2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback on sale in U.S. this summer

Mitsubishi finally announced what we've known all along: the five-door Lancer Sportback is coming to the States for the 2010 model year and sales will begin this summer.

The 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback builds on the already competent Lancer sedan, although the overall length is slightly longer to accommodate the new hatch. One-touch auto-folding rear seats split 60:40 to make room for "active lifestyle" parcels and Mitsubishi dropped the rear cargo area floor by three inches to create 52.7 cubic-feet of space when the rear thrones are folded flat.

The Sportback will be available in two trims, beginning in GTS form and equipped with Mitsubishi's 168 hp, 2.4-liter inline four mated to either a five-speed manual or CVT with six "virtual" ratios. More importantly, the Sportback will be offered in Ralliart guise, with the detuned Evolution X's turbocharged 4B11 2.0-liter four putting out 237 hp and 253 lb.-ft. of torque. Power will be doled out to all four wheels through Mitsubishi's All-Wheel Control (AWC) system with Active Center Differential (ACD), and buyers can opt for either the six-speed Twin Clutch-Sportronic Shift transmission (TC-SST) or CVT gearbox, both of which are manipulated by a set of magnesium-alloy paddle shifters.

PRESS RELEASE

Mitsubishi Motors Brings Versatile New Five-Door Sportback To Award-Winning U.S. Lancer Lineup

Mitsubishi Motors North America today confirmed that the versatile all-new five-door Lancer Sportback will arrive in U.S. dealerships this summer for the 2010 model year. The Sportback will meld high performance and progressive design with an extra dose of utility to feed the most active lifestyles. The newest member of the multiple award-winning Lancer family is part of Mitsubishi's refocused efforts to introduce new models designed to meet evolving consumer demands. MSRP will be announced nearer to its summer on-sale date.

"American consumers are increasingly asking for fun, attractive, yet practical cars that complement their active and individual lifestyles," said Dan Kuhnert, executive vice president of sales and marketing for Mitsubishi Motors North America. "The Lancer Sportback answers those calls with a heady mix of performance, aggressive styling and the bonus of greatly increased utility, and will be available in two versions - the economical GTS and high-performance Ralliart. The five-door platform has considerable upside potential in the domestic market."

Mitsubishi designers created a dynamic new shape for the Sportback that is instantly recognizable as a Lancer from the front, with its signature "jet fighter" grille, while being completely fresh from the C-pillar rearward. The key element is a sleekly sloping rear door with integrated "roof wing" that creates a visually distinctive shape while making the Lancer significantly more versatile. The door extends down to the rear bumper to make loading cumbersome objects like surfboards, camping gear and bicycles as easy as possible.

The Sportback's overall length is just slightly longer than the Lancer four-door sedan, yet it gains substantial cargo-carrying flexibility-especially when the 60:40-split rear seats are folded flat. One-touch auto-folding rear seats make the newfound space almost effortless to configure. To add still more volume, the rear cargo-area floor of the GTS version can be cleverly lowered three inches, yielding 52.7 cubic ft. maximum cargo space. The roof will also conveniently accommodate a plug-in Thule® Sport Rack for additional flexibility.

The Sportback's basic architecture, technical features and most optional equipment is shared with the Lancer sedan, a winner of several awards, including:

• J.D. Power and Associates' 2008 Navigation Usage and Satisfaction Study, naming the touch-screen interface system an industry-leader and the first non-premium brand to ever capture the award
• NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
• IIHS Top Safety Pick
• CNET Editors' Choice (Lancer Evolution)
• MSN Top-10 New Cars

Sportback GTS models feature Mitsubishi's efficient 2.4-liter engine with 168 horsepower and 167 pound-feet of torque, mated to either a five-speed manual or six-speed CVT automatic transmission.

The Sportback Ralliart is powered by a 2.0-liter MIVEC turbocharged engine that pumps out 237 horsepower and 253 lb.-ft. of torque. All-Wheel Control (AWC) with Active Center Differential (ACD) is standard, as is the quick-shifting six-speed Twin Clutch-Sportronic® Shift Transmission (TC-SST) that it shares with the Lancer Evolution. Both the CVT and Twin-Clutch transmissions include magnesium-alloy paddle shifters.

Premium interior features like those found on the Lancer sedans are also part of the Sportback's resume. Key components in the Ralliart version include a standard 140-watt CD/MP3 audio system with six speakers or an available 710-watt Rockford-Fosgate Premium Sound System, in-dash CD changer with MP3 capability, plus Sirius Satellite Radio. A hard disc-drive navigation system with Mitsubishi's exclusive Diamond Lane Guidance to provide route guidance is optional, as are Recaro sport seats that provide optimal support for the driver and front passenger.

The Lancer Sportback also formed the basis for Mitsubishi's 2009 Dakar Rally effort earlier this year. The Dakar is the most grueling rally race in the world and Mitsubishi vehicles have won the event 12 times since their first attempt in 1983.

As an important test bed for future technology, the Racing Lancers used at the Dakar reflected Mitsubishi's ongoing efforts to minimize the automobile's environmental footprint with such features as clean diesel power, bio-fuel capability and plant-based "green plastic" body components.

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Hyundai Super Bowl Commercial

Hyundai revealed commercial that will be seen this weekend during Super Bowl. This one looks like the product of the behind-the-scenes video we saw last week.

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Aston Martin Rapide production version images leaked

AutoCar seems to have the jump on everyone, and has revealed today the first “official” images of the production version of the Aston Martin Rapide. The look of the car is a little toned down from the concept car, but still carries a lot of the spirit, and is definitely unmistakably Aston.

The super-sedan will use its DB9 sibling for much of its mechanics. The Rapide will use a stretched version of the DB9’s platform and also its utilize the 6.0-liter V12 making between 480 - 500 hp. AutoCar puts the price at £140,000 (about $200,000 at direct current rates), which if true, puts the Rapide between the DB9 and the DBS in Aston’s lineup.

[Source:AutoCar]

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Tesla cancels plans to move to San Jose

Tesla's plans to eventually build a pair of new factories for the Model S and powertrain components in San Jose, CA have run into a ditch. The move was announced last September, just before the (official) collapse of the world's financial markets. However, the plan ran into trouble quickly when Tesla was unable to complete a $100 million round of Series venture funding. Not long after that, the up-start nearly ran out cash before existing investors put in another $40 million. The bulk of the $400 million required to build the two factories and move its headquarters from San Carlos to the new San Jose campus were expected to be provided by low interest loans from the Department of Energy.

However, the DOE loan program favors redevelopment of existing industrial sites and the San Jose location was a greenfield. Tesla is now looking for new locations including former factory sites in both the Silicon Valley area and Southern California. Without the DOE money, it will be extremely difficult for Tesla to build anything new and getting that loan will be increasingly problematic. The program requires applicants to raise matching equity investments of 20-30% of the loan amount, which in this case would amount to $100-150 million. Since Tesla already failed to raise that much last fall, it's not clear that it can happen now.

[Source: BizJournals.com]

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Volvo announces 2010 XC60 pricing starting at $37,200

Pricing has been released for the 2010 Volvo XC60 crossover, and the T6 with standard AWD and Volvo's pioneering City Safety low-speed collision protection system will have a base price of $37,200 plus destination. Power is provided by a turbocharged 3.0L T6 engine pumping out a solid 281 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Premium features like leather, power driver's seat, SIRIUS, Bluetooth, and HD Radio with USB and AUX ports are all standard. The Panorama moonroof will even be offered at no charge as part of an introductory offer, although Volvo hasn't said how much it will run after that.

Four different option packages available on the XC60, beginning with the Climate Package for $1,000 which includes heated seats fore and aft, heated windshield washer nozzles, rain sensing wipers, headlamp washers, and an Interior Air Quality System (IAQS) with a humidity sensor. The Technology Package will retail for $2,700 and adds a 650-watt Dynaudio stereo with 12 speakers and Dolby surround sound, plus Volvo's DVD navigation system with real time traffic and a rear park assist camera setup. This being a Volvo, of course there's a safety package as well.

The Collision Avoidance Package adds another $1,695 to the bottom line and includes a big bowl of alphabet soup: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Collision Warning with Auto Brake (CWAB), Distance Alert (DA), Driver Alert Control (DAC), and Lane Departure Warning (LDW). That's a lot of tech for such a small package and the availability of these features, although increasingly moving downmarket, can help justify the seemingly very premium base price of the vehicle. You even get free maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles as part of Volvo's new program.

PRESS RELEASE

Volvo Announces Pricing of the New 2010 XC60

San Francisco, CA (Jan. 29, 2009) - Anticipation is growing as Volvo Cars of North America, LLC, (VCNA) today announced pricing of the exciting new 2010 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD small premium utility. With a starting price of just $37,200* for the well-equipped XC60, buyers will have it all: Class-leading safety, stunning design and unrivaled driving dynamics. The new Volvo XC60 goes on sale this March.

The XC60 is Volvo's entry into the growing small premium utility segment. Features such as leather seating surfaces with a power driver's seat, SIRIUS satellite radio (with complimentary six-month subscription), hands-free Bluetooth connectivity, HD Radio technology with USB and AUX ports are all standard. As a special introductory offer, the unique Panorama moonroof will be offered at no charge. Customers may also opt for Volvo's DVD-based navigation system with integrated back-up camera and two new colors: Lime Grass Green or Terra Bronze.

Continuing Volvo's quest as a pioneer and leader in vehicle safety systems, the XC60 introduces a new world's first -- City Safety -- as standard equipment. City Safety is a driver-support system aimed at preventing or mitigating collisions occurring at speeds of 19 mph or less.

The new Volvo XC60 is the first production expression of Volvo's new design DNA. As a crossover, it artfully blends a dynamic mix of two car styles. Down below, the unmistakable, immensely capable XC pumps up its muscles creating a strong athletic body that is mated with high ground clearance and large wheels. Up top the flowing lines create the sporty charisma of a coupe.

The 3.0-liter turbocharged T6 engine is based on Volvo's naturally aspirated 3.2-liter inline all-aluminum six-cylinder that was introduced in the Volvo S80 in 2008. The T6 delivers 281 horsepower with torque of no less than 295 lb.-ft., combining for best-in-class performance. Maximum torque is available from just 1,500 rpm and remains on tap throughout the rev range. The result is swift acceleration and impressive passing performance. Volvo's all-wheel-drive system with Instant Traction is standard in the new XC60.

The XC60 is also included in Volvo's recently announced Complimentary Factory Scheduled Maintenance program, which covers the first three years or 36,000 miles (whichever comes first). Complimentary Factory Scheduled Maintenance helps reduce the cost of ownership by providing customers the first four maintenance visits to their Volvo retailer as complimentary. A wide range of services are covered by the program, including oil and filter changes, cabin filter replacement, complete fluid level top-offs and a check of the vehicle's on-board diagnostic system.

VCNA, part of Volvo Car Corporation in Gothenburg, Sweden, provides marketing, sales, parts, service, technology and training support to Volvo automobile retailers in the United States, and oversees Volvo operations in Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.

The 2009 Volvo Cars model lineup includes the award-winning S40 and its wagon counterpart the V50; the award-winning XC90; the sporty S60 sedan; the flagship S80 luxury sedan; versatile V70 wagon and rugged XC70 (Cross Country); the stunning C70 retractable hardtop convertible and the dynamic C30.

2010 Volvo XC60 T6 Pricing

MSRP $37,200

Destination Charge $825

OPTION PACKAGES

Climate Package $1,000

• Heated front seats
• Heated rear seats
• Heated windshield washer nozzles
• Rainsensor windshield wipers
• Headlamp washers
• Interior Air Quality System (IAQS)
• Humidity Sensor

Technology Package $2,700

• Dynaudio® Premium Sound System, Dolby Pro-Logic II® Surround Sound, 650-watt amplifier, 12 Dynaudio® speakers, rear seat headphone jacks, audio controls
• Volvo Navigation System with Real Time Traffic, DVD map data and remote control
• Rear Park Assist Camera

Collision Avoidance Package $1,695

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
• Collision Warning with Auto Brake (CWAB)
• Distance Alert (DA)
• Driver Alert Control (DAC)
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW)

Convenience Package $1,000

• Grocery bag holder
• 12V power outlet in cargo area
• Front and rear park assist
• Power tailgate
• Homelink remote garage door opener

OPTIONS
Black Sapphire Metallic $525
Electric Silver Metallic $675
Maple Red Pearl $525
Barrents Blue $525
Silver Metallic $525
Lime Grass Green Pearl $525
Savile Grey Pearl $525
Terra Bronze Pearl $525
Dual onboard two-stage child booster seats with adaptive seatbelts and power child rear door locks $495
Dual Xenon with Gas Discharge Headlights with Active Bending Light $800
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) $695
Personal Car Communicator (PCC) with Keyless drive $550
Nordic Light Oak inlays $295
Panorama moonroof n/c

*Price does not include destination charges of $825

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Ford reports 4th quarter net loss of $5.9 billion

Ford has so far been able to avoid suckling on the teat of the federal government like its cross-town rivals, but after today's announcement of a 2008 fourth-quarter loss of $5.9 billion, serious questions are beginning to arise about how FoMoCo will fair in 2009.

This will be the third consecutive year Ford hasn't posted a profit, with a $2.8 billion loss in the previous year and $620 million drop during the same quarter of 2007. Ford wrapped up 2008 with $13.4 billion in cash reserves, but has announced plans to draw $10.1 billion in available credit to weather what's sure to be a rough 2009. That would bring Ford's liquidity up to $23.5 billion, sans the money already used for January, and the automaker contends that this is enough to meet its goals for the year. However, if Ford continues its fourth-quarter cash burn rate of $1.83 billion a month, there's a distinct possibility that FoMoCo execs might be knocking on Uncle Sam's door before the year comes to a close.

On a more positive note, Ford posted a 2008 pre-tax profit of $1.06 billion in Europe, although the last quarter saw a drop of $330 million. Hit the jump for Ford's full press release.

[Source: Ford]

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Porsche unveils updated 911 GT3 for 2010

Porsche has released photos of the new 2010 911 GT3 ahead of its official debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March and the revised model features a host of upgrades that make it even more potent than its predecessor. The naturally aspirated flat-six has been enlarged to 4.0-liters, and now produces 435 horsepower good for a 0-100 km/h sprint in 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 193 mph. Handling is improved as well, with a modified stability management system that allows for graduated settings for both stability and traction controls, along with enlarged carbon ceramic brakes that improve stopping distances. On the outside, the GT3 gets several subtle revisions including a redesigned rear spoiler, more angular LED taillights, new bi-xenon headlights, modified air intakes on the front bumper, and a new front spoiler that can be adjusted from the cockpit.

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Aston Martin plant down to three-day work week

Late last year, Aston Martin announced that it would reduce its ranks by some 600 workers to cope with a sales slide of 28% in 2008. Apparently, those cuts, which are now halfway completed, weren't enough to stem the tide of red ink, as Bond's favorite automaker has now said it will place its entire staff of assembly line workers on a work week that starts on Monday and ends on Wednesday. A total of 1,250 individuals now work at the Gaydon, Warwickshire plant, and almost half of those employees will be affected by the three-day work week.

Bentley, another famous British automaker, announced its own production cuts just yesterday. In response to the industry hardships faced by automakers in the U.K., the British government has promised £2.3 billion worth of aid, though we're not yet sure how much will go to smaller companies like Aston Martin.

[Source: BBC]

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Bentley to stop building cars for six weeks

As expected, Bentley will be forced to slow production of its high-end luxury cars for several weeks over the next few months. According to Bentley's U.S. spokesman David Reuter, the newer Continental line will shut down for a period of seven weeks, while the slightly more mature Arnage production line will go on hiatus for six weeks. Over the course of 2008, sales dropped by roughly 30%, leading Bentley's factory in Crewe to cut production by about 15% and things aren't expected to improve in 2009. Regardless, Bentley's German ownership isn't yanking development dollars from the British brand, so any new products that were slated for introduction in 2009 are still on schedule.

[Source: Inside Line]

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Lamborghini Reventon up for sale in Silicon Valley

Even with a limited run of 20, a seven-figure price tag and ten making to the United States, you can bet there were more people who wanted to get their hands on a Lamborghini Reventon than there were examples on the market. However, one man's loss will be another man's gain, and a Reventon has just popped up for sale in California.

For those who've forgotten already, the Reventon was a special rebodied version of Lamborghini's flagship Murcielago supercar. It was named after a famous matador-killing fighting bull, painted any color the customer wanted (as long as it was grey – Grigio Reventon to be specific), treated to the very best the company had to offer and slapped with such a mark-up it'd leave a handprint on your face. But even with such a gargantuan sticker price, buyers knew it was bound to become an instant collectors' item. Case in point: this example, originally purchased eight months ago in St. Louis, has only 73 miles on the odometer, which we think is criminal. Let's hope someone buys it and drives it like it's meant to be driven.

[Source: Silicon Valley Auto Group via PistonHeads]

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World Car of the Year - finalists announced

The WCOTY (world car of the year) will be announced in April at the New York Auto Show, but now we can narrow it down to 11 finialists:

- Audi A4 / Avant
- BMW 7 Series
- Citroen C5 Sedan / C5 Tourer
- Fiat 500
- Ford Fiesta
- Honda Fit / Jazz
- Jaguar XF
- Mazda Atenza / Mazda6
- Nissan GT-R
- Toyota iQ
- Volkswagen Golf VI.

A jury of fifty-nine international automotive journalists representing Asia, Europe, North America, South America, as well as other parts of the world, selected the finalists by secret ballot. Usually ten are chosen, but a tie has widened the field to eleven.

Just because this was represented by international journalists, doesn’t mean the field is complete. They may have left a few cars out, so go ahead and write in your WCOTY vote here. It won’t effect the judging, but that hasn’t stopped anyone from arguing on the internet before.

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911 Carrera and Targa 4 get new Sports Exhaust System

To get the most out of a Porsche exhaust system, it has to be tuned to a tone that would likely get its owners in trouble with noise ordinances in their well-heeled neighborhoods. But Porsche doesn’t want its enthusiasts to drive tames cars, and it developed a new adjustable sports exhaust system for the Carrera and Targa 4.

The heart of the system is the exhaust flap on each main silencer activated by the engine’s electronic control system and switching over to a more sporting sound as soon as the driver activates the sound mode. The system itself is activated by a separate button in the center console varying the sound of the exhaust as a function of engine load, road speed and engine speed.

So the price to have all this control at your fingertips, a paltry $2500.

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HUMMER H2 production suspended

General Motors and AM General have announced that 200 workers at the Mishawaka, Indiana, plant where the HUMMER H2 and military versions of the HMMWV are assembled will be temporarily laid off until at least March. All of the affected workers assemble civilian HUMMERS, though it's rumored that the company may move some of these displaced employees to the military side of the operation.

This round of cuts can be attributed to slow sales of large, fuel-thirsty SUVs in general and the aging H2 in particular. AM General spokesperson Craig Mac Nab was quoted as saying, "Nobody knows what's going to happen with the H2 plant." In fact, nobody at either company is talking about when these employees may be called back or when H2 production will resume, leading some of us to wonder if it will pick back up at all.

[Source: Hummer Guy]

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Land Rover celebrates 500,000 sales in U.S.

Land Rover first clambered onto our shores in March, 1987. It took almost ten-and-a-half years to sell the first 100,000 vehicles in the U.S., but it took only five more to move the next 150,000. And now with an expanded lineup and the Range Rover still stalking the countryside as the king of the luxury SUV pride, Land Rover North America has taken just two-and-a-half years to sell another 100,000 units. When a Range Rover Sport left the lot in Cerritos, California this month, that totaled 500,000 Land Rovers bought and paid for. And so to you Land Rover, on your 60th birthday, a tip of the hat and half a million kudos.

[Source: Land Rover]

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Infiniti developing new crossover, hybrid for 2010

Take a quick glance at Infiniti's line-up in the United States. What's the most glaring omission? A range-topping luxury sedan or possibly a version of the GT-R to serve as it's sporting halo? Not according to John Capps, chairman of the Infiniti National Dealer Advisory Board, who says Infiniti dealers are pushing hard for another entry into the same near luxury segment where the G37 already competes along with another luxury crossover model. It seems that the EX, the automaker's latest CUV, is not selling up to expectations against rivals such as the Lexus RX-series due to its limited utility.

Up next for the automaker, though, are replacements for the M-series sedan and QX full-size SUV, which we surmise may come from a new platform since it's currently based on the Nissan Titan, which is slated to be replaced by a version of the Dodge Ram in a few years. On the green front, Infiniti is also said to have a hybrid on the way for 2010, though we're short on details as to which platform(s) will be so equipped.


[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

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the Ferrari Sport-Futility Vehicle

Sport Activity Coupe. Progressive Activity Sedan. It seems like BMW gets to come up with all the new high-minded vehicle segments, but we're going to submit one of our own: the Sport-Futility Vehicle. And this will be its purest application: the rumored Ferrari SUV. We call it a Sport-Futility Vehicle because it just won't happen. Ferrari's pledged it won't even make a sedan, much less a truck. Now we know what you're thinking. Porsche, Lamborghini, Spyker... they're all sportscar companies that have dabbled in sport-utes, and in some cases have even toyed with the idea of a sedan after their SUV had already established itself. But Ferrari has never offered (not in serial production, anyway) anything aside from two-door sportscars, and that's not about to change. But still, that won't stop people from spreading rumors or rendering their speculation. And this is the latest such effort.

Rendered by Edmundo Canno of Mexican car site Automovil, the concept drawings seem to blend elements of the Ferrari California with a Mazda CX-9 in a reasonably convincing package, except that the idea will never get off the drawing board. Power could theoretically be provided by the California's 450hp 4.3-liter V8 or the Fiorano's 612hp 6.0-liter V12, driving to all four wheels. Noting that Porsche collaborated with Volkswagen on the Cayenne/Touareg project, our friends south of the border surmise that Ferrari could share the costs of the SUV's development with sister brands Alfa Romeo and Maserati, or even with Fiat's new ally Chrysler, which seems about as likely as... well... Ferrari making an SUV, leaving this as nothing more than an exercise in the sport of futility.

[Source: Automovil]

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Honda S2000 to be terminated at the end of 2009 MY

Fans of Honda's four-wheeled sport-bike, the S2000, will want to snap one up soon, as Honda has announced that the S2000's ten-year production run will end at the close of the 2009 model year. The high-revving roadster has always had more in common with the company's high performance motorcycles, thanks to it's 9,000 rpm redline and minimal low-end torque. The S2000's abilities to tackle the twisties and assault the track have made it one of the go-to choices for enthusiasts, and with plenty of aftermarket support, it became a prime platform for tuners.

US sales of the S2000 dipped to a mere 72 units in December bringing the 12-month total to 2,538, down from 4,302 the year before. Over its ten-year run Honda has sold 110,000 S2000s world wide with about 65,000 of those here in the US.

[Source: Honda]

PRESS RELEASE

2009 Will Be Final Model Year of Production for Honda S2000

The 2009 Honda S2000 will be the final model year produced of the award-winning roadster, Honda announced today. First introduced in 1999 for the 2000 model year, the S2000 helped define its segment with class-leading handling, engine technology and value. Originally envisioned as a limited-edition tribute to Honda's 50th anniversary, S2000 production was extended in response to customer demand and critical acclaim.

"The S2000 is a sports car designed by enthusiasts for enthusiasts," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "It raised the bar for all future roadsters, and it's already considered a classic by many Honda fans."

As a true sports car that can serve as a practical and fun daily driver yet feel equally at home on a racetrack, this concept further evolved with a club racer-inspired S2000 CR trim, first offered in the 2008 model year. The S2000 has been honored with multiple awards through the years, including four appearances on Car and Driver Magazine's coveted "10-Best" list.

The S2000 is sold in 64 countries around the world with cumulative world-wide sales of over 110,000 since its introduction in 1999. Over 65,000 S2000s have been sold in the United States since 1999.

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Ferrari F50 Drifting

The Ferrari F50 doesn’t get a whole lot of respect in the super exotic Ferrari circles. It was rumored to be no faster than the F40 it replaced, and its replacement, the Enzo, may already have its replacement on the way. So what better way to get this car a little cred than show is got some drift chops?

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Cadillac CTS Coupe postponed until summer of 2010

The bad news: The Cadillac CTS coupe has been delayed until summer 2010

The good news: The Cadillac CTS coupe will go into production

When the CTS coupe first showed up at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, U.S. journalists were filled with almost a sense of patriotic pride knowing that this was the kind of leap forward that could get Cadillac out and ahead of the BMW 3-Series. We were almost brought to tears when we heard the production car would keep similar styling to the sexy concept (okay maybe not tears; all automotive journalists sold our souls a long time ago to get the job.)

Then the bottom fell out. Rising gas prices and a weak economy dried up customer showroom traffic and forced cutbacks. This eventually included the indefinite delay of the CTS coupe. The automotive press weeped again (or at least tried.) The only other people to feel the kind of crushing disappointment were those children who went to go see the new car dad bought, only to find out it was a Pacer.

This made us all fear the worst, and possibly demise of the two-door Caddy, but happy days are hear again. General Motors announced that the Cadillac CTS coupe is on for production in the summer of 2010. This is about a year later than originally scheduled, but just like your father trading in that Pacer, its a case of better late than never.

[Source:Automotive News]

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Ferrari Hyabusa Trike on display in Tokyo

There have been countless attempts to translate the Ferrari spirit from four wheels to two, ranging from sport bikes to choppers and everything in between. But this is the first we've seen with three wheels. That's right, in case your eyes couldn't adjust from the endless see of crimson contours, what you're looking at is a Ferrari trike.

Mirroring the "styling" of a Scuderia Ferrari F1 car, this one-off trike was spotted at the banzai Tokyo Auto Salon by the same people who brought us the no-less-bonkers Lamborghini ATV. Based around a 1.3-liter Suzuki Hayabusa engine and frame, this (thankfully) unique example was built by Trike Japan in order to showcase what they can do. We certainly hope the rest of their portfolio is a bit more tasteful than this showpiece, but we won't be holding our breath.

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Harley-Davidson to cut 1,100 jobs

Harley-Davidson is a company that has seen plenty of ups and downs over its 106-year history, having survived the Great Depression after being the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world through the 1920s. We may not quite be in another depression, but our current recession has caused sales, profits and share prices to fall fast and Harley is digging in for the long haul, announcing a plan to cut 1,100 jobs over the next two years. That figure that represents 10% of the company's entire workforce. More than half of those losses will be seen in the company's home state of Wisconsin, with the remainder coming from facilities in York, Pennsylvania, and Kansas City, Missouri. During the course of this restructuring, the Motor Company will also be replacing Jim Ziemer, the company's current chief executive. Sounds like a tough road ahead.

[Source: AP via Google]

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2010 Mazda3 to hit U.S. dealers in March

In a bit of good news for those currently in the market for a new compact car, Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO of Mazda's North American Operations, says that the redesigned 2010 Mazda3 is just now starting to show up in U.S. ports and is on schedule for a March sale date. That's also great news for Mazda, as the 3 is its best selling model in North America and is expected to help prop up lagging sales. As before, the new Mazda3 will be available in both sedan and hatchback form, with the choice of a 2.0L four-cylinder that offers 148 hp and 135 lb-ft of torque and a larger 2.5L four with 167 hp and 168 lb-ft of torque. In other news, O'Sullivan says that Mazda will not offer Ford's latest hybrid system in the firm's midsize 6 due to high cost considerations.

[Source: Wards]

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Gold Mercedes C63 AMG

Looks like Dubai likes its chromed Mercedes. Back in October we saw a chromed SLR in the desert city, and now we have pics of a C63 AMG going for the ultimate bling.

The look-at-me-shine of this car just can’t match the appeal of a simple matte black paint job. Always remember the understatement can say so much more.

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Bugatti Veyron in the snow

This the season for supercars in the snow. This week we’ve already seen two all-wheel drive juggernauts, the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 and the Nissan GT-R, take to the slick stuff. Now is time for the ultimate four-wheel drive exotic to weigh in, the $1.5 million Bugatti Veyron.

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Tata shooting for 80,000 Nanos by March of 2010, diesel in 2011

The troubles that Tata Motors has had in getting its Nano microcar off the ground have been well documented. After a series of protests turned violent over a land dispute between local farmers in West Bengal and the Indian automaker,, production was moved to Tata's Pantnagar facility. Despite the massive setback (Tata had almost completed construction of the main plant before moving), the Indian automaker reportedly believes that it can assemble 80,000 Nanos by March of 2010. By that time, a second plant in Sanand should be ready to go, and that would quickly become the main facility for the inexpensive car (though Pantnagar would still supplement the larger operation).

What's next for the ongoing saga that is The World's Cheapest Car? By the end of 2011, the Nano's will get a diesel engine option in addition to the standard 33-horsepower 625 cc twin-cylinder gas unit that will be powering all Nanos at launch. Also on the future menu will be such sybaritic options as air conditioning and an automatic gearbox.


[Source: Indian Autos Blog]

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Alfa Romeo to launch Junior sportscar based on MiTo

While the Alfa MiTo was under development, speculation placed a number of different nameplates on the sport hatch. One of them was Junior, but new reports suggest that Alfa may in fact be preparing an additional model to carry the Junior name.

Although the MiTo was earmarked to hold down the lower end of the Alfa Romeo range with styling drawn from the 8C Competizione, in terms of body style, at least, the new Junior may in fact be closer to the halo supercar – more of a sports coupe than a sport hatch. The platform will allegedly be based on the MiTo's, sharing some of the same engine options while introducing a new hydraulic manual as well as a new dual-clutch gearbox to the range. Little else is known about the Junior, but expect similar styling to the MiTo with a lower roofline and sleeker profile.

Sister company Lancia may yet get its own version to revive the Fulvia name, and given parent company Fiat's new alliance with Chrysler, we'd hope the new small sportscar might make it over the Atlantic as part of Alfa Romeo's long-anticipated return to the North American market.

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Tuner takes BMW X6 to the extreme with Tycoon

German tuner Hamann seems to have a knack for creatively naming its vehicles. There's the Volcano based on the McLaren SLR, the 911 Turbo dubbed Stallion, the Cayenne-based Cyclone, and even an F430 called the Black Miracle. The latest to be added to the Hamann lineup is the Tycoon, a widebody version of the BMW X6 that also gets a boost in power as well as some interior appointments. The body kit itself consists of a new front fascia and front and rear "wings" that provide the extra width, plus side skirts, a three-part diffuser and roof spoiler. Anodized 23-inch alloy wheels with a polished lip complete the look of the exterior.

Under the hood, Hamann boosts the twin-turbo inline-6 in the xDrive35i model to 360 horsepower, and a performance package for the Euro-only diesel engine is available as well. Inside, carbon fiber trim and aluminum accessories compliment a new three-spoke steering wheel.

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SSC Ultimate Aero EV claims 200 mile-range, 10 minute recharging

The unique curves of a supercar tend to attract a lot of attention. But these days, some people are likely to turn away from a sleek and powerful automobile once they learn it guzzles more gasoline than a Hummer. Thankfully, those people are usually the type that can't afford them in the first place. In any case, the real spotlight getters now come with fuel saving efficient power plants. The guys from Silicon Valley kicked off a new trend with the creation of Tesla. Following in the Roadster's footsteps we first saw Ronn Motor Company announce their hydrogen supplemented 40 miles-per-gallon Scorpion HX, and now Shelby Supercars has thrown their hat into the ring. We were first teased with a few specs on an Ultimate EV last July, and now a few more details of the system have been put into words.

The Ultimate Aero EV will feature SSC's newly developed package called the All-Electric Scalable Powertrain (AESP). The system utilizes a lithium battery pack with the ability to charge via a 110-volt outlet in only 10 minutes. The pack, SSC maintains, provides a 150-200 mile range. The Ultimate Aero EV will combine this juice storage with a pair of 500 horsepower electric motors to achieve these claims. It all certainly comes off as a hard pill to swallow, especially since the current necessary to charge a large battery pack at 110-volt in 10 minutes would be massive, to say nothng of dealing with the high heat generated as a result. Perhaps though, the 200 mile range claim comes when the power output is kept at a continually scaled down value. In any case, while the claims sound fantastical, we've had our doubts about SSC before, only to be proven wrong. So here's hoping.

PRESS RELEASE:

SSC Announces Green Technologies Revealing Revolutionary Battery and Electric Powertrain Technology

West Richland, WA January 21, 2009: Shelby SuperCars (SSC) released the details today of the revolutionary electric vehicle technology to be unveiled in the second quarter of this year. SSC will reveal its innovative all-electric powertrain in the current Ultimate Aero, the Guinness Certified "Fastest Production Car in the World," to create the Ultimate Aero EV and will reinforce the company as a benchmark in the auto industry. But unlike other auto manufacturers, SSC's new technology will set a new standard in the electric car industry - one of 10 minute recharges, super horsepower and ranges of up to 200 miles per charge.

While other auto manufacturers focus on producing Green technology for specific cars, SSC's focus is on producing Green technologies for a wide range of applications for an even wider range of vehicles. SSC's electric powertrain package, named AESP (All-Electric Scalable Powertrain) is unique due to its scalable horsepower, light weight, compact size, quick recharge time and liquid cooling.

SSC's Nanotechnology Rechargeable Lithium Battery pack is rechargeable in only 10 minutes on a standard 110 outlet and has a 150-200 mile range on a single charge. This means that in a typical 8 hour day, the car using this technology could go 200 miles, charge for 10 minutes (the time it typically takes to fill up a tank of gas), then drive 200 more miles, charge for 10 minutes and continue on. Some other EV technologies necessitate an overnight charge creating a class of "commuter electric cars" and are not practical alternatives to gas combustion automobiles.

The AESP's main feature is its scalability. The all-electric SUV or delivery truck is now a reality in the not-so-distant future. The AESP is scalable from 200 horsepower for economy and midsize cars, to 500 horsepower for light trucks and SUVs, and up to 1200 horsepower for delivery trucks, heavy duty equipment, buses and military vehicles. The revolutionary design proves electric-powered vehicles not only match, but also provide more linear power (electric motors have 100% torque at 0 RPM) and overall performance than internal combustion vehicles.

All-electric. No gasoline.

Light weight. Just a fraction of the weight of a standard combustion
engine (<200lbs.)

Extended performance. Internal cooling systems are built into the
motors.

Compact size. 1/18 the space of a standard engine; significant increase
in cargo room.

Scalable horsepower. From 200 horsepower (one motor) to 1200 horsepower
(two motors "piggy backed").

Quick recharges. Only 10 minutes on standard 110 outlet.

The current AESP was designed to meet the manufacturing and quality requirements of major automotive manufacturers, transportation operators and the military. SSC will wholesale the AESP to mass production car companies, governments, and to public, private, and niche businesses. Costs for mass-produced units are $5K-$6K per unit for 1000 to 10,000 units (with further reduction in unit cost for increased production.)

SSC's next milestone will be the pursuit of the "World's Fastest Electric Car" with the Ultimate Aero EV later this year.

[Source: Shelby Supercars via Autobloggreen]

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2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class gets AMG sports package

For those more interested in the way their car looks or goes around corners than how fast it accelerates, Mercedes-Benz has announced an AMG sports package that will be optional with any powerplant available for the new 2010 E-Class hitting European showrooms in March.

Exact pricing depends on the engine chosen and will start at around 3,000 Euros (around $3900 USD). For that sum, the buyer gets a unique set of aprons along with side skirts and 18-inch AMG alloy wheels. We definitely prefer this sportier look to the more stately standard kit. Inside, a set of microfiber and faux-leather seats for your bum join a three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel with shift paddles for your hands and aluminum pedals for your Piloti-clad feet. Performance-oriented bits include a suspension drop of 15 millimeters along with perforated brake discs with silver-painted calipers up front.


[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

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President Obama takes inaugural ride in Presidential Limousine

Inauguration Day for President Obama has come and gone, and while our freshly minted Commander in Chief was probably most interested in making his title official, we like to believe the high point of his day was taking the inaugural ride in his new Presidential Limousine. Secrete Service agents have reportedly begun calling Obama's new whip the "Beast" for reasons that are readily apparent. General Motors released images of the new Cadillac-based limo last week, but were of course not permitted to reveal the car's specifications. We're still in the dark on most everything about the new Presidential Limo, but new images from yesterday's inauguration reveal its true scale and capabilities.

First of all, notice the roof height compared to a Secret Service agent walking next to the car. Though it has the basic proportions of a very long-wheelbase sedan, this thing is nearly as tall as a Tahoe. The sidewalls of the tires are enormous, kind of like the front tires on a semi-truck, which suggests a level of puncture resistance far beyond your average run flat. The increased ground clearance and large fender flares also suggest this car can go off-roading when the need arises, like if an ICBM takes out the road ahead. Lastly, this image of an agent holding the car door open for Obama while he enters the vehicle shows the true thickness of its doors. Based on that, we imagine the new Presidential Limo would score 50 stars if crash tested by the NHTSA. Check out more pics below of the Obama family taking their first ride in the Presidential Limousine.

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Toyota Tops GM for World Sales

With a little help from a tanking global economy and miserable 2008 auto sales, Toyota has finally overtaken General Motors place at the top of the pack for worldwide sales. GM has topped the sales chart for the last 77 years, but Toyota has been making a hard charge over the last decade. In 2008, Toyota sold 8.97 million units worldwide compared to GM’s 8.36 million. While GM execs downplay the importance of the No. 1 spot, it definitely gives Toyota new bragging rights for worldwide domination.

For GM President Fritz Henderson, it’s more important to regain GM’s financial strength since the company hasn’t posted a profit since 2004 and is now relying on a $4 billion federal emergency loans to stay alive. In its home market, GM still stands at the top (with Toyota a distant second) but saw overall U.S. sales drop 22.7 percent compared to 2007. GM, comprised of eight individual brands, sold 2.95 million vehicles in 2008. Not all sales figures were down for GM as it saw minor gains in emerging foreign markets such as Asia, Latin America and the Middle East. The automotive industry as a whole shrank 18 percent with sales dropping to approximately 13.25 million units.

Although Toyota is now officially at the top, it isn’t immune to the current economic problems either. Just a year after marking its 50th year of selling cars in the United States, Toyota posted the biggest sales decline among its major Japanese competitors with a 15.4 percent drop compared to 2007. Honda, Nissan and Mazda all posted declines, while Subaru was the only Japanese automaker to post a sales increase for 2008, albeit a scant 0.3 percent. Toyota probably doesn’t have much time to bask in its glory as GM readies a host of competitive vehicles including the 2011 Chevrolet Volt, 2010 Buick LaCrosse and 2010 Cadillac SRX.

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Gallardo LP560-4 tested on the snow

Not to be outdone by the Nissan GT-R’s romp on a snowy Nürburgring, the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 has its turn in the cold stuff. The Lambo may not get to slide around on a famous German road, but the GT-R didn’t have Fifth Gear star Tiff Needell behind the wheel.

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Ford officially announces dual clutch PowerShift gearbox for 2010

The dual clutch gearbox installed in the Lincoln Concept C and Volvo S60 Concept that debuted at the Detroit Auto Show is now officially coming to Ford's lineup. The Getrag-supplied PowerShift gearbox was hinted at on the Fiesta micro-site that Ford recently launched and will be available in the new sub-compact when it launches at the end of the year. Like the DSG units used in a number of Volkswagens, the PowerShift allows full automatic control or clutchless manual shifting. Ford's first PowerShift is already available in the current European Focus with a 2.0L diesel engine. That unit is a wet-clutch system like most of the current VW DSG boxes. The new unit set to debut in the Fiesta is a dry-clutch system that's both lighter and more efficient. The 6-speed PowerShift weighs 30 lbs less than the 4-speed automatic currently offered in the U.S.-market Focus and should deliver 9-percent better fuel economy. The official press release is pasted after the jump.

[Source: Ford]

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Do HUMMER drivers get more tickets?

ISO Quality and Planning, which does studies for insurance companies, found that Hummer drivers are four times more likely to get a ticket than the average driver. Nobody has any concrete reason why this is, but some guesses include a misplaced sense of power or an inability to notice road signs and hazards due to an elevated driving position. Of course, it could also be that due to the brand's subconscious negative baggage that police officers are more likely to give Hummer drivers a ticket than a warning.

Other vehicles that are more likely to be involved in a road violation include the Scion tC, xA, and xB. Those vehicles often find themselves being driven by younger drivers who typically get more tickets anyway. Surprising, though, is the fact that the Toyota Solara and Subaru Outback also made the list. Not exactly barn burners, there. Interestingly, eight out of the 10 least ticketed vehicles come from General Motors, while six of the 10 most ticketed vehicles come from Toyota. Hit the jump to view the entire list of the most and least ticketed vehicles from the Quality and Planning study. Thanks for the tip, Droids1!

[Source: Newsday]

Most ticketed vehicles:
Hummer H2, H3
Scion tC
Scion xB
Mercedes CLK63AMG
Toyota Solara Coupe
Mercedes CLS63AMG
Scion xA
Subaru Outback
Audi A4
Toyota Matrix

Least ticketed vehicles:
Jaguar XJ
Chevrolet Suburban
Chevrolet Tahoe
Chevrolet C/K 2500/3500 pickup
Buick Park Avenue
Mazda 6
Buick Ranier SUV
Oldsmobile Silhouette minivan
Buick Lucerne
GMC Sierra C1500 pickup

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Smart USA sells almost 25,000 fortwos in first year

The Smart fortwo couldn't have come to the United States at a better time. Skyrocketing fuel prices and a dearth of fuel efficient vehicles gave Daimler's Tiny Tim a big push to the tune of 25,000 units for the year, far surpassing Smart's goal of 15,000 units. Smart's success is also another feather in the cap of Roger Penske. Penske is the only US distributor for Smart, with only 74 dealers spanning 35 states, and surprisingly, smart achieved its considerable success without using television as an advertising medium.

The fortwo used an extensive online marketing campaign that included $99 down payments. 100,000 people sent in their checks for $99, and Penske says about 55% of those down payments will result in sales. The Penske Automotive Group is expecting another 25,000 sales for 2009, and six more dealers are going to be added. What's left to be seen is whether the fortwo can sustain success if $2 per gallon gasoline sticks around for an extended period of time.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

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Chrysler and Fiat announce partnership

Chrysler announced this morning that the beleaguered automaker has entered into a global strategic alliance with Fiat SpA, giving both companies access to each others' products and markets. Fiat will also lend a hand in developing a business plan to present to the US Treasury; bringing to bear experience gained through the Italian auto giant's own restructuring. Overnight, Chrysler gets access to a range of small, fuel-efficient cars that are nothing like what is currently offered in Pentastar showrooms. Fiat's engineering will be ported over to some Chrysler manufacturing sites, keeping the plants busy and offering both brands ample capacity for the parts they will need to build cars.

For its efforts, Fiat will get a 35 percent equity interest in Chrysler and a way for the Italian automaker to re-enter the American market incognito by lending Chrysler the small, efficient cars it's sorely lacking. The partnership will go the other way, as well, with Chrysler vehicles gaining access to other markets through Fiat's distribution muscle. The UAW is on board, as are CEOs Marchionne and Nardelli. It's far more exciting to think of the vehicles that might come this way from Fiat, but who knows, maybe some market, somewhere, will discover it can't get enough of the Sebring. Press release after the jump.

[Source: Chrysler]


Fiat S.p.A., Chrysler LLC (Chrysler) and Cerberus Capital Management L.P., the private investment majority owner of Chrysler LLC, announced today they have signed a non-binding term sheet to establish a global strategic alliance.

The alliance, to be a key element of Chrysler's viability plan, would provide Chrysler with access to competitive, fuel-efficient vehicle platforms, powertrain, and components to be produced at Chrysler manufacturing sites. Fiat would also provide distribution capabilities in key growth markets, as well as substantial cost savings opportunities. In addition, Fiat would provide management services supporting Chrysler's submission of a viability plan to the U.S. Treasury as required. Fiat has been very successful in executing its own restructuring over the past several years. The alliance would also allow Fiat Group and Chrysler to take advantage of each other's distribution networks and to optimize fully their respective manufacturing footprint and global supplier base.

The proposed alliance would be consistent with the terms and conditions of the U.S. Treasury financing to Chrysler. Per the U.S. Treasury loan agreement, each constituent will be asked to contribute to Chrysler's restructuring effort including: lenders, employees, the UAW, dealers, suppliers and Chrysler Financial. Such steps would greatly contribute to Chrysler's long term viability plan. Completion of the alliance is subject to due diligence and regulatory approvals, including the U.S. Treasury.

As a consideration for Fiat Group's contribution to the alliance of strategic assets, to include: product and platform sharing, including city and compact segment vehicles, to expand Chrysler's current product portfolio; technology sharing, including fuel efficient and environmentally friendly powertrain technologies; and access to additional markets, including distribution for Chrysler vehicles in markets outside of North America, Fiat would receive an initial 35 percent equity interest in Chrysler. The alliance does not contemplate that Fiat would make a cash investment in Chrysler or commit to funding Chrysler in the future.

"This initiative represents a key milestone in the rapidly changing landscape of the automotive sector and confirms Fiat and Chrysler commitment and determination to continue to play a significant role in this global process. The agreement will offer both companies opportunities to gain access to most relevant automotive markets with innovative and environmentally friendly product offering, a field in which Fiat is a recognized world leader while benefitting from additional cost synergies. The deal follows a number of targeted alliances and partnerships signed by the Fiat Group with leading carmakers and automotive suppliers over the last five years aimed at supporting the growth and volume aspirations of the partners involved," the CEO of Fiat Group, Sergio Marchionne said.

"A Chrysler/Fiat partnership is a great fit as it creates the potential for a powerful, new global competitor, offering Chrysler a number of strategic benefits, including access to products that compliment our current portfolio; a distribution network outside North America; and cost savings in design, engineering, manufacturing, purchasing and sales and marketing," said Bob Nardelli, Chairman and CEO of Chrysler LLC. "This transaction will enable Chrysler to offer a broader competitive line-up of vehicles for our dealers and customers that meet emissions and fuel efficiency standards, while adhering to conditions of the Government Loan. The partnership would also provide a return on investment for the American taxpayer by securing the long-term viability of Chrysler brands in the marketplace, sustaining future product and technology development for our country and building renewed consumer confidence, while preserving American jobs."

"This is great news for the UAW Chrysler team and we look forward to supporting and working with them to ensure Chrysler's long term viability," said Ron Gettelfinger, President United Auto Workers (UAW).

"We're on board with this important strategic initiative as it will help preserve the long-term viability of our great company, its brands and of course UAW-Chrysler jobs," said General Holiefield, Vice President, United Auto Workers (UAW).

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New reports say Mercedes SLA roadster on-track for 2012

Small countries with fledgling economies are prone, upon occasion, to scrap their currency and start over again. Inflation rises, their currency is devalued, so they simply press the "reset" button. And looking at the history of the Mercedes-Benz roadster, we wonder if they haven't been doing the same thing. First came the original SL – "sporty" and "light weight" – which by now has swelled to massive proportions and SUV-rivaling weight. So Mercedes introduced the SLK, a smaller version with the added K for "kurtz" or "short". But as the SLK has by now grown at least as big as the original SL, officials have been mulling over the idea of making an even smaller roadster.

Actually, they've been mulling it over for nearly a decade. Mercedes unveiled their Vision SLA concept way back in 2000, and they've been toying with the idea ever since. But new post-Detroit Auto Show reports suggest that the long-rumored SLA-like droptop is alive and well, and may finally come to market as a response to growing demand for smaller, more efficient vehicles. Although the current A and B-Class platform utilizes novel sandwich underbody construction that would preclude use in a short roadster, the next generation of Mercedes front-drive compacts is expected to forgo the unusual configuration in favor of a more conventional front-engine/front-wheel-drive set-up. Even a small-displacement AMG version could be in the cards. Sources continue to suggest we could see a production SLA slot under the SLK by 2012, just in time to face off with BMW's rumored 1 Series-based roadster.

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Vodafone McLaren Mercedes launches the 2009 MP4-24

I spent a couple of teenage summers working at a camp where, every August, the director would announce his retirement. And every year, he'd be back... until one year he wasn't, and everyone was surprised. Meanwhile, the motorsport press has speculated on the retirement of McLaren team principal Ron Dennis for years now, but every year he'd be back on the pit lane wall. Now Ron's actually moving on, and this is the last car designed and produced under his direction.

It's called the MP4-24, and like those of McLaren's competitors -- including the recently-launched Ferrari F60 and Toyota TF109 -- the new car has to conform to the revised regulations. That means a bigger front wing and a smaller rear one with fewer little aero bits in between. Underneath is McLaren's KERS regenerative braking system, and the ECU which the team is now supplying to the entire grid. The MP4-24, which carries on the same chrome and Vodafone-red livery as last year's, was unveiled at the team's ultra-high-tech headquarters in Woking, England, after which the team's test driver Pedro de la Rosa took it for its first laps at the newly constructed Autodromo Internacional do Algarve in Portugal. McLaren's reigning champion Lewis Hamilton and his Finnish team-mate Heikki Kovalainen will take over from de la Rosa in the coming days, when several of the other teams will begin testing as well in the ramp-up to the Australian Grand Prix which kicks off the season on March 29.

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