Volkswagen Goes Home with Award

Volkswagen won the Commercial of the Year 2011 prize awarded by the US industry title Adweek.

Volkswagen won the award for a commercial they aired all the way back in February for an ad featuring the Volkswagen Passat. The commercial featured a kid dressed as Darth Vader trying to use Jedi mind tricks to control household items. The kid has little success until his dad arrives home in the family’s Passat. Using the remote start feature the dad is able to make it seem as though the kid was able to start the car using his Jedi powers, and everyone lives happily ever after.

While the ad does not go over too many of the nifty benefits of the 2011 Passat, it does indicate its family friendliness. Appealing to families looking for a car that is safe, good-looking, and convenient this commercial warms the hearts of drivers with thoughts of a new Passat.

Adweek has revealed that the ad has been a huge success for Volkswagen as well. It currently boasts 44 million YouTube views, 6.8 billion impressions worldwide and has generated more than $100 million in earned media. Not too bad for a charming commercial that reaches from sci-fi lovers to warm hearted parents.

To win this award Volkswagen not only beat out other major car companies but also other major companies such as Snickers and Google to name a few. This commercial can be put with a long list of other great Volkswagen commercials in history and without a doubt takes home the 2011 commercial of the year award.

r� L a a �OV @ Y he US industry title Adweek.

Volkswagen won the award for a commercial they aired all the way back in February for an ad featuring the Volkswagen Passat. The commercial featured a kid dressed as Darth Vader trying to use Jedi mind tricks to control household items. The kid has little success until his dad arrives home in the family’s Passat. Using the remote start feature the dad is able to make it seem as though the kid was able to start the car using his Jedi powers, and everyone lives happily ever after.

While the ad does not go over too many of the nifty benefits of the 2011 Passat, it does indicate its family friendliness. Appealing to families looking for a car that is safe, good-looking, and convenient this commercial warms the hearts of drivers with thoughts of a new Passat.

Adweek has revealed that the ad has been a huge success for Volkswagen as well. It currently boasts 44 million YouTube views, 6.8 billion impressions worldwide and has generated more than $100 million in earned media. Not too bad for a charming commercial that reaches from sci-fi lovers to warm hearted parents.

Got Electric Cars……..? Kia Does

The recent introduction of the Kia Ray EV to the Korean market may be a sign of things to come in the United States.

Kia is getting into the electric car game. Recently, the automaker unveiled their very first production electric vehicle the Kia Ray EV. The Ray will offer buyers a range of 86 miles or so, and will include a fast-charge option that will top off the cells in around 25 minutes. Otherwise, the 16.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack will take about 6 hours to charge on a 220-volt circuit.

Kia is celebrating the fact that the Electric Ray shares the same production line as the gasoline version of the car, which was introduced just last month. Kia will exclusively offer the electric Ray in their domestic Korean market at first.

Actually Kia plans to produce 2500 Rays in 2012 and has already designated them for use by government officials as part of a long-term research and development program for environmentally friendly transport. There are currently 500 slow and fast charging stations in Korea, with plans to 3100 stations operating by the end of 2012.

However, although the Ray EV is only going to be available in Korea, this unveiling provides a strong hint of how many cars around the world may look in the near future. The size, power system, and other design features of the Ray EV reflect a direction that many car makers, including U.S. manufacturers, are exploring as they try to lower overall fuel consumption.

Consumers are much more conscious about the impact their car has on the environment, and car manufacturers have taken notice and started producing cars that are environment and cash friendly. The Kia Ray EV may currently only be available in Korea, but Kia along with all manufacturers are surely paying close attention American car trends.

2013 Dodge Dart to be Revealed in Detroit

Dodge has revealed plans to revive the Dart name – though not the styling of the original Dart – in an all-new 2013 sedan.

The original Dart, sold from 1960 to 1976, was one of the most-loved lines in Dodge history, evolving through a series of looks and always boasting durable and well-performing engines. The Dart was offered in a variety of versions over its lifetime, including the high-performing Dart Swinger, and offered a number of trim options that were high-tech for the time.

Although the new Dart sedan won’t offer “Convertriple” or “Hang Ten” trim package, it is likely to hold appeal with younger buyers. The 2013 Dart will rock a sporty appearance, with sharply-angled head lamps and a grille and rear spoiler similar to the Charger. This look was designed by Dodge engineers in collaboration with Dodge’s parent company, Fiat. Buyers will be able to select from three four-cylinder engines, including options from the new Tigershark line.

More information on the new Dodge Dart is expected to be released at its unveiling in Detroit next month.

2013 Ford Escape Built with Recyclables

The 2013 Ford Escape contains a number of high-quality materials to ensure safety, comfort, and aesthetics. Several of these materials are living a second life.

Ford is one of several automakers using recycled materials in cars. Plastic bottles are the most popular recyclable for vehicle manufacturing, and have been used by carmakers in upholstery, carpet, and body panels. Ford’s latest sustainability efforts are readily apparent in its 2013 Ford Escape crossover SUV.

The carpets of each 2013 Escape will contain about 25 20-ounce plastic bottles. Ford says this recycling effort will keep about 4 million bottles out of landfills every year. All of the material in the carpeting is derived from either post-consumer recycled content or post-industrial content (materials recycled from manufacturing waste).

Seat fabric in the new Escape also contains post-industrial recycled plastics. Sound-absorbing dash insulation on every Escape will contain over ten pounds of recycled cotton, from scrapped clothing. The climate control gasket is made from recycled tires, and the power undershields beneath the engine and transmission are made of 100% recycled material.

In addition to the use of recyclables, the Escape utilizes renewable materials, including soy foam in the seat cushions and headrests and plant fiber used in the door inserts.

The Escape itself is even largely recyclable. It meets the USCAR Vehicle Recycling Partnership goal by containing 85 percent recyclable materials. Ford says its recycling efforts will join its gas mileage improvement technologies to reduce Ford's carbon footprint.

Mazda CX-5 to Feature SkyActiv Technology, TomTom Navigation

Mazda announced its all-new CX-5 over the summer and recently revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Now, the manufacturer is calling the CX-5 the most significant vehicle it has launched since the Mazda 3. This compact SUV is bound to live up to its manufacturer’s expectations, from breakthrough engine design to new partnerships to better features inside the cabin.

Mazda’s new SkyActiv-G 2.0-liter gasoline engine, the engine slated for use in the 2012 Mazda3, will power CX-5. A series of similar innovations in transmission, body, and chassis design will make the CX-5 it the first model to sport the full suite of SkyActiv technologies. Via these new technologies, Mazda takes a full-body approach to building a light vehicle and optimizing internal combustion. The result provides excellent gas mileage and 155-horsepower.

Mazda engineers have designed both the interior and exterior of the vehicle to ensure a quiet, comfortable ride. Exterior design features ensure low wind buffering, and suspension tuning offers smooth travel on bumpy roads. The placement of the driver’s seat and side mirrors provide good visibility, and the cabin offers spacious seating and storage options.

The North American edition of the CX-5 will offer a TomTom navigation system, marking the extension of the current European partnership between TomTom and Mazda. It will be the first in-dash navigation system offered by the famous GPS manufacturer in the United States.

The 2013 Mazda CX-5 is slated for release in March, likely replacing the CX-7 by next year.

The Amazing Race Features the 2012 Ford Mustang

The Ford Mustang one of America’s most beloved and famous cars made a celebrity appearance on The Amazing Race one of America’s most watched reality T.V. shows. The Mustang made an appearance as a roadblock challenge in the 10^th leg of the race that required contestants to do three specific maneuvers with the car at the Ford Proving Grounds in the town of Lommel, Belgium.

The fist maneuver contestants had to perform showcased the power of the 2012 Ford Mustang. Contestants had to get the car to 100 mph on a short runway and then hit the brakes while skidding to a directional stop.

The second test showed the maneuverability of the Mustang. Contestants had to navigate a slalom course and come to a complete stop in a specified position all in under 16 seconds. This challenge caused a little trouble for some of the contestants, but eventually all contestants passed the stage.

The final challenge with the Ford Mustang was a celebratory one. Contestants were required to do two victory donuts in their Mustangs. This challenge let the powerful V8 engines of the Ford Mustang roar as contestants revved their engines in victory formation.

The 2012 Mustang was also used as a reward for the team that won the 10^th leg of the race. Andy and Tommy finished the 10^th leg first and were each awarded a fully customizable 2012 Mustang for their efforts. As a challenge and a reward the 2012 Mustang made a memorable appearance on one of America’s favorite reality T.V. shows.

New Chrysler Ad Based on “Imported from Detroit” Campaign

Chrysler is launching a new ad campaign based on the success of its “Imported from Detroit” message and last year’s now-famous Super Bowl spot. The new variation on Chrysler’s hometown theme features music by Muddy Waters instead of Eminem, and a “See it Through” theme inspired by an Edgar A. Guest poem of the same name.

The 60-second spot will be televised for the first time during the Thanksgiving Day Detroit Lions – Green Bay Packers game, and features the Chrysler 300, the automaker’s full-size, upscale sedan.

The commercial is narrated by the poem Guest, a Detroit immigrant-turned-Michigan poet laureate, wrote about enduring the hardships of World War I. Waters’ “Mannish Boy” provides a backdrop to images of diverse citizens of Detroit and its suburbs, including one shot of Lions defensive back Ndamukong Suh standing in front of his Chrysler 300. The new spot carries on the now yearlong set of ads celebrating the comeback of Detroit and the American auto industry.

Chrysler has reason to celebrate the good outcomes of hard work and hometown pride: Chrysler brand sales went up 28 percent last month, and new Jeep and Dodge models have sold impressively. Sales in Chrysler 200s and 300s have more than doubled over the past year.

Ford Unveils 200-mph 2013 Shelby

Ford unveiled today its 2013 Shelby GT500 Mustang at the L.A. Auto Show. Ford calls the Shelby’s V8 engine the most powerful production V8 in the world – and says that it will grant the car the ability to top 200 miles per hour.

The 5.8-liter engine provides an outlandish 650-horsepower to the new pony car. Ford engineers say the car will be street legal, and able to handle daily traffic as well as high speeds. The 2013 model will remove the electronic 155 mph limit currently installed on the Shelby GT500. Although fuel economy has not yet been determined, Ford has said that the new Shelby will have high enough efficiency avoid a “gas guzzler tax.”

The Shelby’s speed comes not only from the new engine, but also from aerodynamic styling updates made to all 2013 Mustang models. All 2013 Mustang models share a redesigned grille, new high-intensity discharge headlights, and loads of new optional features and multiple add-on packages. The rocker panels along the sides are now body-color, replacing the old blacked-out sides. In addition, all the 2013 Mustang line’s automatic transmission includes a true manual control, allowing the driver to switch to a manual transmission with the push of a button.

The new Shelby will arrive in showrooms next summer, slightly after the release of other 2013 Mustangs.

Nissan and SunPower Join Forces to Promote Solar Energy

The Nissan Leaf, Nissan’s all-electric hatchback, is all about energy: it provides drivers an economically and ecologically sound alternative to gas. The car’s manufacturer believes that those customers may be interested in taking that green attitude beyond eschewing the gas station.

Nissan North America announced today that it will be partnering with SunPower, a designer and manufacturer of solar panel systems, to educate customers on home solar power options. The two companies are offering online content and videos on how solar power systems convert sunlight into a clean, renewable energy for home use – and for charging electric vehicles.

The Nissan Leaf has received numerous accolades for its motor design, from organizations ranging from Popular Mechanics Magazine to Kelley to the EPA, since its launch in 2011. The Leaf runs entirely on an 80 kilowatt AC synchronous motor, and has a range of about 100 miles. It has been ranked the most efficient vehicle ever certified by the EPA.

Nissan notes that SunPower is the leading manufacturer of residential solar power systems in the U.S. The company estimated that a rooftop energy system may offset the electric power required to drive a Leaf up to 10,000 miles per year. The results of the Nissan/SunPower collaboration includes new content on www.nissanusa.com and www.sunpowercorp.com, where visitors can request a free home solar assessment from a local SunPower dealer.

It’s the End of the Road for 14 Vehicles

With the end of 2011 fast approaching, automakers have released the names of 14 cars and trucks that will not be returning next year.

The end of another year brings the sad end to quite a few cars and trucks. Automakers have announced the demise of 14 different models. With over 300 different vehicles to choose from, American car buyers have many options and not all have performed well enough to return in 2012.

Please say goodbye to the following:

1. Buick Lucerne
2. Ford Crown Victoria
3. Cadillac DTS
4. Cadillac STS
5. Chevrolet HHR
6. Dodge Dakota
7. Ford Ranger
8. Honda Element
9. Lotus Elise
10. Mazda RX-8
11. Mitsubishi Eclipse
12. Mitsubishi Endeavour
13. Volvo S40
14. Volvo V50

While some never stood a chance, many of these 14 vehicles were very popular during their peak or even foundations of the American auto industry. Unfortunately changing consumer demand, and in some cases apathy on the automakers part, have led to the vehicles’ downfalls.

If you can’t live without owning one of these cars or trucks, you might want to check out your local dealer’s inventory before they are gone for good.

Rest in Peace to those vehicles that have hit the end of the road.

2013 Ford Escape to Feature Hands-Free Liftgate

Searching for keys while fumbling packages, gear, or grocery bags may be a non-issue for future Ford Escape drivers, due to a handy feature Ford plans to introduce this month.

The 2013 Ford Escape, to be debuted later in November, will be the first SUV to offer hands-free liftgate technology. The driver may simply approach the rear of the vehicle with the key fob in pocket or purse. A gentle kicking motion under the rear bumper activates an electronic system, opening the liftgate.

This new feature of the Ford Escape utilizes gesture-based technology, similar to that used in motion-detecting video game systems, in two sensors located in the rear bumper. The hands-free liftgate builds upon Ford’s Intelligent Access system, which uses the proximity of the key fob to allow keyless entry and start-up.

First introduced in 2000, nearly 2 million Escapes have been sold. The 2013 Ford Escape will go on sale next spring.

Chevy to Build Diesel Cruze in Ohio

The Chevrolet Cruze is one of the best selling compact cars in America since its inception last fall. Chevy will continue to improve its latest model with an exciting announcement for the 2013 Cruze.

General Motors Co. announced they will start building a diesel version of the Chevrolet Cruze in Lordstown, Ohio in early 2013. This will add to the current production of the gas-engine Cruze that is already being manufactured at the plant.

The Chevy Cruze has become one of the most popular and affordable cars for consumers this past year. It has outsold several popular competitors including the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla this summer. The 2011 Cruze has also appeared atop many lists of the year’s best-selling cars.

Europe and Australia have already seen diesel versions of the Cruze. However, this will be Chevy’s first diesel passenger car offered in the United States since the Chevette in the late 1980s.

The Cruze Eco, the model’s high gas mileage version, gets approximately 42 miles per gallon on the highway with a manual transmission. Experts believe that the diesel version should get around 50 miles per gallon, but GM has not yet given an official estimate.

To help accommodate production, GM will invest $5.5 million into the factory to upgrade the body shop and assembly line. Also, the plant is expected to add 360 new jobs at the Ohio plant.

Owners of the diesel-powered Chevy Cruze will be able to enjoy increased fuel economy, while the environment will enjoy lower carbon emissions.

Google Takes Robocars Out of Science Fiction and Into Reality

Google recently gave the Singularity University Executive Program class at NASA Ames in Mountain View, California a sneak peak at its newest invention, a Prius that drives itself.

While little has been released on the project, Google has apparently been testing the Robocar, which is said to have navigated 180,000 miles of California’s roads, although always with a team of two human back-seat drivers. The Prius looks much like any other except for a Lidar, or laser radar, that sits on the top of the car and acts as the vehicle’s eyes. The mechanism, which cost $75,000, rotates 360 degrees and creates a three-dimensional point cloud of the car’s surroundings. The point cloud is then transferred in real-time to a server, located in the trunk of the car, and compared to maps generated previously in order to accurately navigate through its environment.

Having had no incidents so far, except for a rumored fender bender while under human control, the Robocar is the future of safety. Brad Templeton, SU facility and design team member, pointed out that 34,000 people are killed in the US and 1.2 million worldwide by human drivers every year with the average US citizen losing 41 hours a year to traffic congestion. All this can change as Robocars are engineered to avoid accidents. The technology behind the car allows it to analyze traffic patterns and intelligently maneuver itself to optimize safety, time and space. The potential benefits are tremendous.

Google co-founder Sergey Brin, who announced that 10% of the company is working on innovative projects that include self-driving car technology at the Web 2.0 summit in San Francisco, made it clear that the Robocar project is still in research and development. However the future is definitely arriving. Nevada legislature has already begun to draft laws regarding the governance of autonomous vehicles. Plus many other manufactures, including Audi, BMW, Infiniti, Mercedes, and Volvo, are already working on other semi-autonomous features for their vehicles.

Unfortunately, Google’s Prius Robocars will not go on sale anytime soon so we will just have to wait a little longer to fully enter the future of autonomous transportation. But as Brin pointed out, “There's a tremendous opportunity to improve the world."

NASA Launches into Auto Industry

Automakers are always looking for new, innovative ways to improve the quality and performance of the vehicles that they make. Now they may receive that technology from an agency that is out of this world.

NASA will be pitching nearly 40 different space-age technologies to automakers and their suppliers on October 27^th at an event at NASA Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, Ohio. The event will show off newer technologies that could be implemented into automobiles to improve quality, performance, and cost.

Over 100 companies have already signed up to attend the event including Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler. Toyota and Honda will also be attending the event along with several suppliers from around the country.

Some of the technology that will be on display will include sensors and controls that could help hybrid or electric cars become more efficient; solid oxide fuel cells to power vehicles; new materials that can be used to contain pressurized natural gas; and green polymers that put out only water instead of noxious gases when they are used.

This event should prove to be beneficial for both the auto industry as well as NASA. Automakers can use the latest and greatest technology and materials to improve their cars and NASA brings in more business to help itself.

Not only are automakers excited for the event, but manufacturers are also interested in the event. The event is being co-sponsored by the Center for Automotive Research at Ohio State University and the manufacturing advocacy and consulting group Magnet, which is based in Cleveland.

The auto industry is quite excited to see what type of NASA technologies can be implemented into their vehicles. This event could prove to be the start of a new partnership that revolutionizes how automobiles are manufactured around the world.

All-Electric Chevy Spark Announced for 2013

GM announced its first all-electric car, the 2013 Chevrolet Spark, will be available starting next year in select US markets.

The first of its kind for GM, the Chevy Spark EV will run solely off of lithium-ion battery technology, unlike the Chevy Volt plug-in hybrid which was introduced last year and runs on both electric and gas. “The Spark EV offers customers living in urban areas who have predictable driving patterns or short commutes an all-electric option,” said Jim Federico, global vehicle chief engineer for electric vehicles at Chevrolet.

The Chevy Spark EV will compete against other all-electric vehicles including the Nissan Leaf, which was released last year, and the forthcoming Mitsubishi i and Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid. While EVs have been slow to catch on in the US due to few model options, high prices and a lack of charging infrastructure, many automakers are pushing towards more fuel-efficient models as the US begins to require more stringent requirements for the industry.

Chevy has not yet made available the details on specifications, price, or release date of the 2013 Spark EV. A new version of the gasoline-powered Spark, already available in China, India and South Korea, will also debut next year in the US.

The 2013 Chevy Spark EV, entering the US electric vehicle market next year, will bring further weight to the increasing electric market and increase GM’s place within the green movement.

10-minute Car Charger Developed by Nissan

One of the biggest complaints about the electric cars that are being developed is that it takes too long for the cars to be recharged. Nissan has been working to develop a new charger that will significantly reduce that time.

Nissan, whose Leaf is one of the most popular electric cars on the market, has the necessary technology to create an electric car charger that can fully charge an electric car in about 10 minutes. This would be a significant improvement over the current eight hours it takes to charge most electric car batteries.

Nissan has been working with Japan's Kansai University on the creation of this new development. The batteries that were charged in the early testing of the new charger showed no significant effect on storage capacity or voltage.

This breakthrough not only would make it more efficient to charge an electric car, but it could also improve the sale of electric cars across the world. If consumers has the available technology to charge their cars in 10 minutes, it would make the purchase of an electric car more appealing to them.

This technology could take up to ten years to fully develop and commercialize here in the United States. However, Nissan is set to begin setting up similar chargers in Japan this November. This charger would be compatible with all of Nissan's electric vehicles as well as other vehicles produced by companies like Honda or Toyota.

While it may take a great amount of time before we see this type on technology in the United States, it is still refreshing to know that developments and progress are being made today.

October is Fall Car Care Month

With winter right around the corner and the temperatures already falling, it’s a great time to make sure your vehicle is ready to get you and your family through the cold months safely.

According to the Car Care Council, there are 10 basic maintenance steps to take to make sure your car is ready and working at its best for the winter.

1. Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission as well as windshield washer solvent and antifreeze/coolant. It is also a good idea to switch to synthetic oil if you have not already as it will help your engine operate more efficiently, especially during cold weather

2. Check the hoses and belts to make sure they are not cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or showing signs of excessive wear.

3. Check the battery and replace if necessary. Make sure the connection is clean, tight and corrosion-free.

4. Check the brake system annually and have the brake linings, rotors and drums inspected at each oil change.

5. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, damage and broken supports or hangers if there is an unusual noise. Exhaust leaks can be dangerous and must be corrected without delay.

6. Schedule a tune-up to help the engine deliver the best balance of power and fuel economy and produce the lowest level of emissions.

7. Check the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system as proper heating and cooling performance is critical for interior comfort and for safety reasons such as defrosting.

8. Inspect the steering and suspension system annually including shock absorbers, struts and chassis parts such as ball joints, tie rod ends and other related components.

9. Check the tires, including tire pressure (which tends to drop more during cold months) and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment and excessive wear requires wheel replacement. If you are in an area where temperatures are consistently around freezing during the winter months, it may also be a good idea to look into winter tires. And don’t forget about your spare tire, which should also be checked for pressure and wear.

10. Check the wipers and lighting so that you can see and be seen. Check that all interior and exterior lighting is working properly and replace worn wiper blades so you can see clearly when driving during precipitation. Your wipers will take a lot more abuse during the cold months, so you may want to replace them annually during the fall for best results.

Cooler weather will only make existing problems worse so make sure to have a professional look at issues you are unable to fix on your own. Look for maintenance specials at local dealers and auto shops as many are offering deals for Fall Car Care month.

Taking the time to plan ahead and complete all your car maintenance needs now will save you valuable time and money.

The Highest Performing Hybrid

Tremendous power meets ultimate efficiency in a high-performance hybrid, which is no longer an oxymoron. This was proven on August 23, 2011 at the UK Santa Pod Raceway.

The 2012 Infiniti M Hybrid set the Guinness World Record for the fastest accelerating Hybrid. This car covered the standing quarter mile in 13.9031 seconds on average of all runs, with 13.8960 being the fastest time. This performance is equivalent to the 1982 Lamborghini Countach1 or the 2007 Mustang Shelby GT500 muscle car. The hybrid was a just a few tenths behind some Porsche, Ferrari and Aston Martin Models.

The M35 Hybrid has a 3.5L V6 that produces 360 horsepower. It reaches zero to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds. It is powered by a single electric-motor/twin-clutch powertrain. It is capable of driving on electric-power only up to 62 mph. The M Hybrid receives an EPA-rated fuel-economy of 27 miles per gallon in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.

This unique vehicle combines power and eco-friendly efficiency. The high-performance hybrid is real, and in the form of the 2012 Infiniti M Hybrid.

Electric Cars Make Debut

The first cars with engines that do not require gasoline, quietly rolled into Jacksonville, Florida this past weekend. The Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Volt are slowly being distributed out to consumers, and Jacksonville is one of the first cities to be chosen.

The Nissan Leaf can travel 73 miles on its battery. It is equivalent to driving 99 miles to the gallon, while having zero emissions. The environment friendly car also uses a solar-powered radio along with a system called “Carwings,” that shows charging stations on a map and tracks energy consumption. Due to the quiet nature of the electric car, it has a system that sends a warning sound to alert pedestrians of its presence.

The Chevy Volt can travel 35 miles on its battery until a gasoline generator can provide the car with 344 more miles. This is equivalent to receiving 94 miles per gallon on the battery and 37 miles per gallon through generated power. The car holds 9 gallons of gas, which is only used when the battery is low, and produces low emissions while the generator is in use. The Volt has regenerative braking which can charge the battery while the brakes are applied.

The government is offering tax credits and rebates for customers of a Nissan Leaf or a Chevy Volt. Also, a Jacksonville area energy company is offering free charging equipment these cars.

Introducing the All-New MINI Coupe

Check out this great video of the all-new MINI Coupe. “Love is in the Air” and it’s the MINI Coupe that everyone is after.

Ford Uses New Eco-Friendly Foam

Ford Motor Company has been an industry leader at introducing ideas that prove a car’s environmental impact isn’t limited to what comes out the tailpipe. Ford’s most current addition has been the introduction the SoyFoam that is now replacing the foam material that is used in its headrests.

The SoyFoam is up to 24% more renewable than the previously-used Petroleum-based Formula. It has helped Ford reduce its annual petroleum oil usage by more than 3 million pounds. It has also helped Ford reduce its carbon dioxide emissions by more than 15 million pounds

It was first introduced in the seating of the 2008 Ford Mustang. Now it is used in the seating, back, and headrests with 25 percent of the polyol replaced with soy.

More than seventy-five percent of Ford’s, North American vehicles feature bio-foam in the head restraints, including the
Ford F-150, Ford Taurus,Ford Explorer, and Ford Fusion. All Ford vehicles built in North America use bio-foam content in the seat cushions and backs and now, in its headrests.

Ford continues to research the use of other renewable sources for foam, including palm, rapeseed and sunflower oil in markets around the world where those commodities are locally available and cost effective.

Over the past several years Ford has concentrated on increasing the use of non-metal recycled and bio-based materials whenever possible, provided these materials are environmentally favorable and meet all performance and durability requirements. Examples include soy foam seat cushions and gaskets, wheat straw-filled storage bins, recycled resins for underbody systems, recycled yarns on seat covers and natural-fiber plastic for interior components.

Toyota and Ford to Collaborate on Hybrid Trucks

The Ford and Toyota Motor companies, usually stiff rivals have decided to join forces in an effort to bring a more fuel efficient, hybrid truck to the market. Ford having superior sales on its truck models, and Toyota with the best selling hybrid on the market seems to be the best combination for the job.

The two companies believe that if they work together, they will be able to bring consumers a more affordable technology sooner. The Collaboration will help both Ford and Toyota meet proposed government fuel standards that will require automakers’ fleets to average 54.5 miles per gallon by 2025.

Ford and Toyota signed an agreement to split development costs for hybrid systems, as well as telematics technology to improve information and entertainment systems.

The agreement was prompted by a chance meeting of the Ford CEO and Toyotas President. The next step for the two companies is a study to determine which technologies they will invest in and which vehicles will get them.

It is expected that the partnerships first hybrid trucks will be on the road later in this decade. Candidates include the Ford F-150, Ford Expedition, Toyota Tundra and Toyota Sequoia.

Although the two companies have stated they will only be joining forces with the hybrid technology and will remain competitors, this partnership is a milestone in the industry. It allows for new technology to be released into the market at a faster rate than would be possible if either of the companies would go at it alone.

Nissan Offers Interactive Shopping for Smartphone Users with the Quick Response Code

They have become hottest craze in a society dominated by smart phones: The Quick Response Codes. You scan them in the same way you would at the grocery store. They have been used for coupons, contests, and now, for information on the new line of Nissan Cars.

By using the Quick Response (QR) code, Nissan will give consumers an enhanced interactive customer shopping experience. There will be a sticker on individual car windows that will put information at shopper’s fingertips, as well as help sales personnel make a more effective presentation.

Some of the information that is available through the QR codes include: Specific vehicle information, video based product overviews, image galleries, dealer inventory, and even a request for a quote.

The QR also provides consumers with a “silent salesperson if they are on the lot after hours. It is a mass marketing effort by Nissan who has pledged to bring innovation to every aspect of the vehicle design, buying, and ownership experience.

Initial testing was done on the early 2012 Nissan Altima and the results are extremely encouraging all future 2012 releases will be equipped with the QR code.

In a world where Smartphone’s are quickly becoming the norm, it should come as no surprise that the automotive industry is jumping on the bandwagon. The Quick Response code has proven to be a beneficial tool for Nissan. The real question remains: What’s next?

Who Needs a Convertible? Buyers Opting for Sunroofs Instead

There is nothing like riding in a convertible: the wind blowing through your hair, the sun warming your skin. However, recent data shows that consumers are shying away from convertibles and instead investing in a close alternative.

Ford Motor Company reports that while convertible sales are dropping, panoramic sunroofs are on the rise. Of those buying the Ford Explorer and Ford Edge, about half have opted for the sunroof. As for Ford Flex owners, a third added the sunroof. Ford reports that this option costs consumers about $1,600, but it seems to be a price buyers are willing to pay.

Part of the reason sunroofs are becoming more and more popular is because they are just more practical than convertibles. They offer energizing natural sunlight while still securing fuel efficiency; the glass roof is also more architecturally appealing and stylish.

Ford models offer either a panoramic sunroof which consists of one long pane of
glass or a vista roof which comes with two glass panels: one in the front that can be opened and one stationary panel in the back. The glass used on both of these options filters out infrared as well as ultraviolet rays, keeping passengers cool and free of sun burn.

You may not get the wind-blown hair style or adrenaline rush that comes from driving a convertible, but the sunroof does offer some of the same perks in a more practical way. Looks like fuel efficiency and UV protection can be cool after all.

The Accent Gets Top Pick for Back-To-School Travel

It’s getting to be that of year again, back-to-school season. For some parents it’s a whole new adventure, sending their kids off to college. Along with the decisions of which meal plan to purchase or what color scheme for the new dorm room, a vehicle choice can weight heavy on some. Kelley Blue Book has taken some of the guess work out of this for parents. They have compiled a list of the top ten back-to-school cars; the Accent comes out on top.

For this year, Kelley Blue Book chose 5 new cars, and 5 used cars to make up the top 10. The Hyundai Accent took the number one spot in the new car category, beating out its competitors the Honda Fit, Ford Focus, Fiat 500 and Chevrolet Cruze.

Like other Hyundais, the Accent appeals to a finely-tuned sense of value, with a lot of features into a stylish and roomy cabin. The 138-horsepower engine gives an estimated 30 mpg in the city and 40 on the highway, and makes it a top pick for fuel conscious consumers.

The 2012 Hyundai Accent is tapping into the consumer demand for high-content, fuel efficient cars. It gives great fuel economy without having to pay for a high fuel economy package.

Accent’s class-leading standard fuel economy is yet another example of Hyundai’s dedication to improving fuel efficiency and is the fourth nameplate in Hyundai’s lineup delivering 40 mpg on the highway. It’s no wonder Kelley Blue Book chose it as the number one back-to-school car.

2012 Lexus GS 350 Receives a Boost in Personality

The fourth generation of the Lexus GS model, the 2012 GS 350 has a lot of responsibility on its shoulders. Lexus hopes that the restyled look and more engaging drive of the new GS sedan will pave the way for the rest of the Lexus models. After being called “bland,” this Toyota Motor Corporation luxury brand is hoping for a fresh start.

Firstly, Lexus has restyled the exterior of the GS 350, giving it a more angled and distinctive design. Taking some cues from the LF-Gh concept car introduced by Lexus in April, the GS sedan also flaunts a taller and more open grille that gives the car a look all its own.

In addition to new styling, the 2012 Lexus GS 350 delivers improved driving dynamics which offer a better experience for the driver. The Lexus sedan is no longer engineered to simply get the driver from point A to point B; now this luxury model is actually fun to drive.

Luxury car buyers asked for a more adventurous mid-sized sedan and Lexus listened. The new Lexus GS 350 will be unveiled on August 18th at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in California and hopefully those present will not be disappointed. From the sound of it, the 2012 GS 350 should be anything but boring.

New Toyota Technology Will Steer Car Away From an Accident

Toyota views the realization of a society that places utmost importance on traffic safety and mobility as one of its top management priorities and holds it to its core guiding principle of supplying safe products. With this idea in mind, Toyota has introduced some ground breaking technologies.

One of the new features is the Emergency-Response Technology which can detect driver’s health condition from their grip on the steering wheel.

The wheel will be equipped with optical and cardiovascular sensors which monitor the driver’s physical conditions constantly. If it senses something is wrong it will sound a warning and advise the driver to get to a doctor.

Another great feature Toyota is implementing is its millimeter wave radar system that will detect if there is an obstacle on the road to prevent any crashing. It will include a camera to locate the objects in the driving path and regulate automobile’s motion.

When a Toyota is equipped with this technology, the car will detect pedestrians and it will sound an alarm alerting him of a person in its path. If there is no change in the speed, the car takes control and stops. When the car is heading to a stop, the seat belt automatically tightens and brakes are applied.

Currently this system is being tested in Toyota’s luxury line Lexus with other cars to be tested soon.

As one of the companies that always strives to be safe, Toyota is constantly learning from real world crashes and always striving to enhance the quality of products and services it offers. With the addition of these safety technologies it is bound to be a top pick of consumers.

Chevrolet Capitalizes on Solar Energy

These days, alternative energy sources are all the buzz; who uses fossil fuels anymore? The electric car has already begun the process of divorcing gasoline-powered engines. Chevrolet has taken this technology a step further, using solar canopies to reduce the energy consumption of electric cars.

The solar canopies are a part of Chevy’s “Green Zone Initiative” and will use energy from the sun to charge about 12 Chevrolet Volts daily at Chevy dealers across North America. What’s more, the additional energy produced from the solar canopies can be used as an added power source for the dealership.

The canopies are not only eco-friendly; they are also free. And why wouldn’t dealerships jump on this opportunity? The canopies are beneficial for the environment, plus they reduce the number on the dealers’ electric bills. Chris Perry, vice president of Global Chevrolet Marketing and Strategy, states that, “Just one of these canopies provides…more than 25 percent of a dealership’s energy consumption.” If that isn’t music to a dealer’s ears, I don’t know what is.

Chevrolet invested $7.5 million into a company called Sunlogics to install these canopies. With its Green Zone Initiative, Chevrolet will be the leader in solar power usage among automotive companies.

Two dealers have already jumped on the bandwagon, one in Modesto, California and one in Grand Blanc, Michigan. Judging by the effectiveness of the solar panels and the desire for more eco-friendly energy sources, it is likely that this sun-powered trend will spread like wildfire.

America’s Favorite Hybrid: the Ford Fusion

During times like these, all car companies are dealing with the same concerns: high gas prices, the need for eco-friendly vehicles, a way to improve efficiency and performance. For one automotive company in particular, these concerns have been put to rest.

Back in 2009, Ford Motor Company introduced the Ford Fusion Hybrid, a sedan that received 41 mpg city. Not only was this vehicle fuel efficient, it was eco-friendly as well. Ford effectively responded to the needs of its consumers and their work has paid off: the Fusion has achieved the hybrid-best customer satisfaction rate of 88 percent, surpassing even the Toyota Prius.

Why are Ford Fusion owners so happy with their hybrids? For one thing, the Ford Fusion is the most fuel-efficient sedan in America. If that is not reason enough, the Fusion was also rated America’s most reliable sedan of either hybrid or fuel consuming models.

To ensure this level of reliability, Ford has tested, tweaked, and reworked its hybrid battery cells. Chuck Gray, chief engineer at Global Core Engineering, Hybrid and Electric Vehicles, says that "Ford's battery technology is so strong, the odds of experiencing an issue with one of our hybrid battery cells is around 8.5 million to 1 – about the same odds as a person being struck by lightning twice."

Ford’s impressive reliability and satisfaction ratings have led to the Fusion bringing in more new buyers to the Ford brand than any other Ford car. In addition, customers awarded the Fusion hybrid a 91 percent “overall vehicle quality” score.

And Ford is not going to miss their opportunity to capitalize on this success: by 2012, they hope to have five new electric vehicles on the road in the U.S.

Worried about the reliability of hybrids? Leary of the climbing gas prices? Maybe a Ford Fusion is the perfect solution. Their customers certainly think so.

JK-8 Conversion Kit: Jeep Steps Back into the Pickup Industry.

Jeep has been repeatedly asked by enthusiasts when there would be a pick-up model. At this year’s Moab Jeep Safari, loyal Jeep buyers got their wish, the JK-8 conversion kit.


Mopar, Chrysler’s in-house parts unit, has begun selling the kit that will change a Jeep Wrangler Unlimited into a pickup truck. With an estimated time of 12 to 16 hours of body shop work, the permanent change is getting Jeep enthusiasts excited.

For a price of $5,499 you get the kit that includes steel body panels, a 44 by 50 in bed, a fiberglass hardtop, and sport bar extensions. It also comes with a 3-year/36,000 mile warranty. The kit is available for the long-wheelbase, four door Unlimited version of the Wrangler.

Inspired by the Jeep Scrambler pickup from the 1980s, a favorite among enthusiasts, and will be available at Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram Dealerships. The kit turns the Wrangler Unlimited four-door SUV into a two-door pickup that still has off-road capabilities. Buyers now have the option of owning a Jeep pickup-truck for the first time since the Comanche was discontinued in 1992.

The kit is among the latest and more involved customized packages that the automotive world is heading to. To gain profits, many makers are increasing their accessories business.

The Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Wrangler unlimited are some of the most accessorized vehicles. On average, a new owner spends more than five-hundred dollars on Mopar accessories. With the introduction of the JK-8 kit it adds even more of an opportunity to customize their Wrangler. Living true to their motto, “It’s a Jeep Thing”.

The 2012 VW Beetle: Not Your Mom’s Beetle

Let’s face it: women like a certain type of car and men often appeal to another. That’s just the way it is. The Volkswagen Beetle tends to fall into the “woman’s car” category. Not that there is anything wrong with that. But Volkswagen hopes that the Beetle’s 2012 model will widen its consumer base as a whole, drawing in both men and women buyers.

Women accounted for over 65 percent of U.S. buyers for the outgoing “New Beetle”. However, Rainer Michel, Volkswagen of America's vice president of product marketing and strategy, predicts that only about half of those who purchase the 2012 Beetle will be women.

Part of the reason for this change of appeal is the Beetle’s new, more powerful engine choices. The base engine will remain a 2.5-liter five-cylinder, but this one comes new and improved. This new five-cylinder delivers 170 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque, 20 horsepower more than its previous model.

And the 2012 Beetle comes in a 2.0T Turbo model which is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This bad boy produces 200 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque to satisfy the male need for speed.

In addition to improved engine options, the design of the 2012 Beetle is also meant to draw in more testosterone. The 2012 model has been streamlined, with a more flat top and more erect windshield. The top has also been sloped back to create more headroom for the backseat. A longer, lower, and wider structure makes the 2012 Beetle tougher and more masculine than ever.

The interior of the 2012 Bug has also been overhauled, opting for a more linear, retro look. And with the available Sunroof, Sound, and Navigation package, 2012 Beetle owners can blast their favorite songs on a Fender-tuned stereo with a subwoofer and get directions on their integrated navigation system. No need to stop at the gas station guys.

A final masculine touch: the flower vase found in previous Beetle models has been eliminated.

Whether the Beetle’s new design is truly more masculine or not, Volkswagen still hopes to garner more popularity with the 2012 model. And even if 65 percent of 2012 Beetle sales are still chalked up to women, who cares? A sale is a sale, right?

The 2012 VW Beetle: Not Your Mom’s Beetle

The Volkswagen Beetle has traditionally been perceived as a bit of a woman’s car and it’s really no surprise. There’s a flower vase built into the dash for crying out loud. But Volkswagen hopes that its redesigned 2012 Beetle will appeal to a more masculine consumer base.

Women accounted for over 65 percent of U.S. buyers for the outgoing “New Beetle”. However, Rainer Michel, Volkswagen of America's vice president of product marketing and strategy, predicts that only about half of those who purchase the 2012 Beetle will be women.

Part of the reason for this change of appeal is the Beetle’s new, more powerful engine choices. The base engine will remain a 2.5-liter five-cylinder, but this one comes new and improved. This new five-cylinder delivers 170 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque, 20 horsepower more than its previous model.

And the 2012 Beetle comes in a 2.0T Turbo model which is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This bad boy produces 200 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque to satisfy the male need for speed.

In addition to improved engine options, the design of the 2012 Beetle is also meant to draw in more testosterone. The 2012 model has been streamlined, with a more flat top and more erect windshield. The top has also been sloped back to create more headroom for the backseat. A longer, lower, and wider structure makes the 2012 Beetle tougher and more masculine than ever.

The interior of the 2012 Bug has also been overhauled, opting for a more linear, retro look. And with the available Sunroof, Sound, and Navigation package, 2012 Beetle owners can blast their favorite songs on a Fender-tuned stereo with a subwoofer and get directions on their integrated navigation system. No need to stop at the gas station guys.

A final masculine touch: the flower vase found in previous Beetle models has been eliminated.

While Volkswagen hopes the 2012 Beetle will bring in more male consumers, they also hope it will appeal to younger, more diverse buyers as well. Either way, it is clear that the Volkswagen Beetle will be flaunting a new image for the 2012 model year; it’s not just for women anymore.

Nothing like a Little Competition: the Leaf & the Volt

It seems that nothing can go wrong for either the Nissan Leaf or the Chevrolet Volt. No matter the ebb and flow of sales and production, both brands remain continuously optimistic, pledging that the future is bright for electric vehicles.

But no matter the apparent confidence of either Nissan or Chevrolet, the facts tell another side of the story.

From January of 2011 to June, Nissan sold 3,875 Leafs while the Volt’s sales numbers teetered off at 2,745. However, there is more to this reality than sales figures alone.

Because General Motors is currently expanding and updating the Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly plant where the Volt is produced, not one Volt was built in the month of June. Production is planned to resume in mid-July but the Volt will not be widely available again until August. As of now, only 200 models are available for purchase in the United States.

Certainly this lull in production is a great opportunity for Nissan to take advantage of. As such, Nissan is planning on pumping out six to seven thousand Leafs by the end of the summer, hoping to secure its lead.

Keeping with the brother/sister mentality, Chevrolet has planned an offensive. Since summer sales for the Volt will be minimal, Chevrolet plans to use its new and improved assembly plant to supply 16,000 Volts by the end of 2011.

But estimated production numbers and 2011 sales figures cannot predict the future. It was not too long ago that Nissan was dealing with slowed production due to the March earthquake in Japan, sinking to the number two spot. But they recovered and eventually secured the lead. The Leaf is the more affordable of the two, but the Volt offers a backup gasoline system in addition to its electric battery, a more comforting set-up for consumers than electric alone.

From their short six months of production and sales, these electric vehicles have constantly been on opposite sides of the ring. There is not straddling the fence: either you are a Volt person or a Leaf person. Surely in the future, the electric car will become more mainstream and this rivalry will be diminished. Until then, the Volt/Leaf competition lives on.

Chevy Achieves Highest Brand Share in 20 Years

General Motor Co. has recently reported that Chevrolet cars are outselling trucks, SUVs, and other vehicle types. The brand share for sedans, midsize cars, and compacts peaked at just over 50 percent for the month of June (3rd month in a row) and analysts are citing the public’s desire for more efficient transport as the reason. If this trend continues, Chevy cars will attain the highest sales ratio in 20 years, nearly matching the 52 percent set in May, June, and July of 1991.

“You’ll see continued strength in passenger cars, particularly in the compact and mid-car segments. We have been a very, very strong trucks brand and frankly have under-performed in cars. It’s as simple as that. You have to go back a long way to a car performance this strong,” remarked VP of sales and service for Chevrolet, Alan Batey.

As consumers demand more and more fuel efficiency, car makers are looking toward smaller vehicles as saviors. With plans to release the new Chevy Sonic subcompact in the fall and increased improvements to the already popular Cruze and Malibu, car sales may remain augmented. All things considered there is equal optimism that truck sales will rebound given Chevrolet’s storied past.

“Although the cars will remain robust and strong, I expect the trucks will come back somewhat in the second half of the year,” Batey prophesized. General Motors speculates that, based on current numbers, they will sell 120,000 more vehicles than last year through the first six months of the year.

With the recession slowly dying, it seems that Chevy has positioned themselves nicely to begin making up for lost sales by creating an mpg-friendly lineup of mid-sized and sub compact cars.

Check out the full lineup of Chevrolet cars here

Chevrolet’s Car Sales Swell

General Motor Co. has recently reported that Chevrolet cars are outselling trucks, SUVs, and other vehicle types. The brand share for sedans, midsize cars, and compacts peaked at just over 50 percent for the month of June (3rd month in a row) and analysts are citing the public’s desire for more efficient transport as the reason. If this trend continues, Chevy cars will attain the highest sales ratio in 20 years, nearly matching the 52 percent set in May, June, and July of 1991.

“You’ll see continued strength in passenger cars, particularly in the compact and mid-car segments. We have been a very, very strong trucks brand and frankly have underperformed in cars. It’s as simple as that. You have to go back a long way to a car performance this strong,” remarked VP of sales and service for Chevrolet, Alan Batey.

As consumers demand more and more fuel efficiency, car makers are looking toward smaller vehicles as saviors. With plans to release the new Chevy Sonic subcompact in the fall and increased improvements to the already popular Cruze and Malibu, car sales may remain augmented. All things considered there is equal optimism that truck sales will rebound given Chevrolet’s storied past.

“Although the cars will remain robust and strong, I expect the trucks will come back somewhat in the second half of the year,” Batey prophesized. General Motors speculates that, based on current numbers, they will sell 120,000 more vehicles than last year through the first six months of the year.

With the recession slowly dying, it seems that Chevy has positioned themselves nicely to begin making up for lost sales by creating an mpg-friendly lineup of mid-sized and sub compact cars.

Check out the full lineup of Chevrolet cars here

With July Brings NADA’s Pick for “Car of the Month”

Now that July Fourth has passed, it is time to focus on something other than fireworks and hamburgers. How about the top rated car for the month of July? That’s right, the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) has issued its pick for July’s “Car of the Month”: the Chrysler 300.

The all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 boasts a spacious interior, improved handling, an impressive list of standard features, and a new polished design, all of which were taken into consideration by NADAguides. Presenting a truly luxury full-size sedan, the Chrysler 300 “goes above and beyond your typical feature set,” according to Troy Snyder, the Director of Product Development for NADAguides. He asserts that the 300 offers “the perfect combination” of both “luxury features and sharp design elements.”

In order to make their decision, NADAguides considered safety, fuel efficiency, pricing, engineering quality, test drives performed by the NADAguides team, and consumer interest. NADAguides first began to consider the Chrysler 300 when it entered the top 20 most researched vehicles on NADAguides.com in the first quarter of 2011.

And a “top Safety Pick” from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety certainly helped.

Hailed for its world-class craftsmanship, ride, and handling, the 2011 Chrysler 300 is available in three trims, including the 300 Limited and 300C. Among the many innovative standard features, the 300 presents best-in-class seating comfort, best-in-class horsepower coming in at 292, LED accent and ambient lighting, and real wood insets.

The Chrysler 300C trim remains the best luxury sedan in its class, which is no surprise considering its incredible list of standard features. From its 363 horsepower, 5.7L HEMI® V8 engine with Fuel Saver Technology to its Uconnect Touch™ 8.4N Garmin navigation radio, the 300C continues to be the best of the best.

With its combination of eye-catching style and sleek design features, the Chrysler 300 fits right in with the excitement and pizzazz of July. While it may not sparkle in the sky like a firework, the 2011 Chrysler 300 remains a star on the road as the NADAguides “Car of the Month.”

Self Driving Cars May Be Closer Than You Think

For some time now, human beings have wished to control everyday devices via autonomous robotic technology. Whether it’s a Roomba® vacuum cleaner that automatically keeps your house neat or simply a DVR which, when programmed, will record your favorite shows, people seemingly clamor for technology that takes the work out of activities. Although dreamed about for years, until recently automated driving was a thing for science-fiction novels. It seems now, more than ever, the chances of owning a fully functional self-driving car have skyrocketed thanks to the nearly constant innovation from companies like Google and Volkswagen.

Über-company Google has been working on self-driving cars as side project for quite awhile and have now begun to use these cars in everyday situations. Though Google has been developing the technology in California, they have moved operations to nearby Nevada due to fact that the state has become the first to allow drivers to operate autonomous vehicles. After significant lobbying from Google, the bill passed with only a small portion of opposing votes.

In Mountain View, California, Google had taken the self-driving cars on 140,000 miles of robot-controlled test drives but decided to make the switch to Nevada based on the states physical geography and penchant for innovative business growth. Some like lobbyist David Goldwater, think that Google’s strategic move will be highly successful.

“Nevada offers very good geographic opportunities, and the pro-business environment both from a tax and regulatory standpoint offered an opportunity to show what autonomous vehicles can do,” stated Goldwater, who lobbied Google’s cause but says he is not a spokesman for the company.

While the search engine giant has been forging ahead of the game in self-driving vehicles, Google is certainly not the only company making strides to make our cars drive themselves. On June 21st, Volkswagen presented its Temporary Auto Pilot or TAP system at the European Union’s research project HAVEit (Highly Automated Vehicles for Intelligent Transport). Like the name states, TAP still requires vehicle operators to drive and is quite different than Google’s fully automated driving function. In an attempt to assist drivers when facing dangerous situations, Volkswagen has bundled lane-change-assist, adaptive cruise control, and other semi-automatic utilities into TAP to make driving safer.

For those paranoid about having a computer assist with driving operation, the system may be disabled at any time. Volkswagen claims that the purpose of the auto-pilot is to “prevent accidents due to driving errors by an inattentive, distracted driver. The German auto manufacturer says that the TAP system will be active when driving at speeds of up 130 kilometers per hour (80 mph).

Based on the progress of both projects, it is not absurd to think that you may be sitting in an automated auto sooner rather than later. With safety and efficiency as top priorities innovators hope to change the driving experience for better.

Chevy Brings ‘Transformers’’ Bumblebee to Life

The 2007 action thriller “Transformers” was a box office hit, maybe because of the leading lady Megan Fox or maybe because of the unlikely hero, a yellow Chevrolet Camaro named Bumblebee. GM likes to think it was the latter.

Indeed, the 2012 Camaro will be offered in a special “Transformers” edition. General Motors Company reports that the 2LT and 2SS Camaro Coupes can be purchased with the $3,000 Bumblebee package. This special edition Camaro can be ordered in July and will be seen to U.S. and Canadian dealers in September.

So what exactly does the 2012 Bumblebee Chevy Camaro entail? You can guess that it will be painted a striking bright yellow. In order to achieve the quintessential bumblebee look, black rally stripes extend from the hood to the roof and rear deck lid. The interior is characterized by black leather with whimsical yellow stitching. And this Transformers edition Camaro would not be complete without Autobot Shield logos on the front quarter panels, center caps, and front headrests.

The debut of the 2012 Bumblebee edition Camaro aligns with the release of the third “Transformers” movie, but GM has long been thankful for the awareness “Transformers” has produced for the Camaro brand. In 2009, the Camaro was the most searched for car on the internet and Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing says that “The Transformers franchise has helped introduce Camaro – and Chevrolet – to a whole new generation of fans.”

The 2012 special edition Chevrolet Camaro may not make you Shia LaBeouf or allow you to save the world, but it will give you a taste of the “Transformers” appeal. So you can get rid of that Autobot bumper sticker. Replace it with your very own Bumblebee Camaro.

Self Driving Cars May Be Closer Than You Think

For some time now, human beings have wished to control everyday devices via autonomous robotic technology. Whether it’s a Roomba® vacuum cleaner that automatically keeps your house neat or simply a DVR which, when programmed, will record your favorite shows, people seemingly clamor for technology that takes the work out of activities. Although dreamed about for years, until recently automated driving was a thing for science-fiction novels. It seems now, more than ever, the chances of owning a fully functional self-driving car have skyrocketed thanks to the nearly constant innovation from companies like Google and Volkswagen.

Über-company Google has been working on self-driving cars as side project for quite awhile and have now begun to use these cars in everyday situations. Though Google has been developing the technology in California, they have moved operations to nearby Nevada due to fact that the state has become the first to allow drivers to operate autonomous vehicles. After significant lobbying from Google, the bill passed with only a small portion of opposing votes.

In Mountain View, California, Google had taken the self-driving cars on 140,000 miles of robot-controlled test drives but decided to make the switch to Nevada based on the states physical geography and penchant for innovative business growth. Some like lobbyist David Goldwater, think that Google’s strategic move will be highly successful.

“Nevada offers very good geographic opportunities, and the pro-business environment both from a tax and regulatory standpoint offered an opportunity to show what autonomous vehicles can do,” stated Goldwater, who lobbied Google’s cause but says he is not a spokesman for the company.

While the search engine giant has been forging ahead of the game in self-driving vehicles, Google is certainly not the only company making strides to make our cars drive themselves. On June 21st, Volkswagen presented its Temporary Auto Pilot or TAP system at the European Union’s research project HAVEit (Highly Automated Vehicles for Intelligent Transport). Like the name states, TAP still requires vehicle operators to drive and is quite different than Google’s fully automated driving function. In an attempt to assist drivers when facing dangerous situations, Volkswagen has bundled lane-change-assist, adaptive cruise control, and other semi-automatic utilities into TAP to make driving safer.

For those paranoid about having a computer assist with driving operation, the system may be disabled at any time. Volkswagen claims that the purpose of the auto-pilot is to “prevent accidents due to driving errors by an inattentive, distracted driver. The German auto manufacturer says that the TAP system will be active when driving at speeds of up 130 kilometers per hour (80 mph).

Based on the progress of both projects, it is not absurd to think that you may be sitting in an automated auto sooner rather than later. With safety and efficiency as top priorities innovators hope to change the driving experience for better.

The 2012 Camaro Flaunts Black and Yellow, For Bumblebee That Is

The 2007 action thriller “Transformers” was a box office hit, maybe because of the leading lady Megan Fox or maybe because of the unlikely hero, a yellow Chevrolet Camaro named Bumblebee. GM likes to think it was the latter.

Indeed, the 2012 Camaro will be offered in a special “Transformers” edition. General Motors Company reports that the 2LT and 2SS Camaro Coupes can be purchased with the $3,000 Bumblebee package. This special edition Camaro can be ordered in July and will be seen to U.S. and Canadian dealers in September.

So what exactly does the 2012 Bumblebee Chevy Camaro entail? You can guess that it will be painted a striking bright yellow. In order to achieve the quintessential bumblebee look, black rally stripes extend from the hood to the roof and rear deck lid. The interior is characterized by black leather with whimsical yellow stitching. And this Transformers edition Camaro would not be complete without Autobot Shield logos on the front quarter panels, center caps, and front headrests.

The debut of the 2012 Bumblebee edition Camaro aligns with the release of the third “Transformers” movie, but GM has long been thankful for the awareness “Transformers” has produced for the Camaro brand. In 2009, the Camaro was the most searched for car on the internet and Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing says that “The Transformers franchise has helped introduce Camaro – and Chevrolet – to a whole new generation of fans.”

The 2012 special edition Chevrolet Camaro may not make you Shia LaBeouf or allow you to save the world, but it will give you a taste of the “Transformers” appeal. So you can get rid of that Autobot bumper sticker. Replace it with your very own Bumblebee Camaro.

Honeywell Recognized For “Green” Car Tech

It’s 2011 and the buzzword “green” has never been more in the spotlight across many different industries. One of the largest fields to focus on becoming more eco-friendly is the automotive manufacturers. At the recent Automotive News Green Car Conference in Novi, Michigan, Honeywell has been awarded for their advancements in the area of environmental car technology with the creation of their VNT DualBoost Turbo. As one of four recipients honored for “contributions to the automotive industry which also have a positive effect on the health of the environment”, Honeywell’s turbo-charging technology hopes to make cars more “green”.

Ford’s Power Stroke engine, which can be found in the Super Duty truck series, Excursion, and Econoline vans, will rely heavily of the VNT DualBoost Turbo for improvements in fuel efficiency and performance. Honeywell also has included additional improvements like pedestal mounting and low friction ball bearings to reduce noise from vibrations.

“By providing innovative and environmentally responsible solutions like the DualBoost turbocharger, Honeywell helps our customers deliver high performing vehicles that reduce harmful emissions and drive better fuel economy. In the end, it’s further proof that our industry leading turbo technology is providing real value to both automakers and drivers alike,” remarked president and CEO of Honeywell Transportation Systems, Alex Ismail.

Business for Honeywell has been booming with the announcement of the new turbocharger. With more than 3 billion dollars of new business in 2010 alone and expectations that the number will only rise in the future, it’s clear that manufacturers are optimistic about green auto-technology. This year 100 new turbo applications are expected to join the 500 plus applications already in the works.

For more information on the Fortune 500 company Honeywell Internation (NYSE: HON) visit their website at www.honeywellnow.com

Honeywell Recognized For “Green” Car Tech

It’s 2011 and the buzzword “green” has never been more in the spotlight across many different industries. One of the largest fields to focus on becoming more eco-friendly is the automotive manufacturers. At the recent Automotive News Green Car Conference in Novi, Michigan, Honeywell has been awarded for their advancements in the area of environmental car technology with the creation of their VNT DualBoost Turbo. As one of four recipients honored for “contributions to the automotive industry which also have a positive effect on the health of the environment”, Honeywell’s turbo-charging technology hopes to make cars more “green”.

Ford’s Power Stroke engine, which can be found in the Super Duty truck series, Excursion, and Econoline vans, will rely heavily of the VNT DualBoost Turbo for improvements in fuel efficiency and performance. Honeywell also has included additional improvements like pedestal mounting and low friction ball bearings to reduce noise from vibrations.

“By providing innovative and environmentally responsible solutions like the DualBoost turbocharger, Honeywell helps our customers deliver high performing vehicles that reduce harmful emissions and drive better fuel economy. In the end, it’s further proof that our industry leading turbo technology is providing real value to both automakers and drivers alike,” remarked president and CEO of Honeywell Transportation Systems, Alex Ismail.

Business for Honeywell has been booming with the announcement of the new turbocharger. With more than 3 billion dollars of new business in 2010 alone and expectations that the number will only rise in the future, it’s clear that manufacturers are optimistic about green auto-technology. This year 100 new turbo applications are expected to join the 500 plus applications already in the works.

For more information on the Fortune 500 company Honeywell Internation (NYSE: HON) visit their website at www.honeywellnow.com

Ford Motor Company Heads East

As the economic climate of the U.S. remains unpredictable, especially in the automotive industry, Ford Motor Company has decided to take its talents east.

Ford’s joint venture with China, known as Changan Ford Mazda Automobile (CFMA), has upped the ante, investing $500 million in a new engine plant in Chongqing, China. Set to begin production in 2013, the new plant will pump out an estimated 750,000 engines a year, more than double the current amount produced by CFMA.

But the $500 million plant is only one of many steps in Ford’s plan to strengthen its presence in China. In fact, Jiangling Motor Corporation, Ford’s commercial vehicle partner, began building a new $300 million vehicle assembly plant in Nanchang last July. And just two months ago Ford pledged to introduce 15 new cars to China by 2015, increasing its presence and popularity even further.

In addition to the new engine plant, Ford has also signed on to build its first and only transmission plant in China, which is projected to produce 400,000 units annually. With this combination of business deals, Ford expects to have twice as many employees and dealerships than before.

The ground-breaking ceremony for the engine plant was held last week with both Joe Hinrichs, president of Ford Asia Pacific and Africa, and Huang Qifan, Mayor of Chongqing, in attendance. It seems that the east and west are working together just fine.