Inside the Industry

GMC uses noise-canceling technology to help improve gas mileage of Terrain

(February 22, 2011) DETROIT — The technology that makes high-end noise-canceling headphones coveted by frequent flyers and iPod audiophiles is helping GMC Terrain owners save gas.

Active noise cancellation does double duty on Terrain. The technology enables the crossover to deliver a segment-leading EPA-rated 32 mpg in highway driving while ensconcing the driver in one of the quietest interiors in its segment.

Jaguar Land Rover exploring partnership with Chinese automaker

(February 22, 2011) Jaguar Land Rover is in talks with top Chinese SUV maker Great Wall Motor Co. about a potential China partnership, two executives told Reuters News on Monday.

JLR, a unit of India's Tata Motors Ltd., is among a very few top-line global brands that do not have manufacturing arrangements in China, where rivals BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz and others already have racked up stellar sales.

Jeep reaches social media milestone on Facebook

(February 22, 2011) AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — This is the era of Facebook and the social media and Jeep claims some bragging rights as the most popular nameplate on Facebook.

Jeep officials announced last week that the Jeep brand reached an "unprecedented domestic automotive milestone" as fans on the brand’s Facebook page reached and surpassed the 1 million mark.

Toyota says it's first manufacturer to sell 3 million certified used vehicles

(February 22, 2011) Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. has announced that it is the first single line manufacturer to sell 3 million certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles within program history.  Toyota marked the event by giving away a 2008 Sienna to the 3 millionth CPO buyer.

Delphi creates sound for hybrid and electric vehicles

(February 22, 2011) PARIS — With two new vehicle sound generators, Delphi Automotive says it can help global vehicle manufacturers warn pedestrians of approaching hybrid and electric vehicles.  Designed to comply with worldwide legislation expected to mandate minimum sound levels for both hybrid and electric vehicles, these environmentally friendly sounders are not only robust, but compact, light weight and low cost. 

Ford to put Fiesta into India market this year

(February 22, 2011) NEW DELHI, India — Ford is starting a new push in India with the introduction of the Fiesta, which is sold is the world's major auto markets.

The Fiesta introduction marks the first in a series of eight new global products that Ford plans to introduce in India by the middle of this decade.

BMW unveils 'i' sub-brand; two cars, including a pure electric vehicle, are planned

(February 21, 2011) MUNICH — The new BMW sub-brand focused on developing sustainable mobility solutions has been launched.

BMW will launch its planned megacity vehicle under the new sub-brand "i" and it is setting up a venture-capital business for up to $100 million to ramp up mobility services such as car sharing or smart navigation systems, the German luxury-car maker said Monday.

AC Cars to show latest high-horsepower sports car in Geneva

(February 21, 2011) AC Cars, one of the oldest and most prestigious world heritage automotive brands, which celebrates its 110th birthday next month during the Geneva Show, is returning to world’s most important world show with its latest model, the 2011 AC MkVI.

Lexus adds drums to the CT 200h 'Quiet Revolution' on British television

(Februry 21, 2011) A Quiet Revolution begins this week on British television as Lexus initiates a memorable and star-studded campaign for the CT 200h, the world’s first full hybrid luxury compact car. And how better to spread the news than to ask pop icon Kylie Minogue, supported by one of the most diverse and talented groups of drummers the world has seen or heard?

Ford Fiesta first car in its segment to earn top world crash test ratings

(February 21, 2011) DEARBORN, Mich. — The Ford Fiesta is now the first car in its segment to earn top crash test ratings in each of the world’s largest auto markets that perform safety testing, the U.S., China and Europe.

“Ford is committed to safety, including our efforts to deliver top crash test ratings that customers look to when choosing new vehicles,” said Sue Cischke, group vice president of Sustainability, Environment and Safety.