Inside the Industry

Delphi creates sound for hybrid and electric vehicles

(February 22, 2011) PARIS — With two new vehicle sound generators, Delphi Automotive says it can help global vehicle manufacturers warn pedestrians of approaching hybrid and electric vehicles.  Designed to comply with worldwide legislation expected to mandate minimum sound levels for both hybrid and electric vehicles, these environmentally friendly sounders are not only robust, but compact, light weight and low cost. 

Ford to put Fiesta into India market this year

(February 22, 2011) NEW DELHI, India — Ford is starting a new push in India with the introduction of the Fiesta, which is sold is the world's major auto markets.

The Fiesta introduction marks the first in a series of eight new global products that Ford plans to introduce in India by the middle of this decade.

BMW unveils 'i' sub-brand; two cars, including a pure electric vehicle, are planned

(February 21, 2011) MUNICH — The new BMW sub-brand focused on developing sustainable mobility solutions has been launched.

BMW will launch its planned megacity vehicle under the new sub-brand "i" and it is setting up a venture-capital business for up to $100 million to ramp up mobility services such as car sharing or smart navigation systems, the German luxury-car maker said Monday.

AC Cars to show latest high-horsepower sports car in Geneva

(February 21, 2011) AC Cars, one of the oldest and most prestigious world heritage automotive brands, which celebrates its 110th birthday next month during the Geneva Show, is returning to world’s most important world show with its latest model, the 2011 AC MkVI.

Lexus adds drums to the CT 200h 'Quiet Revolution' on British television

(Februry 21, 2011) A Quiet Revolution begins this week on British television as Lexus initiates a memorable and star-studded campaign for the CT 200h, the world’s first full hybrid luxury compact car. And how better to spread the news than to ask pop icon Kylie Minogue, supported by one of the most diverse and talented groups of drummers the world has seen or heard?

Ford Fiesta first car in its segment to earn top world crash test ratings

(February 21, 2011) DEARBORN, Mich. — The Ford Fiesta is now the first car in its segment to earn top crash test ratings in each of the world’s largest auto markets that perform safety testing, the U.S., China and Europe.

“Ford is committed to safety, including our efforts to deliver top crash test ratings that customers look to when choosing new vehicles,” said Sue Cischke, group vice president of Sustainability, Environment and Safety.

Audi to introduce high-security highly armored A8

(February 20, 2011) Audi is introducing a new, exclusive model — the A8 L Security — that is bullet resistant and capable of withstanding an attack by military hand grenade.

The long-wheelbase high-security version of the A8 meets the strictest guidelines in force for civilian vehicles, with a host of special security features available in addition to its heavy armoring. At sales launch Audi will offer the W12 engine, with another unit to follow in 2012. Both engines combine superior power with high efficiency.

Land Rover to show new diesel hybrid in Geneva

(February 20, 2011) Land Rover will showcase its hybrid technology and show off the Range Rover Evoque in both coupe and five-door formats at the Geneva Motor Show on March 1.

Making its auto show debut is the 'Range_e' — Land Rover's diesel hybrid plug-in prototype. The technology-packed 'Range_e' is one of several working prototypes currently being developed at Land Rover's design and engineering center in the UK.

Australia Holden introduces face-lifted Captiva SUVs

(February 20, 2011) The introduction of new-look Series II Captiva 5 and Captiva 7 models in Australia have given Holden’s strong-selling SUV range even more widespread appeal.

High-performing new generation gas and diesel engines matched to smooth six-speed transmissions and exceptionally competitive pricing are the big Captiva stories.

Rolls-Royce confirms electric test vehicle project

(February 20, 2011) Rolls-Royce Motor Cars today confirmed the development of 102EX, a one-off, fully electric powered Phantom, to debut at the Geneva Motor Show on March 1. The car will tour during 2011, serving as a test bed to gather a bank of research data which will be crucial in informing future decisions on alternative drive-trains for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.