News archive

September 2017

BMW integrating Amazon's Alexa into all models during 2018

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(September 28, 2017) The BMW Group is systematically expanding the intelligent connectivity capabilities of its vehicles by seamlessly integrating the highly versatile Alexa, Amazon’s voice-controlled personal assistant, into all BMW and MINI models from mid-2018. The innovative inclusion of a cloud-based voice service will enable BMW Group customers to access a variety of services, entertainment features and shopping facilities while on the move by simple voice interaction.

Tens of thousands of Alexa skills that can be accessed from Echo devices will now be available for in-car use, too.

Toyota to bring first hybrid production to U.S.

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(September 27, 2017) PLANO, Texas — Toyota just upped the stakes to remain the top manufacturer of hybrid vehicles worldwide with a $373.8 million investment in five U.S. manufacturing plants that will support production of its first American-made hybrid powertrain and to implement Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA) at its Alabama plant. Each of the projects is scheduled to begin this year and all should be operational by 2020.

Curator at Evergreen Collection to bring six classics to Atlanta Concours

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(September 26, 2017) ATLANTA, Ga. — As a graduate of McPherson College, the only school to provide a bachelor’s degree in Restoration Technology, Michael Rhodes has built his career well beyond an automotive restoration shop — he is the youngest curator of perhaps the largest Historic Classic Car Collection in the world. 

Life passes by this MG Midget

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The MG Midget two-seat sports car was built from 1961 to 1979. This third-generation circa 1972-74 model was found living by the side of a road in eastern North Carolina. It is powered by a 55 horsepower 4-cylinder engine making 67 pound-feet of torque. The third of four generations went from 1966 through 1974. (Photo by Jim Meachen)

2018 Lexus LS 500 — Flying first class with a V-6

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By Jim Prueter
MotorwayAmerica.com

(September 26, 2017) SAN FRANCISCO — Luxury carmakers always have one flagship vehicle. Most often it is their biggest sedan, the one they want as their lead vehicle, one that radiates the essence of excellence, along with all the substance and presence of a dreadnought-class luxury sedan. For Lexus, that vehicle is the LS sedan, originally launched 28 years ago to compete with cars like the Mercedes-Benz S Class, BMW 7 Series and Audi A8 sedans.

Cadillac embarks on its first-ever hands-free drive with Super Cruise

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(September 26, 2017) NEW YORK — Cadillac has embarked on the first official hands-free drive on freeways from one side of the country to the other, using the industry-leading Super Cruise technology. A select group of key stakeholders and media will put the power of Super Cruise technology to the test in 12 Super Cruise-equipped Cadillac CT6 vehicles, which departed this morning from Cadillac House in New York City and will travel to Los Angeles.

High performance from new 2018 Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid

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(September 26, 2018) ATLANTA — Porsche is expanding its hybrid range by adding a powerful plug-in hybrid to the Panamera Sport Turismo model line. Combining the 4.0-liter V8 engine from the Panamera Turbo Sport Turismo with an electric motor, the 2018 Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Sport Turismo delivers a total output of 680 horsepower and 626 lb.-ft. of torque, making it one of the most powerful production vehicles Porsche has ever made.

Hyundai marks the 3-millionth Elantra sold in America; local hero honored

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(September 26, 2017) BAYTOWN, Texas — Hyundai marked its 3-millionth Elantra sold in the United States Monday by commemorating the achievement of one brave individual in Baytown, Texas, a city near Houston severely impacted by flooding caused by Hurricane Harvey.

Henry Rogers, paramedic field supervisor for Acadian Ambulance, was on the front lines facing the destructive force of Hurricane Harvey by helping, and saving lives of, the most vulnerable for more than 48 hours despite leaving his family and home alone during the storm.