September 2013

Toyota's Uchiyamada, father of the Prius, foresees long run for hybrids

(September 30, 2013) WASHINGTON — Toyota Chairman Takeshi Uchiyamada predicted today that hybrid vehicles will play a larger role in the future development of automotive propulsion systems than widely recognized.

GM and U.S. Army to expand fuel cell testing

(September 30, 2013) WARREN, Mich. — General Motors and the U.S. Army Tank Automotive Research, Development & Engineering Center are expanding their collaboration in the development of hydrogen fuel cell technology.

A gift to Harley Earl, 1963 Corvette to go on auction block

(September 30, 2013) The factory-styling Sting Ray gifted to the father of the Corvette Harley J. Earl will cross the auction block at Mecum’s Chicago auction Oct. 10-12 at the Schaumburg Convention Center. Among an anticipated 1,000-car lineup, this car stands out as the personal driver of GM’s head designer who was one of the most significant innovators in the history of the American automobile.

Random thoughts: Mercedes pickups and NASCAR

By Christopher A. Sawyer
The Virtual Driver

(September 29, 2013) Can anybody read the tea leaves? Does Anyone really listen? These thoughts ran through my head as I considered the state of racing in America, and the idea that Infiniti and Mercedes might add pickups to their U.S. lineups. Bear with me. It may even make some sense when I’m finished.

Nissan to continue selling current Rogue alongside all-new 2014 model

(September 28, 2013) NASHVILLE, Tenn. — With the November on-sale date of the all-new 2014 Nissan Rogue compact utility vehicle coming fast, Nissan has announced that the popular current-generation Rogue will continue in its lineup for the immediate future.

ES 300h with combined 40 mpg gives Lexus five luxury hybrid models

(September 28, 2013) The first luxury brand to introduce a hybrid vehicle nearly 10 years ago, Lexus continues its hybrid leadership by offering five models powered by the innovative Hybrid Synergy Drive. The latest addition, the ES 300h, debuted for 2013 as the first-ever ES hybrid.

Chevy Silverado concepts target extremes of preparedness

(September 28, 2013) DALLAS — Chevrolet is using the 2014 Silverado full-size pickup to explore the extremes of preparedness with the Volunteer Firefighter and Black Ops concepts shown publicly for the first time Friday at the State Fair of Texas.

2015 Silverado HD, Sierra HD pickups revealed in Texas

(September 27, 2013) DETROIT — Chevrolet and GMC have revealed the all-new 2015 models of the Silverado HD and Sierra HD full-size pickups, featuring segment-leading capabilities across the range including the highest payload — 7,374 pounds — and the highest conventional trailering rating — 19,600 pounds.

All-electric Nissan Leaf deliveries top 35,000 since December 2010 launch

(September 27, 2013) NASHVILLE, Tenn. — With cumulative U.S. sales passing 35,000, Nissan Leaf is bringing owners throughout the United States together to share their enthusiasm and experiences during National Plug In Day on Sept. 28 and 29. Nissan is the first automaker to serve as a presenting sponsor of National Plug In Day.

Toyota recalls 615,000 Sienna minivans for rollaway risk

(September 27, 2013) TORRANCE, Calif. — Toyota has announced that it will conduct a voluntary safety recall involving approximately 615,000 Sienna minivans from model years 2004-2005 and 2007-2009 to address problems with the shift lever assembly.