2008 Mitsubishi Lancer

The all-new Mitsubishi Lancer for 2008 delivers thrilling dynamics, "class-up" value, advanced safety and cutting-edge user-technology in an aggressively styled package. The new Lancer brings the bold, dynamic lines of the Mitsubishi Concept-X to the showroom, with a shark-nosed front end, a distinct wedge-like profile and crisp, taut lines.

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS

Lancer is available as the value-minded DE, the well-equipped ES and the sport-tuned GTS.

The 2008 Lancer is based on a new performance-engineered global platform that also forms the foundation of the new Mitsubishi Outlander SUV. The new Lancer has a longer wheelbase and wider track, but slightly shorter overall length than the previous model.

All Lancer models are powered by a new 2.0-liter 152 hp aluminum DOHC MIVEC 4-cylinder engine (143 hp PZEV in Calif.) teamed to a 5-speed manual transmission. The new Lancer offers an optional continuously variable transmission (CVT), that, in the GTS model, exclusively features a 6-step Sportronic(R) mode using magnesium steering wheel paddle shifters.

The Lancer ES projects a refined appearance with 5-spoke 16-in. alloy wheels, color-keyed door handles and mirrors and a chrome grille surround. The GTS has more aggressive styling, with 10-spoke 18-in. alloy wheels, front and side air dams, fog lights, a rear spoiler and a chrome tailpipe tip. The GTS features sport-tuned suspension, 215/45R18 tires and larger 4-wheel disc brakes.

The Lancer's interior is characterized by clean and crisp surfaces and high-quality materials. Each Lancer model is distinguished by its own distinct seating materials and interior trim.

Standard safety features for all Lancer models include an advanced dual front air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with occupant sensors, standard front seat-mounted side-impact air bags and side curtain air bags, a driver's knee air bag, plus a tire pressure monitor system. The ES and GTS models add a standard anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), which is available for the DE.

All Lancer models for 2008 come pre-wired for SIRIUS(R) Satellite Radio. The optional Sun and Sound Package available for the ES and GTS includes a 650-Watt (max.), Rockford-Fosgate(R) Premium Audio system plus a power glass sunroof and SIRIUS Satellite Radio with 6- month pre-paid subscription.

The GTS features a standard Bluetooth(R) wireless technology cell phone interface system with voice recognition for hands-free calling (available for the ES). The ES and GTS offer an optional navigation system that includes a 30-gigabyte hard drive navigation system with digital music server and Mitsubishi Multi-Communication System. Both models also offer the FAST Key (Freehand Advanced Security Transmitter) entry system. FAST Key allows the driver to unlock the vehicle simply by having the remote in a pocket or purse and grasping the handle on either of the front doors.

Key Specifications
Wheelbase: 103.7 in.
Length: 180.0 in.
Height: 58.7 in.
Width: 69.4 in.
Curb weight range: 2,922 lbs. (DE w/ 5-speed) to 3,109 lbs. (GTS w/ CVT)

Major Standard Features (DE)

* 140-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with digital signal processing, MP3 playback capability and four speakers
* 16-inch steel wheels with full cover
* Adjustable rear head restraints (x3)
* Anti-theft engine immobilizer
* Auto-off halogen headlamps with DRLs
* Dual-stage front air bag SRS with front passenger occupant sensors, curtain side air bags, driver's knee air bag, and front seat mounted side-impact air bags
* Power windows and folding side view mirrors
* RISE chassis construction
* Side marker lamps
* Tilt-adjustable steering column
* Trunk lid inner trim

ES model adds:

* 16-inch alloy wheels
* 60:40 split folding rear seat with folding armrest and cupholders
* Air conditioning with micron cabin air filtration
* Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with electronic brake distribution (EBD)
* Anti-theft security alarm system
* Center floor console box with armrest
* Chrome grille, color-keyed outer door handles and side view mirrors
* Floor mats
* Front map lamps
* Height-adjustable driver's seat
* Power locks with remote keyless entry system
* Rear seat heater floor ducts
* Steering wheel Bluetooth cell phone ready pre-wire switch
* Steering wheel illuminated cruise and audio control switches

GTS models add over ES:

* 18-inch alloy wheels
* 6-speaker audio system
* Automatic climate control system
* Chrome exhaust finisher
* Chrome-plated inner door levers
* Fog lights
* Front and side air dams
* Hands-free Bluetooth cellular phone interface system with voice recognition
* Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
* Rear spoiler
* Sport bucket seats (front)
* Sportronic magnesium steering wheel shifter paddles (with optional continuously variable transmission)
* Sport-tuned suspension including front strut tower brace

Option Packages

* A/C & Power Package (DE): air conditioning, anti-lock brake system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), power door locks and driver's window auto-up function.

* Technology and Appearance Package (ES): FAST Key entry system, Bluetooth(R) wireless technology cell phone interface system with voice recognition for hands-free calling; upgraded 6-speaker audio system, MP3/auxiliary audio inputs, SIRIUS Satellite Radio with 6-month pre-paid service subscription, trunk lip spoiler, chrome exhaust tip and chrome beltline accents.

* Sun & Sound Package (ES and GTS): 650-Watt (max.) Rockford-Fosgate Premium Audio system with PUNCH control; 6CD/MP3 in-dash changer; auxiliary stereo input jack; power glass sunroof with sunshade and SIRIUS Satellite Radio with 6-month pre-paid service subscription.

* Navigation & Technology Package (GTS): FAST Key entry system; Hard Disk Drive (30GB) satellite GPS navigation system with 7-inch touch panel, digital music server and single-disc player and Mitsubishi Multi-Communication System.

Daimler Chairman Dieter Zetsche Presents smart fortwo to US Govt. Representatives and Business

At a traditional luncheon with prominent speakers hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, Daimler Chairman Dr. Dieter Zetsche today presented the smart fortwo to representatives of U.S. businesses and government as an environmentally friendly solution for future mobility. Starting in January, the compact model, which has already been very successful in Europe with about 850,000 units sold, will also be available in the U.S.

2008 smart fortwo micro hybrid drive (mhd)

In his presentation to the high-profile audience in Washington, Dr. Zetsche expressed his conviction that the smart fortwo will be a resounding success in the U.S. as well. The reason is that the smallest model produced by Mercedes-Benz Cars is a standout - not only because of its unique compact design and intelligent, safety-oriented construction, but also thanks to its low fuel consumption and exemplary environmental friendliness. "Europeans are enthusiastic about the smart and we are beginning to see Americans share this enthusiasm," said Dr. Zetsche. "More than 50,000 Americans have already tested the smart in our U.S. road show, and over 30,000 of them have by now reserved a vehicle.”

Zetsche added that he could well imagine a large-scale project in cooperation with a partner city in the U.S. to test the electrically powered smart fortwo, similar to the project that is currently running in London. Interested guests were able to experience the "zero-emission" smart fortwo at first hand during today's event and form their own impressions through test drives.

The distribution partner for the sale of smart models in the U.S. will be the Penske Automotive Group.

Daimler Presents European Carrier Awards 2007

First place in the passenger car category awarded to Horst Mosolf GmbH & Co KG

Stuttgart - At the European Carrier Days 2007, Daimler AG once again honored its best providers of vehicle transport logistics in Europe. The awards were presented at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart–Untertürkheim. In addition to the European Carrier Awards Passenger Cars, which were presented for the eighth time, Daimler also presented the fourth European Carrier Awards Commercial Vehicles for the fourth time this year.

As was the case last year, first place in the passenger car category went to the freight forwarding company Horst Mosolf GmbH & Co. KG Internationale Spedition from Kirchheim/Teck, Germany. Daimler was once again particularly impressed by the company’s outstanding logistics processes, which are supported by a consistent and continuous system of quality management and controlling. Second place went to Frankenbach Automobil Logistik GmbH from Ginsheim-Gustavsburg, Germany, while Akkermann Transporte GmbH from Moormerland, Germany, finished third.

In the commercial vehicles category, first place was once again awarded to Helf Automobil-Logistik GmbH in Essen, Germany. The company received the award primarily in recognition of its outstanding logistics processes, which have been further enhanced, and its sophisticated quality management system. Second and third place went to Galliker Transport AG from Switzerland and Frankenbach Automobil Logistik GmbH from Germany, respectively.

The award winners are selected on the basis of key performance indicators that are assessed in an auditing process which has been standardized for both passenger cars and commercial vehicles since 2004. Over the course of a year, all of the companies’ vehicle shipments are continuously monitored with regard to transport damage, transport time, the quality of vehicle shipping, and the general condition of the equipment used. The results are subsequently evaluated.

“We consistently enhanced the evaluation process for our service providers in order to move forward on the road toward achieving operational excellence in the transport logistics of complete vehicles,” says Egon Christ, head of Transport Logistics Vehicles at Daimler. “We have set up a comprehensive company assessment system with the aim of ensuring that our service providers continuously optimize all of their processes on a sustained basis. In order to further boost people’s motivation for achieving top performance, we will directly link the remuneration of commercial vehicle transports to performance in the future. In doing so, we are taking advantage of our extensive experience with passenger car transports, for which we introduced performance-based remuneration two years ago.”

At the European Carrier Days, Daimler also staged a special informational trade show that was expanded compared to last year's event. Representatives from about 100 European shipping companies attended the show to discuss the latest developments in the sector and obtain information on current plans and concepts for vehicle logistics.

Ford of Canada Truck Sales Up 3%

Led by Ford F-Series, truck sales momentum continues into November

OAKVILLE, Ontario, December 3, 2007 – November proved to be another winning month for Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited, where truck sales increased three per cent. Not to be outdone, Ford cars also saw a rise in sales in November – namely the newly redesigned Ford Focus and Ford Taurus.

November Highlights:

* Ford F-Series sales up 4%
* Ford Focus sales increase 6%
* Ford Taurus sales rise 14% in November
* Ford Ranger sales increase 33% and achieve best November on record
* Ford SUV sales are up 11%

"Our showrooms are bustling with pre-holiday traffic," said Bill Osborne, president and CEO, Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited. "The 'Get in and Drive' year-end clearance has given Canadians even more reason to take a second look at the great products Ford has to offer. From the bold new look of the 2008 Ford Focus, to the enduring Ford Ranger and the reliable Ford F-Series work-horse, Ford of Canada provides vehicles to suit any need."

Last month, Ford of Canada's overall sales decreased 8.3 per cent to 15,971 units. Total truck sales were up 2.7 per cent at 12,039 units and total car sales of 3,932 units mark a 30.9 per cent decline compared to last November. This shift in car sales volume is partially due to a planned reduction in fleet sales.

Ford Delivers First Escape Plug-In Hybrid To Southern California Edison

First Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) delivered to Southern California Edison as part of unique partnership to advance commercialization of PHEVs

ANAHEIM, Calif., Dec. 3 - Ford Motor Company’s first demonstration Escape Plug-In Hybrid is ready to roll on California roads. Ford today delivered the first of 20 research PHEVs to Southern California Edison to begin road testing as part of a unique partnership between the automaker and utility.

Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid

The Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid, a research vehicle using high voltage, lithium-ion batteries, can deliver up to 120 miles per gallon which would mean far fewer trips to the gas station. The vehicle uses common household current (120 volts) for charging. Full charge of the battery takes six to eight hours. When driven for the first 30 miles following a full charge, the Ford Escape PHEV can achieve up to 120 mpg when driven on surface streets. The vehicle is not range limited by the amount of charge available in the high-voltage lithium-ion battery, because once the charge in the battery has been depleted, the vehicle continues to operate as a fuel efficient, standard Ford Escape Hybrid. The transition is automatic and unnoticeable to the driver.

The delivery comes just five months after Ford and Southern California Edison announced their collaboration to advance the commercialization of plug-ins by exploring the values of new technologies and new business models when the battery is connected to the home and, in time, the electrical grid.

“The electrification of vehicles has sparked significant interest in this country. The delivery of this Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid research vehicle today represents another step in our development and understanding of the technology and its place in the overall energy picture,” said Sue Cischke, senior vice president, Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering. “PHEVs are one element of our blueprint for sustainability that includes actions ranging from refinements in gasoline fueled engines and transmissions, to the development of hydrogen fuel cells.”

“We are united in a common cause,” said Lynda Ziegler, Southern California Edison’s senior vice president, Customer Service. “We bring our expertise in energy production, delivery and management, and combine it with Ford’s expertise in hybrid technology. Together, we are seeking solutions to address the needs of our shared customers and to ultimately help this nation achieve energy independence and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. “This is not about simply connecting the car to the grid. It’s about integrating vehicles and energy storage technologies into the energy system of the future”.

The two companies are exploring new business models related to the electrification of vehicles that could help lower the cost of PHEVs to make them more affordable to consumers.

“Although the energy infrastructure is in place, significant challenges remain for widespread adoption of PHEVs,” said Cischke. “Cost, durability and reliability issues all need to be addressed before these vehicles can make a significant impact on the global issues of climate change and energy security.”

Ford and SCE will jointly conduct testing of the vehicles, some of which may be evaluated in typical customer settings to model overall home and grid values. The testing will provide valuable data related to the durability, reliability and safety of new battery technology. The cost of advanced lithium ion batteries means the technology is currently not economically feasible for widespread vehicle application.

GM Canada Receives Top Honours at the AJAC “Best New” Vehicle Awards

GM Canada was today honoured by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), which named 4 GM entries as the best new vehicle in their respective categories.

The recognition results from recent back-to-back driving evaluations of over 60 new vehicles at the recent AJAC Test Fest evaluation - the foundation of the Canadian Car of the Year Awards (CCOTY) program.

2008 Saturn Astra XR

Saturn Astra: Best New Small Car
Saturn Vue: Best New CUV $35,000-$60,000
Buick Enclave: Best New CUV over $60,000
Chevrolet Silverado: Best New Pickup Truck

Over 70 of Canada’s top automotive journalists judged this year’s competition which aims to provide consumers with sound, comparative information on new vehicles.

“We’re honoured by these awards from Canada’s top automotive journalists, which we think will help consumers appreciate the strides GM has made in terms of product design, technology, fuel efficiency and quality,” said Marc Comeau vice president of sales, service and marketing for GM of Canada. “With surprising levels of content and benefits like OnStar and GM’s leading coverage, customers get much more for their money with a GM vehicle today.”

2008 Buick Enclave launch with Tiger Woods

The stylish and fuel efficient Saturn Astra impressed many with its excellent driving character and surprising level of content – all for less than $18,000.

The Saturn Vue compact crossover utility topped the competition’s largest category, edging out 10 other entries with its combination of style, driving character, safety, efficiency and value.

The Enclave proved that Buick offers quality and refinement at the very top of the class, but at a price Canadians can truly afford.

2008 Chevrolet Silverado LTZ Extended Cab

The Chevrolet Silverado extends GM’s decades-long legacy of sales leadership in full-size pickups, with a segment-best combination of fuel efficiency and capability that has seen sales continue to climb since its Canadian launch.

AJAC CATEGORY ENTRIES:

SMALL CAR

Saturn Astra, Ford Focus SE , Mitsubishi Lancer GTS, Subaru Impreza Sedan, Suzuki SX4 Sedan

SUV / CUV $35,000 - $60,000

Saturn Vue, Hyundai Veracruz, Infiniti EX, Jeep Grand Cherokee Diesel, LandRover LR2, GMC Acadia SLT, Mazda CX-9, Nissan Pathfinder, Subaru Tribeca, Toyota Highlander, Volvo XC70

SUV / CUV over $60,000

Buick Enclave, BMW X5, Mercedes M-Class , Mercedes G-Class

PICK-UP

Chevrolet Silverado, Dodge Dakota, GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra

Audi R8 Is Autobild's "SportsCar 2007"

Only pure-bred sports cars are crowned “SportsCar” of the year by a panel of experts in the Autobild SportsCars monthly magazine. Following its victory in the March 2007 issue, the Audi R8 has now been awarded top place overall, and has thus secured the title of “SportsCar 2007”, one of the German car industry’s most sought-after awards.

2008 Audi R8

The trophy was presented to Werner Frowein, Managing Director of quattro GmbH, during the magazine’s “Race Night”, which formed part of the Essen Motor Show. The Audi subsidiary was responsible for developing the 420 bhp mid-engined R8 sports car, which it also manufactures. The Audi R8 is hand-built at quattro GmbH in Neckarsulm.

Together with the TÜV Rheinland inspection authority, members of the magazine’s panel conduct demanding on-road tests on an ongoing basis to assess the qualities of the very latest sports cars. They then present their favourites as the monthly winners in each new issue. At the end of October, the jury cast a discerning eye on the twelve winning vehicles at the Contidrom test circuit in Hanover.

The experts’ concluding remarks: “The Audi R8 wins because it is currently the most complete vehicle with the hottest body in the sports segment and, despite being a newcomer, displays no serious weaknesses.”

Source: Audi