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Automotive News
Our Automotive News coverage is updated daily with news and information from around the Internet, covering the latest developments in trucks, add-on components, racing, and the truck enthusiast lifestyle. Feel free to discuss any news in our Discussion Forum.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Traveling far distances to race so close
Coeur d'Alene Press - Their love of motorcycles and off-road racing put Blakley, a 38-year-old physical therapist from Coeur d'Alene, and 28-year-old Josh Buell, who works for his grandfather's trucking business in St. Maries, on the same road that night. Though they didn [full story]Kern Valley Sun - Protruck racing is an off-road racing class that claims to be the 'most evenly-matched off-road racing series in existence.' Protrucks are based on full size utility vehicles and are designed to be high performance low cost racing trucks [full story]Miami Herald - Electronic Arts and MTV Games' Rock Band comes to the PlayStation 2. Now where's the Wii version? And THQ delivers the latest edition of its off-road racing series, MX vs. ATV Untamed (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PS2, PlayStation Portable, Nintendo DS [full story]Cycle News - From a press release SANTA MONICA, California (December 24, 2007) – Rhys Millen was involved in an accident while preparing to be the first person to backflip an off-road racing truck at the Red Bull Experiment in Las Vegas on Monday, December [full story]Who Won - Off-road racing's biggest event of the year, the World Championships feature the 13th annual battle for the BorgWarner Shootout and $125,000 BorgWarner Cup on Sunday, September 2. More information is available on the internet at crandonoffroad.com or [full story]Antelope Valley Press - The course in Angel Stadium will resemble the layout of the 1986 track in the former Anaheim Stadium on the night when current Championship Off Road Racing (CORR) star Ricky Johnson and fellow Honda rider David Bailey staged what many consider the [full story]MSN MoneyCentral - Angel Cabanes, owner of an off-road racing enterprise in Spain, met with Rhino Off-Road Industries at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas in October. The meeting, and subsequent demo ride of the RTV, led to the formalization of an international business [full story]Motorsport.com - It was a highly impressive first year in off road racing for the Delmas based crew. Down in Class E the Team Barberspan Toyota Hilux pair of Jannie Visser and Joks le Roux, after finishing seventh in class in the prologue, stormed through the field [full story]Bradford Era - be battling against more than 400 other entries from 15 countries and 40 U.S. states, competing in 28 professional and six sportsman classes for cars, trucks, motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles, according to the SCORE International Off-Road Racing [full story]
posted by automotive-news # 9:15 PM
GO Airport Shuttle Shares Tips for President's Day Family Travel
GO Airport Shuttle Shares Tips for President's Day Family Travel CHICAGO, Jan. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Parents looking to maintain harmony on trips over President's Day weekend can benefit from insider travel secrets from members of GO Group, a global consortium of 39 independent airport shuttle operators. The holiday weekend begins Friday, Feb. 15 and runs through Monday, Feb. 18. "Family travel is wonderful -- once you get to your destination," said John McCarthy, president of GO Group. "It's getting there that can be stressful and everything is complicated by taking care of children's needs. Our members have plenty of experience in helping out." For families with infants, Knights Limo Service in Boston suggests checking if the local shuttle service allows travelers to leave their car seat with the service during their trip, to be picked up on the way back home. If you decide to travel with a car seat, GO Airport Express in Chicago also recommends making sure it's a model that the airlines will allow in the cabin. Other tips from GO members include:
-- Remember to ask your GO shuttle service provider about child discounts
when booking your ride to the airport (most GO members offer fare
breaks).
-- Book seats in different sections for you and your spouse. This allows
couples to trade off child care, and gives each person a chance to
take a break.
-- Always pack medications, phone chargers and extra changes of clothes
in a carry-on bag. These are vital in the event of lost luggage or
long airport delays.
-- Photocopy your credit and identification cards. Leave one copy at home
and bring the other in your carry-on. Also bring copies of your
children's birth certificates.
-- Keep kids informed of what is happening during your flight and in the
terminal to keep them calm and aware of their surroundings.
GO Airport Shuttle launched in August 2007 as a convenient, one-stop source for door-to-door airport shuttle services. Each year, its members transport nearly 29 million passengers to 110 airports around the world using a fleet of nearly 4,000 vehicles. Travelers can easily book ground transportation to and from both departure and destination airports through GO's Web site, http://www.goairportshuttle.com/.
Media Contact: David Donze
Hodge Schindler Integrated Communications
312-666-6662
ddonze@hodgeschindler.com First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:
Source: GO Airport Shuttle
CONTACT: David Donze of Hodge Schindler Integrated Communications,
+1-312-666-6662, ddonze@hodgeschindler.com, for GO Airport Shuttle Web site: http://www.goairportshuttle.com/
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Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 5:18 PM
2008 North American International Auto Show Welcomes 15,000 Guests, Raises $6 Million for Children's Charities
2008 North American International Auto Show Welcomes 15,000 Guests, Raises $6 Million for Children's Charities Barenaked Ladies performance added fun, humor and glitz to sell-out black-tie gala DETROIT, Jan. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2008 North American International Auto Show's (NAIAS) annual black-tie Charity Preview on Friday, Jan. 18, 2008 at Cobo Center welcomed a sell-out crowd of 15,000 guests and raised $6 million for children's charities. Charity Preview also featured an acoustic preview performance by the legendary pop-rock band Barenaked Ladies at the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and an hour and 15 minute show at 9 p.m. in Cobo Arena. (Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071004/CLTH058LOGO )
(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080121/CLM076-ahttp://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080121/CLM076-b )
"It was a fantastic evening for children and a grand night for Detroit," said Carl Galeana, senior co-chairman for the NAIAS 2008. "The Barenaked Ladies performance was the first of its kind for the NAIAS and we are incredibly pleased with the results. Both performances by the Barenaked Ladies were amazing and we think they really gave our attendees a night to remember at Charity Preview."
Barenaked Ladies -- Ed Robertson, Steven Page, Tyler Stewart, Jim Creeggan, and Kevin Hearn -- a top concert attraction, entertained crowds with top hits, "If I Had A Million Dollars," "Pinch Me," "Brian Wilson," "The Old Apartment," the Billboard Number One Hit, "One Week" and other songs. Since its inception in 1976, the event has raised $77 million for children's charities in metro Detroit, over $60 million of that in the last 10 years alone. The purchase of a single Charity Preview ticket buys goods, clothing, and health and support services for many local kids. The NAIAS Charity Preview has welcomed many local, national and worldwide celebrities including Aretha Franklin; R&B Singer Kelis; legendary DJ Funk Master Flex; veteran artists Hall & Oates; Celine Dion; Comedians Steve Harvey and Tommy Davidson; Kevin Bacon; Kid Rock; Jay Leno; Veronica Webb; Tony Danza; Jeff Daniels; The Apprentice star Omarosa; and TV Host Rachel Ray. Beneficiaries of the 2008 Charity Preview include: Barat Child and Family Services; Boys & Girls Club of Southeastern Michigan; Boys Hope-Girls Hope of Detroit; The Children's Center; Children's Homes of Judson Center; Children's Hospital of Michigan; Children's Services of Northeast Guidance Center Assistance League; the DADA Charitable Foundation Fund, a fund of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan; The Detroit Institute for Children; Easter Seals - Michigan; March of Dimes; and ThinkDetroit PAL. Any charity interested in applying for a grant from the Detroit Auto Dealers Association Charitable Foundation Fund for next year's Charity Preview should contact the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, 333 West Fort Street, Suite 2010, Detroit, MI 48226-3134, (313) 961-6675, or visit the Foundation Web site at www.cfsem.org. NAIAS 2008 Official Dates Public Days began on Saturday, Jan. 19 and will continue through Sunday, Jan. 27. The North American International Auto Show
Rod Alberts - Executive Director
Entering its 20th year as an international event, the North American International Auto Show is among the most prestigious auto shows in the world and is one of the largest media events in North America. The NAIAS is the only auto show in the United States to earn an annual distinguished sanction of the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d'Automobiles, the Paris- based alliance of automotive trade associations and manufacturers from around the world. The NAIAS Web site can be accessed at www.naias.com.
Don't Miss It for the World! First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact: Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071004/CLTH058LOGO
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080121/CLM076-a
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080121/CLM076-b
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: The North American International Auto Show
CONTACT: Michelle Evangelista of North American International Auto Show,
+1-248-283-5155, mevangelista@dada.org; or Elizabeth Twork of John Bailey &
Associates, +1-248-643-2450, etwork@baileypr.com, naias-media@baileypr.com,
for NAIAS Web site: http://www.naias.com/
http://www.cfsem.org/
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Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 4:51 PM
2008 North American International Auto Show Offers Parking and Transportation Tips for Visitors on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and During Public Days
2008 North American International Auto Show Offers Parking and Transportation Tips for Visitors on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and During Public Days DETROIT, Jan. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- WHO: The 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) will be open
to the public every day through Sunday, Jan. 27, including Monday,
Jan. 21, the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday. WHAT: To pre-arrange parking, the NAIAS 2008 recommends: -- Click and Park, an online parking system, allows attendees to
purchase a parking space in advance. Advance parking purchases
can be made by visiting www.ClickandPark.com or www.naias.com. -- Click and Park lots include Olympia, Sterling, Miller Parking and
AMPCO.
-- Shuttle services at the Detroit Zoo and The Henry Ford will
continue to be available Jan. 21, and Jan. 26-27. Parking is $5
and travel is on a luxury motor coach for $5 per person; children
12 and under travel free. Shuttle times and further details are
available on www.naias.com. -- Reservations can be made for disabled access through Bianco Tours
by calling (800) 835-8904 with 24-hour advanced notification.
-- The Detroit People Mover, with 13 stops located throughout
downtown Detroit, includes a stop on the third floor of Cobo
Center and is available at a cost of $0.50 per person. For a
list of locations and times, visit www.thepeoplemover.com. Visitors to the show may purchase advance NAIAS tickets by calling
(248) 283-5173, visiting www.naias.com or on-site at Cobo Center
during the remaining Public Days through Jan. 27. Ticket prices are
$12 (USD) for adults; $6 (USD) for senior citizens (65 and older)
and children aged 7-12; children six and under are free with their
parent. WHERE: The NAIAS 2008 Public Days will take place at Cobo Center in
Detroit. WHEN: Public Days for the NAIAS will continue every day through Saturday,
Jan. 26 from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., and on Sunday, Jan. 27 from 9 a.m.
to 7 p.m. There is no admittance one hour prior to show closing.
Early access to the show is available for disabled persons at 8
a.m. via the Oakland entrance on Cobo Center's concourse. (Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071004/CLTH058LOGO )
First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:
Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071004/CLTH058LOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: North American International Auto Show
CONTACT: Robin Thompson of John Bailey & Associates, NAIAS PR Desk,
+1-248-643-2450, rthompson@baileypr.com, naias-media@baileypr.com Web Site: http://www.naias.com/
http://www.clickandpark.com/
http://www.thepeoplemover.com/
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Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 3:23 PM
Verizon's Fleet in New Jersey Gets Greener With Introduction of 19 Hybrid Sedans
Verizon's Fleet in New Jersey Gets Greener With Introduction of 19 Hybrid Sedans Use of More Fuel-Efficient Vehicles Across the Country Will Reduce Greenhouse- Gas Emissions by an Estimated 263 Metric Tons and Conserve Nearly 30,000 Gallons of Fuel NEWARK, N.J., Jan. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- More environmentally friendly Verizon sedans will soon be making their way through New Jersey cities and towns. Nineteen hybrid sedans will replace traditional vehicles in Verizon's local fleet, for an estimated annual reduction in carbon emissions of nearly 50 metric tons. Verizon is rolling out 100 new hybrid sedans in metropolitan areas across the country. With engines that run on gasoline and electricity, hybrids are more fuel- efficient than vehicles equipped with traditional engines. The Toyota Prius sedans being added to Verizon's fleet can travel nearly double the miles per gallon and emit less than half of the carbon of most traditional sedans. Verizon president Dennis Bone said, "This will reduce the amount of CO2 emitted in New Jersey and serves as another example of Verizon's continued commitment to reducing the environmental impact of our offices, our plants and our vehicle fleet." Last year, Verizon began using 13 specially designed service vans with environmentally friendly hybrid-engine systems in Maryland and Texas. No domestic motor vehicle manufacturer currently makes hybrid vehicles in the "van" category, so Verizon worked closely with a company that specializes in hybrid-power systems, and it retrofitted the new vehicles to Verizon's specifications. In 2006, Verizon reduced the greenhouse-gas emissions of its operations by more than 334,000 metric tons, about the same as keeping more than 72,000 cars off the roads for a year. Verizon's commitment to green energy practices include pursuing network equipment and building energy-reduction initiatives; using alternative energy sources in the network, buildings and vehicle fleet; and promoting the company's technology as an alternative to travel, among other efforts. In 2006 alone, Verizon processed about 70 million consumer bills online, sparing approximately 6,000 trees by reducing the amount of paper used. Other examples can be found in New Jersey and Texas, where Verizon has trialed the use of 20 percent bio-diesel fuel to power service vehicles. The fuel is a domestic, renewable resource that is biodegradable, nontoxic and is projected to reduce greenhouse gases. Also in those two states, Verizon has been using environmentally friendly lubricants made from vegetable oils as part of the process to cut sections of fiber-optic cable where the company is installing and maintaining its digital all-fiber-optic FiOS services. These lubricants are far more biodegradable than the traditional versions. Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ), headquartered in New York, is a leader in delivering broadband and other wireline and wireless communication innovations to mass market, business, government and wholesale customers. Verizon Wireless operates America's most reliable wireless network, serving 63.7 million customers nationwide. Verizon's Wireline operations include Verizon Business, which delivers innovative and seamless business solutions to customers around the world, and Verizon Telecom, which brings customers the benefits of converged communications, information and entertainment services over the nation's most advanced fiber-optic network. A Dow 30 company, Verizon has a diverse workforce of nearly 238,000 and last year generated consolidated operating revenues of more than $88 billion. For more information, visit www.verizon.com. VERIZON'S ONLINE NEWS CENTER: Verizon news releases, executive speeches and biographies, media contacts, high quality video and images, and other information are available at Verizon's News Center on the World Wide Web at www.verizon.com/news. To receive news releases by e-mail, visit the News Center and register for customized automatic delivery of Verizon news releases.
Source: Verizon
CONTACT: Rich Young of Verizon, +1-973-649-2279,
richard.j.young@verizon.com Web site: http://www.verizon.com/ Company News On-Call: http://www.prnewswire.com/comp/618232.html
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Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 3:19 PM
OnlineAutoInsurance.com Revolutionizing Auto Insurance
OnlineAutoInsurance.com Revolutionizing Auto Insurance LOS ANGELES, Jan. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- The Internet has given twenty-first century consumers efficiency when it comes to shopping for many of life's necessities. Online, one can complete research on any product and interact with information right from the comfort of their computer. The Internet has revolutionized the way consumers inquire, compare, purchase, and maintain the many products we are in need of today including auto insurance. Shopping for auto insurance, a few years ago, meant having to contact a company by telephone and asking a representative questions within a relatively short conversation. This process was time consuming and inefficient because one would consume most of the day shopping among the many listings in a phone book or newspaper and one would end up settling for an expensive or poor company. The process of shopping for auto insurance has been revolutionized by OnlineAutoInsurance.com. By logging on, one can learn and get a better understanding of the different types of coverage, get tips on choosing coverage, learn about terms related to an auto insurance policy and even learn more about insurance companies including http://www.ambest.com/ ratings which factor financial strength. Being aware of needed coverage gets one ready to begin searching for the company which fitting their needs. By completing one simple form, OnlineAutoInsurance.com helps quickly compare auto insurance quotes online from multiple quality companies. Using Internet efficiency by shopping online helps increase the probability of finding low premium rates. Many State Department of Insurance guides even suggest that consumers complete a rate comparison in order to find low rates. This is because if one settles for two or three choices, other carriers potentially offering lower premiums are left out. http://www.onlineautoinsurance.com/ lets consumers complete one easy form and instantly get the rates of multiple quality auto insurance company. In most states, a policy can be purchased online through the many affiliated carriers and consumers can receive instant proof of coverage. Once a policy has been purchased online, insureds have the convenience of continuing to manage their policy online including making payments, inquiring on billing and status and some affiliated carriers even allow insureds to request policy changes and file claims online. Take advantage of the convenience and efficiency the Internet has brought to auto insurance by logging onto http://www.onlineautoinsurance.com/ and completing a free, no obligation rate comparison. First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:
Source: OnlineAutoInsurance.com
CONTACT: Jane Hernandez of OnlineAutoInsurance.com, +1-909-262-5358 Web site: http://www.onlineautoinsurance.com/
http://www.ambest.com/
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Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 2:34 PM
Chrysler LLC Invests More Than $27 Million in Toledo Machining Plant
Chrysler LLC Invests More Than $27 Million in Toledo Machining Plant - $26.4 million for manufacturing of a new torque converter - $1.5 million for new steering column production - Investment will retain more than 200 jobs AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Jan. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Tom LaSorda, Chrysler LLC Vice Chairman and President, announced today that Chrysler would invest more than $27 million in its Toledo (Ohio) Machining Plant. The plans were revealed during a keynote speech at the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce's annual meeting. Toledo Machining, which currently builds torque converters and steering columns, will divide the investment into two separate parts of the plant: $26.4 million will go toward the manufacturing of a redesigned torque converter for automatic transmissions and an additional $1.5 million will be used for production of a new steering column. The torque converter investment will deliver improved fuel efficiency and refinement and retain 164 jobs. The steering column investment will retain 44 hourly jobs. "Chrysler's investments in the Toledo area are rooted in our faith that we can keep good-paying manufacturing jobs in America as long as government, our unions and our companies all pull together for the common good," said LaSorda. "We at Chrysler have a stake in Toledo being a vital city, and we're pleased at the ongoing progress." Overall, the Toledo Machining investment will enhance Chrysler's ability to offer the highest quality products and advanced technical expertise. "This is an important day for the future of the UAW and Chrysler, and in particular for the continued competitiveness of our team here in the State of Ohio," said General Holiefield, UAW Vice President, who directs the union's Chrysler Department. "This investment is a significant step toward realizing our vision to see this company and our union grow this business and be competitive for the long run." "Chrysler is the largest manufacturing employer and one of the best corporate citizens in Wood County," said Tom Blaha, Executive Director of the Wood County Economic Development Commission. "This investment is a testament to the hard working men and women at Toledo Machining." The Toledo Machining Plant is located in Perrysburg, Ohio. The plant covers 1.2 million square feet and employs 1,530. Employees at the plant are represented by UAW Local #1435. The plant builds steering columns and torque converters for vehicles across the Chrysler, Jeep(R), and Dodge product line. Chrysler, a good neighbor and good citizen, sponsors various community events through its philanthropic arm, The Chrysler Foundation, including the Art Tatum Jazz Heritage Festival, Toledo Urban League, City's Youth Entrepreneur Program, Toledo Opera, the Toledo Museum of Art, Valentine Theatre and the Diamante Awards. Headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich., Chrysler has invested $3.9 billion in its Toledo manufacturing operations since 2001.
Source: Chrysler LLC
CONTACT: Curtrise Garner, +1-248-512-2712, (cell) +1-248-761-8309,
cg61@chrysler.com, or David Elshoff, +1-248-512-2690, (cell) +1-248-797-2300,
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://www.media.chrysler.com. -------
Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 2:02 PM
Buell Ulysses XB12XT Is Eager for Action
Buell Ulysses XB12XT Is Eager for Action New Adventure Sportbike Delivers Street Sizzle and Thrilling Touring EAST TROY, Wis., Jan. 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Imagine a motorcycle that is just as comfortable carving canyons as it is eating up miles of highway and back roads on a long distance tour. That kind of adventurous versatility is distinctly delivered by the 2008 Buell Ulysses XB12XT. The new Buell Ulysses XB12XT model was introduced today as the second model in the Buell Ulysses family of adventure sportbike motorcycles, which possess the handling and soul to own every corner. Boasting the intuitive handling and tremendous torque that Buell has come to symbolize, the XB12XT creates a stirring sport riding experience on a capable long-distance motorcycle. Based on the Buell Ulysses adventure sport bike, the XB12XT features a specially-tuned shorter travel suspension and lower standard seat height, standard tall windscreen, Pirelli Strada sport touring tires and standard lockable top box and side luggage cases. "The XB12XT will dish out considerable comfort and potent performance at every turn," said Erik Buell, Chairman and Chief Technical Officer at Buell Motorcycle Company. "The new suspension and many other features will let riders and passengers enjoy this motorcycle on all kinds of roads. It's the perfect bike for zipping through the city, getting out to the country and back again, or the other way around." By focusing on paved road performance, the XB12XT suspension springs and damping were optimized to soak up road imperfections, which allowed a reduced suspension travel, resulting in a lower ride height and thus a lower center of gravity. With a commanding riding position behind wide athletic handlebars, the XB12XT has a tall front screen to buffer the wind. Standard heated hand-grips warm the rider's hands in colder climates. The grips are rated at 18 watts per side on the high setting and 11 watts per side on the low setting. The XB12XT has two 10 amp/12-volt accessory power outlets (on the dash and under the seat) and an integrated helmet lock for additional convenience. The XB12XT provides the rider and passenger abundant storage space with lockable and detachable side and top luggage cases. There is also an additional storage compartment under the textured seat, while the 4.4 gallon fuel-in-frame reservoir gives the XB12XT substantial riding range. In addition to its substantial storage capacity, the Ulysses XB12XT is also ideally suited for two-up riding with a comfortable passenger seat, innovative multi-function Triple tail backrest and sturdy grab rails. The XB12XT features fully adjustable Showa suspension front and rear for ample ride comfort, agility and versatility. The 43 mm inverted front forks and rear shock with remote reservoir and dial adjust spring preload accommodate a wide range of riding styles and conditions, as well as passenger and luggage weight. A new progressive urethane bumper spreads compression forces to help absorb the rigors of uneven road conditions while the XB12XT is fully loaded. Overall suspension travel is 4.9 inches, while ground clearance is 5.9 inches with a seat height of 30.7 inches. When the road is exhilarating and twisty, the XB12XT is a truly exciting sport motorcycle, propelled by a 1203 Thunderstorm V-Twin that is growling with 84 ft. lbs. of torque and delivers 103 hp of air-cooled punch. The superior handling of the XB12XT comes from Buell's Intuitive Response Chassis and a combination of patented innovations which focus on the Buell Trilogy of Technology: mass centralization, chassis rigidity and low unsprung weight. Mass centralization is achieved through innovations like carrying fuel in the frame and oil in the swing arm, as well as Buell's underslung InterActive Exhaust system. Low unsprung weight is provided by the patented Zero Torsional Load (ZTL) braking system, which transfers braking force directly to the rims allowing a lighter front wheel, while Buell's Immediate Throttle Response Goodyear Hibrex drive belt reduces unsprung weight at the rear. Reduced unsprung weight also helps the Pirelli Diablo Strada tires stay in contact with irregular road surfaces for uncompromising control. A commemorative Buell 25th Anniversary graphic with Erik Buell's signature is placed on the handlebar clamp. The Ulysses XB12XT is offered in a new color, Racing Red, in addition to Thrust Blue, each with Designer Black wheels. U.S. MSRP for the XB12XT will be $12,995. Buell Ulysses XB12XT highlights Buell Thunderstorm 1203 V-Twin engine
103 peak hp @ 6800 rpm (per SAE J607)
84 ft. lbs. peak torque @ 6800 rpm (per SAE J607)
Buell InterActive Exhaust
DDFI 3 Electronic Fuel Injection ECM
Eight-row oil cooler with Jiffy-tite fittings
Dry Weight: 465 pounds
Wheelbase: 54 inches
Seat height: 30.7 inches
Pirelli Diablo Strada tires
Detachable three-bag pannier luggage system with top and side hard cases,
and large underseat storage
Heated hand grips
Tall, detachable windscreen
Specially-tuned shorter suspension travel
Fully adjustable 43 mm Showa inverted fork
Fully adjustable Showa rear shock absorber
Buell ZTL front brake
Goodyear Hibrex drive belt with Flexten Plus technology
Frame pucks, handlebar deflectors
Triple Tail System
4.4 gallon fuel capacity
Functional tool kit
2 x 12v. power outlets
New Instrument Panel Graphics
New Racing Red body work
Commemorative Buell 25th Anniversary badge
Buell Motorcycle Company, a subsidiary of Harley-Davidson, Inc., produces premium sport performance motorcycles, motorcycle parts, accessories and apparel. To learn more about Buell motorcycles, visit your local Buell dealer and experience the aggressive attitude, style and performance only found on board a Buell. For the Buell dealer nearest you, pull into http://www.buell.com/
First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact: travis.thatcher@harley-davidson.com
Source: Harley-Davidson, Inc.
CONTACT: Paul James of Harley-Davidson, Inc., +1-414-343-8735,
paul.james@harley-davidson.com Web site: http://www.harley-davidson.com/
http://www.buell.com/
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Profile: automotive-news
New Harley-Davidson Softail Cross Bones Makes Dark Debut
New Harley-Davidson Softail Cross Bones Makes Dark Debut Authentic Custom Bobber Fuses Stunning Style and Distinctive Design MILWAUKEE, Jan. 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The new Harley-Davidson FLSTSB Softail Cross Bones cuts the aggressive profile of an authentic custom bobber, but with some dark twists that deliver a wickedly fun and emotional riding experience. The new Softail model was announced today at the Harley-Davidson Winter Dealer Meeting in San Antonio. With the retro look of a Springer front end and other post-war era bobber styling cues like a sprung solo seat, half-round rider footboards, Gloss Black round air cleaner cover and chopped front fender, the Softail Cross Bones rides with a Black and Polished Twin Cam 96B powertrain, 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission and truly unique Softail suspension. "Only Harley-Davidson could do this bike," said Bill Davidson, Harley-Davidson Vice President, Core Customer Marketing. "It's a motorcycle inspired as much by our early Knuckles and Pans, as by our desire to deliver innovative technology and content to make the ride today as magical and transforming as only a Harley-Davidson can. Cross Bones is a bike that makes me want to strap a blanket across the handle bar, hit the campgrounds on my next road trip and get totally in touch with what's right about this land." As the latest of several Harley-Davidson Dark Customs, Cross Bones melds stripped and chopped custom creativity with rough and raw finishes. Soul mates of the Cross Bones include the Nightster, Night Train, Night Rod Special and Street Bob. Check out more on Dark Custom motorcycles at http://www.harley-davidson.com/darkcustom. As each Harley-Davidson Softail motorcycle declares its styling independence with exclusive components and inspired craftsmanship, the Cross Bones is a bold addition to an already free-spirited family. Many features of the Cross Bones and other Softails are reminiscent of restless riders of the past, whose defiant attitude resonates with those who march to their own beat in any generation. The Softail name originates from its rear suspension design, with a swingarm section that honors the lines of a vintage rigid frame, while delivering a smooth, comfortable ride. Hidden horizontal coil-over rear shock absorbers are strategically mounted out-of-sight below the powertrain. The counter-balanced Twin Cam 96B powertrain is rigid-mounted in the Softail frame to give the rider a core connection to the motorcycle. Harley-Davidson Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) is standard on all Softail models, as is the 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission with its accommodating clutch lever effort. The Softail Cross Bones takes on the road with a rebellious expression accentuated by a Gloss Black painted Springer front end with chrome springs, black bucket headlamp and black mini ape-hanger style handlebar. While the chopped front fender exposes more of the front wheel, a Bobtail fender does the same for the wide 200 mm rear tire. Tires with matching treads ride on Steel Laced wheels with Gloss Black painted rims. The sprung solo seat, gloss black round air cleaner cover and old-style half-round rider footboards form a nostalgic focal point of the Cross Bones, recalling images of a classic era on this contemporary motorcycle. With two coiled springs underneath, the adjustable two-position Cross Bones seat rides in modern comfort at a height of 26.6 inches. A distinctive Softail horseshoe-shaped oil tank with the time-honored Harley-Davidson patent badge is located below the seat. An authentically designed five-gallon fuel tank sports a gloss black "cat-eye" styled console with accessible ignition switch and a new speedometer face. A hand-laced leather tank panel on the console compliments the sprung solo seat. A straight shot exhaust system with chrome slash-cut mufflers provides optimum performance and stands out in contrast to the Cross Bones' many darker components. The FLSTSB Cross Bones is available in premium custom graphics with wicked striping and paint featuring new Dark Blue Pearl, Dark Blue Denim, as well as Vivid Black, Black Denim, Olive Pearl and Pewter Denim. FLSTSB Cross Bones features:
Rigid-mount, 1584 cc Twin Cam 96B balanced engine
6-speed Cruise Drive transmission
Black powder-coated engine with polished rocker box covers and pushrods
and untreated fins
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Gloss Black painted Springer front end with chrome springs
Gloss Black mini ape-hanger handlebar
Straight shot exhaust with chrome slash-cut mufflers
Adjustable sprung solo seat with leather lacing
26.6-inch seat height
Chopped front fender with striping
Bobtail rear fender with striping
Gloss Black cat-eye tank console with new speedometer face
Gloss Black round air cleaner cover, oil tank and rear fender supports
Distinctive five-gallon fuel tank with hand-laced leather tank panel and
striping
200 mm rear tire
Laced Steel front and rear wheels with Gloss Black painted rims
Half-round old-school foot boards
Horseshoe oil tank with Harley-Davidson patent badge
Optional Smart Security System
Harley-Davidson Motor Company, the only major U.S.-based motorcycle manufacturer, produces heavyweight motorcycles and a complete line of motorcycle parts, accessories and general merchandise. For more information, visit Harley-Davidson's Web site at http://www.harley-davidson.com/.
First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact: travis.thatcher@harley-davidson.com
Source: Harley-Davidson, Inc.
CONTACT: Paul James of Harley-Davidson, +1-414-343-8735,
paul.james@harley-davidson.com Web site: http://www.harley-davidson.com/
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Profile: automotive-news
Harley-Davidson Continues Epic Ride With Once-in-a-Lifetime Concert Events
Harley-Davidson Continues Epic Ride With Once-in-a-Lifetime Concert Events - Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, Daughtry, Black Crowes, ZZ Top, Buddy Guy and More to Perform During the Motor Company's 105th Anniversary - MILWAUKEE, Jan. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Harley-Davidson's 105th Anniversary Celebration in late August is shaping up as the music event of 2008 with today's announcement that Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, along with Billboard 200's top-selling artist Daughtry, will headline separate concerts over the course of the four-day event in Milwaukee. Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band will perform a concert on Saturday evening, August 30, at a venue Harley-Davidson has dubbed Roadhouse at the Lakefront, located just north of the Milwaukee Art Museum. Daughtry, who burst onto the music scene in 2006 to become today's hottest-selling artist, will perform at the Summerfest grounds, also on Saturday evening, August 30. Springsteen and Daughtry headline the entertainment line-up for Harley-Davidson's 105th Anniversary, with additional acts including Los Lonely Boys, Black Crowes, ZZ Top, Peter Frampton and Buddy Guy. These artists, along with Daughtry and others will perform during two days of entertainment and activities at the Summerfest grounds on Friday, August 29 and Saturday, August 30, 2008. "Our 105th Anniversary entertainment line-up is second to none and really epitomizes the diversity of the Harley-Davidson family and experiences," said Joanne Bischmann, vice president, Licensing and Special Events. "We're very excited to welcome home our extended family to Milwaukee as we celebrate the future of Harley-Davidson." The complete entertainment line-up for the August 29-30, 105th Anniversary Celebration at the Summerfest grounds includes: The Black Crowes Black Rebel Motorcycle Club Blind Melon
Blue Oyster Cult Buddy Guy Cameo
The Crave Daughtry Dierks Bentley
Dr. John Gary Allan Foghat
Peter Frampton Joan Jett and the Blackhearts Los Lonely Boys
Puddle of Mudd War ZZ Top
GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY
Admission to the Daughtry concert at the Summerfest grounds is included with the two-day Harley-Davidson 105th Anniversary Celebration ticket package. Admission to the Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band concert requires a separate ticket purchase in addition to the Harley-Davidson 105th Anniversary Celebration ticket.
Harley-Davidson 105th Anniversary Celebration ticket packages are currently on sale for $60.00 plus $5.00 tax, shipping and handling at http://www.harley-davidson.com/105th. The ticket package includes a laminated event ticket good for a two-day entry to the Summerfest grounds, a signature 105th folio, a one-time entry to the Discovery World and its special Harley-Davidson exhibit, an event guide, a Signature 105th Anniversary copper wristband, a commemorative key chain, and a 105th Anniversary flag and American flag. Tickets for the August 30 Bruce Springsteen and the E-Street Band concert at the Roadhouse at the Lakefront are limited and will go on sale April 5, 2008, at http://www.harley-davidson.com/105th. 105th Anniversary Celebration ticket holders will be eligible for the opportunity to purchase one general admission ticket to the Springsteen concert on a first-come, first-served basis, while supplies last, for each 105th Anniversary Celebration ticket they have purchased. Cost of the separate ticket for Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band concert is $40.00, plus $2.50 shipping and handling. The Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.) previously announced a major concert for its 25th Anniversary featuring Aerosmith and Kid Rock at Miller Park, Thursday, August 28, 2008. Only H.O.G. members have the opportunity to purchase tickets to the concert, which go on sale March 12, 2008. The concert follows the free day-long Club H.O.G. 25 event for H.O.G. members on the Miller Park grounds. In true Harley-Davidson style, the Harley-Davidson 105th Anniversary Celebration will also feature four days of non-stop activities throughout Milwaukee. While many 105th Anniversary events will be available only to ticket holders, the Main Street at the Lakefront exposition, an outdoor festival will be free and open to everyone. This venue will also have free motorcycle parking and will be a perfect meeting and gathering place. There will also be free events at Harley-Davidson facilities in the area, and of course, the 105th Anniversary Parade on Saturday, August 30, 2008, will be a must see event. For more information on all the 105th activities and the limited edition 105th motorcycles, and to order a 105th Anniversary ticket package, visit http://www.harley-davidson.com/105th. Harley-Davidson Motor Company, the only major U.S.-based motorcycle manufacturer, produces heavyweight motorcycles and a complete line of motorcycle parts, accessories and general merchandise. For more information, visit Harley-Davidson's web site at http://www.harley-davidson.com/.
First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:
Source: Harley-Davidson Motor Company
CONTACT: Jerry Gleason, +1-312-988-2277, jgleason@webershandwick.com,
for Harley-Davidson Motor Company Web site: http://www.harley-davidson.com/
http://www.harley-davidson.com/105th
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Profile: automotive-news
Dakar Rally Should Be Run, Nascar Driver Robby Gordon Says
Dakar Rally Should Be Run, Nascar Driver Robby Gordon SaysBloomberg - The vehicles constructed for the race can't be used in U.S. off-road racing, although Gordon may be able to use them for Dakar next year if the race is run. The 39-year-old Californian won the sixth stage of the rally last year and took the first and Post CommentStar-Gazette - They drove a variety of vehicles, ranging from a BMW 335i to an ATV, in numerous aspects of driving, from competing on a racetrack to off-road racing. The annual event is open to the general public, with one of the requirements writing an essay about CORR (EL CAJON) - Douglas Motorsports Finals ReportThe Auto Chanel - In 2007, Douglas Motorsports completed the Championship Off-Road Racing Season with six top 3 finishes including 2 wins, officially finishing the PRO-4 Championship in second place. NBC Sports will broadcast the Baldwin Memorial Cup on December 8 Best in the Desert Racing AssociationWho Won - Best in the Desert Off-Road Racing Series Tracks Best In The Desert Inc. Racing is owned and operated entirely by Casey Folks, with offices at Sportsman Cycle 3475C Boulder Highway, Las Vegas, Nevada 89121. The entire remaining staff consists largely CORR Ends 2007 in Style at Las Vegas International Off Road Raceway in Who Won - Championship Off Road Racing™ brings high action, four wheel motorsports including 2 wheel drive and 4 wheel drive trucks to the closed course off road arena. The 2007 CORR season includes seven events at tracks located in Los Angeles and San Local men look to fulfill lifelong dream by racing in Baja contestBradford Era - be battling against more than 400 other entries from 15 countries and 40 U.S. states, competing in 28 professional and six sportsman classes for cars, trucks, motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles, according to the SCORE International Off-Road Racing
posted by automotive-news # 9:15 AM
MSC.Software Delivers Engineering Speed to Triple Eight Race's Championship Race Cars
MSC.Software Delivers Engineering Speed to Triple Eight Race's Championship Race Cars Triple Eight Race Engineering Relies on MD Nastran to develop winning race vehicles SANTA ANA, Calif., Jan. 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- MSC.Software (NASDAQ:MSCS), the leading global provider of enterprise simulation solutions, including simulation software and services, today announced that MSC.Software's engineering simulation software, MD Nastran, was used by Triple Eight Race Engineering Australia in designing top championship race cars for the V8 Supercar Championship. Triple Eight Race Engineering, the engineering genius behind the 888 BF Falcon, used MD Nastran to run complex simulations for dynamics and aeroelasticity for the redesign and fine-tuning of race vehicles under different scenarios. Extreme requirements in terms of racing performance and race regulations constantly drive Triple Eight to push the limits of its engineering capabilities using simulation tools like MD Nastran to leverage their engineers' expertise in developing winning race vehicles. "Just like on the race track, speed is essential in race car design. Any refinements achieved in the design engineering process will lead to better performance on the track," said Simon Holt, Chief Designer, Triple Eight Race Engineering Australia. "MD Nastran has provided the necessary engineering simulation platform for us to improve car efficiency while reducing both the cost of materials and machine errors." "Being successful on the track requires a combination of highly skilled, innovative engineers, strong teamwork and the use of state-of-the-art technologies. Triple Eight 's innovative use of MD Nastran has produced a winning car in all aspects," said Neil Robinson, Country Manager for MSC.Software Australia. "The racing world counts in seconds and every small advantage implemented through engineering design can translate into huge margins of victory. Using MD Nastran, Triple Eight is today one of the elite names in racing." About Triple Eight Race Engineering Since its inception a decade ago, Triple Eight Race Engineering (Triple Eight) has grown to become one of the largest and most successful touring car operations in the world, with cars and drivers successfully running at the front of the field in the British Touring Car Championship and Australia's premier motorsport category V8 Supercars. The team won the British Touring Car Championship in 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004 and on top of this, Triple Eight claimed the prestigious 'triple triple' by winning the Manufacturer's, Team's and Driver's Championships for three consecutive years. Recognising the sheer competitiveness of the V8 Supercar Series, with a tenth of a second marking the difference between victory and defeat, Triple Eight set about securing some of the most talented professionals from Australia and overseas. Today more than 45 race technologists, engineers, suspension technicians, commercial managers and administration assistants work from the organisation's purpose built Australian facility located in Bowen Hills on the fringe of inner Brisbane, Australia. About V8 Supercar Championship The V8 Supercar Championship is a touring car racing category and it is the most popular motorsport in Australia, with a steadily growing worldwide audience. V8 Supercar Championships are held in all states of Australia, as well as rounds in New Zealand and Bahrain. V8 Supercars have drawn crowds of over 250,000 spectators. The 2007 Season was held over 14 race weekends, held on various purpose-built racetracks and street circuits in the aforementioned countries. Race formats range from sprint races, where three 150 km races are held over a weekend, or endurance races such as Bathurst, which is run over a 1000 km race distance, and Sandown, run over 500km. About MSC.Software Corporation MSC.Software (NASDAQ:MSCS) is the global leader of enterprise simulation solutions that help companies make money, save time and reduce costs associated with designing and testing manufactured products. MSC.Software works with thousands of companies in hundreds of industries to develop better products faster by utilizing information technology, software, services and systems. MSC.Software employs more than 1100 people in 23 countries. For additional information about MSC Software's products and services, please visit http://www.mscsoftware.com/. Safe Harbor Language This press release contains forward-looking statements, including all statements relating to the features, benefits, capabilities and performance of MSC.Software products. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to be materially different than expectations. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, changes in technology, the end-user computing and analysis environment, implementation and support that meet evolving customer requirements, general industry trends and the impact of competitive products. Furthermore, information provided herein, which is not historical in nature, are forward-looking statements pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All such forward-looking statements are based largely on management's expectations and are subject to and qualified by risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. The Company undertakes no duty to update any forward-looking statement to conform the statement to actual results or changes in the Company's expectations. The MSC.Software corporate logo, Adams, Dytran, Easy5, Laminate Modeler, Marc, MD Adams, MD Nastran, MD Patran, Mentat, MSC, MSC MasterKey, MSC Nastran, Mvision, Patran, SimDesigner, SimEnterprise, SimManager, SimOffice, SimTemplate, SimXpert and Sofy are trademarks or registered trademarks of the MSC.Software Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. NASTRAN is a registered trademark of NASA. All other trademarks belong to their respective owners. Jennifer Brannon
Senior Manager, Public Relations
MSC.Software
(714) 445-3119
jennifer.brannon@mscsoftware.com First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:
Source: MSC.Software Corporation
CONTACT: Jennifer Brannon, Senior Manager, Public Relations of
MSC.Software, +1-714-445-3119, jennifer.brannon@mscsoftware.com Web site: http://www.mscsoftware.com/
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Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 9:09 AM
US Bank Joins Rapidly Expanding List of Finance Sources on RouteOne Platform
US Bank Joins Rapidly Expanding List of Finance Sources on RouteOne Platform FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich., Jan. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- RouteOne LLC announced today that U.S. Bank, the sixth largest commercial bank in the United States, has joined the growing roster of finance sources on RouteOne's web-based credit application management system. U.S. Bancorp, with $238 billion in assets, is the parent company of U.S. Bank, the sixth largest commercial bank in the United States. The company operates 2,518 banking offices and 4,867 ATMs, and provides a comprehensive line of banking, brokerage, insurance, investment, mortgage, trust and payment services products to consumers, businesses and institutions. "We are pleased to welcome U.S. Bank to the RouteOne platform," said Mike Jurecki, RouteOne CEO. "They are a preferred finance source partner for many of our dealer customers. We look forward to assisting U.S. Bank in providing added value to their dealers." "RouteOne has established itself as a premier credit application management system within the marketplace," said Tom Wirth, President, U.S. Bank Indirect Lending. "A large number of our dealer customers already utilize RouteOne, and we believe that our integration with their platform will allow us to provide our dealer customers significant value and improve our level of customer service." In addition to providing access to both captive and non-captive finance sources through a single portal, RouteOne offers a wide variety of tools to assist the dealer in managing their day-to-day business, such as a detailed reporting suite, DSP integration, and credit bureau access, all within a single desktop application. RouteOne's open integration business model allows the dealer to integrate with their choice of a wide variety best in class partners, including DSPs, CRM systems, F& I modules and menu providers. More information can be found at http://www.routeone.com/. ABOUT ROUTEONE RouteOne was formed in 2002 by Chrysler Financial, Ford Motor Credit Company, GMAC, and Toyota Financial Services to create a more streamlined credit application for automobile dealers and their customers. Providing access to more than 21,500 dealers in North America, RouteOne's web-based system allows automotive dealers to submit credit applications to the largest indirect lenders, request credit reports, and increase profitability with RouteOne's free Dealer Reporting Suite. RouteOne's open integration business model also allows the dealer to integrate with their choice of a wide variety best in class partners, including DSPs, CRM systems, F& I modules and menu providers. RouteOne offers dealers a common platform for all their credit application financing needs. More information is available at http://www.routeone.com/. ABOUT US BANCORP U.S. Bancorp, with $238 billion in assets, is the parent company of U.S. Bank, the 6th largest commercial bank in the United States. The company operates 2,518 banking offices and 4,867 ATMs, and provides a comprehensive line of banking, brokerage, insurance, investment, mortgage, trust and payment services products to consumers, businesses and institutions. Visit U.S. Bancorp on the web at http://www.usbank.com/. CONTACT: Suzi Straffon
RouteOne LLC
248.862.7074
First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:
Source: RouteOne LLC
CONTACT: Suzi Straffon of RouteOne LLC, +1-248-862-7074 Web site: http://www.routeone.com/
http://www.usbank.com/
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Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 9:05 AM
DOLLAR(R) Customers Earn Triple Miles With Eight Frequent Flyer Programs
DOLLAR(R) Customers Earn Triple Miles With Eight Frequent Flyer Programs TULSA, Okla., Jan. 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Dollar Rent A Car, a subsidiary of Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, Inc. (NYSE:DTG), is offering customers a "triple dip" -- and we're not talking ice cream. (Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20020412/DTGLOGO) From now through May 15, 2008, DOLLAR customers will have the opportunity to earn triple miles or points through these airline frequent flyer programs: Alaska Airlines(R) Mileage Plan(R), American Airlines AAdvantage(R), ATA Airlines Travel Awards(R), Continental(R) OnePass(R), Delta Air Lines(R) SkyMiles(R), Northwest Airlines(R) WorldPerks(R), United Airlines(R) Mileage Plus(R) and US Airways(R) Dividend Miles(R). Miles or points are earned when renting an intermediate or larger vehicle for three days or more at any participating Dollar Rent A Car location worldwide. The offer is available Jan. 15, 2008 through May 15, 2008. Customers should use the promotion code DR8S when making a reservation and should provide their frequent flyer number at the time of rental. Twenty-four hour advance reservations are required. Dollar Rent A Car minimum age, driver and credit requirements apply. Industry discount rates, tour rates and complimentary rentals do not qualify for frequent flyer miles. This offer may not be combined with any other offer and has no cash value. Bonus mile offer and airline miles are subject to the terms and conditions of each participating airline's frequent flyer program as applicable. About Dollar Rent A Car Dollar has more than 535 worldwide locations in 48 countries, with a significant presence in Canada, the Caribbean and Latin America, including more than 250 in the United States. Dollar serves the value-conscious traveler and is a subsidiary of Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, Inc., a Fortune 1000 Company headquartered in Tulsa, Okla. For additional information, visit http://www.dtag.com/ or http://www.dollar.com/.
First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact: chris.payne@dtag.com
Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20020412/DTGLOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, Inc.
CONTACT: Chris Payne of Dollar Rent A Car, +1-918-669-2236,
chris.payne@dtag.com Web site: http://www.dtag.com/
http://www.dollar.com/
http://www.thrifty.com/
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Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 9:05 AM
Hella Reduces Carbon Dioxide in Automotive Lighting, Electronics
Hella Reduces Carbon Dioxide in Automotive Lighting, Electronics PLYMOUTH, Mich., Jan. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Hella KGaA Hueck & Co., a global tier-one supplier of automotive lighting and electronic equipment, now has developed a broad technology portfolio of series solutions to reduce carbon dioxide (CO(2)) emissions. Hella's CO(2) reducing lighting products include xenon headlamps and lighting emitting diodes (LEDs), which are, among others, used in daytime running lights. Carbon dioxide is an odorless and colorless gas that is produced by the combustion of fossil fuels, among other processes, containing carbon such as coal, natural gas and petroleum. The carbon dioxide produced while burning these fossil fuels is then released into the atmosphere. These carbon dioxide concentrations have reached record-high levels in the atmosphere after growing at an accelerated pace in the past year, according to scientists from the Mauna Loa Observatory in Hawaii, USA. Increased carbon dioxide emissions have the possibility of increasing global temperatures, thereby melting icecaps and increasing ocean levels, creating warmer winters, as well as disrupting global ecosystems. In comparison with average light bulbs found in vehicle headlamps, Hella's xenon headlamps use less power, while doubling light output. Xenon headlamps also use a third less energy than halogen bulbs. A vehicle equipped with a combination of xenon lights and conventional light bulbs in the rear lamps can achieve an energy savings of about 25 percent compared to full halogen lighting. Daytime running lights are becoming increasingly common and have been associated with improved road safety. Running lights, along with LEDs, reduce fuel consumption by an estimated .0847 gallons per 100 miles. "While CO(2) reduction is seeing an ever-growing interest in today's environmentally-conscious world, intelligent lighting and electronics solutions from Hella contribute to both to an increase in efficient power generation and to a reduction in energy consumption," explained Dr. Martin Fisher, president of Hella Electronics Corporation. Hella's electronic products that help reduce CO(2) emissions include: -- Demand-driven fuel pumps with Hella's intelligent control unit regulate
pump power based on engine requirements, thereby reducing the
electrical system load by up to 100 watts. This results in a savings of
0.5 grams of CO(2) per mile. -- Hella's Intelligent Battery Sensor, a key element of energy management,
regulates electrical energy generation, as well as its distribution and
storage. It can save approximately 2.4 grams of CO(2) per mile. -- Hella's fuel-quality sensor can eliminate emissions of up to 30 grams
of CO(2) per vehicle start. The sensor ensures that gasoline or diesel
is injected only as is needed to start the engine. -- The company's oil quality sensor ensures that the life of a full charge
of engine oil can be extended under normal to good operating
conditions. The savings potential of the oil quality sensor is about 4
grams of CO(2) per mile. -- The Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system produced by Hella determines
the relative speed and distance to the vehicle driving in front and
adapts the owner's vehicle speed automatically. As a result, ACC allows
for a smooth and fuel-efficient way of driving, which ultimately
reduces CO(2) emissions. -- Hella's electric vacuum pumps work more efficiently than conventional
belt driver pumps. As a vacuum boost is usually only required only
during warm-up, an electric vacuum pump can be switched off as soon as
the engine reaches its operating temperature, saving 2.5 to 4 grams of
CO(2). Hella, a global supplier, develops and manufactures components and systems for lighting and electronics for the automotive industry, including driver- assistance systems enhancing safety and comfort. In addition, its joint- venture companies produce complete vehicle modules, air-conditioning systems and vehicle-electric systems. Hella is also one of the world's largest companies selling automotive aftermarket parts and accessories, with its own sales companies and partners in more than 100 countries. Annual sales for the Hella Group total $4 billion. Hella is one of the 100 largest industrial companies in Germany. More than 25,000 people are employed in 70 production facilities, production subsidiaries and joint-venture companies. Nearly 3,000 Hella engineers and technicians work in research and development. Customers include all of the world's leading automakers and system manufacturers, as well as the automotive aftermarket. Additional information is available at www.hella.com. Company Contact:
Ulrich Koester
Hella KGaA Hueck & Company
Phone: +49.29.41.38.7566
E-mail: ulrich.koester@hella.com First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:
Source: Hella KGaA Hueck & Co.
CONTACT: Marty Habalewsky, mhabalewsky@usautocom.com, or Andrea Wilmes
awilmes@usautocom.com, +1-248-647-8621, both of AutoCom Associates Web site: http://www.hella.com/
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Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 8:34 AM
BorgWarner Declares Quarterly Dividend
BorgWarner Declares Quarterly Dividend AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Jan. 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The board of directors of BorgWarner Inc. (NYSE:BWA) declared a quarterly dividend of $0.11 per share on all of the company's issued and outstanding common stock. The dividend is payable February 15, 2008 to stockholders of record on February 1, 2008. The dividend reflects a two-for-one stock split on December 17, 2007, and a 29% increase from the previous dividend of $0.085. BorgWarner has tripled its dividend amount over the past six years. Auburn Hills, Michigan-based BorgWarner Inc. (NYSE:BWA) is a product leader in highly engineered components and systems for vehicle powertrain applications worldwide. The FORTUNE 500 company operates manufacturing and technical facilities in 64 locations in 17 countries. Customers include VW/Audi, Ford, Toyota, Renault/Nissan, General Motors, Hyundai/Kia, Daimler, Chrysler, Fiat, BMW, Honda, John Deere, PSA and MAN. The Internet address for BorgWarner is: http://www.borgwarner.com/.
First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact: klamb@borgwarner.com
Source: BorgWarner Inc.
CONTACT: Mary Brevard, +1-248-754-0881, for BorgWarner Inc. Web site: http://www.borgwarner.com/
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Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 8:26 AM
Renault-Nissan and Project Better Place prepare for first mass marketed electric vehicles
Renault-Nissan and Project Better Place prepare for first mass marketed electric vehicles MOU signed today in Jerusalem for first application on Israeli market JERUSALEM, Jan. 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- In a significant move towards reducing CO2 car emissions as well as particles pollution, the Renault-Nissan Alliance and Project Better Place engage in a breakthrough with electric vehicles in Israel. The solution framework comes in response to the Israeli State's challenge to the auto industry and its supply chain to migrate the country's transportation infrastructure to renewable sources of energy. For the first time in history, all the conditions necessary for electric vehicles to be successfully mass-marketed will be brought together in a partnership between the Renault-Nissan Alliance and Project Better Place in Israel. The Israeli government would provide tax incentives to customers, Renault would supply the electric vehicles, and Project Better Place would construct and operate an Electric Recharge Grid across the entire country. Electric vehicles will be available for customers in 2011. -- 100% electric vehicles: Renault's vehicles will run on pure electricity
for all functions. The objective of zero emissions will be achieved,
while at the same time offering driving performances similar to a 1.6
liter gasoline engine. Renault's electric vehicles will be equipped
with lithium-ion batteries, ensuring greater driving range and
longevity. -- Innovative business model: For the first time in the electric vehicle
business, ownership of the car is separated from the requirement to own
a battery. Consumers will buy and own their car and subscribe to
energy, including the use of the battery, on a basis of kilometers
driven. This model is similar to the way mobile phones are sold, with
an initial purchase and a monthly subscription for the mobility
service. -- Competitive cost of ownership: The Israeli government recently extended
a tax incentive on the purchase of any zero-emissions vehicle until
2019, making them more affordable. Combined with the lower cost of
electricity as opposed to fuel-based energy, and the vehicle's lifetime
guarantee, the total cost of ownership for the customer will be
significantly lower than that of a fuel-based car over the life cycle
of the vehicle. -- Electric Recharge Grid infrastructure: California-based Project Better
Place plans to deploy a massive network of battery charging spots.
Driving range will no longer be an obstacle, because customers will be
able to plug their cars into charging units in any of the 500,000
charging spots in Israel. An on-board computer system will indicate to
the driver the remaining power supply and the nearest charging spot.
Nissan, through its joint venture with NEC, has created a battery pack
that meets the requirements of the electric vehicle and will mass-
produce it. Renault is working on development of exchangeable batteries
for continuous mobility. The entire framework will go through a series
of tests starting this year. -- Perfect first mass market: In Israel, where 90% of car owners drive
less than 70 kilometers per day, and all major urban centers are less
than 150 kilometers apart, electric vehicles would be the ideal means
of transportation and could therefore cover most of the population's
transportation needs. Along with Project Better Place, this is the first illustration of the Alliance's commitment to mass-market zero-emission vehicles all over the world. Project Better Place Project Better Place is a venture-backed company that aims to reduce global dependency on oil through the creation of a market-based transportation infrastructure that supports electric vehicles, providing consumers with a cleaner, sustainable, personal transportation alternative. Launched in October 2007, Project Better Place will build its first pilot Electric Recharge Grid in Israel and plans to deploy the infrastructure on a country-by-country basis with initial deployments beginning in 2010. The Renault-Nissan Alliance The Renault-Nissan Alliance, created in 1999, is the fourth largest automotive group in the world by sales volume (6,100,000 vehicles sold in 2007). Moses Carasso & Sons, Ltd. has imported Renault and Nissan cars in Israel since 1948. Renault Corporate The Renault Group generated global revenues of 41,528 million euro in 2006. It designs, engineers, manufactures and sells passenger and light commercial vehicles throughout the world. The Renault Group is present in 118 countries and sells vehicles under its three brands - Renault, Dacia and Samsung. The Renault Group employs 129,000 people worldwide. Nissan Corporate The Nissan Motor Company generated global net revenues of 10.468 trillion yen in 2006. Nissan is present in all major global auto markets selling a comprehensive range of cars, pickup trucks, SUVs and light commercial vehicles under the Nissan and Infiniti brands. Nissan employs over 180,000 people worldwide. First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:
Source: Renault-Nissan Alliance
CONTACT: Rochelle Chimenes, Corporate Press Officer of Renault SAS,
+33 (0)1 76 84 64 69, rochelle.chimenes@renault.com; or Pauline Kee,
p-kee@mail.nissan.co.jp, or Tomo Nagami, t-nagami@mail.nissan.co.jp, both of
NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD., +81-3-5565-2141; or Julie Mullins,
+44 (0)20 7413 5946, julie.mullins@hillandknowlton.com (non-US media), or
Saskia Stegeman, +1-202-944-1975, Saskia.stegeman@hillandknowlton.com
(US media), or Moshe Debby, +972-52-8748744, Moshe@debby.co.il (Israel media),
all for Project Better Place Web Site: http://www.media.renault.com/
http://www.renault.com/
http://press.nissan-global.com/EN
http://www.projectbetterplace.com/
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Profile: automotive-news
posted by automotive-news # 8:16 AM
Corporate Express Piloting Hybrid-Electric Delivery Truck From Isuzu Commercial Truck of America
Corporate Express Piloting Hybrid-Electric Delivery Truck From Isuzu Commercial Truck of America BROOMFIELD, Colo., Jan. 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Corporate Express US Inc., part of the Dutch-based Corporate Express NV (NYSE:CXP), announced today that it will be one of the first companies in North America to pilot a prototype diesel hybrid-electric delivery truck from Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc. Corporate Express' pilot of this innovative vehicle marks the company's first step towards adding Isuzu hybrid-electric vehicles to its US delivery fleet, with the goals of reducing carbon dioxide emissions and minimizing environmental impact. "As a pure business-to-business company, our distribution operations are a primary focus as we work to reduce our carbon footprint," said Jay Mutschler, President of Corporate Express US. "We approached Isuzu about a diesel hybrid-electric vehicle last year, and we are extremely pleased that our partnership with them is enhanced with a pilot of this terrific emerging technology here in the US." The majority of Corporate Express US' trucks are from Isuzu, who has been th | |
