fun-to-drive Fiestas Ford revealed four distinctive production variants of the next generation Fiesta: the stylish Fiesta Titanium, the Ford Performance-inspired Fiesta ST-Line, the upscale Fiesta Vignale and the Fiesta Active crossover. Featuring an elegant exterior, ergonomic interior that offers a floating high-definition touchscreen and Ford’s sophisticated SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system, Fiesta also will be the first Ford to deliver a premium B&O PLAY Sound System. The expanded Fiesta range will offer more personalisation options to customers than ever before, and enhances the sporty, fun to drive character that has delighted generations of customers. The next-generation Ford Fiesta debuted with a spectacular unveil to music performed by the award-winning DJ Yoda assisted by a “YuMi” collaborative robot. Ford is among first auto makers to develop a new, closely integrated approach to car workers and collaborative robots working together on the assembly line. DJ Yoda and “YuMi” performed a setlist of tracks from 1976 onward in celebration of Fiesta’s 40th anniversary this year. Smart Mobility for improved quality of life A new Ford-commissioned European survey* has revealed that that drivers believe enjoying passing scenery, catching up with family and friends, and reading a book are among the main perceived benefits of travelling by self‑driving car. Ford also announced the company will expand testing of autonomous cars to European roads next year, in addition to extensive testing in the U.S. Ford is currently expanding into both an auto and a mobility company by pursuing emerging opportunities through Ford Smart Mobility – its plan to be a leader in connectivity, mobility, autonomous vehicles, the customer experience data and analytics. The company is committed to making self-driving cars available for millions of people and earlier this year announced plans to triple its autonomous vehicle development fleet making it the largest of all automakers. New Transit Custom Black Edition and expanded Sport series The dynamic new Transit Custom Black Edition van offers four eye-catching colour schemes with contrasting roof, mirror caps, skid plate and side stripes, and unique black 17‑inch alloy wheels. The Transit Custom Sport series van with signature twin bonnet stripes can also now be ordered in a much wider choice of bodystyles, including van, kombi and double-cab-in-van models in both short and long wheelbase versions. The Tourneo Custom people mover can be specified with the same Sport package. These striking new Transit Custom and Tourneo Custom models are powered by the game-changing 170PS Ford EcoBlue diesel engine, and Tourneo Custom is also now offered with new features and technologies including a six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission, a unique-to-segment rear air suspension system, and attractive new 17-inch alloy wheels. Ford also revealed the new Ford Edge ST-Line SUV – which joins the Ford Fiesta ST-Line, Focus ST-Line, Mondeo ST-Line and Kuga ST-Line models – delivering Ford Performance-inspired styling, high specification and powerful engines. Award-winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost inspires industry-first innovation Ford powertrain engineers have defied industry expectations to deliver cylinder deactivation technology that will improve fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions for the multi-award-winning 1.0‑litre EcoBoost engine, without sacrificing refinement. Ford’s compact and powerful 1.0-litre EcoBoost will be the first three-cylinder engine in the world to feature cylinder deactivation. The technology can disengage or re-engage the cylinder in 14 milliseconds – 20 times faster than the blink of an eye – and combined with advanced solutions to counteract vibrations, will be imperceptible to drivers in terms of operation and engine performance. Ford GT racers join exclusive LEGO range Ford and The LEGO Group have joined forces to offer the 2016 Ford GT and 1966 Ford GT40 race cars as part of the exclusive LEGO Speed Champions range of models, featuring iconic high performance road and racing cars. The two new buildable models follow in the tyre tracks of the popular Ford Mustang and Ford F‑150 Raptor pickup sets already on sale, and celebrate Ford’s motor racing achievements in the world-famous Le Mans 24 Hours endurance race. Ford made an historic return to Le Mans this year, taking victory with the new Ford GT race car exactly 50 years after recording a 1-2-3 clean sweep at the 1966 race. Ford Chip Ganassi Racing drivers Dirk Müller and the full WEC team – Andy Priaulx, Harry Tincknell, Olivier Pla and Stefan Mücke – represented Ford’s victorious 2016 Le Mans team at Go Further, where both the 1966 and 2016 race cars were on stage. Further special guests joining Ford executives and European team members to celebrate the company’s contribution to sport included Sennan Fielding, a 20-year-old star of the Ford British F4 championship that features single-seat race cars powered by Ford’s 1.6-litre EcoBoost petrol engine. -
Ford had a special event in Cologne, Germany tonight where it introduced the next-generation Fiesta. It is clear that Ford didn't want to mess with the Fiesta's exterior design much. The basic shape is the same as the current one, but it appears some of the lines have been softened somewhat. It also looks like slightly larger, but Ford hasn't provided any dimensions to confirm this. Ford has unveiled four versions that will appear in Europe: Titanium: Stylish ST-Line: Sporty looks Vignale: Luxury Active: Crossover-esq Interior-wise, the Fiesta follows suit with the recently-announced EcoSport with new styling, improved materials, and an 8-inch touchscreen that floats above the center stack. Ford brags this new screen helped removed 20 buttons from the center stack (although we're a bit wary about that considering our experience with interfaces that rely heavily on touchscreens). Not much is known about engines for the next Fiesta, but we wouldn't be surprised if it's comprised of three and four-cylinders running on gas and diesel for Europe. We'll likely learn more details about the North American-spec of the Fiesta in the coming months. Expect a launch sometime late next year, possibly around the same time as the EcoSport. Source: Ford Press Release is on Page 2 FORD REVEALS NEXT-GENERATION FIESTA, SMART MOBILITY NEWS AND MORE AT “GO FURTHER” EVENT Ford unveils the next-generation Ford Fiesta in four production variants – upscale Vignale, sporty ST-Line, stylish Titanium and Active crossover – at “Go Further” event in Cologne Company outlines latest findings on life-enhancing qualities of self-driving cars, announces testing of autonomous cars on European roads will begin next year Multi-award-winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine will be the first three-cylinder engine in the world to enhance fuel efficiency with innovative cylinder deactivation technology Ford GT and heritage Ford GT40 race cars join exclusive LEGO Speed Champions range of models celebrating Ford’s emphatic win at Le Mans in 1966 and 2016 Ford Motor Company today delivered the global debut of the next-generation Ford Fiesta at a special “Go Further” event in Cologne, Germany. Jim Farley, executive vice president and president, Europe Middle East and Africa, Ford Motor Company, was joined by Mark Fields, president and chief executive officer, Ford Motor Company, to unveil four new production versions of the next generation Fiesta to an audience of 2,500 dealers, employees and media at the company’s Cologne Niehl manufacturing facility – the home of Fiesta. Supported by members of the Ford teams from around Europe who have helped to transform the company, Ford at Go Further also: Revealed new research that underscores the potential for Ford’s self-driving vehicle technologies to improve quality of life for customers and announced testing of autonomous cars on European roads will begin next year Unveiled distinctive and sporty new Ford Transit Custom Black Edition and Sport series vans; as well as the new Ford Edge ST-Line sports utility vehicle (SUV) Announced new cylinder deactivation technology for the the multi-award-winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost – an industry first for a three-cylinder engine Revealed that the Le Mans-winning 2016 Ford GT and 1966 Ford GT40 race cars will be available as part of the exclusive LEGO Speed Champions range of models “Four years ago, at the first Go Further event, Ford promised a leaner, smarter business in Europe with great products and new technologies – and we’ve over-delivered through the talent, ingenuity and passion of our people,” Farley said. “We have delivered an all-new SUV line-up; set the performance car segment alight with our Focus RS and Ford Mustang; strengthened the backbone of our business with our award-winning commercial vehicle range; and re-written the rulebook on compact engines with our 1.0-litre EcoBoost – and that’s before we get to the next generation Fiesta.” Not one, not two, but four fun-to-drive Fiestas Ford revealed four distinctive production variants of the next generation Fiesta: the stylish Fiesta Titanium, the Ford Performance-inspired Fiesta ST-Line, the upscale Fiesta Vignale and the Fiesta Active crossover. Featuring an elegant exterior, ergonomic interior that offers a floating high-definition touchscreen and Ford’s sophisticated SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system, Fiesta also will be the first Ford to deliver a premium B&O PLAY Sound System. The expanded Fiesta range will offer more personalisation options to customers than ever before, and enhances the sporty, fun to drive character that has delighted generations of customers. The next-generation Ford Fiesta debuted with a spectacular unveil to music performed by the award-winning DJ Yoda assisted by a “YuMi” collaborative robot. Ford is among first auto makers to develop a new, closely integrated approach to car workers and collaborative robots working together on the assembly line. DJ Yoda and “YuMi” performed a setlist of tracks from 1976 onward in celebration of Fiesta’s 40th anniversary this year. Smart Mobility for improved quality of life A new Ford-commissioned European survey* has revealed that that drivers believe enjoying passing scenery, catching up with family and friends, and reading a book are among the main perceived benefits of travelling by self‑driving car. Ford also announced the company will expand testing of autonomous cars to European roads next year, in addition to extensive testing in the U.S. Ford is currently expanding into both an auto and a mobility company by pursuing emerging opportunities through Ford Smart Mobility – its plan to be a leader in connectivity, mobility, autonomous vehicles, the customer experience data and analytics. The company is committed to making self-driving cars available for millions of people and earlier this year announced plans to triple its autonomous vehicle development fleet making it the largest of all automakers. New Transit Custom Black Edition and expanded Sport series The dynamic new Transit Custom Black Edition van offers four eye-catching colour schemes with contrasting roof, mirror caps, skid plate and side stripes, and unique black 17‑inch alloy wheels. The Transit Custom Sport series van with signature twin bonnet stripes can also now be ordered in a much wider choice of bodystyles, including van, kombi and double-cab-in-van models in both short and long wheelbase versions. The Tourneo Custom people mover can be specified with the same Sport package. These striking new Transit Custom and Tourneo Custom models are powered by the game-changing 170PS Ford EcoBlue diesel engine, and Tourneo Custom is also now offered with new features and technologies including a six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission, a unique-to-segment rear air suspension system, and attractive new 17-inch alloy wheels. Ford also revealed the new Ford Edge ST-Line SUV – which joins the Ford Fiesta ST-Line, Focus ST-Line, Mondeo ST-Line and Kuga ST-Line models – delivering Ford Performance-inspired styling, high specification and powerful engines. Award-winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost inspires industry-first innovation Ford powertrain engineers have defied industry expectations to deliver cylinder deactivation technology that will improve fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions for the multi-award-winning 1.0‑litre EcoBoost engine, without sacrificing refinement. Ford’s compact and powerful 1.0-litre EcoBoost will be the first three-cylinder engine in the world to feature cylinder deactivation. The technology can disengage or re-engage the cylinder in 14 milliseconds – 20 times faster than the blink of an eye – and combined with advanced solutions to counteract vibrations, will be imperceptible to drivers in terms of operation and engine performance. Ford GT racers join exclusive LEGO range Ford and The LEGO Group have joined forces to offer the 2016 Ford GT and 1966 Ford GT40 race cars as part of the exclusive LEGO Speed Champions range of models, featuring iconic high performance road and racing cars. The two new buildable models follow in the tyre tracks of the popular Ford Mustang and Ford F‑150 Raptor pickup sets already on sale, and celebrate Ford’s motor racing achievements in the world-famous Le Mans 24 Hours endurance race. Ford made an historic return to Le Mans this year, taking victory with the new Ford GT race car exactly 50 years after recording a 1-2-3 clean sweep at the 1966 race. Ford Chip Ganassi Racing drivers Dirk Müller and the full WEC team – Andy Priaulx, Harry Tincknell, Olivier Pla and Stefan Mücke – represented Ford’s victorious 2016 Le Mans team at Go Further, where both the 1966 and 2016 race cars were on stage. Further special guests joining Ford executives and European team members to celebrate the company’s contribution to sport included Sennan Fielding, a 20-year-old star of the Ford British F4 championship that features single-seat race cars powered by Ford’s 1.6-litre EcoBoost petrol engine. View full article
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The go-ahead has been given and next summer, Buick will launch the Envision crossover. According to Automotive News, Buick's chief Duncan Aldred told members of the Buick National Dealer Council yesterday and was planning to announce it to the rest of Buick's dealers today. Aldred confirmed the decision in an interview today. “Talk about a catalyst for the Buick brand and for volume growth. We’re putting in what I believe is a class-leading vehicle in the heart of the U.S. auto industry. This is massive for Buick,” said Aldred. Dealers have been wanting the Envision for quite a while now as it would fill a gap between the subcompact Encore and full-size Enclave. The vehicle will be exported from China, which will draw the ire of some. The U.S.-Spec Envision will come with a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder paired with a six-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. A two-wheel drive version with a different engine is being considered for the future. The Envision will be the first GM model to use a new global compact platform. This platform will also underpin the next-generation Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain, which are expected to go on sale in 2017. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) -
The go-ahead has been given and next summer, Buick will launch the Envision crossover. According to Automotive News, Buick's chief Duncan Aldred told members of the Buick National Dealer Council yesterday and was planning to announce it to the rest of Buick's dealers today. Aldred confirmed the decision in an interview today. “Talk about a catalyst for the Buick brand and for volume growth. We’re putting in what I believe is a class-leading vehicle in the heart of the U.S. auto industry. This is massive for Buick,” said Aldred. Dealers have been wanting the Envision for quite a while now as it would fill a gap between the subcompact Encore and full-size Enclave. The vehicle will be exported from China, which will draw the ire of some. The U.S.-Spec Envision will come with a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder paired with a six-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. A two-wheel drive version with a different engine is being considered for the future. The Envision will be the first GM model to use a new global compact platform. This platform will also underpin the next-generation Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain, which are expected to go on sale in 2017. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article
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Since being bought by Chinese auto parts supplier, Wanxiang Group, Fisker Automotive has been quietly ramping back up with a new headquarters in Costa Mesa, CA, and an upcoming factory in Moreno Valley, CA. But one item that has been up in the air is when production of the Karma would restart. Speaking with The Oakland County Register, Fisker's chief marketing officer Jim Taylor said the automaker will relaunch sometime in the middle of 2016. “We want to be out next year. Midyear is our target. That’s what we’ve told the plants and our suppliers, but we won’t make any promises to say this is our launch date, get ready,” said Taylor. There is still a number of items and issues that Fisker has to work on before having vehicles rolling down the production line. At the moment, Fisker is busy hiring people for their headquarters and production facility. Complicating matters are number of delays and no real information as to changes for the model. Source: The Orange County Register -
Since being bought by Chinese auto parts supplier, Wanxiang Group, Fisker Automotive has been quietly ramping back up with a new headquarters in Costa Mesa, CA, and an upcoming factory in Moreno Valley, CA. But one item that has been up in the air is when production of the Karma would restart. Speaking with The Oakland County Register, Fisker's chief marketing officer Jim Taylor said the automaker will relaunch sometime in the middle of 2016. “We want to be out next year. Midyear is our target. That’s what we’ve told the plants and our suppliers, but we won’t make any promises to say this is our launch date, get ready,” said Taylor. There is still a number of items and issues that Fisker has to work on before having vehicles rolling down the production line. At the moment, Fisker is busy hiring people for their headquarters and production facility. Complicating matters are number of delays and no real information as to changes for the model. Source: The Orange County Register View full article
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One of the stories we didn't get the chance to cover on Cheers & Gears last week was Mercedes-Benz building a midsize pickup. Now at the time, we considered this an early April Fools joke. But when the official announcement came out, our jaws were agape: Mercedes-Benz is working on a midsize truck that will go on sale towards the end of the decade for certain marketplaces - the U.S. is not one of those places. Now this wouldn't be a luxury truck, it would be built for work. This further substantiated by Mercedes-Benz's commercial van division handling the development. But Mercedes-Benz USA wants to make the final decision if the truck is sold or not. "We said to Stuttgart, 'We are open, and let us assess the market.' If that leads to us saying 'green light,' then we will bring it," said Steve Cannon, CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA. If Mercedes-Benz USA does get the truck, it will be positioned as a luxury vehicle, not a work truck. "Not every pickup in the U.S. is going to job sites. Just drive around Greenwich, Conn., and see how many pickups there are. You realize this is not a demographic that is showing up with their work boots on job sites. Those sales are taken care of by the domestics," said Cannon. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), Mercedes-Benz (Original Press Release) Press Release is on Page 2 Get ready for the Mercedes-Benz among pickups: Mercedes-Benz Vans to launch midsize pickup Stuttgart, Mar 27, 2015 Expansion of product range for sustained global growth Market for midsize pickups primed for first model from a premium manufacturer Mercedes-Benz to enter the high-volume midsize segment before end of decade Main markets: Latin America, South Africa, Australia, and Europe Stuttgart – Before the end of the decade, Mercedes-Benz will expand its product range into a promising segment by launching the first pickup from a premium manufacturer. Thanks to their versatility, all-round utility, and payload of about one metric ton, pickups are popular across the world and thus have good sales potential. "The Mercedes-Benz pickup will contribute nicely to our global growth targets," says Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Division. "We will enter this segment with our distinctive brand identity and all of the vehicle attributes that are typical of the brand with regard to safety, comfort, powertrains, and value." Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans, adds: "As part of our 'Mercedes-Benz Vans goes global' strategy, the pickup is the ideal vehicle for the international expansion of our product range with a newly developed model." A promising segment with global scope The midsize pickup segment is currently undergoing a transformation worldwide. More and more pickups are being used for private purposes, and commercial as well as private users are increasingly asking for vehicles that have car-like specificiations. Mercedes-Benz is the first premium manufacturer to respond to this market shift by developing its own pickup. A similar example was the successful introduction of the M-Class around 20 years ago. As the first sport utility vehicle (SUV) from a premium manufacturer, the M-Class completely redefined the segment. The new Mercedes-Benz pickup will initially be targeted at markets in Latin America, South Africa, Australia, and Europe, all of which are posting sustained growth in this segment. Mercedes-Benz Vans: Center of competence for commercially and privately used vehicles The Mercedes-Benz Vans division is responsible for the new vehicle. With its many years of experience in developing, manufacturing, and marketing vehicles that are used commercially as well as privately, Mercedes-Benz Vans is ideally suited to enter the midsize pickup segment and launch a Mercedes-Benz pickup on the market for the first time in the company's history. Current models such as the V-Class and the Vito demonstrate that Mercedes-Benz Vans has the high level of expertise to successfully serve customers from a wide variety of private and commercial sectors. "We can perfectly serve customers looking for a vehicle that offers a high level of utility and at the same time has the comfort, safety, and design of a Mercedes-Benz passenger car," says Mornhinweg. "We will design our brand's first pickup according to this recipe for success." -
One of the stories we didn't get the chance to cover on Cheers & Gears last week was Mercedes-Benz building a midsize pickup. Now at the time, we considered this an early April Fools joke. But when the official announcement came out, our jaws were agape: Mercedes-Benz is working on a midsize truck that will go on sale towards the end of the decade for certain marketplaces - the U.S. is not one of those places. Now this wouldn't be a luxury truck, it would be built for work. This further substantiated by Mercedes-Benz's commercial van division handling the development. But Mercedes-Benz USA wants to make the final decision if the truck is sold or not. "We said to Stuttgart, 'We are open, and let us assess the market.' If that leads to us saying 'green light,' then we will bring it," said Steve Cannon, CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA. If Mercedes-Benz USA does get the truck, it will be positioned as a luxury vehicle, not a work truck. "Not every pickup in the U.S. is going to job sites. Just drive around Greenwich, Conn., and see how many pickups there are. You realize this is not a demographic that is showing up with their work boots on job sites. Those sales are taken care of by the domestics," said Cannon. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), Mercedes-Benz (Original Press Release) Press Release is on Page 2 Get ready for the Mercedes-Benz among pickups: Mercedes-Benz Vans to launch midsize pickup Stuttgart, Mar 27, 2015 Expansion of product range for sustained global growth Market for midsize pickups primed for first model from a premium manufacturer Mercedes-Benz to enter the high-volume midsize segment before end of decade Main markets: Latin America, South Africa, Australia, and Europe Stuttgart – Before the end of the decade, Mercedes-Benz will expand its product range into a promising segment by launching the first pickup from a premium manufacturer. Thanks to their versatility, all-round utility, and payload of about one metric ton, pickups are popular across the world and thus have good sales potential. "The Mercedes-Benz pickup will contribute nicely to our global growth targets," says Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Division. "We will enter this segment with our distinctive brand identity and all of the vehicle attributes that are typical of the brand with regard to safety, comfort, powertrains, and value." Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans, adds: "As part of our 'Mercedes-Benz Vans goes global' strategy, the pickup is the ideal vehicle for the international expansion of our product range with a newly developed model." A promising segment with global scope The midsize pickup segment is currently undergoing a transformation worldwide. More and more pickups are being used for private purposes, and commercial as well as private users are increasingly asking for vehicles that have car-like specificiations. Mercedes-Benz is the first premium manufacturer to respond to this market shift by developing its own pickup. A similar example was the successful introduction of the M-Class around 20 years ago. As the first sport utility vehicle (SUV) from a premium manufacturer, the M-Class completely redefined the segment. The new Mercedes-Benz pickup will initially be targeted at markets in Latin America, South Africa, Australia, and Europe, all of which are posting sustained growth in this segment. Mercedes-Benz Vans: Center of competence for commercially and privately used vehicles The Mercedes-Benz Vans division is responsible for the new vehicle. With its many years of experience in developing, manufacturing, and marketing vehicles that are used commercially as well as privately, Mercedes-Benz Vans is ideally suited to enter the midsize pickup segment and launch a Mercedes-Benz pickup on the market for the first time in the company's history. Current models such as the V-Class and the Vito demonstrate that Mercedes-Benz Vans has the high level of expertise to successfully serve customers from a wide variety of private and commercial sectors. "We can perfectly serve customers looking for a vehicle that offers a high level of utility and at the same time has the comfort, safety, and design of a Mercedes-Benz passenger car," says Mornhinweg. "We will design our brand's first pickup according to this recipe for success." View full article
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Holden has been in a bit of turmoil for the past few years. With declining sales, plant closures coming in a couple of years, and big changes for the Commodore, steady leadership is key. But in the past six years, Holden has gone through six chairmans. The latest one, Gerry Dorizas only lasted eight months on the job. But there will be a new person in charge. Last Friday, Holden announced the appointment of Mark Bernhard as Managing Director and Chairman of the brand. This is an important milestone as Bernhard is the first Australian to be in charge since 1990. “Mark’s knowledge of GM Holden, our region and GM’s global operations will serve him well in his new role,” said General Motors executive vice president and president of GM International Stefan Jacoby. “He will champion the ongoing transition of GM Holden to a National Sales Company and the repositioning of the Holden brand for long-term growth and profitability.” Bernhard is no stranger to Holden. He started his career at the company back in 1986 within the in the finance division. Since then, Bernhard has held many roles at GM, including the CFO of Holden. "It's wonderful, and quite humbling, to be returning to Holden to lead the company where my career started. I am a Holden man, always have been. [becoming] Managing Director of this company has always been a dream job. While I know that the company is going through a very challenging transition, I also know that it is has a very bright future,"said Bernhard in a statement. "I understand that the transition from being a manufacturing company to a national sales company is not easy. We need to ensure that those that leave us as a result of this change are treated with dignity, respect and most of all, support. But I am really looking forward to leading the re-making of our iconic company as we bring in great new product, continue to revitalise our Aftersales service and re-establish ourselves as Australian customers' favourite car company." Bernhard begins work at Holden in the third quarter. Along with the announcement of a new chairman, GM also announced that Holden will introduce 24 major new models and 36 new powertrains by 2020. “While I can’t reveal all the details, I can say that Holden will debut an all-new Barina Spark in the first quarter of 2016, launch a global Captiva replacement and another all-new, world-class SUV to ensure comprehensive offerings in the crucial SUV market segment," said Jacoby. Also in the pipeline is the next-generation Commodore and a 'true sports car'. Source: Drive.com.au, CarAdvice.com.au, General Motors Press Release is on Page 2 GM Holden Appoints Chairman and Managing Director; Announces 24 Major Vehicle Launches By 2020 Mark Bernhard returns to Holden Holden to deliver product onslaught Mark Bernhard will return to Holden as Chairman and Managing Director, General Motors (GM) Executive Vice President and President of GM International, Stefan Jacoby, announced today. Mr Bernhard began his career in the automotive industry at Holden in 1986, undertaking senior finance roles across GM’s global operations, over the past four decades. He is a former CFO of GM Holden and his current position is Vice President and CFO of Shanghai GM. Mr Jacoby said that given his background and experience, Mr Bernhard is the right person to lead GM Holden. “Mark’s knowledge of GM Holden, our region and GM’s global operations will serve him well in his new role,” Mr Jacoby said. “He will champion the ongoing transition of GM Holden to a National Sales Company and the repositioning of the Holden brand for long-term growth and profitability.” Mr Bernhard briefly visited Australia today to speak with GM Holden dealers and will take up his new role in the third quarter this year. He will succeed GM Holden Interim Managing Director and CFO Jeff Rolfs. “I want to thank Jeff for taking on leadership of GM Holden on an interim basis. Once the transition with Mark is complete, Jeff will continue to play an important role at GM Holden as CFO,” Mr Jacoby said. Mr Jacoby also announced details of Holden’s major new vehicle launch program, delivering 24 major new vehicle launches and 36 new powertrain combinations over the next five years. “GM is investing significantly to broaden the Holden product portfolio and deliver world-class vehicles,” Mr Jacoby said. “Holden is accessing GM’s global operations to assemble its biggest and best ever product line-up. This new model onslaught will ensure Holden has world-class products in every major segment – a true customer-driven product strategy. “While I can’t reveal all the details, I can say that Holden will debut an all-new Barina Spark in the first quarter of 2016, launch a global Captiva replacement and another all-new, world-class SUV to ensure comprehensive offerings in the crucial SUV market segment. “Supporting this product onslaught is the bold, new Let’s Go There brand campaign and an ongoing commitment to achieving best-practice customer service.” Today’s announcements demonstrate GM’s commitment to Holden and reveal further details about Holden’s long term strategy. In the past 12 months, Holden has also announced: Cascada convertible, Astra hatch and Insignia sedan will launch in 2015; Holden vehicles will continue to be tuned and tested for Australian conditions and customers with the retention of the famous Lang Lang Proving Ground in Victoria; Holden’s Global Design centre continues to contribute to local and global product programs; More than one-third of Holden’s future product portfolio will be sourced from Europe; The esteemed Commodore nameplate will live on with Holden’s next-generation large car; and Holden will have a true sports car in its future product portfolio. Mark Bernhard Biography Mark Bernhard is currently vice president and chief financial officer of Shanghai GM in Shanghai, China, a position he has held since November 2011. He also was a member of the GM-SAIC joint venture’s Executive Committee. Mark began his GM career with GM Holden in 1986, holding various positions in the Finance function. He relocated to Zurich, Switzerland, in 1996 as Manager of Budgets and Consolidation for the then GM International Operations. In 1998, Mark was appointed Director of Financial Reporting and Analysis for GM International Operations in Detroit. Two years later, he took on the role of Director of Special Projects at GM Asia Pacific in Singapore, working on the acquisition of Daewoo Motor Company. In 2002, Mark became Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Shanghai GM. He was appointed Chief Financial Officer of the GM China Group in 2005. He returned to Australia in 2007 as CFO and Executive Director of Finance for GM Holden, navigating the global financial crisis. Mark has a Bachelor of Business (accounting) degree from Monash University, as well as a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Deakin University. He is an FCPA with CPA Australia and a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD). Mark received the Silver Magnolia Award from the Shanghai Municipal Government, which is given to expatriates for their contribution to the economic development of the city. He also received the 2014 Australia China Alumni Award for Banking and Finance. View full article
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Holden Announces New Chairman, 24 Vehicle Launches By 2020
William Maley posted an article in Holden
Holden has been in a bit of turmoil for the past few years. With declining sales, plant closures coming in a couple of years, and big changes for the Commodore, steady leadership is key. But in the past six years, Holden has gone through six chairmans. The latest one, Gerry Dorizas only lasted eight months on the job. But there will be a new person in charge. Last Friday, Holden announced the appointment of Mark Bernhard as Managing Director and Chairman of the brand. This is an important milestone as Bernhard is the first Australian to be in charge since 1990. “Mark’s knowledge of GM Holden, our region and GM’s global operations will serve him well in his new role,” said General Motors executive vice president and president of GM International Stefan Jacoby. “He will champion the ongoing transition of GM Holden to a National Sales Company and the repositioning of the Holden brand for long-term growth and profitability.” Bernhard is no stranger to Holden. He started his career at the company back in 1986 within the in the finance division. Since then, Bernhard has held many roles at GM, including the CFO of Holden. "It's wonderful, and quite humbling, to be returning to Holden to lead the company where my career started. I am a Holden man, always have been. [becoming] Managing Director of this company has always been a dream job. While I know that the company is going through a very challenging transition, I also know that it is has a very bright future,"said Bernhard in a statement. "I understand that the transition from being a manufacturing company to a national sales company is not easy. We need to ensure that those that leave us as a result of this change are treated with dignity, respect and most of all, support. But I am really looking forward to leading the re-making of our iconic company as we bring in great new product, continue to revitalise our Aftersales service and re-establish ourselves as Australian customers' favourite car company." Bernhard begins work at Holden in the third quarter. Along with the announcement of a new chairman, GM also announced that Holden will introduce 24 major new models and 36 new powertrains by 2020. “While I can’t reveal all the details, I can say that Holden will debut an all-new Barina Spark in the first quarter of 2016, launch a global Captiva replacement and another all-new, world-class SUV to ensure comprehensive offerings in the crucial SUV market segment," said Jacoby. Also in the pipeline is the next-generation Commodore and a 'true sports car'. Source: Drive.com.au, CarAdvice.com.au, General Motors Press Release is on Page 2 GM Holden Appoints Chairman and Managing Director; Announces 24 Major Vehicle Launches By 2020 Mark Bernhard returns to Holden Holden to deliver product onslaught Mark Bernhard will return to Holden as Chairman and Managing Director, General Motors (GM) Executive Vice President and President of GM International, Stefan Jacoby, announced today. Mr Bernhard began his career in the automotive industry at Holden in 1986, undertaking senior finance roles across GM’s global operations, over the past four decades. He is a former CFO of GM Holden and his current position is Vice President and CFO of Shanghai GM. Mr Jacoby said that given his background and experience, Mr Bernhard is the right person to lead GM Holden. “Mark’s knowledge of GM Holden, our region and GM’s global operations will serve him well in his new role,” Mr Jacoby said. “He will champion the ongoing transition of GM Holden to a National Sales Company and the repositioning of the Holden brand for long-term growth and profitability.” Mr Bernhard briefly visited Australia today to speak with GM Holden dealers and will take up his new role in the third quarter this year. He will succeed GM Holden Interim Managing Director and CFO Jeff Rolfs. “I want to thank Jeff for taking on leadership of GM Holden on an interim basis. Once the transition with Mark is complete, Jeff will continue to play an important role at GM Holden as CFO,” Mr Jacoby said. Mr Jacoby also announced details of Holden’s major new vehicle launch program, delivering 24 major new vehicle launches and 36 new powertrain combinations over the next five years. “GM is investing significantly to broaden the Holden product portfolio and deliver world-class vehicles,” Mr Jacoby said. “Holden is accessing GM’s global operations to assemble its biggest and best ever product line-up. This new model onslaught will ensure Holden has world-class products in every major segment – a true customer-driven product strategy. “While I can’t reveal all the details, I can say that Holden will debut an all-new Barina Spark in the first quarter of 2016, launch a global Captiva replacement and another all-new, world-class SUV to ensure comprehensive offerings in the crucial SUV market segment. “Supporting this product onslaught is the bold, new Let’s Go There brand campaign and an ongoing commitment to achieving best-practice customer service.” Today’s announcements demonstrate GM’s commitment to Holden and reveal further details about Holden’s long term strategy. In the past 12 months, Holden has also announced: Cascada convertible, Astra hatch and Insignia sedan will launch in 2015; Holden vehicles will continue to be tuned and tested for Australian conditions and customers with the retention of the famous Lang Lang Proving Ground in Victoria; Holden’s Global Design centre continues to contribute to local and global product programs; More than one-third of Holden’s future product portfolio will be sourced from Europe; The esteemed Commodore nameplate will live on with Holden’s next-generation large car; and Holden will have a true sports car in its future product portfolio. Mark Bernhard Biography Mark Bernhard is currently vice president and chief financial officer of Shanghai GM in Shanghai, China, a position he has held since November 2011. He also was a member of the GM-SAIC joint venture’s Executive Committee. Mark began his GM career with GM Holden in 1986, holding various positions in the Finance function. He relocated to Zurich, Switzerland, in 1996 as Manager of Budgets and Consolidation for the then GM International Operations. In 1998, Mark was appointed Director of Financial Reporting and Analysis for GM International Operations in Detroit. Two years later, he took on the role of Director of Special Projects at GM Asia Pacific in Singapore, working on the acquisition of Daewoo Motor Company. In 2002, Mark became Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Shanghai GM. He was appointed Chief Financial Officer of the GM China Group in 2005. He returned to Australia in 2007 as CFO and Executive Director of Finance for GM Holden, navigating the global financial crisis. Mark has a Bachelor of Business (accounting) degree from Monash University, as well as a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Deakin University. He is an FCPA with CPA Australia and a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD). Mark received the Silver Magnolia Award from the Shanghai Municipal Government, which is given to expatriates for their contribution to the economic development of the city. He also received the 2014 Australia China Alumni Award for Banking and Finance. -
Rumorpile: China's Wanxiang Group To Launch Karma With Making Any Changes
William Maley posted an article in Karma
Fisker's new owner, the Wanxiang Group wants to get the Fisker Karma back on the marketplace as soon as possible. How fast? According to a report from Reuters, the company is planning to stick with the original 2012 design. A source tells Reuters the reason for sticking with the older design is due to not going through crash testing and certification again. "It will have to be nearly identical to the 2012 model, or it would need to go through (safety) testing and certification again. I don’t think they want to put a lot of engineering into it either, as well as probably use up some of the old parts that are in inventory," said the source. However this plan presents a problem. Suppliers who dealt with Fisker aren't happy with the brand because of losses suffered with the company going under. "They lost money and had dedicated facilities that were severely underutilized. Many scrapped their tools or took them out of their facilities," another source said. Now a source close to Fisker says the Karma will be slightly different, but wouldn't go into detail about what will change. “Not 100 percent identical. The new Karma will be different in many key areas. It will have noticeable upgrades.” Source: Reuters William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.
