Inside the Industry

Guinness World Record: Scorimg a hole in one with a SLS AMG Roadster

(June 24, 2012) The absolute skill of Formula 1 legend and DTM driver David Coulthard, behind the wheel of the 571-horsepower SLS AMG Roadster, provided the ultimate "did that really happen?" moment for Mercedes-Benz United Kingdom.

Chrysler's teaching academy realizes over $1 million in savings

(June 23, 2012) PLYMOUTH, Mich. — Chrysler Group’s new World Class Manufacturing (WCM) Academy has only been open for about six months and already it has generated over $1 million in savings, according to Mauro Pino, the Company’s Head of World Class Manufacturing, speaking at a manufacturing conference in Plymouth this week.

Tesla Model S relies on aluminum to maximize electric vehicle's range

(June 23, 2012) DETROIT — As Tesla launched its new Model S sedan this week, the Aluminum Association's Aluminum Transportation Group (ATG) applauded its intensive use of aluminum to help the all-electric vehicle save weight, allowing it to go farther while producing zero emissions and offering rapid acceleration and nimble performance.

GM to recall 413,418 Chevy Cruzes to modify engine shield

(June 22, 2012) DETROIT — General Motors will recall 413,418 Chevrolet Cruzes in the United States for the 2011 and 2012 model years to modify the engine shield under the vehicle. This change will help prevent any liquids from being trapped in the engine compartment, where a fire could start and spread.

Government opens investigation into Ford Explorer, Chrysler 200 defects

(June 22, 2012) The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said it is opening investigations into 170,000 2011 Ford Explorer and Chrysler 200 vehicles over complaints of steering problems and engine stalling.

NHTSA said it was opening two preliminary investigations.

30 more horsepower for the 911 Carrera S with enhancements

(June 22, 2012) ATLANTA — Porsche Exclusive has announced a new power enhancement kit developed for the 2013 911 Carrera S. Focusing specifically on the dynamic properties of the new, seventh-generation sports car, the new Powerkit boosts the power of the 3.8-liter boxer engine from 400 horsepower to 430 horsepower.

New optional V-6 takes 2013 GMC Terrain from 0 to 60 in 6.7 seconds

(June 22, 2012) DETROIT — When the 2013 GMC Terrain goes on sale later this year, its optional 3.6-liter V-6 will make it the quickest, most powerful iteration yet of GMC’s small SUV. After final testing, engineers confirm the new engine delivers 0-60 mph acceleration in 6.7 seconds.

Londoners get free taxi rides in the Nissan Leaf

(June 21, 2012) LONDON — Professional taxi drivers will be swapping their current cars for Nissan Leaf electric cars this weekend. A fleet of zero-emission Nissan Leafs will be driving around London on June 23 and 24, offering free taxi rides.

To grab a ride, all a prospective passenger has to do is send a Tweet that incorporates the hashtag ‘#6XCHEAPER’ and their chosen destination. Nissan is also using the activity to gather consumer feedback on a potential taxi of the future.

2013 Chevrolet Malibu prices announced

(June 21, 2012) DETROIT — When the all-new 2013 Chevrolet Malibu midsize sedan goes on sale this summer with an all-new 2.5-liter Ecotec engine and 10 standard air bags, it will carry a suggested retail price of $23,150, including a $760 destination charge.

Aston Martin reveals new Vanquish

(June 21, 2012) Aston Martin this week unveiled a stunning new luxury sports car — the Vanquish. Sitting at the top of the luxury British car maker’s sports car line-up, this breath-taking new super grand tourer represents the zenith of current Aston Martin design and engineering.