June 2012

What happens to hybrid and EV car batteries?

(June 19, 2012) SANTA MONICA, Calif. — As the hybrid and electric vehicle markets continue to grow in the U.S., so too grows the number of batteries in these vehicles that eventually will need to be recycled.

And while the heaviest volumes of discarded batteries are still years away from hitting recycling plants, the first set of aged and failed batteries from hybrids built over a decade ago are giving the automotive and recycling industries an opportunity to prepare for the coming storm, reports Edmunds.com.

Ford Silicon Valley lab now officially open for business in Palo Alto

(June 18, 2012) MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. — The Ford Silicon Valley Lab (SVL) is now officially open for business, ready to engage the tech community in the quest for the next great idea.
 
Ford Executive Chairman Bill Ford today comes to the spiritual home of the computer and consumer electronics industry to celebrate the grand opening of the Ford Silicon Valley Lab and to participate in the Computer History Museum’s “Revolutionaries” lecture series.

Subaru owners, fans asked to participate in guidebook

(June 18, 2012) CHERRY HILL, N.J. — Subaru of America has announced the launch of its social guidebook, "Subaru Guide to Everything."  The "Subaru Guide to Everything" will serve as a place where owners can share their favorite sites and activities with the world.  Owners and Subaru fans can add and browse their favorite hikes, campgrounds, dog parks, sites, bike trails and restaurants.

Hyundai Elantra Coupe to start at $17,445

(June 18, 2012) COSTA MESA, Calif. — Hyundai has announced pricing for the new Elantra Coupe, starting at $17,445 for the well-equipped Elantra Coupe GS and $19,745 for the sport-tuned Elantra Coupe SE.

Hyundai says that at $17,445 shoppers will discover best-in-class fuel economy, and more horsepower and interior space than Civic Coupe.

Kia Sorento to get numerous upgrades for 2013

(June 18, 2012) Kia’s hugely successful Sorento SUV will receive a host of significant improvements when the new upgraded 2013 model goes on sale later this year. Significant changes include a re-engineered bodyshell, enhanced powertrains for best-in-class fuel economy with lower emissions, improved ride, handling and refinement, additional convenience and safety features, plus a freshened look for the exterior.

Nissan official predicts electric Leaf sales will double in coming months

(June 18, 2012) Nissan predicts it will double its U.S. sales of the electric Leaf during this fiscal year to 20,000 units, according to Nissan official Bill Krueger.

A new plant in Smyrna, Tenn., will be ready to make the cars in December, helping boost supply before the fiscal year ends in March, Krueger said Saturday.

Hyundai Elantra Coupe transformed into zombie survival machine

(June 17, 2012) COSTA MESA, Calif. — Hyundai has partnered with Robert Kirkman’s Skybound imprint at Image Comics and Kirkman's groundbreaking comic and best-selling graphic novels, The Walking Dead, along with Future US, at Comic-Con International in San Diego this year on July 12-15.

Imported from Gotham City — Rise to the Challenge

(June 17, 2012) BURBANK, Calif. — Warner Bros. Pictures and Chrysler have teamed up to bring fans a unique opportunity surrounding the July 20th release of “The Dark Knight Rises,” the much-anticipated conclusion to the blockbuster Dark Knight trilogy.

June 15 marked the launch of the “Imported from Gotham City” contest, allowing fans to create an original co-branded TV spot featuring these two iconic brands. Director/writer/producer Christopher Nolan will select the winning spot, which will debut on television around the release of the film.

It's time to start restoration of a vintage Mustang

(June 16, 2012) DEARBORN, Mich. — With the 50th anniversary of the Ford Mustang less than two years away, this summer is the time to begin restoring your classic pony car so that it can be ready for one of the most important milestones in American automotive history.
 

Fiat 500 Cabrio by Gucci named 'Best Small Convertible of the Year'

(June 15, 2012) MIAMI — The Fiat 500 Cabrio by Gucci won "Best Small Convertible of the Year" at the "Topless in Miami" event held on June 14 by the Southern Automotive Media Association (SAMA). The Fiat 500 was picked for first place in voting by more than 60 journalists attending the event.