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Automotive News
KLM Performance's Automotive News coverage is updated daily with news updates published as they are released to the media. These updates cover the latest developments in trucks, add-on components, racing, and the truck enthusiast lifestyle. Feel free to discuss any news releases in KLM's Discussion Forum.
Monday, August 27, 2007
Construction of Abu Dhabi circuit already well underway
Construction of Abu Dhabi circuit already well underwayFormula 1 - In a first for Formula One racing, the challenging circuit by renowned circuit designer Hermann Tilke combines a non-permanent section that will deliver all the drama of a street circuit with a high-speed permanent race track that incorporates a Spyker considers sale of Formula One teamMotorsport.com - Michiel Mol, director of Spyker Formula One Racing, is also considering a formal offer. To avoid a conflict of interests Mol and Spyker management have agreed that during discussions he will temporarily step down as director and also will Introducing The Clive James Show Britain's greatest interviewer, live Slate - When I lived in Britain in the late 1980s, James was my favorite face on TV, an Australian-born raconteur who could wisecrack with equal aplomb about Formula One racing and Kafka. He turned his TV studio into a salon, making his guests—writers ITALIAN GP - SUNDAY - TEAM QUOTESGrandPrix.com - With his retirement an era of Formula One racing ends. As already stated in our separate press release we all wish Kimi who will leave us at the end of the year all the best. Unfortunately Pedro suffered an engine failure, the cause of which is Race Car Algorithms for Managers?BusinessWeek - And now comes software, retooled for managers, that helps Formula One racing teams make decisions. SmithBayes , a U.K.-based company led by a group of ex-Reuters execs, has applied algorithms used in the racing world to the corporate one to help give Why winning is all in the details…Formula 1 - Formula One racing is a highly complex sport, where many elements of man and machine combine to strive for peak performance. But what is the story behind these details? Here, the Toyota team's chief race and test engineer Dieter Gass explains the Exclusive interview - Toro Rosso’s Sebastien BourdaisFormula 1 - Now that a ride in Formula One racing has become a reality for you, is winning the 2007 Champ Car title still as high a priority? SB: It has changed nothing regarding my motivation and my interest in the Champ Car season. There was a big challenge at The Future King of Formula One?Wall Street Journal - So despite the retirement of seven-time champion Michael Schumacher, the world of Formula One racing became much more interesting this year. In addition to his own exciting career opportunity, Mr. Hamilton has given Mr. Alonso a worthy competitor The INQUIRER Top 10 defunct brandsThe Inquirer - Compaq. The name still sort of exists but it’s way down HP’s list of priorities even though the brand had top-dollar marketing campaigns behind it, such as Formula One racing marques. 5. Newton. Fell like a piece of bruised fruit once Apple New hotels start popping upCNN Money - The first five units will roll out of the factory in Italy in early 2008, and Saénz says he's already received inquiries from hospitals, travel companies, and even the Formula One racing circuit. The standard Hotelmóvil will sell for $500,000 or News Blog: Posts tagged lenovoCNET News - The Formula One racing team Lenovo co-sponsors with AT&T is using the T61p as part of the company's campaign to demonstrate the T61p's engineering computing power and robustness. While Lenovo has been rolling out these features individually on its
posted by automotive-news # 7:15 PM
State of California Certifies Hickok Evaporated Emissions Tester
State of California Certifies Hickok Evaporated Emissions Tester CLEVELAND, Aug. 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Hickok Incorporated (BULLETIN BOARD: HICKA) , a Cleveland based supplier of products and services for the automotive emissions, automotive diagnostic, locomotive, and aircraft industries, today announced that it received certification from the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) on its Low Pressure Evaporative Emissions tester product for the State of California. The product, which has been in development for a number of years, provides an accurate method of testing vehicle evaporative emission systems for leaks that exceed federal guidelines. The Company is partnered with Environmental Systems Products (ESP) of East Granby, Connecticut. ESP is a veteran of emissions testing over the past 28 years and has an excellent reputation for top quality equipment and service. Hickok who also has an excellent industry reputation has offered emissions testing equipment under the Waekon brand since 1998. Hickok designed and is manufacturing the equipment and ESP is marketing and servicing the combined ESP/Waekon branded product offering. The Company currently has orders for approximately $8,000,000 of the EVAP Tester and is optimistic that the orders will increase now that certification is in place. The Company recently began delivery to customers. Bob Bauman, President and CEO, said this project is expected to add significantly to the revenues and profitability of our last quarter fiscal 2007 and the first quarter of fiscal 2008 and could have long term implications for the Company. Other states have similar requirements in their State Implementation Plans (SIP) and are watching the progress of California's program. The California program mandates that all vehicles from 1976 through 1995 be tested yearly. The resulting reduction in pollution is estimated at over 14 tons per day by 2010 in the State of California. In excess of 10 million vehicles will be subject to the test program that begins November 1, 2007 and over 8,000 Smog Check Stations are expected to participate. Only one other vendor is participating in the program. Other states have similar requirements to California's in their State Implementation Plan (SIP) which is submitted to the Federal Government. Hickok is optimistic that other states will consider adding to their programs once they see the effectiveness of the California program. Hickok provides products and services primarily for the automotive emissions, automotive diagnostic, locomotive, and aircraft industries. Offerings include the development, manufacture and marketing of electronic and non-electronic automotive diagnostic products used for repair, emission testing, and nut-running electronic controls used in manufacturing processes. The Company also develops and manufactures indicating instruments for aircraft, locomotive and general industrial applications. Certain statements in this news release, including discussions of management's expectations for fiscal 2007 and fiscal 2008, constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results may differ from those anticipated as a result of risks and uncertainties which include, but are not limited to, Hickok's ability to effectively develop and market new products serving customers in the automotive aftermarket, overall market and industry conditions, the Company's ability to capitalize on market opportunities as well as the risks described from time to time in Hickok's reports as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact: Source: Hickok Incorporated
CONTACT: Tom Bauman of Hickok Incorporated, 1-800-342-5080, tfbauman@hickok-inc.com ------- Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 7:08 PM
Revealed - The All-New 2009 Jaguar XF
Revealed - The All-New 2009 Jaguar XF Contemporary design in an all-new Jaguar sedan IRVINE, Calif., Aug. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Jaguar is proud to announce the all-new 2009 XF - a stunning four-door Jaguar that combines the style and performance of a sports car with the refinement, space and sophistication of a luxury sedan. (Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070827/CLM124) Scheduled to make its world debut at the 2007 Frankfurt International Motor Show in September, the new Jaguar XF is a reflection of the bold new design language that Jaguar will be using both now and in the future. "As one of the most visually striking, technically sophisticated and driver-oriented sedan cars that Jaguar has ever produced, the XF clearly demonstrates the forward-looking focus that now defines the Jaguar brand," said Wayne Burgess, XF Senior Design Manager. "With its dramatic styling, powerful flowing lines and a distinctive front, the new XF looks like no other Jaguar. Yet it defines the new design language the company will be adopting for all future models." The first impression of the new XF is its visual strength. It firmly emphasizes contemporary automotive style whilst maintaining Jaguar's core values. The new XF is sporty, muscular and dynamic -- made evident in its sweeping silhouette that was inspired by the new Jaguar XK sports car. There is a powerful grille, dramatic side window graphics and, of course, strong Jaguar rear haunches. The stance of the XF gives the car a 'ready to pounce' look that suggests latent power and energy. The contemporary design theme is continued inside the XF with an interior ambience that is enriched by wood, aluminum and leather presented in a very modern way, unlike any other car manufacturer. With its sophisticated instruments and calm interior mood lighting, the XF moves away from traditional styling to a contemporary, sporting luxury theme. This is emphasized by features such as the all-new JaguarDrive Selector(TM), JaguarSense(TM) (an electronic control system that employs motion detecting sensors to activate certain vehicle features), unique phosphor blue interior lighting, and Bowers & Wilkins sound technology. The new XF will be available in the US with a choice of two engines - a 4.2-liter naturally-aspirated V8 and a 4.2-liter supercharged V8. In naturally-aspirated form, the XF develops 300bhp and 310 lb.-ft. of torque. The supercharged version uses a highly efficient rotor-type supercharger that develops 420bhp and 408 lb.-ft. of torque. Both engines combine effortless performance, unrivalled character, an impeccable pedigree, and have a classic Jaguar blend of power and refinement. All-new 2009 Jaguar XF At-A-Glance Highlights - The XF is a four-door Jaguar that combines the style and performance of a sports car with the refinement, space and sophistication of a luxury sedan. - The exterior styling of the XF is the first result of Jaguar's new design language in a sedan. With interior design that is the equal of the exterior in terms of crafted execution and visual excitement, the XF offers a truly contemporary, luxury environment. - The coupe-like lines of the XF belie the amount of space inside: there is room for five adults in comfort, generous interior stowage and a trunk capacity of 17.6 cu. ft. (500 liters), plus the opportunity to fold down the rear seats and add a further 14.8 cu. ft. (420 liters). - Jaguar craftsmanship adopts a sharp new edge on the XF. Sophisticated instrumentation, a touch-screen, modern materials and graphics complement new 'surprise and delight' features. Upon entry to the XF, the start button pulses, like a heartbeat. Start the engine and the JaguarDrive Selector(TM) rises into the palm of the hand, while rotating vents turn from their flush, 'parked' position to their functional open position. - Improved torsional stiffness delivers refinement and dynamic performance - underpinning the driver-focused yet remarkably comfortable driving experience. - The XF will be available from launch in the U.S. with two different engines - 4.2-liter naturally-aspirated V8 and 4.2-liter supercharged V8 - all featuring Jaguar's proven six-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddles for manual gear selection (Jaguar Sequential Shift(TM)). - Key driver aids on the XF include Electronic Brake Assist, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Anti-lock Braking System, Dynamic Stability Control, Cornering Brake Control and Engine Drag Torque Control. And, for the first time in a Jaguar, Understeer Control Logic which decelerates the car and helps to restore grip to the front wheels when required. - Three trim levels will be offered in the U.S. market - Luxury, Premium Luxury and Supercharged levels. - The first cars will be delivered to U.S. customers in March 2008. - Pricing for the North American market will be announced in November 2007. From its beginning as a manufacturer of motorcycle sidecars in 1922, Jaguar Cars has grown to become one of the world's premier manufacturers of luxury sedans and sports cars and with that, one of the most recognized commercial brands. The company's vision is simple: To produce beautiful fast cars that are desired the world over. The company operates two manufacturing plants in the United Kingdom and is fully engaged in environmental programs, community work and brand awareness exercises such as motorsports. First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact: Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070827/CLM124 AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/ AP PhotoExpress Network: PRN19 PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com Source: Jaguar CONTACT: Tim Watson, Vice President of Communications, +1-949-341-6185, twatso19@jford.com, or Anne Clinard, Communications and Public Affairs Manager, +1-949-341-6847, aclinard@jaguar.com, or Mia Bae, Media Communications Officer, +1-949-341-6191, mbae1@jaguar.com Web site: http://www.media.jaguar.com/ NOTE TO EDITORS: Editor's note: Additional information and photography are available for download at www.jaguarxfmedia.com ------- Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 7:02 PM
Nissan Announces Pricing on 2008 Altima Hybrid
Nissan Announces Pricing on 2008 Altima Hybrid NASHVILLE, Tenn., Aug. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Nissan announced a starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $25,070 for the 2008 Nissan Altima Hybrid, which is on sale now at Nissan retailers in the eight states that have adopted California emissions regulations -- California, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont. The Altima Hybrid has been certified by the Internal Revenue Service as meeting the requirements for the Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit, thereby qualifying for a tax credit of $2,350. Enhancements to the 2008 Altima Hybrid include standard splash guards and Diversity Antenna, along with an available factory-activated XM(R) Satellite Radio (XM(R) monthly subscription required, sold separately). Altima Hybrid is offered in one model and with four available option packages -- Convenience Package, Connection Package, Power Sliding Glass Moonroof and Technology Package. The 2008 Altima Hybrid's EPA fuel economy is estimated at 35 mpg City and 33 mpg Highway. It is rated as an Advanced Technology-Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV) and emits almost no evaporative emissions. Combined with Altima's standard 20-gallon fuel tank, Altima Hybrid has a projected driving range of over 600 miles between fill-ups. The Altima Hybrid features a high level of standard equipment, including 16-inch alloy wheels, Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, power windows/door locks, 6-speaker AM/FM/CD system with auxiliary audio input jack, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS). Altima Hybrid also features a standard dual-zone automatic temperature control that includes an Altima Hybrid-specific electrically powered air conditioning system that continues to provide cooling when the gasoline engine is stopped. Every Altima Hybrid offers an extensive list of standard safety features, including the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS), front seat-mounted side- impact supplemental air bags for chest protection, roof-mounted curtain side- impact supplemental air bags for front and rear outboard occupant head protection and front seat Active Head Restraints. For 2008, Altima is also available in 3.5-liter V6 and 2.5-liter inline 4- cylinder gasoline engine models in 4-door Sedan and 2-door Coupe body styles. In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.nissannews.com. First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact:
Source: Nissan North America
CONTACT: Darryll Harrison Jr. of Nissan North America, +1-615-725-5644, Darryll.Harrison@nissan-usa.com Web SITE: http://www.nissannews.com/ ------- Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 6:55 PM
MADD Pacific Northwest to Join Labor Day Crackdown on Drunk Driving
MADD Pacific Northwest to Join Labor Day Crackdown on Drunk Driving National Effort Teams MADD with Tens of Thousands of Law Enforcement Officers Warning Drivers: If You Drive Drunk, You Will be Arrested SEATTLE, Aug. 27 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The following advisory is being issued by Mothers Against Drunk Driving: What: The Pacific Northwest Region of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) will hold a news conference to kick off a statewide drunk driving crackdown that aims to keep our streets safe at a historically dangerous period -- Labor Day weekend. MADD is working with law enforcement this holiday weekend to send the message: if you drive at or over the illegal limit, you will be under arrest. The effort in Washington state, Drive Hammered, Get Nailed, is sponsored by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in partnership with MADD, the Washington Traffic Safety Commission and the Washington State Patrol. During the crackdown, law enforcement officials will intensify enforcement of drunk driving laws by conducting high-visibility enforcement efforts such as saturation patrols. When: Wednesday, August 29th 11:00 a.m. PDT Where: The Sheraton Seattle Hotel Issaquah Room (3rd floor) 1400 6th Avenue Seattle, Washington 98101 * If directions are needed, please contact Judy Eakin at 425-251-5252 (ext. 103) Who: Attending the press conference will be: -- Chuck Hurley, CEO, MADD -- Jim Ports, Deputy Administrator, NHTSA -- Rob McKenna, Washington State Attorney General -- Judy Eakin, Regional Executive Director, MADD Pacific Northwest -- Ernest Sickey, MADD Pacific Northwest -- Lowell Porter, Director, Washington Traffic Safety Commission -- Brian Ursino, Assistant Chief, Washington State Patrol -- Karen Minahan, a victim of drunk driving Why: Drunk driving is the nation's most frequently committed violent crime. In 2006, 225 people in Washington and nearly 13,500 people nationally were killed in crashes where the driver had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher. Research shows that frequent and highly publicized saturation patrols reduce deaths and injuries due to drunk driving. The two-and-a-half week enforcement wave in Washington runs from August 15 - September 3. High-visibility enforcement, a proven method to reduce the number of deaths and injuries caused by drunk driving, is one of the four components of MADD's Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving. The other elements include: mandatory ignition interlocks for all convicted drunk drivers, development of advanced vehicle technology to detect and stop drunk drivers, and mobilization of grassroots support. First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact:
Source: Mothers Against Drunk Driving
CONTACT: Annmarie Edwards, +1-301-871-5852, annmarie.edwards@gmmb.com or Mike McNeil, +1-202-572-2889, mike.mcneil@gmmb.com, both for Mothers Against Drunk Driving ------- Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 5:03 PM
California Certifies New Vehicle Emissions Test Equipment; Device Will Test for Vehicle Fuel Leaks
California Certifies New Vehicle Emissions Test Equipment; Device Will Test for Vehicle Fuel Leaks CLEVELAND, Aug. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Hickok Incorporated, manufacturer of test equipment that will measure vehicle fuel vapor leaks, has received certification from the California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) paving the way to market the product to Smog Check facilities throughout the state. California has led the nation in improving air quality through the implementation of its Smog Check program, which requires polluting vehicles be repaired. Thanks to Hickok Incorporated, the state will be able to follow through on its plans to test for fuel vapor leaks. State officials estimate that by testing for and eliminating fuel leaks, they will eliminate 14 tons of pollutants a day from the air Californians breathe. The tester will be marketed under the ESP/WAEKON brand. The product, which has been in development for a number of years, provides a fast and accurate method of measuring hydrocarbon emissions produced by leaks in the gasoline delivery system that exceed Federal EPA guidelines. The new fuel system test will become a part of the Smog Check testing routine. California vehicles (1976-1995) are tested every other year. In excess of 10 million vehicles will be subject to the test program, which is slated to begin November 1, 2007. With more than 8,000 Smog Check facility locations currently operating in the state, the estimated value of this program in sales of equipment exceeds $24 million, and it is believed other states are waiting to follow the example being set by California. Only one other vendor is participating in the program. Bob Bauman, President and CEO, said, "This is the first time a reliable technology for this type of testing has become available to state emissions programs. We anticipate a number of other states that already have this type of testing in their State Implementation Plans (SIP) will be adding this to their programs once they see the effectiveness of the California project". He further stated, "The company's product uses a patented method of measuring for leaks that provides fast and accurate measurements under all conditions while minimizing test time and eliminating false failures for consumers. Our offering includes a custom heavy duty cart that houses all the equipment and accessories that are required for testing and reporting as well as providing a professional appearance." "An integrated smoke generator option is also available", he said. Hickok is partnering with Environmental Systems Products of East Granby, Connecticut. ESP is a veteran of emissions testing over the past 28 years and has an excellent reputation for top quality equipment and service. Hickok has also been in the emissions equipment business for a number of years designed and is manufacturing the equipment under its Waekon brand. ESP is marketing and servicing the combined ESP/WAEKON branded product offering. Both Hickok and ESP are expecting this to be the first of a number of initiatives by various other states to continue to reduce the pollution output of older vehicles and improve the quality of the air we all breathe. First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact: Source: Hickok Incorporated
CONTACT: Tom Bauman of Hickok Incorporated, 1-800-342-5080, tfbauman@hickok-inc.com ------- Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 3:48 PM
MADD Tennessee and Tennessee Law Enforcement Team Up for Labor Day Crackdown on Drunk Driving
MADD Tennessee and Tennessee Law Enforcement Team Up for Labor Day Crackdown on Drunk Driving MADD Joins National Effort with Tens of Thousands of Law Enforcement Officers in Booze It and Lose It. Labor Day Crackdown, Warning Drivers: If You Drive Drunk, You Will be Arrested NASHVILLE, Tenn., Aug. 27 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The following advisory is being issued by Mothers Against Drunk Driving: What: Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) of Tennessee along with the Governor's Highway Safety Office, Tennessee Highway Patrol and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department will hold a news conference to kick off a statewide drunk driving crackdown that aims to keep our streets safe at a historically dangerous period -- Labor Day weekend. MADD is working with law enforcement this holiday weekend to send the message: if you drive under the influence of alcohol, you will be under arrest. The Tennessee Booze It and Lose It. effort is part of a national drunk driving crackdown, Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest., sponsored by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in partnership with MADD, the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), and the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP). During the crackdown, law enforcement officials will intensify enforcement of drunk driving laws by conducting high-visibility enforcement efforts such as sobriety checkpoints and saturation patrols. At the press conference, media will have the opportunity to view a mock sobriety checkpoint, which will demonstrate the procedure drivers must undergo when they are stopped at a sobriety checkpoint conducted during the Labor Day crackdown period. The demonstration will include a field sobriety test. Additionally, the media will be invited to view and video tape an actual sobriety checkpoint later in the evening located at the intersection of Highway 41 and Highway 70 at Stroop Lane between Smyrna and Murfreesboro beginning at 8:30 p.m. to see local law enforcement in action as they crack down on drunk driving. When: Wednesday, August 29 10:00 a.m. CDT Where: Tennessee Highway Patrol Training Center 275 Stewarts Ferry Pike Nashville, TN 37214 *If directions are needed, please contact Sonya Manfred at (615) 360-8055. Who: Attending the press conference will be: -- Glynn Birch, President, MADD -- Laura Dial, Executive Director, MADD Tennessee -- Kendell Poole, Director, Governor's Highway Safety Office -- Colonel Mike Walker, Tennessee Highway Patrol -- Chief Ronal Serpas, Metro Nashville Police Department -- Officer Juan Borges, El Protector -- Traci Hughes Jungkurth, a victim and survivor of drunk driving Why: Drunk driving is the nation's most frequently committed violent crime. In 2006, 408 people were killed in Tennessee in crashes where the driver had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher. Nationally, almost 13,500 people were killed. Research shows that frequent and highly publicized sobriety checkpoints and saturation patrols reduce deaths and injuries due to drunk driving. The four-day enforcement wave in Tennessee runs from August 31 - September 3. High-visibility enforcement, a proven method to reduce the number of deaths and injuries caused by drunk driving, is one of the four components of MADD's Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving. The other elements include: mandatory ignition interlocks for all convicted drunk drivers, development of advanced vehicle technology to detect and stop drunk drivers, and mobilization of grassroots support. First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact:
Source: Mothers Against Drunk Driving
CONTACT: Merideth Rogers, +1-202-572-2973, merideth.rogers@gmmb.com, or Annmarie Edwards, +1-301-871-5852, annmarie.edwards@gmmb.com, both for Mothers Against Drunk Driving ------- Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 3:28 PM
The Chrysler Foundation Donates $10,000 to Macomb County Sheriff's Office to Help Fight Computer Crimes
The Chrysler Foundation Donates $10,000 to Macomb County Sheriff's Office to Help Fight Computer Crimes AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Aug. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- The Chrysler Foundation donated $10,000 to the Macomb Computer Crimes Enforcement (MACE) team today. The funds will support the MACE fight against computer fraud, identity theft and child pornography cases. "We are pleased to assist the Macomb County Sheriff's Office in its mission to drive out computer crimes in our communities," said Brian Glowiak, Vice President of The Chrysler Foundation. "The New Chrysler works with law enforcement officials in several communities on a wide range of public safety issues, and we're proud to highlight the efforts of all levels of law enforcement to raise awareness of computer crimes." MACE was created in 2001. In addition to the team of deputies assigned to MACE, a reserve unit of volunteer citizens was formed to help with the high number of cases. The special unit has arrested over 130 suspects. "We want to thank Chrysler for their continued support of law enforcement," said Mark A. Hackel, Macomb County Sheriff. "This will help keep our community safe." The Chrysler Foundation Now in its 54th year, The Chrysler Foundation is the primary source of charitable grants made by Chrysler. Formerly known as the DaimlerChrysler Corporation Fund, the Foundation annually supports hundreds of charitable organizations with an emphasis on community growth and enrichment, education, arts and culture, public policy, youth development and disaster relief programs throughout the United States and, increasingly, the world. The Foundation's Good Neighbor, Good Citizen(R) programs make a positive, lasting investment in local communities where our employees, customers and neighbors live. Source: Chrysler LLC
CONTACT: Curtrise Garner, +1-248-512-2712, or cell, +1-248-761-8309, or cg61@chrysler.com, or David Elshoff, +1-248-512-2690, or cell, +1-248-797-2300, or dte@chrysler.com, both of Chrysler LLC Web site: http://media.chrysler.com/ http://www.chrysler.com/ NOTE TO EDITORS: For more information, please visit the Chrysler media site at http://cgmedia.daimlerchrysler.com. For more information about 2007 labor negotiations, please visit http://www.chryslerlabortalks07.com. ------- Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 3:02 PM
Mercedes-Benz Financial Ranks Highest in Two Segments of Annual J.D. Power and Associates Dealer Financing Satisfaction Study
Mercedes-Benz Financial Ranks Highest in Two Segments of Annual J.D. Power and Associates Dealer Financing Satisfaction Study - Highest in Prime Retail Credit - Highest in Floor Planning FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich., Aug. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Mercedes-Benz Financial captured the highest ranking in satisfaction among prime retail credit and floor planning in the just-released J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Dealer Financing Satisfaction Study(SM). This is the second consecutive year that Mercedes-Benz Financial ranked highest in Dealer Satisfaction with Floor Planning, performing particularly well in each of the three floor plan satisfaction factors: finance provider offering; process and service; and floor plan support personnel. "The J.D. Power and Associates Dealer Financing Satisfaction Study is an important tool for measuring our customer service progress and identifying opportunities for improvement," said Franz Reiner, Vice President, Mercedes- Benz Financial. "As a result of our dealer feedback, we continue to gain valuable insight into how our service should evolve in a market that grows increasingly competitive." Additionally, Mercedes-Benz ranked second in Retail Leasing, improving in all four factors: Lease-end/Termination Policy; Application/Approval Process; Credit Personnel; and Finance Provider Offering. Concluding its strong showing in the study, Mercedes-Benz Financial also finished second in Account Management. "These results will reinforce the commitment of all Mercedes-Benz Financial employees to deliver benchmark products and services that help strengthen relationships between Mercedes-Benz dealerships and their customers," Reiner said. About Mercedes-Benz Financial Mercedes-Benz Financial, now in its 25th year of operations, provides financing for Mercedes-Benz dealers' inventories and their retail customers. Currently, over 400,000 drivers in the United States enjoy the benefits of leasing or financing their Mercedes-Benz vehicles through Mercedes-Benz Financial, which is part of DCFS USA LLC group of companies operating in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and parts of South America. DCFSA USA LLC is part of the Daimler Financial Services Group, headquartered in Berlin, Germany, operating in nearly 40 countries. Daimler Financial Services Group is one of the leading financial services enterprises worldwide. For more information visit www.mercedesbenzfinancial.com First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact:
Source: Mercedes-Benz Financial
CONTACT: Jack Ferry, +1-248-991-6610, cell, +1-248-761-3233, jrf4@dcx.com, or James Ryan, +1-248-991-6600, cell, +1-248-790-5100, jjr42@dcx.com, both for Mercedes-Benz Financial Web site: http://www.mercedesbenzfinancial.com/ ------- Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 3:00 PM
/C O R R E C T I O N -- Environmental Systems Products/
/C O R R E C T I O N -- Environmental Systems Products/ In the news release, ESP's EVAP is First Low-Pressure Fuel Evaporative System Testing Unit BAR-Certified Under New California Smog Check Regulations, issued Friday, Aug. 24, by Environmental Systems Products over PR Newswire, we are advised by the company that the fifth paragraph, first sentence, should read "will be tested biennially" rather than "must be tested yearly" as originally issued inadvertently. Complete, corrected release follows: ESP's EVAP is First Low-Pressure Fuel Evaporative System Testing Unit BAR-Certified Under New California Smog Check Regulations Nearly 10 million vehicles will require testing after Nov. 1, 2007 EAST GRANBY, Conn., Aug. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Environmental Systems Products (ESP), in partnership with Waekon, has earned the industry's first and only certification to provide California's Smog Check stations with low-pressure fuel evaporative testing equipment. The BAR-Certified EVAP unit is an innovative solution engineered specifically to help California achieve its clean air goals under the new emission regulations. (Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070824/NEF032 ) The low-pressure fuel evaporative testing (LPFET) regulations take effect Nov. 1, 2007, when all Smog Check stations must be equipped with certified equipment to maintain their licenses. The LPFET program, an enhancement of California's Smog Check Program, addresses ozone and federal clean air standards by locating leaks in the evaporative systems of vehicle fuel tanks and vapor lines. ESP's EVAP is a portable, automated, self-contained testing unit, which is easy to operate and provides accurate results in all types of environmental conditions -- and with the speed that operators need. EVAP detects leaks measured in thousandths of inches, and operates concurrently with other Smog Check tests without slowing check station throughput. Fast-pass and fast-fail algorithms expedite test times and "false fails" are virtually 0% when used correctly. The compact design includes storage for all options and required tools, which provides ease of use and reduces test times. "EVAP is the type of innovative solution that the Smog Check industry has come to expect from ESP when new challenges appear on the horizon," ESP President John Ruth said. To design this next-generation technology, he said, ESP collaborated with Waekon, whose 40 years of automotive industry engineering expertise created an unparalleled partnership. Under the new California Department of Consumer Affairs Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) regulations, gasoline-powered passenger vehicles built between 1976 and 1995 will be tested biennially for evaporative emissions as part of standard smog check inspections. Approximately 10 million vehicles are subject to testing and leak detection and repairs will reduce emission of unburned gasoline by 14 tons a day, according to projections by the California Air Resources Board. ESP, which has the largest installed base of emissions testing equipment in California, is the first manufacturer to offer certified equipment to the state's 8,000 plus Smog Check station operators. Smog Check station owners and managers are currently working with ESP sales teams to purchase EVAP units before the Nov. 1 deadline. ESP's field support representatives will provide customers with technical support during and after installation, to ensure that the LPFET program kicks off smoothly and successfully. Owners and managers can also call 1-888-377-0135 for assistance. Financing or leasing is available with a $100 down payment. "With the Smog Check stations facing a deadline, ESP is prepared to provide the accurate and reliable testing solution they need to meet the state's requirements and help improve air quality for all California citizens," said John Bradley, ESP Vice President of Sales. For information about the product or purchase of an EVAP unit, please call 1-888-377-0135. About EVAP EVAP by Environmental Systems Products (ESP) is a testing unit for detecting leaks in vehicle low-pressure fuel evaporative systems. EVAP is a self-contained, automated, and fully integrated emissions testing device designed primarily to enable California Smog Check stations to comply with the state's 2007 low-pressure fuel evaporative testing program. The system includes internal self-test and external calibration routines to insure long- term accuracy as well as a manual mode that uses audio signaling to assist technicians in finding leaks. ESP's EVAP unit is also designed to easily accommodate a Smoke Machine diagnostic option. About ESP Environmental Systems Products, headquartered in East Granby, Connecticut, is a leading vehicle testing company, providing clean air and safety solutions to domestic and world markets. The company offers a comprehensive array of vehicle emissions and safety inspection products and services, helping people around the world by identifying vehicles that are unsafe, or polluting the air. About Waekon Waekon is a brand of Hickok Incorporated, a Cleveland based supplier of products and services for the automotive emissions, automotive diagnostic, locomotive, and aircraft industries. Offerings include the development, manufacture and marketing of electronic and non-electronic automotive diagnostic products used for repair, emission testing, and nut-running electronic controls used in manufacturing processes. The Company also develops and manufactures indicating instruments for aircraft, locomotive and general industrial applications and provides repair training programs. First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact: Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070824/NEF032 AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/ PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com Source: Environmental Systems Products CONTACT: Jessica Chartier for Environmental Systems Products, +1-800-446-4708, mobile, +1-860-202-6456, jessica.chartier@esph.com ------- Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 2:39 PM
CarMax to Present at Investor Conferences in September
CarMax to Present at Investor Conferences in September RICHMOND, Va., Aug. 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- CarMax, Inc. (NYSE:KMX) announced today that CarMax executives will speak at two upcoming conferences in New York City. Tom Folliard, President and CEO, will present at the Goldman Sachs Fourteenth Annual Global Retailing Conference on September 5, 2007, beginning at 11:10 a.m. E.T. Joe Kunkel, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Strategy, will present at the Thomas Weisel Consumer Conference on September 26, 2007 beginning at 8:35 a.m. ET. A live webcast will be available on the company's investor information homepage at http://investor.carmax.com/. The Goldman Sachs webcast will be archived and available for replay through September 20, 2007. The Thomas Weisel webcast will be archived and available through October 10, 2007. About CarMax CarMax, a Fortune 500 company and one of the Fortune 2007 "100 Best Companies to Work For," is the nation's largest retailer of used cars. Headquartered in Richmond, Va., CarMax currently operates 81 used car superstores in 38 markets. The CarMax consumer offer is structured around four core equities: low, no-haggle prices; a broad selection; high quality vehicles; and customer-friendly service. During the twelve months ended February 28, 2007, the company retailed 337,021 used vehicles and sold 208,959 wholesale vehicles at its in-store auctions. For more information, access the CarMax website at www.carmax.com. Contacts: Katharine Kenny, Assistant Vice President, Investor Relations, (804) 935-4591 Celeste Gunter, Manager, Investor Relations, (804) 935-4597 (Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20011214/CARMAXLOGO ) First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact:
Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20011214/CARMAXLOGO AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/ PRN Photo Desk photodesk@prnewswire.com Source: CarMax, Inc. CONTACT: Katharine Kenny, Assistant Vice President, Investor Relations, +1-804-935-4591, or Celeste Gunter, Manager, Investor Relations, +1-804-935-4597, both of CarMax, Inc. Web site: http://www.carmax.com/ http://investor.carmax.com/ ------- Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 1:02 PM
AAA Leadership Help City Prepare for Grand Prix through Hands-on Volunteer Work
AAA Leadership Help City Prepare for Grand Prix through Hands-on Volunteer Work WHAT: AAA Michigan Leadership will do general clean-up in Gabriel Richard and Mt. Elliott parks as part of their "day of service" activities, as they join the Downtown Detroit Partnership's Clean Downtown project to help put finishing touches on the city in time for the Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix scheduled over Labor Day weekend.
WHEN: Wednesday, August 29 / 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. WHERE: The majority of the workers will be at Gabriel Richard Park, on Jefferson Avenue, near bridge/entrance to Belle Isle. WHO: More than 40 AAA Michigan vice presidents, district managers, and directors will shed those titles for that of crew member as part of this project. WHY: AAA has a strong history of volunteer service and stresses this and other core corporate values in the communities where its employees and members live and work. AAA is the volunteer sponsor for the Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix and more than 125 AAA Michigan employees will volunteer as courtesy shuttle workers during Grand Prix weekend. (Note: Additional photo opportunities will be available from 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. as the team cleans along the RiverWalk. Call Nancy Cain the day of the event for arrangements - 313/268-4038.) Contacts: Jim Rink for AAA Michigan, +1-313-336-1513, or Nancy Cain of AAA Michigan, +1-313-336-1514. PRNewswire -- Aug. 27 First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact: Source: AAA Michigan
Web site: http://www.autocam.com/ ------- Profile: automotive-news
America's Car-Mart, Inc. Schedules Release of First Quarter Results and Conference Call
America's Car-Mart, Inc. Schedules Release of First Quarter Results and Conference Call BENTONVILLE, Ark., Aug. 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- America's Car-Mart, Inc. (NASDAQ:CRMT) today announced that the Company will release financial results for its fiscal 2008 first quarter, ended July 31st, 2007, on Thursday, September 6, 2007 at 7:30 A.M. (Eastern). Senior management will hold a conference call on September 6, 2007 at 11:00 A.M. (Eastern). A live audio of the conference call will be accessible to the public by calling (800) 309-9490. International callers dial (706) 634-0104. Callers should dial in approximately 10 minutes before the call begins. A conference call replay will be available two hours following the call for seven days and can be accessed by calling (800) 642-1687 (domestic) or (706) 645-9291 (international), conference ID # 14914428. About America's Car-Mart America's Car-Mart operates 93 automotive dealerships in nine states and is the largest publicly-held automotive retailer in the United States focused exclusively on the "Buy Here/Pay Here" segment of the used car market. The Company operates its dealerships primarily in small cities throughout the South-Central United States, selling quality used vehicles and providing financing for substantially all of its customers. First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact: Source: America's Car-Mart, Inc.
CONTACT: T.J. "Skip" Falgout, III, CEO, +1-972-717-3423, or Jeffrey A. Williams, CFO, +1-479-418-8021, both of America's Car-Mart, Inc. Web site: http://www.car-mart.com/ ------- Profile: automotive-news
California Certifies New Vehicle Emissions Test Equipment
California Certifies New Vehicle Emissions Test Equipment CLEVELAND, Aug. 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Hickok Incorporated (BULLETIN BOARD: HICKA.OB) , a Cleveland based supplier of products and services for the automotive emissions, automotive diagnostic, locomotive, and aircraft industries, today announced that it received certification from the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) on its Low Pressure Evaporative Emissions tester product for the State of California. The product, which has been in development for a number of years, provides an accurate method of testing vehicle evaporative emission systems for leaks that exceed federal guidelines. The Company is partnered with Environmental Systems Products (ESP) of East Granby, Connecticut. ESP is a veteran of emissions testing over the past 28 years and has an excellent reputation for top quality equipment and service. Hickok who also has an excellent industry reputation has offered emissions testing equipment under the Waekon brand since 1998. Hickok designed and is manufacturing the equipment and ESP is marketing and servicing the combined ESP/Waekon branded product offering. The Company currently has orders for approximately $8,000,000 of the EVAP Tester and is optimistic that the orders will increase now that certification is in place. The Company recently began delivery to customers. Bob Bauman, President and CEO, said this project is expected to add significantly to the revenues and profitability of our last quarter fiscal 2007 and the first quarter of fiscal 2008 and could have long term implications for the Company. Other states have similar requirements in their State Implementation Plans (SIP) and are watching the progress of California's program. The California program mandates that all vehicles from 1976 through 1995 be tested yearly. The resulting reduction in pollution is estimated at over 14 tons per day by 2010 in the State of California. In excess of 10 million vehicles will be subject to the test program that begins November 1, 2007 and over 8,000 Smog Check Stations are expected to participate. Only one other vendor is participating in the program. Other states have similar requirements to California's in their State Implementation Plan (SIP) which is submitted to the Federal Government. Hickok is optimistic that other states will consider adding to their programs once they see the effectiveness of the California program. Hickok provides products and services primarily for the automotive emissions, automotive diagnostic, locomotive, and aircraft industries. Offerings include the development, manufacture and marketing of electronic and non-electronic automotive diagnostic products used for repair, emission testing, and nut-running electronic controls used in manufacturing processes. The Company also develops and manufactures indicating instruments for aircraft, locomotive and general industrial applications. Certain statements in this news release, including discussions of management's expectations for fiscal 2007 and fiscal 2008, constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results may differ from those anticipated as a result of risks and uncertainties which include, but are not limited to, Hickok's ability to effectively develop and market new products serving customers in the automotive aftermarket, overall market and industry conditions, the Company's ability to capitalize on market opportunities as well as the risks described from time to time in Hickok's reports as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact: Source: Hickok Incorporated
CONTACT: Robert L. Bauman of Hickok Incorporated, +1-216-541-8060 Web site: http://www.hickok-inc.com/ ------- Profile: automotive-news
Britax Launches Compact Child Seat with True Side Impact Protection(TM)
Britax Launches Compact Child Seat with True Side Impact Protection(TM) New Child Seat Meets Demand of Compact Car Owners with Children CHARLOTTE, N.C., Aug. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Britax Child Safety Inc., a leading child seat manufacturer, has announced the addition of the Diplomat(TM), a compact child seat with True Side Impact Protection(TM). (Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070827/CLM052 ) "A growing number of people are driving compact cars," said Jeanna Rimmer of Britax Child Safety Inc. "The Diplomat has been created to meet the demand of those parents and caregivers with automotive space constraints, while maintaining Britax's dedication to safety and side impact protection - all trademarks of the Britax brand." Research has shown that 23 percent of vehicle crashes are side impact, crashes in which the most common injuries are to the head and face. Britax has continued its dedication to safety by creating True Side Impact Protection(TM) with deep expanded polystyrene foam lined side walls and deep side wings. This patented protection barrier is designed to absorb vehicle crash forces, minimize lateral head movement, contain the head and body and shield the child from vehicle intrusion. The Britax Diplomat(TM), which is modeled after Britax's best-selling child seat, the Boulevard(TM), is approved to hold children who weigh up to 40 pounds. This compact child seat has a quick-adjust headrest and harness for easy and accurate adjustment, and includes body pillows, offering children greater comfort, positioning and sleep support. The Diplomat(TM), which will be available in late August 2007, will retail at $259.99 and will be available in a variety of fabrics with vibrant colors and sophisticated patterns. The Diplomat(TM) can be purchased nationwide at independent retail shops and mass retailers. NOTE: Product photos are available upon request. For more information: http://www.britaxdiplomat.com/ Britax Child Safety Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of Britax Childcare, a global leader in the child seat and travel-system markets. Founded in 1996, Britax Child Safety, Inc. is headquartered in Charlotte, N.C. The company produces and distributes quality child-safety restraints ranging from rear- facing infant seats to seat-belt-positioning boosters for older, larger children. Britax is the only child-restraint manufacturer with five state-of- the-art crash-test labs that can certify restraints to global government requirements. For more information, visit www.BritaxUSA.com. First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact:
Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070827/CLM052 PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com Source: Britax Child Safety Inc. CONTACT: Jennifer Garber, +1-704-552-6565 x159, garber@lgapr.com, or David Coburn, +1-704-552-6565 x118, coburn@lgapr.com, both of Britax Child Safety Inc. Web site: http://www.britaxusa.com/ http://www.britaxdiplomat.com/ ------- Profile: automotive-news
American Honda Recognizes Experian Automotive as a Top Supplier With Premier Partner Award
American Honda Recognizes Experian Automotive as a Top Supplier With Premier Partner Award TORRANCE, Calif., Aug. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc. President and CEO Tetsuo Iwamura today presented the company's Premier Partner Award to Experian Automotive of Schaumburg, Ill., for excellence in providing superior customer service in supplying vehicle registration and title brand information to American Honda. Experian Automotive was one of 15 award recipients selected from 60 suppliers nominated by American Honda associates nationwide. "Having the best vehicle history information readily available is critical when making the right decisions in servicing warranty vehicles," said Scott Waldron, president of Experian Automotive. "We are honored to receive this recognition and look forward to helping American Honda continue to meet their business goals." The Premier Partner Awards were established in 1998 to recognize suppliers who embrace American Honda's philosophy of exceeding customer expectations. This year's award winners represent excellence in a variety of industries including logistics, security, printing, marketing, consulting, training, interactive solutions and much more. "Today we acknowledge elite suppliers who exemplify Honda's philosophy of delivering the highest possible value to our customers through quality products and customer service," said Tetsuo Iwamura, president and CEO of American Honda. Founded in Japan in 1948, Honda began operations in the U.S. in 1959 with the establishment of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Honda's first overseas subsidiary. Honda began U.S. production of motorcycles in 1979 and automobiles in 1982. The company has invested more than $9 billion in its North American operations, with employment of more than 33,000 associates, and annual purchases of more than $16 billion in parts and materials from suppliers in North America. About Experian Automotive Experian Automotive, a business unit of Experian(R) Group Ltd. , delivers information solutions to manufacturers, dealers, finance and insurance companies, and consumers. Experian helps automotive clients increase customer loyalty, target and win new business, and make better lending and vehicle purchase decisions. Its National Vehicle Database, housing more than 500 million vehicles, along with Experian's credit, consumer and business information assets, meets the industry's growing demand for an integrated information source. Experian's advanced decision support services help clients turn this information into improved business results. Experian technology supports several top automotive Web sites including eBay Motors, Yahoo! Autos, CarsDirect.com, CarMax.com and NADAguides.com. For more information on Experian Automotive and its suite of solutions, visit our web site at http://www.experianautomotive.com/. First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact:
Source: Experian Automotive
CONTACT: Christopher Fielder of Experian, +1-224-698-8628; or Alicia Jones of American Honda Motor Co., +1-310-781-6428 Web site: http://www.experianautomotive.com/ ------- Profile: automotive-news
8000 Inc Confirms Launch of Cannonball 8000 Singapore
8000 Inc Confirms Launch of Cannonball 8000 Singapore Pink Sheets - EIGH.pk LONDON, August 27/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Board of 8000 Inc can today confirm the establishment of a new Singapore-based subsidiary. Cannonball 8000 Singapore will bring all of the glamour of the European rally to Asia. The first event is scheduled to be held in March 2009. The company will hold a PR launch in Singapore on October the 4th with confirmed event partners FHM Singapore. ESPN Star Sports have also signed a five year agreement to partner the Company. In addition, 8000 Inc CEO Conrad Wall is close to finalising partnership agreements with exotic car manufacturers Lamborghini and Ferrari Asian importers. With the established European Cannonball 8000 rally already delivering in excess of $1M in revenue per event, the Company predicts the new Singapore rally will more than double their current revenue and profit. CEO Conrad Wall comments "It's been a great week for the Company. The official launch of Cannonball 8000 Singapore will be well supported and we are delighted to have such high profile partners involved at the early stages. We view the Singapore subsidiary as the first step in the expansion of the Cannonball 8000 brand onto four continents, and look forward to our first Asian event in 2009.We know we have a proven, profitable model and are very excited about the global rollout of Cannonball 8000." From launch on the grey market 8000 Inc has: 1) Announced Mario Andretti as Global Ambassador 2) Delivered in excess of $1M in revenue from the 2007 Cannonball 8000 rally. 3) Confirmed net profit of $600,000 from the 2007 event 4) Unveiled plans to quadruple the number of events with new rallies in Asia, Australia and the USA. 5) Filed 15c-211 with the objective of gaining full Pink Sheets quotation. A full business plan, complete with financials and forecasts is available to view at http://www.8000inc.com This news release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those projected on the basis of such forward-looking statements. The words "estimate," "project," "intends," "expects," "believes," and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are made based on management's beliefs, as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, management pursuant to the "safe-harbour" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. For a more complete description of these and other risk factors that may affect the future performance of 8000 Inc. see "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-KSB and its other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made and the Company undertakes no obligation to disclose any revision to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
For more information please visit: http://www.8000inc.com Source: 8000 Inc
Media Contact: Investor Relations, info@8000inc.com, +44-(0)208-549-2381 ------- Profile: automotive-news
Snap-on Tools and Dr. Neon Keep on Rolling with www.Aintstreetlegal.com and Street Rod Build
Snap-on Tools and Dr. Neon Keep on Rolling with www.Aintstreetlegal.com and Street Rod Build Web site, project celebrates the build and engages enthusiasts KENOSHA, Wis., Aug. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Four months ago, Snap-on Tools and Dr. Neon embarked on a journey filled with rusty frames, bent-up body panels and a limitless amount of innovation. The destination? A 1957 Chevy Nomad rebuilt and revived for the 21st century to be the wildest wagon on the planet. Technicians and car buffs alike are flocking to www.aintstreetlegal.com to get in on the action. Videos, live webcams and a blog written by Dr. Neon keep enthusiasts coming back and continue to keep their eager eyes and ears updated. "We're really excited about this project," said Alicia Smales, vice president, marketing for Snap-on Tools. "The build is progressing and people - including customers, franchisees, street rodders and auto enthusiasts - are taking notice." People such as custom motorcycle builder Wink Eller; NHRA Top Fuel drag racer Doug Herbert; Lenny Schaffer from Chop Shop Customs; and fabricator and welder extraordinaire John Muldowney are also taking notice - and lending their expertise as the street rod project continues. Among other things, look for Wink's custom wheel design, Lenny's reconstructed floor, Doug's high pressure fuel pump, and John's innovative use of Snap-on wrenches in the chassis construction. Some of the latest projects include integrating an LCD screen into a Snap- on tool storage unit, designing power suicide doors, dropping an LS7, supercharged, inter-cooled and nitrous-injected engine into the frame and a rigging a rear door with a polished stainless steel Snap-on logo that will light up when the vehicle's breaks are applied. New to www.aintstreetlegal.com? You'll know you're in the right place when you find a corrugated iron door with spare tires and old street signs lying around. Kind of like walking into your local body shop...that is, if your local body shop is owned and operated by Dr. Neon. Once inside, get yourself up to speed by watching video archives and reading about the history of the iconic car. Check out the message boards to see what others are saying and share your own restoration ideas, stories and photos. Visit Doc's toolbox to learn more about the Snap-on tools he's using. Heck, you can even buy a t-shirt. "It's a total Web 2.0 experience," Smales said, "building the street rod live in a fully interactive online community setting." The actual construction is taking place in Asheville, NC, under the direction of Dr. Neon, whose most recent project was an Air Force Thunderbirds motorcycle that was auctioned at Barrett-Jackson earlier this year. The Snap- on project will be completed in time for this year's Specialty Equipment Marketing Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas. Dr. Neon is a legend among bikers and street rodders for his signature neon "Glo-job" spark plug wires. For almost 20 years, his famous eye-catching neon plug wires have given nighttime appeal to tricked-out bikes and street rods. A set can be found on the famous Snap-on custom Chopper. Like the Chopper, the Nomad, once complete, will be a traveling ambassador for Snap-on Tools - touring the country, and even the globe, as a mobile tribute to auto technicians everywhere. Snap-on Tools Company, LLC is a subsidiary of Snap-on Incorporated, a leading global innovator, manufacturer and marketer of tools, diagnostics and equipment solutions for professional users. Product lines include hand and power tools, tool storage, diagnostics software, information and management systems, shop equipment and other solutions for vehicle manufacturers, dealerships and repair centers, as well as customers in industry, government, agriculture and construction. Products are sold through its franchisees, company-direct sales and distributor channels, as well as over the Internet. Founded in 1920, Snap-on is a $2.5 billion, S&P 500 company headquartered in Kenosha, Wisconsin. For additional information on Snap-on, visit www.snapon.com . First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact: Source: Snap-on Tools
CONTACT: Leslie Dagg, ldagg@bianchipr.com, or Jim Bianchi, jbianchi@bianchipr.com, both of Bianchi Public Relations, +1-248-269-1122, for Snap-on Tools; or Maureen Scullin, +1-828-681-5534, mscullin.marketimpact@charter.net, for Dr. Neon Web site: http://www.aintstreetlegal.com/ http://www.snapon.com/ ------- Profile: automotive-news
EnTire Solutions: Tire Pressure Monitoring System Mandate Drives Technology that Can Help Mitigate Accidents, Save Gas
EnTire Solutions: Tire Pressure Monitoring System Mandate Drives Technology that Can Help Mitigate Accidents, Save Gas FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich., Aug. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Effective September 1, 2007, Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 138 will require that all vehicles less than 10,000 pounds sold in the United States be equipped with tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS). This standard was phased in beginning in April 2005, after Congress required the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) to develop it as part of the Transportation Recall Enhancement, Accountability and Documentation (TREAD) Act, passed in 2000 to help protect motorists. EnTire Solutions, LLC -- a joint venture between TRW Automotive and Michelin that markets and sells direct TPMS to vehicle manufacturers in North America, Europe and Asia -- acknowledges NHTSA's findings and believes that the technology has the potential to help drivers avoid accidents, while enhancing fuel economy and reducing emissions. According to EnTire Solutions, TPMS offer consumers real value in longer tire life, lower fuel costs and better vehicle handling. Michelin has shown that under-inflated tires have a 20 percent lower tread life than properly inflated tires. TPMS, by warning drivers when tires are under inflated, will save consumers money by extending the tire life, as well as disposing fewer tires in the nation's landfills. Department of Transportation (DOT) studies have shown that 27 percent of cars and 33 percent of sport utility vehicles and light trucks have at least one under-inflated tire by eight pounds per square inch or more. Under- inflated tires have a greater rolling resistance than properly inflated tires and, therefore, consume more fuel. The DOT estimates that under-inflated tires cause consumers to unnecessarily purchase up to 4 million gallons of gasoline per day. By warning drivers when their tires are under inflated, TPMS will save consumers money by improving their fuel economy, as well as emitting less CO2 emissions into the atmosphere. Additionally, properly-inflated tires improve vehicle handling. The NHTSA has estimated that the widespread installation of TPMS will help to prevent or mitigate 8,373 to 8,568 injuries and prevent 119 to 121 fatalities each year. EnTire Solution's TPMS directly measures tire pressure with a tire-valve mounted sensor. The sensor not only measures pressure, but also temperature and communicates this data to a vehicle-mounted electronic control unit. EnTire Solutions has engineered proprietary algorithms that ultimately illuminate the telltale warning light or malfunction indicator -- as required by FMVSS 138 -- when one or more tires are under inflated by more than 25 percent of the recommended inflation pressure. The algorithms of the EnTire Solutions system minimize low tire pressure warning false alarms -- a source of driver dissatisfaction with TPMS -- and offer drivers extra value in providing features, such as slow leak early warning and dual pressure thresholds to accommodate vehicles with different recommended front / rear axle pressures. In addition to sophisticated algorithms, EnTire Solutions offers vehicle manufacturers both a basic TPMS that meets the requirements of FMVSS 138 and an enhanced TPMS that exceeds these requirements. Enhanced TPMS are able to immediately alert a driver to a low tire pressure condition and to display in the instrument cluster the actual pressure for all tires and thus identify which tire is low. Combining the safety electronics expertise of TRW Automotive and the tire knowledge of Michelin, EnTire Solutions provides component and system expertise to global manufacturers, such as Acura, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Toyota and Fiat. EnTire Solutions is proud to be major supplier of TPMS to the market and supports the NHTSA in alerting drivers to the complete implementation of FMVSS 138. EnTire Solutions advises consumers to consult their owner's manual or dealership about proper usage and service of their TPMS and offers additional consumer education resources on its Web site, http://www.entire-solution.com/ . First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact: Source: EnTire Solutions, LLC
CONTACT: Ewa Kedzierska of EnTire Solutions, LLC, +1-248-426-3915, or Jennifer Greenfelder of Bianchi Public Relations, +1-248-269-1122, for EnTire Solutions, LLC Web site: http://www.entire-solution.com/ ------- Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 9:57 AM
Gage Plans Multi-Million-Dollar Expansion
Gage Plans Multi-Million-Dollar Expansion FERNDALE, Mich., Aug. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Gage Products Company, the auto industry's only Michigan-based supplier of custom-blended fuels, plans a multi-million-dollar expansion of its test-fuel division. Scheduled for completion during the first half of next year, the $5-million program calls for construction of a laboratory, test-fuel blending facility and distribution center, according to Gage President Robert Jamrog. He said the expansion will enable Gage to meet new-customer contracts, as well as increased demand from existing customers for environmentally-friendly hybrid fuels. The project will add 10 or more new jobs at Gage, which currently employs more than 75 people at its Ferndale-based headquarters. The company also has facilities in Brazil, Germany, Mexico and the Netherlands. Jamrog said a site for the new facilities has not been selected, although the company prefers to remain in Ferndale close to its customer base. Sites in Alabama, Georgia, Texas and Mexico also will be considered. Gage has invested more than $1-million in laboratory and custom-fuel blending facilities during the past five years. Custom-blended fuels and calibration fluids are used by automakers and their suppliers for emission- control testing, as well as in a variety of research and product-development programs. "We expect to see a significant growth in sales as auto manufacturers and their suppliers work to improve fuel economy and expand the use of environmentally-friendly fuel," Jamrog said. "University engineering departments and test laboratories also are joining our growing list of customers." During the past 25 years, Gage has provided its customers with more than 700 different test and calibration fuel blends for use in automotive test programs. A leading global supplier of paint solvents and closed-loop recycling technology, as well as test fuels, Gage has championed a number of programs designed to improve the environment. The company, for example, has helped the auto industry recycle over 75-million gallons of paint solvent at its fully-licensed Resource Conservation and Recovery Act facilities in Ferndale over the past 20 years. The company has received numerous awards for manufacturing excellence, environmental achievements and quality, including DaimlerChrysler's Environmental Excellence Award, the Society of Automotive Engineers' Environmental Excellence in Transportation Award and awards for quality from Ford, Nissan and DaimlerChrysler. In addition, Gage has earned ISO-9001 and ISO-14001 certification for quality and environmental processes. A leader in the development of sustainable manufacturing and solvent recovery systems, Gage's products and technology are used in a majority of North America's automotive assembly plants. Additional information about the company is available on the Internet at www.gageproducts.com . First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact: Source: Gage Products Company
CONTACT: Tom Murray of Gage Products Company, +1-248-691-6737, tmurray@gageproducts.com; Jen Howell or Andrea Wilmes of AutoCom Associates, +1-248-647-8621, jhowell@usautocom.com or awilmes@usautocom.com Web site: http://www.gageproducts.com/ ------- Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 9:52 AM
1.1 Million Michiganians Will Travel on Labor Day, Says AAA
1.1 Million Michiganians Will Travel on Labor Day, Says AAA AAA Has Tips for Budget-Conscious Travelers DEARBORN, Mich., Aug. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- An estimated 1.1 million Michiganians have Labor Day holiday travel plans, according to a recent survey by AAA. The number of travelers hitting the highway for the traditional end- of-summer getaway compares favorably with year-ago levels in the Great Lakes region (the Great Lakes region includes Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin). Ninety-two percent of travelers in the Great Lakes region will travel by car, truck or van. Only 8 percent will travel by air, unchanged from last year. "Despite high gas prices and increased vacation costs, there is quite a bit of pent-up demand," said Claire Lockley, vice president of Travel for The Auto Club Group (ACG). "For domestic travel, Labor Day represents the last opportunity to take advantage of the nice weather before school starts. This is also a good time for last minute cruise and tour specials." This year's Labor Day travel period caps a summer of high gas prices and a stalled economy. As of August 27, the average Michigan price was $2.958 per gallon for self-serve regular fuel (17.2 cents higher than last year). AAA's gas saving tips for vacation travelers include: -- Take the most direct route, reduce your chances of getting lost and avoid known holiday traffic bottlenecks by getting directions with AAA.com's TripTik(R) travel planner or from public Web sites like http://www.aaamaps.com/ . -- Shop around for the least expensive gas by watching prices before you need to fill-up. AAA's Fuel Finder website helps drivers find the lowest cost fuel at local stations. Access the AAA Fuel Finder at local AAA club websites. -- Drive your most fuel efficient vehicle that works for your trip. -- Know before you go by using AAA's http://www.fuelcostcalculator.com/ web site. Just plug in the make and model of your car and where you are traveling and you will get an estimate of how much you will be spending on gas for the trip. -- Keep your car well-maintained by keeping tires properly inflated and having a professional technician inspect your vehicle before you go. -- Drive gently. Excessive braking and accelerating reduces fuel economy, as does driving faster than highway speed limits. For those who are flying to their final Labor Day destination, AAA travel agents offer the following tips for budget-conscious travelers: -- Be flexible with travel dates; be willing to travel midweek versus the weekend. -- Book your trip early. -- Check on reduced airfares if booking a hotel or car rental at the same time. -- Investigate the costs of staying offsite versus onsite for a particular destination, such as a theme park. -- If flying, try alternate airports. -- Pack snacks in a carry-on that can serve as a quick lunch. -- Review your insurance policies prior to departure to determine if you need extra coverage, such as with a rental car company. During the 2007 Labor Day holiday, travelers' accommodations are distributed as follows: staying with friends or relatives (36 percent); hotel, motel or resort (30 percent); own cabin or condo (11 percent); in a trailer or RV (10 percent). For state residents planning a summer vacation in Michigan, the five most popular driving destinations are: 1) Mackinaw City, 2) Traverse City, 3) Muskegon, 4) Sault Ste. Marie, and 5) Ludington (based on 2007 AAA TripTik(R) requests). The official 78-hour Labor Day holiday period begins at 6 p.m. Friday, (August 31) and runs to 11:59 p.m. Monday, (September 3). During last year's Labor Day holiday period, 7 people died in 7 fatal crashes on roads across the state. That was down from the 2005 holiday, when 15 people died in 15 fatal crashes. Two of last year's fatal crashes were alcohol-related, and safety restraints were used by none of the victims who had them available. To reduce these numbers this Labor Day holiday, all drivers are urged to use safety belts, avoid alcohol, stay alert at the wheel and observe all traffic laws. Michigan law enforcement agencies will embark on a new program to make this the safest summer on record by continuing increased traffic patrols to strictly enforce safety belt and drunk driving laws. The enhanced traffic enforcement effort is being supported by federal traffic safety funds. The Auto Club advises motorists to plan ahead and allow extra time to navigate construction areas on the state's highways. For traffic and detour information, motorists can call 1-800-AAA-MICH (222-6424). Or, before leaving, check the AAA Michigan Web site, http://www.aaatraffic.com/ , for updated traffic information. First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact: Source: AAA Michigan
CONTACT: Jim Rink, +1-313-336-1513, or Nancy Cain, +1-313-336-1514, both of AAA Michigan Web site: http://www.aaamaps.com/ http://www.aaatraffic.com/ http://www.fuelcostcalculator.com/ http://www.aaa.com/ NOTE TO EDITORS: Sign up for a free news service delivered to your in- box every Thursday -- - the AAA Hot Zone Report, which provides a list of the top 10 construction slow-downs statewide. Formatted for print, the AAA Hot Zone Report can be cut and pasted as desired by subscribers. To sign up, send your e-mail address to Dpearson@aaamichigan.com ------- Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 9:29 AM
Truckers Put Toyota's All-New Tundra to the Test with Tundra Prove It! at the Farm Progress Show
Truckers Put Toyota's All-New Tundra to the Test with Tundra Prove It! at the Farm Progress Show Free Off-Road Course Gives Attendees Opportunity to Drive in All-New Tundra WHAT: Toyota is inviting consumers and media to be among the first to test-drive the all-new 2007 Toyota Tundra in a unique way. Tundra Prove It! offers a hands-on ride-and-drive program via an off-road course with obstacles to showcase the features of the Tundra. Tundra Prove It! is free to all attendees and features the following: -- A "Braking Zone" to demonstrate one of the best braking systems in its class, with and without load -- "Monster Mountain" where consumers will have the opportunity to test Tundra's Hill-start and Downhill Assist Controls -- "Frame Twister" where guests are able to test Tundra's new frame that is optimized for vigorous work duty, impact safety and ride quality -- A demonstration of the Tundra's automatic limited slip differential WHEN: Tuesday, August 28, 2007 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 29, 2007 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Thursday, August 30, 2007 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. WHERE: Farm Progress Show Exhibit Field Decatur, IL MEDIA CONTACT: For a private demonstration, contact: Craig Miner P2R Associates for Toyota (248) 840-8368 PRNewswire -- Aug. 27
Source: Toyota Motor Sales, USA
------- Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 9:15 AM
Solomon Closes $15 Million Acquisition Credit Facility
Solomon Closes $15 Million Acquisition Credit Facility DANBURY, Conn., Aug. 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Solomon Technologies, Inc. (BULLETIN BOARD: SOLM) announced today that it has signed a definitive financing agreement which provides for up to $15 million in credit exclusively for acquisitions. The agreement provides funds on a standby basis secured by the acquired assets and a guarantee by Solomon. The agreement contemplates that Solomon will use the facility to strike more quickly at unique acquisition opportunities that are consistent with its growth plans. "We are extremely pleased to have closed the credit facility in anticipation of our expanding acquisition activity," said Gary G. Brandt, Chief Executive Officer of Solomon. "As we build Solomon's operating plan beyond our existing acquisitions of Deltron and Unipower, we expect to roll this facility forward as we consolidate the acquired companies and procure permanent financing. This is a very important step in reaching our $100 million revenue goal for 2009. We will speak more about this step and our larger plans at our quarterly conference call in early September." The credit facility has a one year term that is renewable at the option of the lender. The facility may be drawn on at Solomon's sole discretion, subject to the approval of the proposed acquisition by the lender's investment committee and to the lender's normal due diligence. The lender, JMC Venture Partners, LLC, is an affiliate of Michael D'Amelio, one of Solomon's directors. Information about Solomon Technologies, Inc.: Solomon Technologies, Inc., through its Motive Power and Power Electronics divisions, develops, licenses, manufactures and sells precision electric power drive systems, including those utilizing its patented Electric Wheel(TM), Electric Transaxle(TM) and hybrid and regenerative technologies as well as direct current power supplies and power supply systems requiring high levels of reliability and ruggedness for defense, aerospace, marine, commercial, automotive, hybrid electric and all electric vehicle applications. FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS: This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The statements regarding Solomon Technologies, Inc. in this release that are not historical in nature, particularly those that utilize terminology such as "may," "will," "should," "likely," "expects," "anticipates," "estimates," "believes," or "plans," or comparable terminology, are forward- looking statements based on current expectations about future events, which management has derived from the information currently available to it. It is possible that the assumptions made by management for purposes of such statements may not materialize. Actual results may differ materially from those projected or implied in any forward-looking statements. Important factors known to management that could cause forward-looking statements to turn out to be incorrect are identified and discussed from time to time in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The forward- looking statements contained in this release speak only as of the date hereof, and the Company undertakes no obligation to correct or update any forward- looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact: Source: Solomon Technologies, Inc.
CONTACT: Gary G. Brandt of Solomon Technologies, Inc., +1-860-828-2060; or David Long of Crescent Communications, +1-203-226-5527, for Solomon Technologies, Inc. Web site: http://www.solomontechnologies.com/ ------- Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 8:33 AM
Ford Motor Company -- August U.S. Sales Conference Call
Ford Motor Company -- August U.S. Sales Conference Call You are invited to participate in Ford Motor Company's August U.S. sales conference call hosted by George Pipas, U.S. Sales Analysis Manager. The conference call will begin at 1:00 p.m. (EDT) on Tuesday, September 4, 2007 and last 45 minutes. To access the call, please dial 800-299-0433 about 10 minutes prior to the start time and ask to be connected to the Ford sales conference call. For international participants, please dial 617-801-9712. Following the call, there will be a telephone replay available through Tuesday, September 11 at 888-286-8010 or 617-801-6888 (for international participants), passcode 18342934. The call also will be webcast live, on a listen-only basis, at www.shareholder.ford.com or www.streetevents.com (subscribers only). Replays will be available on demand. Ford Motor Company August U.S. Sales Conference Call Date Start Time (EDT) Phone Number Conference Call 09/04/07 1:00 p.m. 800-299-0433 Telephone Replays 09/04/07 2:45 p.m. 888-286-8010 (Continuous through 09/11/07) Passcode - 18342934 Webcast at www.shareholder.ford.com or www.streetevents.com (subscribers only). -- Live 09/04/07 1:00 p.m. -- Replays On demand. If you have any questions, please call Debra Bettendorf (313-390-4563). PRNewswire - Aug. 27
Source: Ford Motor Company
Web site: http://www.ford.com/ http://www.shareholder.ford.com/ http://www.streetevents.com/ ------- Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 8:33 AM
Introducing the Smart Light(R) - Light Where You Want It, When You Need It
Introducing the Smart Light(R) - Light Where You Want It, When You Need It SANTA BARBARA, Calif., Aug. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- After 3 years of design and engineering, the Smart Light SL 1000 is finally ready. Coming this fall, the RV experience will be forever transformed as Starlights, Inc. launches the patented SL-1000. The first of its kind, this light is triggered by motion detected from 5 to 20 feet away within a 180-degree field of range. At night, once motion is detected, the light will turn on and stay on for as long as there is movement, turning off after 30 seconds of non-movement. Or, it can be used as a regular porch light by a flip of the switch, staying lit until turned off. This light is universal in that it can be mounted using the same hole pattern as porch lights found on most RVs on the road today. What makes it unique, though, is that it's engineered to run on 12 volts, not disposable batteries. In other words, it is powered by the vehicle itself. What's more, its patented housing is tilted to illuminate the ground, not neighbors' coaches. "This light is 3 years in the making," stated CFO Jason Weaver. "We have designed 3 iterations, but weren't satisfied until recently. This light can withstand hurricane force winds, sub-zero temperatures and heat exceeding 180 degrees Fahrenheit. We're so confident in the product that we offer a money-back guarantee with no questions asked." Though not yet available in stores, RV enthusiasts can order early directly from the source at http://www.starlightsinc.com/. As a special introductory offer, Starlights, Inc. will even pay for all shipping and handling charges if ordered before November 1, 2007. For information: http://www.starlightsinc.com/ Contact: contact@starlightsinc.com Phone: (800) 883-5444 Media contact: Jason Weaver, Chief Financial Officer Starlights, Inc. (800) 883-5444 Fax: (805) 685-8500 Email: jason.weaver@starlightsinc.com Website: www.starlightsinc.com This release was issued through eReleases(TM). For more information, visit http://www.ereleases.com/. First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact:
Source: Starlights, Inc.
CONTACT: Jason Weaver, Chief Financial Officer of Starlights, Inc., +1-800-883-5444, Fax, +1-805-685-8500, jason.weaver@starlightsinc.com Web site: http://www.starlightsinc.com/ ------- Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 8:21 AM
Magna Electronics Chooses Actel's ProASIC3 FPGAs to Enable Automotive Vision Systems
Magna Electronics Chooses Actel's ProASIC3 FPGAs to Enable Automotive Vision Systems Low-Power, Single-Chip FPGA Technology Offers Quality and Reliability for Driver Assistance Applications MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Aug. 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Delivering the low power, small footprint and reliability required in space-constrained automotive applications, Actel Corporation (NASDAQ:ACTL) today announced that Magna Electronics is designing automotive vision systems using Actel's ProASIC3 field-programmable gate array (FPGA). The low-power, single-chip ProASIC3 FPGAs satisfy the needs of applications with extreme space constraints and limited ventilation. In addition, the highly integrated solution allows advanced driver assistance systems to be developed more cost effectively. "As we deliver the driver assistance technologies that consumers are demanding, we need reliable components with sophisticated functionality in a very small form factor," said Francois Truc, vice president and general manager for Magna Electronics. "The small size and proximity of these systems also require devices with extremely low power and endurance. The ProASIC3 FPGA provides the small footprint, low power and reliability we need to create our innovative driver assistance systems." "Space-constrained systems have thermal reliability design challenges that can be overcome by using fewer components with very low power dissipation," said Martin Mason, senior director, silicon product marketing for Actel. "Because quality and reliability are paramount, our ProASIC3 FPGAs, with their firm-error immunity, low power and small form factor, remove the barriers to FPGA adoption in safety-critical automotive applications." ProASIC3 devices are the only FPGAs to use true flash memory for logic configuration, enabling them to provide critical firm-error immunity -- a technical impossibility for SRAM-based FPGAs and hybrid flash with SRAM-based CPLDs. ProASIC3 in Automotive ProASIC3 FPGAs are ideal for driver assistance and safety systems as well as under-the-hood powertrain solutions, which have stringent reliability and temperature requirements, in addition to telematics applications with less demanding specifications. In a separate announcement today, Actel announced it has received AEC-Q100, Grade 1 qualification, which confirms that low-power ProASIC3 devices can operate in extended junction temperature ranges (-40 to +135 degrees C) and deliver reliability and performance. About Magna Electronics Magna Electronics was formed in 2005 to better serve customers by combining the electronics expertise of Magna's automotive units. Magna Electronics provides driver assistance systems, safety systems, wireless connectivity, power systems and body electronics. More information about Magna Electronics is available at http://www.magna.com/. About Actel Attacking power consumption from both the chip and the system levels, Actel power-smart programmable solutions enable power-efficient design. The company is traded on the NASDAQ National Market under the symbol ACTL and is headquartered at 2061 Stierlin Court, Mountain View, Calif., 94043-4655. For more information about Actel, visit http://www.actel.com/. Telephone: 888-99-ACTEL (992-2835). The Actel logo and ProASIC3 name are trademarks of Actel Corporation. All other trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners. First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact: Source: Actel Corporation
CONTACT: Stephanie Mrus of Actel Corporation, +1-650-318-4614, stephanie.mrus@actel.com; or media, Diane Orr of Orr & Company, +1-408-358-1617, diane@orr-co.com, for Actel Corporation Web site: http://www.actel.com/ http://www.magna.com/ ------- Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 8:20 AM
Black Book(R) Launches Finance Advance(TM)
Black Book(R) Launches Finance Advance(TM) Market-Driven Used Vehicle Value Will Help Financial Institutions Make Better Lending Decisions and Improve Loan Revenue GAINESVILLE, Ga., Aug. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Black Book today announced the launch of Finance Advance, an exciting new market driven value that establishes the appropriate base value financial institutions should use as a basis for advancing funds. The new Finance Advance value reflects the pre-owned vehicle industry's improvement in vehicle reconditioning standards, extended warranties, certified pre-owned vehicle programs, and the overall quality of vehicles being produced today. The typical wholesale value on a front-line ready vehicle currently being retailed routinely falls between Black Book's "clean" and "extra clean" categories. By closely monitoring the market, Black Book has developed a single Finance Advance value that reflects the more typical of these front-line ready vehicles held for retail sale. The result is a more accurate baseline from which to lend. "Of course, lending institutions can advance above or below the Finance Advance value based on their own risk parameters, but they will have confidence knowing their core number is an accurate reflection of today's market," said Tom Cross, Black Book president. "Finance Advance has been developed in response to our customers' evolving needs in the auto loan industry; recent events in the credit industry make it more important than ever for financial institutions to maximize how much they can responsibly lend for a particular vehicle. Providing a market-driven Finance Advance value will give lenders more confidence in their ability to make proper lending decisions." Finance Advance is now available in all Black Book products, including printed guidebooks, hand held PDAs, via the Internet, and easily interfaces with Dealership Management Systems. About Black Book Considered to be the industry's most timely and accurate source of vehicle pricing data, the Black Book(R) family of vehicle appraisal guides (www.BlackBookUSA.com) is published by National Auto Research, a division of Hearst Business Media. New and used car dealers, lenders, manufacturers, fleet remarketers, and government agencies have relied on Black Book since 1955. Black Book provides values for both new and used vehicles, including cars and light trucks produced since 1946, motorcycles, ATVs, snowmobiles, personal watercraft, and heavy-duty commercial trucks and trailers. Black Book data is published weekly in multiple formats including printed guides, electronic data feeds, Internet-based real time applications, hand held PDAs, and in a variety of other custom products. First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact: Source: Black Book
CONTACT: Mike DeVilling, mdevilling@baileypr.com; or Lisa Gill, lgill@baileypr.com, both of John Bailey & Associates, Inc. for Black Book, +1-248-362-4200 Web site: http://www.blackbookusa.com/ ------- Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 8:16 AM
AutoWeek Teen Driving Safety Summit, Sponsored by Dodge
AutoWeek Teen Driving Safety Summit, Sponsored by Dodge What: Influential industry and community leaders -- including Dr. Ricardo Martinez, former Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Kyle Petty, race car driver and CEO of Petty Enterprises - educators, parents and teens come together to improve teenage driver safety in America at the AutoWeek Teen Driving Safety Summit, sponsored by Dodge.
The goal of the summit is to bring together those who are passionate about and can influence driver education curriculums in this country. In the morning session, panelists will address safety issues related to teen accidents and deaths and identify what needs to be done in order to improve current driver education programs. From there, attendees will discuss what they can do in order to initiate this change. An afternoon driving session with Richard Petty Driving Experience professional instructors will give all attendees, including teens and their parents, an opportunity to experience first-hand common challenges of the road and proper ways in which to handle various situations. When: Tuesday, August 28, 2007 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Presentations/discussions 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Driving sessions Where: Oakland University Oakland Center West Campus 2200 N. Squirrel Rd. Rochester, MI 48309 Details: 8:30 a.m. Speakers and panelists available for media interviews 9:00 a.m. Opening remarks Dutch Mandel, Editor and Associate Publisher, AutoWeek Jim Yetter, Senior Manager, Dodge Car Marketing, Chrysler 9:10 a.m. Keynote speech Dr. Ricardo Martinez, Executive Vice President of Medical Affairs and Regional Medical Officer, The Schumacher Group 9:50 a.m. Panel presentations/discussion George Ayres, President and Chief Operating Officer, Skip Barber Racing School LLC Ronn Langford, President and Founder, MasterDrive Jeff Payne, President & CEO, Driver's Edge Kyle Petty, Driver & CEO, Petty Enterprises LLC Ken Thom, President and General Manager, Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Racing 11:20 a.m. Phil Berardelli, author, Safe Young Drivers: A Guide for Parents and Teens 1:00 p.m. Driving sessions with Richard Petty Driving Experience professional instructors For more information on the AutoWeek Teen Driving Safety Summit, please visit AutoWeek.com/tdss . For more information, please visit the Chrysler media site at http://cgmedia.daimlerchrysler.com/ . For more information about 2007 labor negotiations, please visit http://www.chryslerlabortalks07.com/ . Contact: Eileen Wunderlich Chrysler Group (248) 512-0332 (office) (248) 705-7962 (cell) ew48@chrysler.com Rachael Poirier AutoWeek 313-446-0447 (office) 810-287-8202 (cell) Cheryl Rothe AutoWeek 313-446-6767 (office) 586-321-1211 (cell) PRNewswire -- Aug. 27 First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact:
Source: Chrysler LLC
Web site: http://autoweek.com/tdss http://cgmedia.daimlerchrysler.com/ http://www.chryslerlabortalks07.com/ http://media.chrysler.com/ http://www.chrysler.com/ ------- Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 8:11 AM
Actel Drives FPGAs 'Under the Hood' Into Critical Automotive Powertrain and Safety Systems
Actel Drives FPGAs 'Under the Hood' Into Critical Automotive Powertrain and Safety Systems Inherent Low-power Advantages of Flash Technology Enable Industry's First AEC-Q100, Grade 1 FPGAs MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Aug. 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Giving automotive manufacturers a flexible, highly reliable alternative to costly and complex ASIC technology, Actel Corporation (NASDAQ:ACTL) today announced that its low-power ProASIC3 field-programmable gate array (FPGA) family has achieved AEC-Q100, Grade 2 and Grade 1 qualification -- passing a series of critical stress tests designed to ensure the quality, reliability and endurance of semiconductors in automotive applications. Actel's AEC-Q100, Grade 1 ProASIC3 devices represent the industry's first FPGAs to achieve this quality level. The company also announced support for the Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) -- a process used by the automotive industry to ensure the availability of specific, in-depth documentation for all parts used in the automotive supply chain. AEC-Q100, Grade 1 qualification now enables FPGA technology to move beyond in-cabin telematics and infotainment applications into system-critical applications such as powertrain, engine control modules and safety systems. The ProASIC3 devices are ideally suited to address the changing and emerging standards within these system-critical applications. Further, because Actel's FPGAs feature the industry's lowest power, the devices can endure the most demanding operating temperatures and satisfy the demands of space-constrained applications such as back-up cameras and side-looking 'blind-spot' safety systems with limited ventilation. "It's one thing to ensure that a device can operate in a car navigation or entertainment system, but to deliver an FPGA for system-critical applications with a zero defect goal is an entirely different animal," said Martin Mason, director of silicon product marketing for Actel. "Until now, automotive manufacturers have engaged in the costly and complex design of application-specific devices because it was the only way to get the low power, reliability and endurance needed for the most demanding automotive systems. The flexibility of the ProASIC3 family enables widespread adoption of flash-based FPGAs in system-critical automotive applications." Actel also announced today that Delphi Corp., a leading global supplier of mobile electronics and transportation systems, will be using the Actel ProASIC3 FPGA in a production engine control module being designed into a heavy-duty diesel engine. Additionally, Magna Electronics has selected the Actel ProASIC3 FPGA for its automotive vision systems (see release "Magna Electronics Chooses Actel's ProASIC3 FPGAs to Enable Automotive Vision Systems" also announced today). "The low-power FPGAs required for high-temperature automotive applications are now critical for next-generation automotive electronics applications," said Mike Williams, research vice president at Gartner. "An FPGA achieving an AECQ-100 Grade 1 qualification will enable automotive manufacturers to leverage FPGA technology in system-critical and space-constrained automotive applications." Actel is in the process of certifying its design, development and manufacturing operations to the rigorous TS 16949 worldwide automotive quality management system specification. ProASIC3: Breakthrough Low Power and Temperature Tolerance Under-the-hood applications, such as engine and transmission control modules, require highly robust semiconductor solutions that can withstand extreme temperatures and vehicle vibration, while delivering the low power needed to ensure ongoing reliability and endurance. AEC-Q100, Grade 1 qualification confirms that the low-power ProASIC3 devices deliver reliability and performance over the life of the vehicle and can operate in extended junction temperature ranges (-40 to +135.C). Actel's automotive-grade ProASIC3 FPGAs feature static power as low as 40 mA at 135.C, enabling the devices to endure extreme temperatures for longer periods of time without thermal reliability or runaway concerns. Thermal runaway occurs when high-temperature environments cause semiconductors to experience an increase in current consumption, which in turn causes heating, increased power dissipation within the device and often, the ultimate destruction of the device. Actel's ProASIC3 family features power consumption that is as much as two orders of magnitude lower than competing automotive FPGAs. Delivering Critical Firm Error Immunity The ProASIC3 family uniquely features on-chip flash memory for FPGA switch control, making the Actel FPGA family immune to firm errors -- a mandatory requirement in an industry driving toward zero defects. In contrast, the configuration data of SRAM-based FPGAs is prone to neutron-induced errors, which can change the logic, routing, or I/O behavior in an unpredictable way. The end result can be a system failure that can cause costly brand repercussions, or worse, life-threatening conditions. ProASIC3 also eliminates the need for costly external components for device configuration. Pricing and Availability Actel's AEC-Q100-qualified family of devices includes the A3P060 (60,000 gate), A3P125 (125,000 gate), A3P250 (250,000 gate) and A3P1000 (1,000,000 gate). The A3P1000 is available immediately and will be sold for less than $20 in quantities of 250,000. All other family members are sampling now and AEC-Q100-qualified versions of those parts will be shipping later this year. About Actel Attacking power consumption from both the chip and the system levels, Actel power-smart programmable solutions enable power-efficient design. The company is traded on the NASDAQ National Market under the symbol ACTL and is headquartered at 2061 Stierlin Court, Mountain View, Calif., 94043-4655. For more information about Actel, visit http://www.actel.com/. Telephone: 888-99-ACTEL (992-2835). The Actel and Actel ProASIC3 names and logos are registered trademarks of Actel Corporation. All other trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners. First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact: Source: Actel Corporation
CONTACT: Stephanie Mrus of Actel Corporation, +1-650-318-4614, stephanie.mrus@actel.com; or Diane Orr of Orr & Company, +1-408-358-1617, diane@orr-co.com, for Actel Corporation Web site: http://www.actel.com/ ------- Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 8:05 AM
Behr America Completes Headquarters in Metro Detroit
Behr America Completes Headquarters in Metro Detroit TROY, Mich., Aug. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Behr America, a leading global supplier of automotive engine-cooling and air-conditioning systems, has completed a new $8.5-million, three-story office building on its North American corporate campus in Troy, Michigan. The second major expansion at Behr's Troy location in three years, the 69,000-square-foot building was constructed on a 2.3-acre site that is part of Behr America's headquarters campus. The building will house nearly 270 Behr employees who currently occupy two leased buildings. "Behr's commitment to investing and expanding in Michigan is creating jobs for our workers and helping diversify our economy," said Michigan Governor Jennifer M. Granholm. "Behr is a great example of the types of high-tech companies we are bringing to communities like Troy across the state." The new facility will include offices, a customer interaction meeting and exhibit area, and additional testing lab space. It more than doubles the overall size of the five-year-old North American headquarters and technical center. "The completion of this Troy campus expansion underlines our commitment to Michigan and to our North American-based customers," says Frank Mueller, president and CEO of Behr America. Behr selected the Landry-Newman architectural firm of Birmingham, Mich., to design the new facility. Landry-Newman also designed Behr's Troy head quarters and technical center, which showcase a high-tech environment in a natural setting. In 2003, Behr received a "Best of Troy" award from the Troy Chamber of Commerce to recognize building projects that best exemplify financial investment and aesthetic enhancement in the City of Troy. Behr America has nearly 3,000 employees at facilities in Troy; Dayton, Ohio; Charleston, S.C.; Fort Worth, Texas, and Ramos Arizpe, Mexico. Behr GmbH & Co. KG, Stuttgart, Germany, is a systems partner for the international automobile industry. A specialist in automotive air-conditioning and engine-cooling systems, the Behr Group is one of the world's leading manufacturers and suppliers of original equipment for passenger and commercial vehicles. Group sales in the 2006 business year were approximately $4.2 billion. Currently Behr employs about 18,600 people at 17 development and 30 production sites, and an additional 13 joint-venture locations worldwide. Additional information is available at www.behrgroup.com. First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact:
Source: Behr America
CONTACT: Indira Sadikovic of Behr America, Inc., +1-248-743-3771, indira.sadikovic@us.behrgroup.com; or Janet Krol, jkrol@usautocom.com, or Marty Habalewsky, mhabalewsky@usautocom.com, both of AutoCom Associates for Behr America, Inc., +1-248-647-8621 Web site: http://www.behrgroup.com/ ------- Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 8:05 AM
Jaguar Formula One Racing At The Australian Grand Prix
Jaguar Formula One Racing At The Australian Grand PrixPopular Mechanics - Lauda explains to the PM.Zone about last season: "I cannot complain the slightest bit about the drivers. [Eddie] Irvine and [Pedro] de la Rosa were not the problem, the car was." Indeed, Jaguar's new 2002 car, the R3, is a clean slate. However, it Exclusive interview with Robert DoornbosFormula 1 - Teams must be lining up to get you back into Formula One racing on a more permanent basis? RD: People in F1 have certainly shown an interest. All the team principals have got my phone number, so they know how to reach me… Q: It was recently asserted Hamilton comes through his toughest test yetFormula 1 - Before the European Grand Prix Hamilton had - to the casual bystander - made Formula One racing look almost easy, clinching pole positions and winning races from world champion team mate Fernando Alonso. In the midst of such success, it has been easy Exclusive interview with Red Bull’s David CoulthardFormula 1 - But isn't his signing just another example of the ‘inbreeding’, which is becoming so prevalent in Formula One racing? DC: It is such a specific business, so it is always a risk to take in new people from the aircraft industry as Formula One has Spanish McLaren Mercedes Formula One driver Fernando Alonso talks to 940 News - It's back to racing for Formula One driver Hamilton, Alonso at Turkish GP at 11:12 on August 23, 2007, EST. ISTANBUL, Turkey (AP) - After more than two weeks off, Formula One racing returns to reality at the Turkish Grand Prix, and the rivalry Ferrari: The Pinnacle Of Italian StyleCBS News - Another Ferrari cachet is the tie-in with Formula One racing. The museum includes cars driven by world champions. In fact, Ferrari's founder built his first car for the track. The commercial business was just a way to get money for racing. Enzo Making a splashTimes Online - There was a time when you could run a lower grid Formula One racing team for that sort of budget, but now we’re a million miles from that. “The championships are expanding and the standard is getting better all the time. There were one or two Exclusive interview with BMW Sauber’s Robert KubicaFormula 1 - Not only was he swiftly promoted to a race drive after the departure of former champion Jacques Villeneuve, but he has also celebrated a podium finish and walked away from the most spectacular crash Formula One racing has seen in years. It’s no The INQUIRER Top 10 defunct brandsThe Inquirer - Compaq. The name still sort of exists but it’s way down HP’s list of priorities even though the brand had top-dollar marketing campaigns behind it, such as Formula One racing marques. 5. Newton. Fell like a piece of bruised fruit once Apple FIA reveals 18-race calendar for 2008Formula 1 - Formula One racing’s governing body, the FIA, has confirmed the calendar for the 2008 world championship. The addition of races in Singapore and Valencia in Spain, combined with the omission of a US Grand Prix, makes for 18 rounds - one more than
posted by automotive-news # 7:15 AM
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