March 2011

Toyota may lose production of 500,000 vehicles

(March 31, 2011) Post-earthquake troubles continue to mount for Toyota.

An analyst at Advanced Research in Japan said that Toyota may delay the production of at least 500,000 vehicles because of a shortage of parts and electricity after the nation's record earthquake.

Chevrolet introduces Mi-ray concept in Seoul

(March 31, 2011) SEOUL — Chevrolet introduced the 'mid-electric' hybrid Mi-ray concept today at the 2011 Seoul Motor Show. The roadster celebrates Chevrolet’s 100-year heritage of designing expressive vehicles in the brand’s newest market.

According to GM Korea President and CEO Mike Arcamone, “‘Mi-ray’ is Korean for ‘future.’

Subaru wins advertising award with 'Love' campaign

(March 31, 2011) CHERRY HILL, N.J  (PRNewswire) — Subaru of America, Inc. was honored with the Silver Award at the 2011 Advertising Research Foundation (ARF) David Ogilvy Awards for Excellence in Advertising. The awards, named after advertising legend David Ogilvy, are given to companies that produce research-driven, successful ad campaigns.

Ford hybrids offer best bang for the buck according to Edmunds

(March 31, 2011) DEARBORN, Mich. — With gas prices on the rise, the interest around fuel efficiency and hybrid vehicle options is top of mind for potential car buyers. But are all hybrids created equal?

Recent industry studies show that certain hybrid models provide car buyers with much more bang for their buck, and the Ford Fusion Hybrid and Ford Escape Hybrid are at the top of those lists, demonstrating the best return on investment compared to competitors.

Hyundai unveils hydrogen-powered sedan concept in Seoul

(March 31, 2011) SEOUL, S. Korea — Hyundai unveiled its latest eco-friendly creation at the Seoul Motor Show today, the Blue2 (Read as “Blue square”) concept vehicle, the company’s first sedan-style Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle powered by hydrogen.

The automaker also introduced its first gasoline-hybrid vehicle, the Sonata Hybrid, to its home market. Hyundai applied its new brand direction, “New Thinking. New Possibilities.” throughout its exhibition.

Pinnacle Engines introduces ultra-efficient combustion engine

(March 31, 2011) SAN CARLOS, Calif. (PRNewswire) — Pinnacle Engines today unveiled plans to commercialize a breakthrough ultra-efficient engine by 2013.

The new engine design enables significant reductions in fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions without increasing vehicle cost. Pinnacle also announced it has raised $13.5 million in venture funding from NEA, Bessemer Venture Partners and Infield Capital.

New Chevrolet Malibu to be revealed April 18

(March 31, 2011) The all-new Chevrolet Malibu will transcend time zones and embrace the diversity of cultures around the world when Chevrolet simultaneously unveils it live at the Shanghai Auto Show and on Chevrolet’s Facebook page.

GM to invest more than $30 million in Pontiac Stamping Plant

(March 30, 2011) PONTIAC, Mich. — General Motors today announced more than $30 million of investment in its Pontiac Stamping Plant earmarked for tooling and equipment to enhance the plant’s manufacturing capabilities.

“GM continues to invest in our manufacturing operations to ensure we have the technology and equipment we need to build whatever our vehicle designers develop,” said Gerald Johnson, GM manufacturing manager.

Hyundai dropping job-loss protection, cites improving economy

(March 30, 2011) Hyundai will stop offering the original job-loss-protection portion of its Hyundai Assurance program at the end of the month, pointing to waning participation as a sign that the economy is improving.

April is the time to give your car some TLC

(March 30, 2011) BETHESDA, Md. (PRNewswire-USNewswire) — National Car Care Month in April is the time of year to give your car some extra attention. Basic maintenance can go a long way toward improving the safety and dependability of your vehicle, plus it helps avoid costly repairs down the road.