Toyota announces voluntary recall on 2010 model year Prius and 2010 Lexus HS 250h vehicles to update ABS Software
Inspection of Power Steering Hose Position on Certain 2010 Camry Vehicles Also Announced Recalls Underscore Toyota’s Commitment to Address All Vehicle Quality and Safety Issues Promptly and Effectively
Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., announced it will conduct a voluntary safety recall on approximately 133,000 2010 Model Year Prius vehicles and 14,550 Lexus Division 2010 HS 250h vehicles to update software in the vehicle’s anti-lock brake system (ABS). No other Toyota, Lexus, or Scion vehicles are involved in this recall.
The ABS, in normal operation, engages and disengages rapidly (many times per second) as the control system senses and reacts to tire slippage. Some 2010 Model Year Prius and 2010 HS 250h owners have reported experiencing inconsistent brake feel during slow and steady application of brakes on rough or slick road surfaces when the ABS is activated in an effort to maintain tire traction.
Toyota has responded to owner concerns with a running production change for 2010 Prius that was introduced last month, improving the ABS response time, as well as the system’s overall sensitivity to tire slippage. The production change for the HS 250h is planned for later this month.
“We’re committed to doing everything we can – as fast as we can – to restore consumer trust in Toyota, and these recalls are part of this effort,” said Jim Lentz, President and Chief Operating Officer, Toyota Motor Sales. “We regret the inconvenience this recall will cause to Prius and HS 250h owners, and will do our best with the support of our dealers to make sure that it is conducted in the most trouble-free manner possible.”
Mr. Lentz continued: “As part of the quality improvement program announced by Toyota President Akio Toyoda last week, our company is undertaking a top to bottom review to ensure that our vehicles meet our own high standards of safety and reliability, now and for the future. We are taking steps to implement more stringent quality control across the company, to investigate customer complaints more aggressively and to respond more quickly to any safety issues we identify.”
The recall will allow Toyota dealers to perform the software update on 2010 Prius vehicles sold prior to this running production change. Only Prius vehicles produced since May 2009 and all HS 250h vehicles are subject to this recall. First- and second-generation Prius vehicles use a different ABS and are not involved in this campaign.
The ABS on the Lexus HS 250h is similar in design to the Prius. The software adjustment planned for HS 250h production and dealer modification is being finalized and will be announced very soon.
Toyota will begin mailing letters to Prius owners included in this recall next week and HS 250h owners within the next few weeks, to let them know when to bring their vehicles into a dealership. Owners will only receive a letter if their vehicle is involved in the recall.
Separately, Toyota will conduct a voluntary safety recall on approximately 7,300 early production – 2010 Model Year Camry vehicles equipped with the 4 cylinder engine to inspect for a power steering hose that may be in contact with a front brake tube. This contact could lead to a hole in the brake tube and cause a brake fluid leak, increased brake pedal stroke and greater vehicle stopping distance.
Owners of the involved 2010 Camry vehicles will be notified by mail starting in the middle of February.
Detailed information about these recalls is available to customers at www.toyota.com/recall and at the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331, or the Lexus Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-255-3987.
Source: Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc.
World’s first predictive sales demand indicator says Toyota demand in 28 percent freefall
Impact of Safety Recall, Market Uncertainty Having Dramatic Impact on Toyota Demand General Motors is Early Beneficiary; Ford Catching Up
Autometrics Pulse(TM), the first predictive demand indicator for new vehicle sales, has forecasted that Toyota demand has declined 28 percent (seasonally adjusted) in the U.S. since Toyota announced sales suspension and a recall of many of its models. Autometrics says that practically all Toyota models have seen demand decline, not only the eight models subject to accelerator pedal issue.
“The initial beneficiary of the decline in demand for Toyota vehicles are the General Motors brands following the launch of GM’s $1000 incentive to Toyota owners to terminate their lease,” said Stephen Shaw, Autometrics CEO. “GM’s boost has come off its initial peak since it first targeted Toyota owners on January 27 but is still quite dramatic.”
As of February 3, GM brands had increased their share as follows: Chevrolet (+9 percent), Buick (+17 percent), Cadillac (+10 percent) and GMC (+19 percent). In recent days, Ford Motor Company has become a new beneficiary, with an increase in demand of 10 percent. Other brands showed little or no change after the data was seasonally adjusted.
Toyota’s luxury brand Lexus, which was not involved in the sales suspension but is recalling some models due to a separate floor mat issue, appears to have been more insulated from Toyota’s decline. Lexus demand was down 8 percent as of February 3, while Scion was off 6 percent.
Only the Toyota 4-Runner SUV showed an increase in demand.
Toyota models declined as follows:
RAV-4 -53%
Avalon -45%
Corolla -44%
Camry -42%
Tundra -39%
Highlander -34%
Sequoia -34%
Matrix -33%
Sienna -26%
Yaris -21%
Venza -21%
Tacoma -12%
Land Cruiser -9%
Prius -8%
FJ Cruiser -2%
4Runner +18%
How Autometrics’ Pulse(TM) is Calculated
– Pulse(TM) is driven by more than 100 data sources including major automotive sites, the car buying sections of major portals, automotive enthusiast sites etc.
– Pulse(TM) is updated nightly, with yesterday’s results released “real time” the very next day.
– Pulse(TM) is the largest demand data set available anywhere with over 300,000 data points tracked daily.
– Pulse(TM) captures demand for all makes and models down to the zip code level.
– Pulse(TM) has been proven by automotive manufacturers and academics to be highly predictive of new vehicles sales even at the local level.
Pulse data is updated on a regular basis at www.autometrics.com
Clean fuel and green auto leaders to converge in China at Alternative Fuels & New Energy Vehicles 2010 International Summit
Annual Theme: to Break through Current Bottlenecks in Promoting Industrialization
While the world economy struggled under the weight of the financial crisis in the previous year, global major auto markets were confronted with tremendous opportunities and challenges brought about by the low-carbon economy and new energy revolution. Hence, the alternative fuel and new energy vehicle industries have sparked the interest of global automakers seeking to gain strategic high ground.
While the global automobile market is re-shuffling, the world is focusing more and more on China. Although the dual support of Chinese policies and funding have helped substantially, China’s alternative fuel vehicle industry is still in its infancy. The industrialization process may have many bottlenecks. Relevant Chinese enterprises lag behind in the fields of internal combustion engines, integration techniques and control systems of hybrid and fuel cell vehicles, applications of lithium-ion batteries, motors and drive systems.
There has recently been an explosion of support for the development of alternative fuels and new energy vehicles, which will allow for more influential technological breakthroughs and rapid development in technical innovation, policy support, market competition and overall progress. It is estimated that biomass renewable energy vehicles will be strongly supported by governments and the public at large, though natural gas vehicles will continue to be widely used in cities and some specific regions. The market share of hybrid electric vehicles is destined to increase, and electric vehicles will become common in urban transport and tourist attractions.
Following the success of the industry flagship event – Alternative Fuels & Vehicles Asia 2009 - the Global Leaders Institute will be hosting the definitive 2nd annual summit – Alternative Fuels & New Energy Vehicles 2010 – May 18th-19th, 2010 in Beijing, China. This industry-leading summit, jointly organized by the Oil Products and Clean Fuels branches of the Chinese Society for Internal Combustion Engines, the State Key Laboratory of Automotive Safety and Energy, Tsinghua University and the Global Leaders Institute, is definitely the region’s premier event covering all the major issues in the fields of alternative fuels and new energy vehicles.
Alternative Fuels & New Energy Vehicles 2010 is the only executive summit in the Asia Pacific region designed to cover both the alternative fuel and new energy vehicle industries to accelerate industrialization. The summit will provide attendees with a golden opportunity to meet top-level policy-makers and executives, and to truly understand the current developmental and strategic direction of the auto industry from a variety of international viewpoints. Also, it presents the rare chance to meet with fuel suppliers to discuss cutting-edge innovations and exciting business ventures.
Over 20 industry professionals have committed to deliver speeches at this event, including Mr. Chunbeom Lee, the Director of Environmental Parts, R&D Center, of Korea Automotive Technology Institute; Mr. Clarence Woo, the Executive Director of the Asian Clean Fuels Association; Mr. Christopher Borroni-Bird, the Director of Advanced Technology Vehicle Concepts of General Motors; Mr. C.C. Chan, the President of EVAAP; and Mr. WANG Jianxin, Vice Director, State Key Laboratory of Automotive Safety and Energy at Tsinghua University.
Additionally, attendees will include more than 150 top-level decision-makers, ranging from government officials to automobile manufacturers, OEMs, components providers, alternative fuel providers, technology system solutions providers and research institutes, and they will hail from more than 10 countries, including China, Korea, Japan, France, Germany, India, Italy, Singapore, Russia, Sweden, Switzerland, and the USA.
www.alternativefuels-vehicles.com
Source: Global Leaders Institute
New Honda Odyssey TV Ad leverages the passion and imagination of children in the buying process of a Minivan
The latest ad for the 2010 Honda Odyssey declares: “If your kids can imagine it, we can build it.”
Traditionally, minivan ads have highlighted the same standard features without taking into consideration what emotions are really influencing the consumer’s decision. That was, until Salvador Veloso and Marco Vega, Creative Director and Planning Director at Concept Cafe in Miami, were commissioned by Honda to create the new ad for the Odyssey.
The ad created by Concept Cafe for the Odyssey (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fNcwm4-U6R0) says: this minivan is not only practical; it is a place for your children to flourish. Veloso and Vega’s mission was to draw the attention of the Hispanic market and to communicate to TV audiences that the Odyssey brings joy and happiness to their children.
On average, kids in the U.S. spend two hours a day in a vehicle, summing to an astounding thirty days a year buckled in a seatbelt. Conscientious parents are concerned that their children not only be entertained, but moreover, encouraged to exercise their imagination — freeing their growing minds even as their little bodies are safely strapped in the seat.
“We spent a long time researching the target consumer of the Honda Odyssey. We spoke with groups of parents and their children but only the children spoke really passionately about the minivan. To them, the minivan is a playing space, a chatting room, a cinema, a lab, a place where they live great adventures,” said Vega.
“Children see the world and the minivan completely differently from their parents. That is why the production and filming approach was that of an animated feature film, not a traditional commercial,” commented Veloso.
Together, Veloso and Vega conceived a clear vision of the ad’s target audience: “Parents love their children and want to nourish their imagination and curiosity, while in a safe and comfortable environment. With this ad, we wanted to demonstrate how children see their minivan.”
Knowing the passion of children for their minivan, Concept Cafe leveraged this knowledge into the Odyssey’s continued commercial success. According to the ad, any minivan can transport your kids, but the Odyssey will also enrich their childhood. All aboard for a ride of curiosity and imagination …
Source: Concept Cafe
Volkswagen’s 2.0L TDI clean diesel engine named a Ward’s 10 Best Engine for 2010
As fuel economy and emissions gain even greater awareness among today’s new car shoppers, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is honored to have its 2.0-liter four-cylinder TDI® Clean Diesel engine selected by Ward’s Automotive Group as one of the “10 Best Engines” for 2010. Presented at a special ceremony during last month’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the 16th-annual list represents the only awards program in North America to recognize engine excellence.
“This year’s list embodies how the industry is responding to demands for higher fuel economy and lower emissions without shortchanging performance,” said Ward’s AutoWorld Editor-in-Chief, Drew Winter. “Auto makers, like Volkswagen, are using innovative designs and advanced technology to boost horsepower and torque while downsizing engines and increasing efficiency.”
“For over 30 years, Volkswagen has been developing and refining diesel engine technology to help bring an ever-improving host of benefits to drivers now and into the future,” said Mark Barnes, Chief Operating Officer, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “Our 2.0L TDI unites an exceptional balance of fun-to-drive performance and efficiency, and we are proud to have it recognized in the prestigious Ward’s list.”
The 2.0L TDI is compliant with the stringent Tier 2, Bin 5/ULEV II emissions standards that apply in California and all 50 U.S. states, and is available now in the all-new sixth generation Golf, the award-winning Jetta, and the versatile Jetta SportWagen models. The engine delivers 140 horsepower and a potent 236 lbs.-ft. of torque for truly efficient but thrilling performance, and can be mated to either a six-speed manual transmission, or the six-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG®) automatic transmission. Power comes on quick and even throughout the RPM range, for strong off-the-line performance, and an instant boost when needed at speed.
With either transmission, the 2.0L TDI promises up to 30 percent better fuel economy over a comparable gasoline engine, netting EPA-estimated fuel mileage in the low 30 mpg range with city driving, and the low 40 mpg range during highway conditions. Greenhouse gas emissions are cut 25 percent over a comparable gasoline engine, along with a 95 percent reduction of nitrogen oxide emissions since 1990, making for a cleaner ride with every mile. The 2.0L TDI runs quieter and smoother than diesel engines of the past, making its operation virtually indistinguishable from that of a gasoline engine.
Kia Rio and Rondo named 2010 Consumer Guide Automotive Recommended Vehicles
Award-Winning Kia Vehicles Honored by Leading Online Consumer-Focused Resource for New and Used Vehicles – Rio selected in the subcompact car category for fuel economy, user-friendly instruments and driver controls – Rondo chosen in the midsize category for build quality as well as passenger and cargo room
Kia Motors America (KMA) announced its popular subcompact and midsize CUV, the 2010 Rio and Rondo, have been selected as 2010 Consumer Guide Automotive Recommended Vehicles. Consumer Guide Automotive, the leading online consumer-focused and trusted resource for authoritative and objective reports on new and used vehicles, selected both vehicles for their offerings of quality, comfort, function and value.
“Receiving the 2010 Consumer Guide Automotive Recommended Vehicle designation is a tribute to the ongoing evolution and continued improvement of the Kia brand,” said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing, KMA. “This distinction from such a trusted automotive resource reinforces to consumers our commitment to providing the highest quality vehicles infused with great design, value, safety features, utility and practicality.”
Consumer Guide Automotive editors reviewed and selected the top vehicles across 18 vehicle categories, including Subcompact Car, Compact Car, Premium Compact Car, Midsize Car, Premium Midsize Car, Large Car, Premium Large Car, Sporty/Performance Car, Premium Sporty/Performance Car, Compact SUV, Premium Compact SUV, Midsize SUV, Premium Midsize SUV, Large SUV, Premium Large SUV, Compact Pickup, Large Pickup and Minivan. For more than 40 years Consumer Guide has been empowering buyers to shop with confidence and receives 2.6 million unique visitors each month.
With five trims to choose from, the Rio line is often noted for its small footprint, spacious interior, exciting handling and impressive fuel economy. When paired with the manual transmission, the 1.6-liter four-cylinder produces 27/32 mpg (city/highway), while the same engine, when mated to the automatic, outputs 25/35 mpg. Rio also features a standard EcoMinder(TM) indicator light on all automatic models, which illuminates when the vehicle has reached optimum fuel efficiency, helping drivers drive in the most fuel-efficient manner possible. Rio offers style flexibility for the fun and frugal with full body-color bumpers, a revised tabbed grille that matches the new look of Kia, black bezel headlamps, body-color side moldings and a stylish exposed exhaust outlet all standard features that further add to its sprightly appearance. Hands-free Bluetooth®(1) wireless technology connectivity, automatic cruise control and side mirrors with integrated turn signals are offered on all LX and SX trims, further enhancing its style and overall appeal. The Rio features a starting price of under $12,000(2).
Rondo offers consumers numerous amenities, capable handling and impressive standard convenience and safety features while maintaining a starting price of under $18,000(2). The midsize CUV includes standard seating for seven passengers with three rows of seating, offering the same variety of seating arrangements as a full-size SUV or minivan without the bulk or low fuel economy. In line with advanced styling cues, Rondo now features the addition of standard side-view mirrors with integrated turn signals and a standard EcoMinder(TM) indicator. A back-up camera also is available as part of the Premium Package, which assists drivers in avoiding certain objects behind the vehicle while reversing.
Kia Product Line
Kia Motors is in the midst of a dramatic, design-led transformation, which has been delivering dynamically styled vehicles in several important segments at exactly the right time, contributing to the brand’s continued gains in U.S. market share. The vehicle line features the stylish Forte compact sedan and all-new two-door Forte Koup, the highly personalizable Soul, functional Rondo CUV, award-winning Sedona minivan, purposeful Optima midsize sedan and versatile yet fuel-efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The launch of the all-new 2011 Sorento CUV, the official vehicle of the NBA and the first vehicle to be built at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG)(3), Kia’s first U.S.-based manufacturing facilities in West Point, Georgia, further enhances the lineup.
(1) The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Kia is under license.
(2) Price is manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for base model, excludes destination and handling charges, taxes, title, license, options and dealer charges. Actual prices set by dealer.
(3) KMMG vehicles are built with U.S. and globally sourced parts.
Source: Kia Motors America
Nissan Leaf electric car wins 2010 Green Car Vision Award
Electric Hatchback a Significant Step for Automaker, Green Car Journal Says
The Nissan Leaf battery electric car has been named Green Car Journal’s 2010 Green Car Vision Award(TM) winner at The Washington Auto Show. The innovative Leaf is scheduled to go on sale later this year.
Along with the Leaf, this year’s Green Car Vision Award(TM) nominees included the Coda electric sedan, Ford Focus BEV electric car, Mercedes-Benz F-Cell hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, and Toyota Prius PHV plug-in hybrid. Each of these nominees, in its own way, presents a strong vision for the future of the automobile.
“Nissan’s move to offer a stylish battery electric vehicle as part of its model line is significant,” says Ron Cogan, editor and publisher of the Green Car Journal and editor of GreenCar.com. “This coming electric model will provide the features, the styling, and the driving experience that will meet the needs of a sophisticated and demanding market, while producing zero localized emissions and requiring no petroleum fuels.”
The vehicle’s cost does not exceed that of a comparable internal combustion model and the gas to run it.
“This kind of price parity is crucial to the success of any mass market advanced technology model,” Cogan says.
To be considered for the Green Car Vision Award(TM), vehicles must be in their early stages of commercialization but not yet on sale, in small volume production with more than one functional prototype in existence, or operating as part of a demonstration fleet. A nominee may be an all-new model or an advanced adaptation of an existing model, such as a conversion to another type of power like electric drive.
Source: The Washington Auto Show
Zero to 80 percent in 15 minutes: New benchmark for EV Fast-Charging
THINK, AeroVironment to pursue projects to promote fast-charging infrastructure EnerDel to be exclusive battery supplier for THINK City in the U.S.
Electric vehicle manufacturer THINK announced it will work with AeroVironment, Inc. (AV), a leading developer and supplier of electric vehicle charging infrastructure, to pursue demonstration and commercial projects using AV’s level III fast-charge system and the THINK City electric vehicle. The projects will be designed to jump-start the development of fast-charge infrastructure in the United States.
The announcement came during a 15 minute news conference at the Washington DC Auto Show. The same amount of time it takes to charge a completely depleted THINK City to 80 percent using an advanced fast-charge system, establishing a new benchmark for the rapidly developing electric vehicle industry.
“THINK and AeroVironment are setting a new standard for quick re-charging – zero to 80 percent in just 15 minutes,” said THINK CEO Richard Canny. “This is a major leap forward for electric vehicles. The development and deployment of very-fast-charge stations will speed the electrification of automobiles worldwide.”
“A safe, reliable and accessible charging infrastructure is necessary for broad adoption of electric vehicles such as the THINK City,” said Michael Bissonette, AV senior vice president and general manager of its Efficient Energy Systems business segment. “Our portfolio of true fast-charge systems and commercial and home charge stations will help drivers integrate electric vehicles into their lives.”
THINK also announced EnerDel, an Indiana-based lithium ion battery manufacturer, will be the exclusive battery supplier for THINK City electric vehicles sold in the U.S. through 2012. EnerDel will also supply about 60 percent of the batteries for THINK vehicles sold in Europe.
THINK City, going on sale in the U.S. late this year, will have a top speed of more than 70 miles per hour and a range of more than 100 miles per full charge. THINK City has an onboard AC charger that can be coupled with an economically priced 220-volt THINK home charging station to provide overnight charging. It can also be charged using 110-volt current on a regular household outlet. The fast-charge system will be a supplementary alternative for customers’ added sense of security and for fleets with daily mileage requirements exceeding the car’s range.
Source: THINK
New 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo goes on sale this week
Porsche Icon Boasts 500 Horsepower, Delivers 25 mpg
Porsche Cars North America announced today that the 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo will arrive at its U.S. dealers this week and go on sale on January 30. This is only three months after the debut of the highly acclaimed Panamera, Porsche’s first Gran Turismo and sports car for four.
Porsche traditionally has emphasized efficiency, but the new flagship 911 gives a new meaning to its high-performance label. While its acceleration, braking and handling capabilities make it a true super sports car, it goes about its business with a thriftiness that is equally remarkable and by no means the norm in its class. With 20 more horsepower, and a 13 percent increase in fuel economy, the new 911 Turbo is indeed more powerful and more efficient.
“We are very excited to welcome the all-new 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo into the family,” said Detlev von Platen, president and CEO of Porsche Cars North America. “More than ever, this supercar is a technological tour de force, and the seemingly unanimous accolades from the media support what we already believe; this is the best 911 Turbo ever.”
The 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo features the first entirely new engine in its storied 35-year history. The new flat-six boxer engine now delivers 500 horsepower, 20 more than the previous power plant. Maximum torque is up by 15 to 516 lb. ft. when equipped with the optional Sport Chrono Package Turbo.
All of this means that the new 911 Turbo can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds when combined with the new, highly acclaimed Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) seven-speed dual clutch transmission. Top track speed is 194 mph for both the Coupe and the Cabriolet models and its EPA estimates are a best-in-class 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway for the new Coupe when equipped with the PDK transmission.
“The Porsche 911 Turbo has always represented the pinnacle of the 911 model line since it was first introduced in 1974,” said von Platen. “Now, 35 years later, the Turbo is still considered the standard when looking for the perfect combination of supercar performance with everyday drivability.”
The 2010 Turbo Coupe and Turbo Cabriolet prices are $132,800 and $143,800, respectively.
Source: Porsche Cars North America
Chevrolet at the Washington D.C. Auto Show
Washington D.C. joins California and Michigan as a Chevrolet Volt lead retail market
Simultaneous rollout of Volt in lead retail markets
Chevrolet partners with D.C.-area utilities Dominion and Pepco in development and demonstration program
Chevrolet presents growing family of fuel-efficient small and compact cars with Spark, Aveo RS show car and Cruze
Chevrolet announced that greater Washington D.C. will be an initial launch market for the Chevrolet Volt electric vehicle with extended range. The nation’s capital and its suburbs join California and Michigan as the initial retail markets where Chevrolet will sell the Volt to consumers.
“The Chevrolet Volt demonstrates our commitment to the electrification of the automobile,” said Tom Stephens, GM vice chairman, Global Product Operations. “So far, we have invested more than $700 million in the U.S. to reinforce our leadership in this new technology.”
Chevrolet also announced a development and demonstration program with D.C.-area utilities Pepco and Dominion to introduce customers to electric vehicles and establish vehicle charging programs.
“Concentrating Volt sales in these three key initial markets allows us to give our first customers a high-quality experience,” said Jim Campbell, Chevrolet general manager. “In addition to geographical considerations, each market also has progressive local and state government leaders and utility partners who are crucial in bringing electric vehicles to market.”
Chevrolet will deliver more than 100 Volts to several utilities across the U.S. – including Pepco and Dominion, which serve Washington D.C. and its suburbs – as part of an extended demonstration program. The overall program includes 500 charging stations that will be installed for residential, business and public use. They will be used to learn more about the installation process, vehicle charging and to gauge customer feedback.
The program is made possible with a grant of more than $30 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds from the Transportation Electrification Initiative administered by the U.S. Department of Energy. Chevrolet has announced similar partnerships with several utilities in California and Michigan, as well as the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI).
The Chevrolet Volt is an electric vehicle with extended-range capability. It is designed to drive up to 40 miles on electricity without using gasoline or producing tailpipe emissions. When the Volt’s lithium-ion battery is depleted, an engine/generator seamlessly operates to extend the driving range if there is no access to an electrical outlet to recharge the battery, providing peace of mind by eliminating range anxiety. Volt production begins later this year, and pricing has not been announced.
Testing in real conditions
The Chevrolet Volt has already logged more than a quarter-million test miles on pre-production vehicles, some of which are in service 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Accomplishments include:
– Chevrolet is using OnStar technology to refine the development of the current fleet of about 80 pre-production vehicles
– Testing under extreme climates and conditions, including hot-weather testing in Death Valley, cold-weather testing in northern Canada; and mountain testing at Pikes Peak
– The building of more than 300 pre-production battery packs
Technology beyond the battery
Chevrolet is expanding the Volt ownership experience with a smartphone (Droid by Motorola, Apple iPhone and BlackBerry Storm) application by OnStar that gives Volt owners 24/7 connection and control of vehicle function and OnStar features remotely.
Through Volt’s mobile application, drivers can set or check charging, manually set grid-friendly charge modes for off-peak times, pre-condition the interior temperature using electricity and not gasoline, check EV range and more.
Other driver-friendly technologies include touch-sensitive controls on the center stack and screen; a fully digital interface that allows two-way interaction, personalization and access to information; and real-time feedback that provides guidance on how to drive more efficiently.
Chevrolet grows its family of small and compact cars
Chevrolet presents its family of fuel-efficient small cars at the auto show – including the Spark five-door mini car, Aveo RS show car and Cruze compact sedan. Revealed earlier this month in Detroit, the Aveo RS show car features a European-inspired hot hatch design that strongly hints at the upcoming Aveo production car.
Here’s a deeper look at the cars:
Chevrolet Spark: The five-door Chevrolet Spark, the smallest member of Chevrolet’s family of cars, brings style, roominess and versatility to a segment of extremely fuel-efficient small cars. Spark will provide great fuel economy, and its trim size makes it very agile in all kinds of driving conditions while still feeling substantial on the open road. The U.S. production version of the Spark will go on sale in early 2012.
“This small vehicle makes a big statement,” said Margaret Brooks, Chevrolet marketing director for small cars. “With its fresh, youthful approach, we believe Spark will appeal to customers who want excellent fuel economy, functionality and style at an affordable price.”
More details on the U.S. version of the Spark will be announced at a later date.
Chevrolet Aveo RS show car: The Aveo RS show car provides a glimpse of what designers have in mind for the future production car. Its electric Boracay Blue finish, motorcycle-inspired exposed headlamps and taillamps, low roofline, fender flares, large wheels and tires, and dual-cockpit interior hint at the next-generation Aveo.”The current Aveo is a major player in Chevrolet’s global small-car portfolio,” said Campbell. “Our intent with the Aveo RS show car is to demonstrate Chevrolet’s vision and design potential for a small car we think customers will love.”Focusing on Aveo’s target audience of young buyers, Chevrolet gave the show car a sporty appearance inside and out. An aggressive front fascia; clean, uninterrupted body side lines; an integrated rear roof spoiler; wide stance; and large, 19-inch, five-spoke wheels with a gun metal metallic Chevrolet logo and Boracay Blue brake calipers suggest upscale style and dynamic handling.The Boracay Blue continues inside, with accent stitching in the instrument panel dual cockpit, front and rear door panels, gear shift boot, parking brake and seat bolster.The Aveo RS show car features the same small-displacement 1.4L Ecotec turbocharged engine that will be available in the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. Delivering 138 horsepower (103 kW), it performs like two powerplants in one, with the fuel economy of a small engine and the performance of a larger one. In the Aveo RS show car, the 1.4L turbo is mated to a six-speed manual transmission.
Chevrolet has previously announced the new Aveo will be built at Orion Assembly in Orion Township, Mich., in 2011, a move that will restore 1,200 jobs to Southeast Michigan. Plant retooling is scheduled to begin later this year.
Chevrolet Cruze: The North American production version of the 2011 Cruze compact sedan makes its first visit to Washington show-goers. Already on sale in Asia and Europe with strong market acceptance, the Cruze has been refined for America, bringing a midsize car presence to the compact sedan segment.
Cruze will deliver many segment-leading features, more interior room and more cargo capacity than the competition, as well as upscale amenities such as Bluetooth, USB and navigation. It offers midsize roominess, safety and amenities with the fuel economy and expected price of a compact car. Cruze features 10 standard air bags and has achieved five-star safety ratings in every market where it is sold.Cruze is expected to deliver segment-leading fuel economy with a new Ecotec 1.4L I-4 turbo with variable valve timing – including up to 40 mpg on the highway with a high-efficiency model. The all-new Cruze will be built in Lordstown, Ohio beginning in the third quarter.
Source: General Motors