Inside the Industry

Toyota offers special value package on RAV4 base models

(September 7, 2010) TORRANCE, Calif. — The Toyota RAV4, already a leader in the crossover SUV segment it launched nearly 15 years ago, offers even greater value for 2011. The new Upgrade Value Package for the base models adds popular options at a special value price.

All-new Dodge Durango makes first appearance at marathon

(September 6, 2010) VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — The all-new 2011 Dodge Durango was the "pace car" for the "Dodge Rock ‘n’ Roll Virginia Beach Half Marathon presented by SunTrust” on Sunday.

Thousands of runners in Virginia Beach took part in the event.

‘Thinking’ car key predicts driver actions

(September 5, 2010) When Dave Proefke gets locked out of his car, it's called "research."

Proefke, a General Motors Technical Fellow, leads a team that has developed an advanced wireless car key that automatically knows when to lock and unlock the doors on the 2011 Buick LaCrosse and selected other General Motors models.

Taking the heat — Ford Focus passes hot weather test

(September 5, 2010) The next generation Ford Focus has been tested in some of the most extreme locations on the planet. It's been thrashed over frozen lakes, hammered across the hottest deserts and driven overloaded up and down high Alpine passes to ensure impeccable reliability and dependability wherever it is sold.

Tim Allen of 'Home Improvement' to be new voice of Chevy

(September 4, 2010) DETROIT – Television and movie star Tim Allen will be the voice of Chevrolet, beginning with the TV advertising for the all-new 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. The first ads for the Cruze will air Tuesday, Sept. 7, Chevrolet announced on Friday.  

“Tim Allen brings the right combination of a recognizable voice with the credibility, likeability and humor that will connect with viewers,” said Joel Ewanick, vice president, U.S. marketing, General Motors.  “His passion for all things cars makes him the perfect match for the Chevrolet brand.”

Cruze hatchback coming to Europe; U.S. out

(September 3, 2010) The story of the Chevrolet Cruze goes from strong to stronger with the latest chapter heralding the launch of a new 5-door hatchback model, further evidence of Chevrolet's commitment to bring value for money in every segment in which it competes.

Audi headed toward its best year ever in the U.S.

(September 3, 2010) HERNDON, Va. — Audi bucked the August trend recording its best August ever in the U.S. while most automakers saw sales slump compared to last year's "Cash for Clunkers"-stimulated August.

The German automaker maintained its 2010 momentum with record sales surpassing the prior August record set in 2003 by more than 900 vehicles.

2011 Ford F-150 Raptor gets SuperCrew option

(September 3, 2010) DEARBORN, Mich. — A new standard 6.2-liter V8 engine pumping out 411 horsepower, new technologies and a newly available SuperCrew option that gives Raptor customers more choices in cab size all ensure the 2011 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor will remain the off-road performance truck champion in the new model year.

Ford using innovative liquid-cooled battery system

(September 2, 2010) DEARBORN, Mich. — The all-new Ford Focus Electric, which debuts in the U.S. late next year and in Europe in 2012, will be powered by an advanced lithium-ion battery that utilizes heated and cooled liquid to help maximize battery life and gas-free driving range.

Ford reports strong sales growth in India, China

(September 2, 2010) SHANGHAI / NEW DELHI — Strong demand for Ford products in China and India led to a 37 percent increase in August sales compared to a year ago in the world’s fastest growing automotive markets.

Ford India tripled sales in August with 7,925 vehicles sold, a 220 percent increase compared to August 2009.