February 2013

GM calendar-year net income $4.9 billion; down from 2011

(February 15, 2013) DETROIT — General Motors has announced 2012 calendar-year net income attributable to common stockholders of $4.9 billion, or $2.92 per fully diluted share, down from $7.6 billion, or $4.58 per fully diluted share in 2011, due primarily to unfavorable special items.

Chrysler recalling pickups over fastener problem

(February 15, 2013) Chrysler said on Thursday it was recalling 370,297 pickup trucks and SUVs globally because a loose fastener could cause the rear axle to lock up and make a driver lose control. The recall, which expands on another recall announced last fall, affects 278,222 vehicles in the United States, 63,321 in Canada, 23,767 in Mexico and 4,987 in the rest of the world, Chrysler said.

Harley-Davidson's 2012 charitable contributions top $4.5 million

(February 15, 2013) MILWAUKEE — Harley-Davidson's charitable giving topped $4.5 million in 2012, highlighted by a $200,000 grant to Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity for its Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative focused on the Washington Park area. The grant will help fund neighborhood improvements through an expanded array of housing projects.

Ram to offer industry’s only light-duty diesel pickup

(February 15, 2013) AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Beginning in the third-quarter this year, Ram will become the only brand to offer a small-displacement diesel for its half-ton line of trucks.

The 2014 Ram 1500 will offer a new, 3.0-liter EcoDiesel engine, mated with the eight-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission. The powertrain is expected to deliver an outstanding combination of best-in-class fuel efficiency, best-in-class torque and impressive capability.

Mexican taxi drivers blaze path for zero emissions future

(February 14, 2012) MEXICO CITY — About 70 taxi drivers in México have been driving fully electric Nissan Leafs for more than a year now as part of a pilot program launched in 2011. The objective is to showcase the car's technology while building experience and evidence of the Nissan Leaf potential under various driving conditions in México.

Chevrolet Sonic, Spark first to get Siri eyes free integration

(February 14, 2013) DETROIT — Starting today the 2013 Chevrolet Sonic and Spark vehicles with Chevrolet MyLink will be available with Siri, an intelligent assistant that helps get things done just by asking.

"The Chevy Sonic and Spark are the first vehicles to offer Siri Eyes Free integration," said Cristi Landy, Chevrolet marketing director for small cars. “Safe, easy, reliable and portable connectivity is a top priority for our customers, and Siri complements MyLink's existing capabilities to help deliver an incredible driving experience."

550,000 Pontiac G6 cars probed for brake light problem

(February 14, 2013) The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating an estimated 550,000 Pontiac G6 cars because the brake lights may malfunction, raising the chances of an accident. The government agency said it had received 212 consumer complaints alleging the brake lights do not operate properly on model-year 2005 through 2009 G6s, echoing similar complaints that led to a recall several years ago.

Jaguar Performance Driving Academy returns to five locations

(February 14, 2013) MAHWAH, N.J. — Jaguar North America has announced the 2013 season for its Performance Driving Academy. Known for its significant one-on-one time with professional drivers and substantial on-track time, the Jaguar Performance Driving Academy will once again offer its Basic and Advanced Course to recent Jaguar owners and racing enthusiasts.

Beetle Convertible to join Volkswagen R-Line group

(February 14, 2013) Volkswagen has announced that it will offer the R-Line trim on another model for the U.S. market. Joining the CC R-Line, Beetle R-Line coupe, and the recently introduced Tiguan R-Line and Touareg R-Line, the Beetle Convertible R-Line will be added to the Volkswagen line-up for model year 2014.

Cadillac ELR undergoes winter chassis testing

(February 14, 2013) DETROIT— Fresh off its award-winning world debut at the North American International Auto Show, the Cadillac ELR is undergoing the real-world extreme testing required to  take the extended-range electric luxury coupe from auto show stage to Cadillac showrooms in early 2014.