Inside the Industry

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.

Mazda introduces refreshed Mazda3 with new technologies

(February 19, 2011) TORONTO — The sky’s the limit at Mazda's display at the 2011 Canadian International AutoShow.  Making its debut is the 2012 Mazda3, which, in addition to receiving a facelift, will also offer the option of Mazda’s new SkyActiv-G gasoline engine and SkyActiv-Drive automatic transmission when it is launched later this fall.

Jeep Grand Cherokee named Official Winter Vehicle of New England

(February 19, 2011) The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee has been named the Official Winter Vehicle of New England by the New England Motor Press Association (NEMPA), adding to its growing list of prestigious awards.

Ford signs agreement with Sollers to build, sell cars in Russia

(February 18, 2011) MOSCOW — Ford and Sollers OJSC today signed a Memorandum of Understanding under which the parties intend to launch a new 50-50-owned joint venture called Ford Sollers for the production and distribution of Ford vehicles in Russia.

Hyundai reveals the i40 — a European Sonata wagon

(February 18, 2011) Hyundai has revealed the first pictures of the new i40, ahead of its world premiere at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show on March 1.

The i40 will be built strictly for the European market and shows what a mid-sized Sonata wagon might look like if it came to North America. It is built on the same platform as the North American Sonata.

New Nissan city car will get 69 mpg

(February 18, 2011) Nissan's focus on reducing emissions is not just restricted to creating electric vehicles such as the award-winning Nissan LEAF. The company is now introducing a new gas engine which produces just 95g/km of CO2 and is capable of almost 69 miles to a gallon making it one of the most efficient in the world.

Jaguar Land Rover gets 6,500 applications for 280 positions

(February 18, 2011) Jaguar Land Rover has received more than 6,500 applications for 280 graduate recruitment places this year as it embarks on a recruitment drive to support a multi-billion dollar investment plan for new product creation.

Applications are 68 per cent higher than in 2010 and have more than tripled in two years. For 2011, the 280 graduates will be hired for a variety of roles across the business — from Product Development Engineering, Manufacturing, Finance, Human Resources, Marketing, IT and Purchasing.

Chrysler showcases new tagline on headquarters tower

(February 18, 2011) AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — “Imported from Detroit,” the Chrysler brand’s new tagline, and the 2011 Chrysler 200 continue to make a larger-than-life entrance into the mid-size market.

Both the tagline and the vehicle made their debut in a first-ever, two-minute advertising spot on Super Bowl Sunday.

GM introducing MyLink to compete with Ford's Sync system

(February 18, 2011) NEW YORK — Consumers who seek a higher level of in-vehicle wireless connectivity and customized infotainment options, plus the unmatched safety and security of OnStar need look no further than the 2012 Chevy Volt and Equinox.