New Car: 2009 Toyota Matrix

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., unveiled the all-new second-generation Corolla Matrix at a press conference today at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show. The Toyota Matrix, the sporty five-door vehicle that helped redefine the concept of a crossover utility vehicle, has been redesigned for the 2009 model year to offer performance that matters for driver enjoyment.

"The Matrix concept was based on blending the functionality of an SUV, the style, image and performance of a sports car with the affordability of a subcompact sedan," said Tim Morrison, Toyota Division corporate marketing manager. "For 2009, it’s all that, and more. It may have the body of a five-door hatch, but it comes with the soul of a two-door sports car." Development of the 2009 Matrix focused on greater exterior coupe-like styling with enhanced interior utility and improved dynamic performance. It was made wider with a lower stance than the current model while maintaining its interior space. The result is a sporty, dynamic shape that contains room for five people to ride in comfort. As a result of significant changes to the Matrix’s profile, the theme is flowing and dynamic. The design expresses a low center of gravity, and coupe-like style with a fun-to-drive image. From the rear, the Matrix has rounded rear windows and continuous character lines that run from the front grille to the A-pillar. Matrix will be available in three grades – Standard S and the XRS. And Matrix will offer the option of all-wheel drive (AWD) with the S grade. The S and XRS models integrate a front underbody spoiler with a large mesh fog lamp bezel and rear underbody spoiler. A rear deck spoiler will be standard for all XRS models.The Matrix interior is completely redesigned to enhance driving enjoyment, comfort and utility. Seats have been redesigned to accommodate the vehicle’s new lower profile while maintaining the expected high comfort levels, and seat positions were lowered slightly to maintain appropriate headroom. As a result, cabin space remains equal to that of the previous Matrix. A new three-spoke steering wheel enhances the rest of the new Matrix interior. XRS models come standard with a leather-trimmed steering wheel that also includes spoke-mounted audio controls and hands-free Bluetooth® capability when equipped.

The driver and front passenger are treated to comfortable new sport seats, with seat-mounted side airbags. A fold-down seatback table will be available for the front passenger’s seat, enhancing interior utility on S and XRS. A movable and removable cup support element for the front center console helps provide versatile storage area and convenience. The cup holder area can be used as a tray when the divider is removed. For rear-seat passengers, expanded front-to-back couple distance helps to provide additional room and comfort. A folding seat with a 60/40 split includes a middle-seat headrest for the fifth passenger. The Matrix is equipped with a new, high-efficiency air-conditioning system with larger vents for directional accuracy and offers reduced power consumption and improved heating and cooling. The 2009 Matrix offers the choice of two different engines, a five-speed manual transmission, and either four- or five-speed automatic transmissions. A 16-valve, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine will produce 132 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 128 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,400 rpm. The engine will feature Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) on both the intake and exhaust camshafts that helps it achieve outstanding performance and economy.

Estimated EPA fuel economy ratings are 26/32 city/highway mpg for manual transmission models and 25/31 for the automatic transmission model powered by a 1.8-litre engine. For those who crave just a bit more horsepower and torque, the Matrix offers a 16-valve DOHC 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with VVT-i that will produce 158 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 162 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. Matrix models powered by the 2.4-litre engine with five-speed automatic transmission will have an estimated EPA fuel economy of 21/29 city/highway mpg.The Matrix’s base wheel is a 16-inch steel unit with a six-spoke full wheel cover. A distinctive 17-inch five-spoke aluminum wheel will be available for the S grade, and an 18-inch aluminum alloy wheel with a twin five-spoke design will come standard on the XRS grade. Dual-stage SRS airbags will be standard for the driver and front passenger. Front seat-mounted side airbags, two-row side curtain airbags and front active headrests are also standard. Brake performance will be improved with standard front and rear disc brakes on all Matrix grades. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) are also standard. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with TRAC and off switch will be standard on XRS and available as an option on all other models. VSC automatically adjusts engine output and the vehicle’s braking force at each wheel when the vehicle experiences a loss of traction during cornering. Form, fun and functionality will be in abundance with an array of standard convenience features across all three grades. Base equipment on all Matrix models include power color-keyed outside rearview mirrors, power steering, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, daytime running lights, heavy duty rear window defogger, intermittent windshield wipers, 12-volt power outlet, four cupholders, auxiliary audio input jack, front center console box and an engine immobiliser.

The S grade adds standard power door locks and windows with one-touch down driver-side, 115-volt power outlet, cruise control, intermittent rear window wiper, fold-flat front passenger seat, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD with MP3 capability and six speakers, front and rear underbody spoilers and fog lamps.In addition to these features, the XRS grade features standard P215/45 R18 tires on 18-inch alloy wheels, sport strut tower brace, VSC with TRAC and off switch, and a three-spoke leather-trimmed steering wheel with audio steering wheel controls. In addition to the array of standard equipment, an impressive list of optional comfort and utility features are available to further enhance the Matrix driving experience. Available options will include an AM/FM/CD with six-speaker system with DVD navigation with XM NavTraffic® capability, alloy wheels, power heated outside rearview mirror, intermittent rear window wiper, cruise control, power door locks, power windows, and remote keyless entry.

The all-new Matrix will hit Toyota dealerships in February 2008.

New Car: 2009 Toyota Matrix

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., unveiled the all-new second-generation Corolla Matrix at a press conference today at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show. The Toyota Matrix, the sporty five-door vehicle that helped redefine the concept of a crossover utility vehicle, has been redesigned for the 2009 model year to offer performance that matters for driver enjoyment.

"The Matrix concept was based on blending the functionality of an SUV, the style, image and performance of a sports car with the affordability of a subcompact sedan," said Tim Morrison, Toyota Division corporate marketing manager. "For 2009, it’s all that, and more. It may have the body of a five-door hatch, but it comes with the soul of a two-door sports car." Development of the 2009 Matrix focused on greater exterior coupe-like styling with enhanced interior utility and improved dynamic performance. It was made wider with a lower stance than the current model while maintaining its interior space. The result is a sporty, dynamic shape that contains room for five people to ride in comfort. As a result of significant changes to the Matrix’s profile, the theme is flowing and dynamic. The design expresses a low center of gravity, and coupe-like style with a fun-to-drive image. From the rear, the Matrix has rounded rear windows and continuous character lines that run from the front grille to the A-pillar. Matrix will be available in three grades – Standard S and the XRS. And Matrix will offer the option of all-wheel drive (AWD) with the S grade. The S and XRS models integrate a front underbody spoiler with a large mesh fog lamp bezel and rear underbody spoiler. A rear deck spoiler will be standard for all XRS models.The Matrix interior is completely redesigned to enhance driving enjoyment, comfort and utility. Seats have been redesigned to accommodate the vehicle’s new lower profile while maintaining the expected high comfort levels, and seat positions were lowered slightly to maintain appropriate headroom. As a result, cabin space remains equal to that of the previous Matrix. A new three-spoke steering wheel enhances the rest of the new Matrix interior. XRS models come standard with a leather-trimmed steering wheel that also includes spoke-mounted audio controls and hands-free Bluetooth® capability when equipped.

The driver and front passenger are treated to comfortable new sport seats, with seat-mounted side airbags. A fold-down seatback table will be available for the front passenger’s seat, enhancing interior utility on S and XRS. A movable and removable cup support element for the front center console helps provide versatile storage area and convenience. The cup holder area can be used as a tray when the divider is removed. For rear-seat passengers, expanded front-to-back couple distance helps to provide additional room and comfort. A folding seat with a 60/40 split includes a middle-seat headrest for the fifth passenger. The Matrix is equipped with a new, high-efficiency air-conditioning system with larger vents for directional accuracy and offers reduced power consumption and improved heating and cooling. The 2009 Matrix offers the choice of two different engines, a five-speed manual transmission, and either four- or five-speed automatic transmissions. A 16-valve, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine will produce 132 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 128 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,400 rpm. The engine will feature Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) on both the intake and exhaust camshafts that helps it achieve outstanding performance and economy.

Estimated EPA fuel economy ratings are 26/32 city/highway mpg for manual transmission models and 25/31 for the automatic transmission model powered by a 1.8-litre engine. For those who crave just a bit more horsepower and torque, the Matrix offers a 16-valve DOHC 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with VVT-i that will produce 158 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 162 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. Matrix models powered by the 2.4-litre engine with five-speed automatic transmission will have an estimated EPA fuel economy of 21/29 city/highway mpg.The Matrix’s base wheel is a 16-inch steel unit with a six-spoke full wheel cover. A distinctive 17-inch five-spoke aluminum wheel will be available for the S grade, and an 18-inch aluminum alloy wheel with a twin five-spoke design will come standard on the XRS grade. Dual-stage SRS airbags will be standard for the driver and front passenger. Front seat-mounted side airbags, two-row side curtain airbags and front active headrests are also standard. Brake performance will be improved with standard front and rear disc brakes on all Matrix grades. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) are also standard. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with TRAC and off switch will be standard on XRS and available as an option on all other models. VSC automatically adjusts engine output and the vehicle’s braking force at each wheel when the vehicle experiences a loss of traction during cornering. Form, fun and functionality will be in abundance with an array of standard convenience features across all three grades. Base equipment on all Matrix models include power color-keyed outside rearview mirrors, power steering, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, daytime running lights, heavy duty rear window defogger, intermittent windshield wipers, 12-volt power outlet, four cupholders, auxiliary audio input jack, front center console box and an engine immobiliser.

The S grade adds standard power door locks and windows with one-touch down driver-side, 115-volt power outlet, cruise control, intermittent rear window wiper, fold-flat front passenger seat, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD with MP3 capability and six speakers, front and rear underbody spoilers and fog lamps.In addition to these features, the XRS grade features standard P215/45 R18 tires on 18-inch alloy wheels, sport strut tower brace, VSC with TRAC and off switch, and a three-spoke leather-trimmed steering wheel with audio steering wheel controls. In addition to the array of standard equipment, an impressive list of optional comfort and utility features are available to further enhance the Matrix driving experience. Available options will include an AM/FM/CD with six-speaker system with DVD navigation with XM NavTraffic® capability, alloy wheels, power heated outside rearview mirror, intermittent rear window wiper, cruise control, power door locks, power windows, and remote keyless entry.

The all-new Matrix will hit Toyota dealerships in February 2008.

New Car: 2008 Hyundai i10

Sticking with Hyundai, you’re looking at their brand new answer to the Citroen C1, Toyota Aygo, Fiat Panda and Peugeot 107; the Hyundai i10 which launches next March,with a starting price of less than £6500.

If you’re noticing a passing resemblance to the Kia Picanto, you’re not mistaken. Just as the Hyundai i30 hatch and the Kia Cee’d share a platform, this new i10 shares many mechanicals with the Kia Picanto city car. However, the new Hyundai is 10mm longer between the wheels than the Kia, and 70mm longer overall.

The i10 will be built in Hyundai’s assembly plant in Chenni, India, where its predecessor, the Amica, was made. It shares its 1.1-litre, 65bhp engine with the Picanto, but for this application, emissions of CO2 have been trimmed to 119g/km in order to qualify for the second-lowest VED car tax rate.

The Hyundai i10 will stand out from the class with its impressive cabin quality and generous levels of standard equipment. It’ll be the first car in the A-segment to get air conditioning as standard, electric front windows, central locking, electric power steering, tinted glass, 14in alloy wheels, body-coloured bumpers and a six-speaker CD player also come on every car.

New Car: 2008 Hyundai i10

Sticking with Hyundai, you’re looking at their brand new answer to the Citroen C1, Toyota Aygo, Fiat Panda and Peugeot 107; the Hyundai i10 which launches next March,with a starting price of less than £6500.

If you’re noticing a passing resemblance to the Kia Picanto, you’re not mistaken. Just as the Hyundai i30 hatch and the Kia Cee’d share a platform, this new i10 shares many mechanicals with the Kia Picanto city car. However, the new Hyundai is 10mm longer between the wheels than the Kia, and 70mm longer overall.

The i10 will be built in Hyundai’s assembly plant in Chenni, India, where its predecessor, the Amica, was made. It shares its 1.1-litre, 65bhp engine with the Picanto, but for this application, emissions of CO2 have been trimmed to 119g/km in order to qualify for the second-lowest VED car tax rate.

The Hyundai i10 will stand out from the class with its impressive cabin quality and generous levels of standard equipment. It’ll be the first car in the A-segment to get air conditioning as standard, electric front windows, central locking, electric power steering, tinted glass, 14in alloy wheels, body-coloured bumpers and a six-speaker CD player also come on every car.

Concept Car: Hyundai Genesis Coupé

The name is perhaps a giveaway as to the mechanicals underneath the sexy skin: Hyundai Genesis Coupe.

The new two-door is being publicly unveiled as a concept in mid-November at the Los Angeles auto show.

Hyundai has released almost no details on the concept, other than to say it "hints at a design direction for a future rear-wheel-drive sport coupe." However, the use of the name Genesis, which first appeared earlier this year on a concept sedan suggests the sedan and the coupe will share major mechanical components, including a new rear-wheel-drive chassis.

The production version of the Genesis sedan is expected to hit U.S. showrooms in the first half of next year. The production Genesis coupe should follow in late 2008 as a successor to but not a direct replacement for, the current front-drive Tiburon.

Concept Car: Hyundai Genesis Coupé

The name is perhaps a giveaway as to the mechanicals underneath the sexy skin: Hyundai Genesis Coupe.

The new two-door is being publicly unveiled as a concept in mid-November at the Los Angeles auto show.

Hyundai has released almost no details on the concept, other than to say it "hints at a design direction for a future rear-wheel-drive sport coupe." However, the use of the name Genesis, which first appeared earlier this year on a concept sedan suggests the sedan and the coupe will share major mechanical components, including a new rear-wheel-drive chassis.

The production version of the Genesis sedan is expected to hit U.S. showrooms in the first half of next year. The production Genesis coupe should follow in late 2008 as a successor to but not a direct replacement for, the current front-drive Tiburon.

Hyundai Genesis bigger brother; i70/VI

Codenamed BHL, Hyundai has begun testing a long-wheel-base luxury sedan based on the upcoming and much anticipated rear-wheel-drive Genesis. Sources are referring to this luxury sedan as the i70, but the name is not yet confirmed.

It's unclear if the car will be marketed as a distinct model from the Genesis or if it will be sold as a LWB (long-wheel-base) variant. The size of the car is also a bit of a mystery. The Genesis is thought to be the size of a BMW 5-Series or Mercedes E-Class, so it's fair to assume this model will lie somewhere between those dimensions and the BMW 7-Series or Mercedes S-Class.

Sources also say it will be offered as a V8 model only and will be even more prestigious than the Genesis. As Hyundai is using Cadillac and Lexus as benchmarks, expect high-tech gizmos as well as many other luxury amenities.

The i70/VI should arrive in dealerships about a year after the Genesis but that’s not all: the BH rear-drive platform will also spawn a coupe/cabriolet for the 2010 model year.

Although the i70/VI (codenamed BHL) is testing in Germany, its unlikely that the sedan will be marketed on the European market due to the slow-selling Grandeur (Azera in U.S) which sold less than 500 units last year.

Hyundai Genesis bigger brother; i70/VI

Codenamed BHL, Hyundai has begun testing a long-wheel-base luxury sedan based on the upcoming and much anticipated rear-wheel-drive Genesis. Sources are referring to this luxury sedan as the i70, but the name is not yet confirmed.

It's unclear if the car will be marketed as a distinct model from the Genesis or if it will be sold as a LWB (long-wheel-base) variant. The size of the car is also a bit of a mystery. The Genesis is thought to be the size of a BMW 5-Series or Mercedes E-Class, so it's fair to assume this model will lie somewhere between those dimensions and the BMW 7-Series or Mercedes S-Class.

Sources also say it will be offered as a V8 model only and will be even more prestigious than the Genesis. As Hyundai is using Cadillac and Lexus as benchmarks, expect high-tech gizmos as well as many other luxury amenities.

The i70/VI should arrive in dealerships about a year after the Genesis but that’s not all: the BH rear-drive platform will also spawn a coupe/cabriolet for the 2010 model year.

Although the i70/VI (codenamed BHL) is testing in Germany, its unlikely that the sedan will be marketed on the European market due to the slow-selling Grandeur (Azera in U.S) which sold less than 500 units last year.

Nissan Murano spied!

It’s set for an official debut in about two weeks at the L.A. auto show, but here’s an early peek at the 2009 Nissan Murano. We weren’t expecting big changes from Nissan’s midsize crossover and this prototype doesn’t appear that far removed from the current model. The overall shape and size is the same as the current model and even the wheels look familiar. Expect to see bigger changes on the inside as the Murano’s interior has been one of its weak points for years now.

Nissan Murano spied!

It’s set for an official debut in about two weeks at the L.A. auto show, but here’s an early peek at the 2009 Nissan Murano. We weren’t expecting big changes from Nissan’s midsize crossover and this prototype doesn’t appear that far removed from the current model. The overall shape and size is the same as the current model and even the wheels look familiar. Expect to see bigger changes on the inside as the Murano’s interior has been one of its weak points for years now.

5 door Volvo C30?

Volvo is considering expanding the C30 range by adding a five-door hatchback variant to join the current three-door. The C30 is based on the same P1 platform that underlies the larger S40 and V50 models so building an extended version of the C30 hatch would be straight forward.

Such a vehicle would give Volvo’s sales a much needed boost but officials are yet to confirm it for production. Volvo senior vice president of R&D Magnus Jonsson told Automotive News that a “five-door would be less exciting from a design perspective” but would be crucial in helping Volvo expand sales.

Current sales of the three-door C30 has been exceeding initial expectations in most markets and if the cars outsell their allocations then management would have very little reason not to proceed with the launch of another variant.

Volvo’s senior vice president of brand, business and product strategy, Lex Kerssemakers, also acknowledged that a five-door model is under consideration but wasn’t willing to give a time frame for its release.

5 door Volvo C30?

Volvo is considering expanding the C30 range by adding a five-door hatchback variant to join the current three-door. The C30 is based on the same P1 platform that underlies the larger S40 and V50 models so building an extended version of the C30 hatch would be straight forward.

Such a vehicle would give Volvo’s sales a much needed boost but officials are yet to confirm it for production. Volvo senior vice president of R&D Magnus Jonsson told Automotive News that a “five-door would be less exciting from a design perspective” but would be crucial in helping Volvo expand sales.

Current sales of the three-door C30 has been exceeding initial expectations in most markets and if the cars outsell their allocations then management would have very little reason not to proceed with the launch of another variant.

Volvo’s senior vice president of brand, business and product strategy, Lex Kerssemakers, also acknowledged that a five-door model is under consideration but wasn’t willing to give a time frame for its release.

Volkswagen Tiguan pricing (UK)

VW has released prices for its new entry-level Tiguan SUV. The 1.4-litre TSI will cost £19,450 when it arrives in Feburary next year. Buyers also get the option of a 138bhp 2.0 TDI diesel and, later next year, a 167bhp 2.0 TDI. Three levels of trim will be available - S, SE, and Sport - all featuring a choice of 6 speed manual or automatic Tiptronic gearboxes.

At the top of the range is the £23,750 2.0TDI Sport. This will be available with the hi-tech Park Assist system first showcased on the Touran MPV. Complex electrononics mean the car will steer itself into a space, while the driver simply operates the brake and throttle.

Buyers wanting to tackle more than the urban jungle can choose the rugged Escape trim. With a shorter nose, hill decent control and a sump guard it promised to be tougher in the rough stuff.

Prices for this hardcore model start at £22,050.

Volkswagen Tiguan pricing (UK)

VW has released prices for its new entry-level Tiguan SUV. The 1.4-litre TSI will cost £19,450 when it arrives in Feburary next year. Buyers also get the option of a 138bhp 2.0 TDI diesel and, later next year, a 167bhp 2.0 TDI. Three levels of trim will be available - S, SE, and Sport - all featuring a choice of 6 speed manual or automatic Tiptronic gearboxes.

At the top of the range is the £23,750 2.0TDI Sport. This will be available with the hi-tech Park Assist system first showcased on the Touran MPV. Complex electrononics mean the car will steer itself into a space, while the driver simply operates the brake and throttle.

Buyers wanting to tackle more than the urban jungle can choose the rugged Escape trim. With a shorter nose, hill decent control and a sump guard it promised to be tougher in the rough stuff.

Prices for this hardcore model start at £22,050.

Nissan Qashqai travels over 800 miles on 1 tank of diesel

How far could you imagine driving your Nissan Qashqai on one tank of fuel? Well, believe it or not, you can cover the entire length of the UK and more if you drive economically.

Seven test drivers from the Nissan Technical Centre Europe (NTCE) in Cranfield, Bedfordshire, proved this recently when they took turns piloting a 1.5dCI Qashqai from Land’s End on the southwest coast of England to John O’Groats on the northern tip of Scotland without once stopping to refuel.

The drivers, who set off at 6 am averaged 67.35 mpg (4.2 l/100 km) on the 867 mile (1,387 km) run which is a common route for UK endurance and economy tests. To their delight ,there was still another seven litres of fuel left in the tank when they crossed the finish line at 17:30 the next day, enough to cover a further 110 miles.

The 67.35 mpg achieved on the trip is equivalent to a 29% saving over the quoted brochure figure of 52.3 mpg (combined urban and extra urban driving average). If a customer travels 10,000 miles (16,000 km) per year, the saving would equate to £193 (278 euros) per year, based on current UK fuel prices.

To make sure that the average customer would be able to replicate NTCE’s economy run, the team used a standard Qashqai production model. Speed limits were adhered to on minor roads and a cruising speed of approximately 60 mph (96 kph) was used on motorways. Just like during normal customer usage, the test-drivers used cruise control, headlights and air-conditioning when required.

During the run, Qashqai averaged 111 g/km of CO2, compared with the quoted brochure figure of 145 g/km. To offset the CO2 emitted, NTCE plans to contribute to a carbon neutral tree planting scheme.

The Europe designed and built Qashqai went on sale in early 2007 in Europe and has since sold more than 70,000 units. The car is also available in Japan where it is sold as Dualis.

Nissan Qashqai travels over 800 miles on 1 tank of diesel

How far could you imagine driving your Nissan Qashqai on one tank of fuel? Well, believe it or not, you can cover the entire length of the UK and more if you drive economically.

Seven test drivers from the Nissan Technical Centre Europe (NTCE) in Cranfield, Bedfordshire, proved this recently when they took turns piloting a 1.5dCI Qashqai from Land’s End on the southwest coast of England to John O’Groats on the northern tip of Scotland without once stopping to refuel.

The drivers, who set off at 6 am averaged 67.35 mpg (4.2 l/100 km) on the 867 mile (1,387 km) run which is a common route for UK endurance and economy tests. To their delight ,there was still another seven litres of fuel left in the tank when they crossed the finish line at 17:30 the next day, enough to cover a further 110 miles.

The 67.35 mpg achieved on the trip is equivalent to a 29% saving over the quoted brochure figure of 52.3 mpg (combined urban and extra urban driving average). If a customer travels 10,000 miles (16,000 km) per year, the saving would equate to £193 (278 euros) per year, based on current UK fuel prices.

To make sure that the average customer would be able to replicate NTCE’s economy run, the team used a standard Qashqai production model. Speed limits were adhered to on minor roads and a cruising speed of approximately 60 mph (96 kph) was used on motorways. Just like during normal customer usage, the test-drivers used cruise control, headlights and air-conditioning when required.

During the run, Qashqai averaged 111 g/km of CO2, compared with the quoted brochure figure of 145 g/km. To offset the CO2 emitted, NTCE plans to contribute to a carbon neutral tree planting scheme.

The Europe designed and built Qashqai went on sale in early 2007 in Europe and has since sold more than 70,000 units. The car is also available in Japan where it is sold as Dualis.

Electric cars in China sell slow

In France, nearly 80 percent of electricity is produced by nuclear stations. There if we tend to use electric cars replacing fossil fuel cars, we get a clear reduction in the emission of CO2.

However, this doesn’t make any sense in China. They make electricity by burning coal which is the biggest contributor to the air pollution.

Toyota is one of the largest companies that started pushing hybrid vehicles in the market and is one of the first to mass commercially produce such vehicles, an example being the main Toyota Prius. But, the news is that the automaker is saying that these electric vehicles would not help reducing CO2 emissions in China.


Toyota has initiated plug-in hybrids in partnership with EDF in France, which is based on Fuel Cell stack technology for which the company believes a lot of issues are to be resolved to make this a mass technology, both in infrastructure and in vehicles.

Tatehito Ueda, a managing officer at Toyota revealed that improved fuel economy by reduced running resistance, or friction, and an improved power train can slash emissions. Software can help make mechanical actions more defined and ease fuel consumption.

Electric cars in China sell slow

In France, nearly 80 percent of electricity is produced by nuclear stations. There if we tend to use electric cars replacing fossil fuel cars, we get a clear reduction in the emission of CO2.

However, this doesn’t make any sense in China. They make electricity by burning coal which is the biggest contributor to the air pollution.

Toyota is one of the largest companies that started pushing hybrid vehicles in the market and is one of the first to mass commercially produce such vehicles, an example being the main Toyota Prius. But, the news is that the automaker is saying that these electric vehicles would not help reducing CO2 emissions in China.


Toyota has initiated plug-in hybrids in partnership with EDF in France, which is based on Fuel Cell stack technology for which the company believes a lot of issues are to be resolved to make this a mass technology, both in infrastructure and in vehicles.

Tatehito Ueda, a managing officer at Toyota revealed that improved fuel economy by reduced running resistance, or friction, and an improved power train can slash emissions. Software can help make mechanical actions more defined and ease fuel consumption.

FIAT 500 production expands to 190,000 units

Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne has announced that production of the Fiat 500 will be raised to 190,000 units per annum, beginning next year. The production plan is a direct attempt to cope-up with colossal demand for Europe’s most exhilarating new city car.


The automaker made the surprise announcement during the Investor Conference Call that pursued announcement of the Fiat Group’s third quarter results, where the Italian firm turned in its eleventh consecutive quarter of growth with a record trading profit of 745 million euros.

Around 24,000 units of the car had been sold by the end of last month and the order book now stands at 90,000 units. The production for this year will be in the region of 50,000 to 60,000 units.


Fiat 500 was launched on 4th July during a glamorous event in Turin and so far has been launched in just two European markets, Italy and France. The orders in these countries combined are now running at an staggering 800 units per day.

Under the original plan, Fiat proposed annual production of 120,000-140,000 units depending on customer demand, which was further raised to 150,000 units. Work is now in progress at the Tychy factory in Poland to increase production upto 190,000 units per annum.

Marchionne made it clear that production of the Panda model, as well as the forthcoming Ford Ka, which is mutually developed with the 500 will not be affected.

He said "We are just starting in Germany, Belgium and Switzerland. In 2009, the capacity will be 190,000 if and when this is required"

The 500 has just gone on sale across Europe except from the UK, were it will arrive in January 2008

FIAT 500 production expands to 190,000 units

Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne has announced that production of the Fiat 500 will be raised to 190,000 units per annum, beginning next year. The production plan is a direct attempt to cope-up with colossal demand for Europe’s most exhilarating new city car.


The automaker made the surprise announcement during the Investor Conference Call that pursued announcement of the Fiat Group’s third quarter results, where the Italian firm turned in its eleventh consecutive quarter of growth with a record trading profit of 745 million euros.

Around 24,000 units of the car had been sold by the end of last month and the order book now stands at 90,000 units. The production for this year will be in the region of 50,000 to 60,000 units.


Fiat 500 was launched on 4th July during a glamorous event in Turin and so far has been launched in just two European markets, Italy and France. The orders in these countries combined are now running at an staggering 800 units per day.

Under the original plan, Fiat proposed annual production of 120,000-140,000 units depending on customer demand, which was further raised to 150,000 units. Work is now in progress at the Tychy factory in Poland to increase production upto 190,000 units per annum.

Marchionne made it clear that production of the Panda model, as well as the forthcoming Ford Ka, which is mutually developed with the 500 will not be affected.

He said "We are just starting in Germany, Belgium and Switzerland. In 2009, the capacity will be 190,000 if and when this is required"

The 500 has just gone on sale across Europe except from the UK, were it will arrive in January 2008

Will Nissan sell $2,500 car in international markets?

A Nissan priced at $2,500 that enters the Indian car market in 2010 could make its way into international markets, confirms Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn in an interview at the Tokyo Show.
Speaking to a small group of reporters in Tokyo, Ghosn raised what he sees as the big question; whether the car to be sold in India could succeed outside of the developing Indian market, being exported into mature markets chiefly Europe, the US, Canada and Japan. The answer is Nissan don't know, citing the lack of data as a lingering question over exportation.

The new ultra-low-priced vehicle is destined to take on Tata's $2,500 car on home soil, the new Tata entering the Indian market in 2008. Ghosn confirmed that he has not signed off on using Indian motorcylcle manufacturer Bajaj Auto Ltd. to produce the new vehicle - a meeting with Bajaj executives to take place on Monday over the prospect of a collaboration.

The Nissan CEO said that frugal thinking was needed on the project, adding: “You don’t need anything in the car that is not needed by customers.” However it was acknowledged that for entry into worldwide markets, a number of changes would be neccessary. Western market regulations would neccessitate the addition of further features, such as those for meeting crash safety requirements.

Ghosn did however add that Nissan may still be able to offer the car for "around $3,000," despite the enhancements. It's all now just wishful thinking but if it can be done successfully, Nissan'll have a winner on their hands.

The Nissan Cube, pictured above is a 5 and 7-seater compact car sold in the Japanese market, which may form the conceptual if not technical basis for India's $2,500 car.

Will Nissan sell $2,500 car in international markets?

A Nissan priced at $2,500 that enters the Indian car market in 2010 could make its way into international markets, confirms Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn in an interview at the Tokyo Show.
Speaking to a small group of reporters in Tokyo, Ghosn raised what he sees as the big question; whether the car to be sold in India could succeed outside of the developing Indian market, being exported into mature markets chiefly Europe, the US, Canada and Japan. The answer is Nissan don't know, citing the lack of data as a lingering question over exportation.

The new ultra-low-priced vehicle is destined to take on Tata's $2,500 car on home soil, the new Tata entering the Indian market in 2008. Ghosn confirmed that he has not signed off on using Indian motorcylcle manufacturer Bajaj Auto Ltd. to produce the new vehicle - a meeting with Bajaj executives to take place on Monday over the prospect of a collaboration.

The Nissan CEO said that frugal thinking was needed on the project, adding: “You don’t need anything in the car that is not needed by customers.” However it was acknowledged that for entry into worldwide markets, a number of changes would be neccessary. Western market regulations would neccessitate the addition of further features, such as those for meeting crash safety requirements.

Ghosn did however add that Nissan may still be able to offer the car for "around $3,000," despite the enhancements. It's all now just wishful thinking but if it can be done successfully, Nissan'll have a winner on their hands.

The Nissan Cube, pictured above is a 5 and 7-seater compact car sold in the Japanese market, which may form the conceptual if not technical basis for India's $2,500 car.

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Mercedes CLS facelift snapped

The current Mercedes CLS has been on the market since 2004 and is due for a facelift. Earlier on today, our spy photographers caught a glimpse of the redesigned four door coupe on the streets of Stuttgart, Germany.

The new front grille is clearly visible through the black paint and shows us two chrome bars similar to the current model which had 4 chrome bars. The rear end seems to be receiving new taillights and a new bumper but more on that when some of the covers are shed. The exhaust tips receive a minor styling change too with a less oval shape and more rectangular.

The facelifted CLS will be marketed as a 2008 model year.

The biggest CLS market is the U.S accounting for 40% of the overall sales followed by Australia which accounts for 20% along with Germany. The best selling CLS model in Australia was the CLS 350 follwed by CLS500 then CLS 55 AMG.

Mercedes CLS facelift snapped

The current Mercedes CLS has been on the market since 2004 and is due for a facelift. Earlier on today, our spy photographers caught a glimpse of the redesigned four door coupe on the streets of Stuttgart, Germany.

The new front grille is clearly visible through the black paint and shows us two chrome bars similar to the current model which had 4 chrome bars. The rear end seems to be receiving new taillights and a new bumper but more on that when some of the covers are shed. The exhaust tips receive a minor styling change too with a less oval shape and more rectangular.

The facelifted CLS will be marketed as a 2008 model year.

The biggest CLS market is the U.S accounting for 40% of the overall sales followed by Australia which accounts for 20% along with Germany. The best selling CLS model in Australia was the CLS 350 follwed by CLS500 then CLS 55 AMG.

Hyundai iX55 coming to Europe (aka Hyundai VeraCruz)

Going along with Hyundai's "i" prefix, the VeraCruz as it is known in certain markets could be named iX55 in Europe.

Hyundai is thinking of selling around 5000 units a year but if there is a strong demand for it, sales figure will rise. To power this SUV will be a 3.0 litre V6 diesel that will produce 240bhp.

Size wise, the new iX55 will be longer than the Lexus RX by approximately 6 - 9 inches. The iX55 will replace the aging Terracan (which means "cockroach" in Russian)

Prices are expected to start around 45,000 euros. If it makes it to the UK, expect prices to start from £25,000 to £30,000.

Sticking with Hyundai and KIA, the Mesa (HM) SUV could make it into the UK providing there is a positive response to it. The 7 seat SUV will be powered by a 3.0 litre V6 that will be used in the iX55.