January 2017

Nissan, BMW partner again to expand DC fast charger access in U.S.

(January 25, 2017) Nissan and BMW, two of the top EV manufacturers in the world, have again joined forces — this time with EVgo, the nation's largest public DC Fast charging network — to increase public access to DC Fast charging stations across the US, with an additional 174 locations in 33 states now available to all EV owners in those markets, and over 50 more planned to be installed in 2017, supported by the partnership.

2017 Volkswagen CC — A decent value

By Jim Prueter
MotorwayAmerica

(January 24, 2017) Volkswagen first introduced the Passat CC for the 2009 model year. Visually, the 2017 CC tested here is virtually identical to the original. There have been changes over the years, updates, refreshes. VW dropped the name “Passat,” so it’s now simply known as the Volkswagen CC.

New Kia Niro hybrid crossover to start at $23,785

(January 24, 2017) IRVINE, Calif. — Kia today announced pricing for the all-new 2017 Niro crossover hybrid.  When the Niro arrives in dealerships late this winter it will be offered in five trim levels — FE, LX, EX, Touring and a limited-production, Launch Edition. The Niro will start at $23,785 including destination charge, and the top-of-the-line Touring with its many luxury, infotainment and convenience features is $30,545.

Barrett-Jackson breaks 40 vehicle sales records at Scottsdale auction

(January 24, 2017) SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Barrett-Jackson kicked off its 46th year by breaking more than 40 vehicle auction sales records (as verified by Hagerty Data) during the 46th Annual Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction, held Jan. 14-22 at WestWorld of Scottsdale. During the automotive lifestyle event, 1,719 vehicles were consigned, the most at one auction in the company’s history, with vehicle sales totaling approximately $100 million at a 99.5-percent sell-through rate.

Range Rover Sport SVR validated with 0-100 kph runs in all conditions

(January 24, 2017) MAHWAH, N.J. — In a unique testing exercise, Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) put the Range Rover Sport SVR through its paces completing a series of 0-100kph (0-62 mph)  sprints on a variety of surfaces including asphalt, grass, snow and sand. Using Michelin 275/45 R21 All-Season tires and the Land Rover Terrain Response 2 system — both of which are standard for the Ranger Rover Sport SVR — the test aimed to highlight the real world performance and inherent capability of the super-SUV in the same trim as it leaves the factory.

Lexus to take center stage in Super Bowl spot

(January 23, 2017) TORRANCE, Calif. — Two new flagship vehicles will join the Lexus lineup this year, each uniquely confirming Lexus' passion for brave design, imaginative technology, and exhilarating performance. The first-ever Lexus LC 500 and LC 500h performance coupes and the completely redesigned Lexus LS 500 luxury sedan take their place at the pinnacle of Lexus' extensive product lineup.

To celebrate the next chapter in Lexus' history, the company today unveiled a 60-second extended version of its Super Bowl spot featuring the LC, as well as a few surprises.

Jaguar Land Rover customers immerse themselves in virtual vehicles

(January 23, 2017) WHITLEY, U.K. — The UK’s largest automotive manufacturer is pioneering a new way of exploring all-new models across its global network, using Virtual and Augmented Reality so customers won’t need to wait for newly launched vehicles to arrive in their local showroom.

Jaguar Land Rover’s Virtual Reality Experience kits will be shipped out to U.S. retailers before the end of January to immerse customers in each new vehicle the company launches.

Ford launching plug-in hybrid trials in UK supported by Transport of London

(January 23, 2017) DEARBORN, Mich. — Ford is launching a multimillion-pound project designed to help improve air quality in London as the automaker accelerates its electrification plans with 13 new global electrified vehicles scheduled for introduction in the next five years.

The project, supported by Transport for London, features a 12-month trial of 20 new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) Ford Transit Custom vans that reduce local emissions running solely on electric power for the majority of city trips such as deliveries and maintenance work.