Inside the Industry

Ford continues record growth in China, sales up 32 percent in 2009

(October 14, 2010) Ford Motor Company continued its record growth in China in the third quarter, with sales of its joint-ventures and wholly-owned entities increasing 79 percent over the same period last year, to 119,338 units. Through the first nine months of the year, its sales rose 32 percent to 316,639 units.

General Motors to invest $230 million in four Michigan plants

(October 14, 2009) DETROIT — Good news for Michigan workers. General Motors said on Tuesday that it will invest more than $230 million in four plants around Flint, Mich., to help build the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze compact and the Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid sedan.

The move will restore about 500 jobs, GM said in a statement.

Ford posts best September share in European market since 2001

(October 12, 2009) Ford achieved a 10.1 per cent market share in September 2009 in its 19 European main markets — the best share for any month since September 2001 and a 0.8 percentage point increase on the same month 2008.

A total of 51,400 new Ford Fiestas were registered in Europe last month — the best September for Fiesta since 1994.

Honda Element goes to the dogs for 2010

(October 10, 2009) TORRANCE, Calif.  — The Honda Element lineup expands for the 2010 model year with an all-new "Dog Friendly" pet accommodation system designed to improve safety, comfort and convenience for dogs and their owners alike, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today. The 2010 Honda Element arrives at dealerships nationwide by mid-October. The Dog Friendly Element is set to become available on Nov. 16.

General Motors completes deal with Chinese company for Hummer brand

(October 9, 2009) General Motors has completed a deal to sell the Hummer SUV brand to China's Sichuan Tengzhong Heavy Industrial Machinery Co.

The companies did not disclose financial terms in announcing the deal today. News reports said Thursday that Sichuan Tengzhong would pay $150 million for the U.S. brand.

Tengzhong is purchasing Hummer through an investment entity, in which it will hold an 80 percent stake. Entrepreneur Suolang Duoji, whose holdings include Chinese chemical maker Lumena, will control the other 20 percent.

Infiniti to get first hybrid, a 2012 M35, on sale during spring 2011

(October 9, 2009) Infiniti has confirmed that its first production hybrid vehicle will be part of the recently announced line of 2011 Infiniti M luxury performance sedans, which are scheduled to go on sale in spring 2010 at Infiniti dealers nationwide. The Infiniti M35 hybrid is expected to arrive about 12 months later as a 2012 model. It is Infiniti’s first hybrid in its 20-year existence, as well as the cleanest and most economical car in Infiniti’s history.

Post-clunkers consumers more willing to put off new-car purchase

(October 9, 2009) IRVINE, Calif. —  According to the latest Kelley Blue Book  Market Intelligence Study, since the end of the CARS 2009 program (commonly referred to as ‘Cash for Clunkers’), in-market car shoppers have indicated they are once again delaying the purchase of a new vehicle.  However, the price consumers are considering paying for a new car has significantly increased in the month since the CARS 2009 program ended.

Government begins investigation into 2000-2001 Toyota Tundra frame corrosion

(October 7, 2009) The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on Tuesday said it is conducting a preliminary investigation into frame corrosion on 2000 and 2001 model year oyota Tundra pickups. An estimated 218,000 units are involved, the Automotive News reported today.

The probe comes a week after Toyota announced its largest U.S. recall in company history.

The new "terminal" look of Audi in the United States

(October 7, 2009) Audi today announced the completion and grand opening of the Audi Jacksonville store in Jacksonville, Fla., the first new "terminal design" dealership in the U.S.

Flagship Lexus LS 460 gets some enhancements for 2010 model year

(October 7, 2010) The Lexus flagship sedan, the LS 460, gets some refreshening for the 2010 model year, according to Lexus, which introduced the car on Tuesday.

A new exterior design includes revised front fascia, headlamps and taillamps; a new optional sport package will be offered combining sport-tuned air suspension, Brembo bakes, 19-inch forged wheels with aero body design elements and exclusive interior features; and new audio and telematics technology have been added.