Latest News

Jan 28, 2006
Ford axes 30,000 jobs to save itself !
American car makers are collapsing ! last November, GM announced to cut 30,000 jobs in North America. Now Ford, the country's second largest car maker, is making the same move. It will cut 25,000 to 30,000 jobs in North America and shut down 14 factories from now to 2008. This will reduce its production capacity by 1.2 million units, or 26% of the current capacity.

Called "Way Forward", the substantial restructuring plan was driven by new Ford America president Mark Fields, who had experience of turning around Mazda a few years ago. It was announced in respond to the sales slump in North America. In the 1990s, Ford held about 25% market share of its home market. Facing the strong Japanese and Korean competitors, it dropped to just 18% last year. Cars like the 500, Freestyle crossover and Freestar MPV were all big flops due to their bland styling (again, thanks to Mr. J. Mays !). No wonder in 2005 the North America operation made a loss of US$1.6 billion.

Outside the home market, Ford performed much better in other regions. In Europe, it posted a profit of US$136 million, slightly improved from a year ago. PAG (Premium Automotive Group) reduced its loss from US$740 million to US$100 million (thanks to the success of Land Rover's new models). The Aisa Pacific and Africa operation earned US$61 million.
 
Jan 28, 2006
DaimlerChrysler also cut jobs !
Although Chrysler is still profitable and its outlook is more optimistic than GM and Ford, its parent company DaimlerChrysler prepares to cut 6,000 jobs in the next 3 years to improve efficiency and prepare for the stiffer competition anticipated. However, all the jobs will be general and administrative staffs instead of plant workers because Chrysler's manufacturing capacity is well utilized.

The jobs cut is a result of eliminating the overlapping operations between the Mercedes group and Chrysler group. New CEO Dieter Zetsche intends to bring the two groups closer together.
 
Jan 28, 2006
GM sales rose in 2005 but made huge loss
In its last year as the world's biggest car maker, GM sold 9.17 million cars and trucks worldwide, up 2% from 2004. Chevrolet brand, aided by the addition of Daewoo's products, set a record sales of 4.37 million units. But underneath this positive figures lies a horrible truth: GM made a loss of US$8.6 billion, US$5.3 billion of which was by the automotive operation. For comparison, a year ago it made a profit of US$1.2 billion.

In 2005, GM made profit in the Asia Pacific region (mostly driven by its fast-rising China sales). It also halved its loss in Europe to a less significant US$375 million. But the biggest casualties was in its home soil North America. People left its dull product range and went to Japanese and Korean showrooms. Two months ago GM announced to cut 30,000 jobs and 1 million units production capacity in the North America. Is that enough to pull it back to balance? seems that nobody dare to say.
 
Jan 28, 2006
Article sharing: Horbury attacks J. Mays' styling strategy - Auto Week
Recently read an interview of Ford's North America design boss Peter Horbury from Auto Week. I am surprised he talked of the wrong strategy by his senior, the global design boss J. Mays, without mercy. This caught my attention and I would like to share with my readers.

In the interview, Horbury acknowledged Ford 500 was a failure because of its styling - J. Mays tried to make it like a European car. 

"No more European" "The Five Hundred was not a success."

"If there's a change, it's that we've stopped trying to be global in our design," "Bold American design is something that's ours to use. It's not European."

"A Ford is a Ford and an Audi is an Audi," he says. "Germans just do German cars better than we can."

Until now J. Mays remains the global design chief at Ford, but since a year ago he left the North American responsibility to Horbury and went to the London studio for an unclear task, Chief Creative Officer - no one knows what it is. After seeing Horbury's interview, I believe Mays won't have many days left at Ford. After all, he should be responsible for part of the company's sales failure.

For full interview please visit here
 
Jan 28, 2006
Suzuki MR Wagon


This is the new generation Suzuki MR Wagon. The Kei car share the same platform as the outgoing generation, but wrapped in a more modern package whose European styling resembles the larger Swift. Inside, the packaging is also much improved, with better quality materials and prettier design. There are a lot of big and small storage cubbies, while the seats are highly flexible. The front passenger seat cushion can open to a storage space, or its seat back can recline to form a bed together with the rear seat. The rear seat is 50/50 split, can recline, fold or slide 135mm longitudinally. The MR Wagon measures very tall at 1620mm. This allows a high and flat floor yet preserve massive headroom.



The powertrain remains the same as the old MR Wagon. It is powered by either a 658cc VVT 3-pot 12V with 54hp or a low-pressure turbocharged version (without VVT) that produces 60hp. 4-speed automatic is the only available transmission.
 
Jan 28, 2006
Industry News

VW and Proton's collaboration scrapped

After a year of discussion, Volkswagen gave up the intention to build a joint venture with Proton in Malaysia. It is believed that the breakup was due to the Malaysian's refusal to let Volkswagen taking control of the venture. This could be a big blow to Proton, whose survival is no longer guaranteed by the government. Proton's market share in Malaysia has dropped to only 40%. It is currently operating at a loss.

Australia car sales 2005

Last year, Toyota continued pulling away from Holden as the best selling brand in Australia. It sold 202,817 vehicles, versus Holden's 174,464 units. Ford finished a distant third at 129,140 units. Other positions in the top ten were all occupied by Japanese and Korean brands.

The country's best selling car was again Holden Commodore, but high fuel price dropped its sales from 79,170 units to 66,794 units. Ford Falcon was hit even more severe, from 85,500 to 53,080 units. With 46,415 units sold, Toyota Corolla was the country's best selling small car.

Mercedes to sell the Smart division?

It seems that Mercedes is trying to sell its loss making Smart division. Italian motorbike maker Piaggio said it was approached by investment bank Goldman Sachs for offering the Smart brand, intellectual properties of the current models and the factory in France. Apart from Piaggio, Suzuki and Tata were also approached by Goldman Sachs. DaimlerChrysler denied it has any plan to sell Smart, but this is the usual statement before a deal is made. It seems that the German is tired of losing more money in Smart. Last year, it lost some 600 million Euro and the total loss is accumulated to an astonishing 4 billion Euro since 1998.
 
Jan 14, 2006
Prodrive P2 technology demonstrator


P2 is a concept car developed by David Richard's racing and engineering firm Prodrive. Styled by Peter Steven, the car had design details similar to his MG SV. Mechanically, the car was based on Subaru Impreza's engine and drivetrain, but the 2.0 turbocharged boxer engine is boosted to 345 horsepower, while the 4WD system added Prodrive's Active Torque Dynamics system (with active center and rear differentials like the rally Impreza). Besides, an "anti-lag system" is added to the turbocharger, which, like the afterburner of aircraft jet engines, burns the unburnt fuel in the exhaust manifolds to increase gas pressure to the exhaust turbine. The 1100 kg car claims 174 mph top speed and 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds. Surprisingly, Prodrive said the chassis was derived from the Japanese Subaru R1 Kei-car, hard to believe.

Despite of its exciting spec, Prodrive cannot put it into production by its own. However, the Active Torque Dynamics system and Anti-Lag System could attract car makers to be its customers, which is the intention of building the P2.
 
Jan 14, 2006
Gordon Murray on Bugatti Veyron - R&T
Just read an interesting article in R&T by contributing writer Gordon Murray, the creator of McLaren F1, about the technical analysis of Bugatti Veyron. I would like to share with you:

"The chassis/body structure is hybrid like the last Bugatti (EB110) with carbon fiber used for the primary structure and aluminum alloy for the body and front crash structure. In this respect, the all-carbon McLaren F1 and the RTM (Resin Transfer Molding) carbon Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren are, in fact, more advanced."

"Weight saving should be by design and not a post process. Weight is the car designer's biggest enemy."

"The restrictions on styling and innovations are apparent in the Veyron — the all-wheel drive and power targets must have made the designer's life a nightmare. Although the Bugatti is quite short, it is very wide and suffers from most of the rear mid-engine problems, such as high cowl height, pedal offsets, no luggage space and poor three-quarter rear view."

"To be absolutely fair, the Veyron team did not set out to challenge the McLaren F1, Enzo or Porsche GT as the ultimate driving machine. This it certainly doesn't do at two tons with turbo lag. It also falls short of the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti and the Mercedes SLR McLaren for high-performance touring because of the outward vision problems and lack of luggage space. Where it absolutely succeeds is as a massive technical achievement — a statement for VW AG. And it will be guaranteed a place in automotive history because of the performance figures."

"The Veyron's design team must be applauded because the starting point was so wrong. Arbitrary targets of 1000 hp and 250 mph and 0-60-mph in under 3 seconds were set at the very beginning of the program. But worse still, a styling model was shown and accepted! This is a bad starting point for any car, but for a high-performance car, it's a disaster."

"One final point is that I have always felt a little responsible for starting this lunatic chase for top speed with the McLaren F1 (even though top speed was never one of our targets!), and the Bugatti Veyron should put an end to this nonsense and let the designers get on with the job of designing good fun, efficient sports cars."

For full article you may read R&T: http://www.roadandtrack.com/article.asp?section_id=7&article_id=3075
  
Jan 11, 2006
Dodge Caliber


The emergence of the production version Dodge Caliber signals the end of the Neon, once a beloved American small car. In the view of changing market condition (the sales decline of conventional sedans, the tougher competition from more and more Japanese / Korean rivals), Chrysler gave up conventional sedan form and designed the Caliber as a hatchback-SUV crossover vehicle. I think this is a farsighted decision. It prevents direct competition with the better-built Japanese cars while enabling sales in the European market, where practical hatchback is a must for success.

Price-wise, the Caliber will occupy the same space as Neon. Starting from US$14,000, it even undercut its predecessor by US$410. This represents excellent value for money considering the extra practicality and utilities it brings.

Style-wise, the Caliber looks bold and tough. Its shape is a combination of SUV and hatchback. It measures 4417mm long, 1748mm wide, 1533mm tall and 2635mm in wheelbase. Slightly longer and much taller than European C-segment hatchbacks. It also carries more weight, ranging from the base model's 1345 kg to the top model (with largest engine and 4WD)'s 1500 kg.

The interior packaging looks cheap, but very practical. It has an air-cooled beverage storage bin, a fold front passenger seat and a 60/40-split rear seat. The rear seat can recline by up to 12 degrees or fold down to form a flat cargo area offering 1360 liters volume. Even with the rear passengers in place, the luggage space is a class-leading 520 liters.

Mechanically, Caliber shares platform with the new Jeep Compass and Patriot. They are manufactured in the same factory in Illinois too. FWD is standard while an electromagnetic 4WD is optional. Transmission is either a 5-speed manual or the company's second generation CVT, with "AutoStick" manual override simulating a 6-speed gearbox. Compare with a conventional 4-speed auto, the CVT improves fuel economy by 6-8%.

Power comes from the "World Engine" co-developed with Mitsubishi and Hyundai. This consists of 3 four-cylinder engines, all employ aluminum block, dohc 16V, dual VVT and variable intake manifolds. They differ in capacity - 1.8 liters, 2.0 liters and 2.4 liters, producing 148hp / 125lbft, 158hp / 141lbft and 172hp / 165lbft respectively, which is remarkable. For comparison, Honda's new 1.8 i-VTEC engine develops 140hp only. The 2.0 and 2.4 units get twin-balancer shafts.

For European market, a diesel engine is inevitable. Mercedes lends a 2-litre turbo diesel engine from its A200CDI. The dohc 16V unit employs 2000 bar common-rail injection system and a variable geometry turbocharger to produce 136hp and 229lbft of torque.
 
Jan 10, 2006
Toyota new Camry


Although Toyota said this is an all-new Camry, the changes are not as fundamental as thought. First of all, the proportion, exterior and interior design is an evolution of the outgoing car. There is hardly any "wow factor" in it. Toyota plays it safe when redesigning its best selling car in the America (also the country's best seller in the last 4 years, and 8 times in the last 9 years). The new Camry continues to look conservative, although you can order a SE model with some spoilers that are said to be "developed using Toyota's Formula 1 technology". Well, forget that crap from marketing people.

Under the similar skin is the familiar all-strut suspensions. Toyota is still reluctant to switch to multi-link suspensions, because of cost reasons and because it can continue to share platform with Avalon. Again, the SE model got "sport-tuned suspensions". Better news is the use of 2 inches longer wheelbase and wider tracks. That means the wheels are pushed closer to the corners, hence enhancing cornering stability.

Mounted in the familiar chassis is the familiar 2.4-litre VVT-i four-cylinder engine. Now with reduced NVH and 158 horsepower, an increase of 4hp, and 161 lbft of torque. It mates with 5-speed manual or 5-speed auto.

The V6 is the real upgrade. Now comes a larger, 3.5-litre V6 with dual VVT-i. 268 horses and 248 lbft means two things: 1) it is a detuned version of the Avalon's unit. 2) despite of the detune, it is still more punchy than Accord and Altima, and a 6-speed automatic lifts the standard higher. The Camry V6 must be very quick.

And then there is a hybrid version - the first time hybrid power is available to mid-size family cars. It combines the 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to deliver 192 horsepower. Like Prius, this is a full hybrid engine, i.e., can be powered by the electric motors alone. The motors produces 45 hp. The petrol engine is a modified version of the normal one. It uses Atkinson combustion cycle to reduce fuel consumption, thus power is reduced slightly to 147hp. The Camry Hybrid also gets smoother underbody panels and wheel spats to reduce drag coefficient to 0.27. Toyota estimates a combined fuel consumption of 40 mpg.

Remark: Atkinson combustion cycle is opposed to the normal Otto cycle. In the early phase of compression stroke, the intake valves keep opening for a while. Therefore some fresh air will flow back to the intake manifolds, reduces the effective compression stroke hence the effective capacity of the engine. As a result, the expansion stroke is longer than the compression stroke. This enhance thermal efficiency.
 
Jan 10, 2006
Nissan Sentra


Following the launch of Nissan Bluebird Sylphy in Japan last month, its American sister Sentra makes debut at Detroit motor show. Externally, the Sentra doesn't look like Bluebird Sylphy, but underneath them are the same architecture built on Nissan-Renault's C-platform. It is therefore a class larger than the B-platform Tiida / Versa. With the new Sentra and Versa, Nissan has a broaden range in the US market.

The new Sentra measures 4567mm long, 1790mm wide, 1510mm tall and 2685mm in wheelbase. It is significantly larger than its predecessor, including a 150mm longer wheelbase. The interior follows the tradition of American Nissan to offer cheap plastics and funky dashboard design. The powertrain is an unexciting 135hp 2.0 16V, mated to a 6-speed manual or Xtronic CVT.
 
Jan 10, 2006
Industry News

DaimlerChrysler group sales 2005

Group sales: 4,046,700 units (+3.8% from 2004)
Chrysler group sales (Chrsyler + Dodge + Jeep): 2,826,100 units (+4.7%)
Mercedes group (Mercedes + Smart + Maybach) sales: 1,220,600 units (+1.7%)

Chrysler group:
Jeep sales: 608,419 units (+12%)
Minivans: 543,201 units (+5%)
Chrysler 300: 165,411 units (+40%)

Mercedes group:
Mercedes-Benz brand: 1,077,600 units (+1.6%)
Smart: 143,000 units

A-class: 194,100 units, up 34%
B-class: 57,200 units
C-class: 402,400 units (2004: 470,300 units)
E-class: 261,900 units (2004: 287,100 units), still no. 1 in class
CLS: over 50,000 units since Oct launch.
S-class: 49,900 units (2004: 53,200 units), still no. 1 in class
M-class: 80,400 units, up 15%
G-class: 5,100 units (2004: 6,400 units)
AMG: more than 20,000 units
SLR: more than 500 units
Maybach: more than 300 units

BMW sales 2005

BMW group sales in 2005: 1,328,000 vehicles (2004: 1,208,700 units, +9.9%)
BMW brand vehicles: 1,126,800 units (+10.1%)
Mini: 200,400 (+8.7%)

Land Rover sales 2005

Land Rover posted a record sales last year, with 185,120 vehicle sold, an increase of 14% from 2004. This is partly thanks to the introduction of Range Rover Sport - some 30,356 units sold in 6 months, and the Discovery 3 which grabbed 53,558 sales.

Rolls-Royce beat Maybach in 2005

The competition between the super luxurious brand Maybach and Rolls-Royce again saw the latter coming at the top last year. During 2005, some 796 units of RR Phantom were sold, while Maybach delivered "more than 300 units" according to its maker. However, both companies sold less than their original annual target of 1000 cars, thus were still making losses.

To return to black, Rolls-Royce is going to introduce a convertible coupe version of Phantom (previewed by the 100EX concept car in Geneva 2004) in the near future. In contrast, Mercedes has no plans for Maybach. It seems giving up the Maybach brand.

Honda Fit takes 4 years to sail to US shore

More than 4 years have gone since the launch of Honda Fit (Jazz for Europe), the car is finally arriving the USA market. With the introduction of Toyota Yaris, Scion and Nissan Versa, Honda feels the small car market is finally taking shape in the US. The Fit is highly successful at home and in Europe. Introducing the largest engine version (109hp 1.5 VTEC) should please the American. But is it too late?
 
Jan 9, 2006
Maranello's successor: 599GTB


The current Maranello line started life in 1996 as 550 Maranello, then modified to the current 575M. As a 10-year-old car (and by the way, 5700 cars produced), it is time to be replaced. Now Ferrari has released the first pictures of its successor. It is named 599GTB, in which the number implies its 5999 cc V12 while GTB, or Grand Turismo Berlinetta, is the classical label for Ferrari's coupes.

At the moment, Ferrari has unveiled little details. We only know its Enzo-derived 6-litre V12 develops 620 horsepower at 7200 rpm. That's 40 horses less than Enzo, but it is already 105 hp more than 575M and 40 hp more than arch-rival Lamborghini Murcielago. Having 620 horsepower also saves it from embarrassed by the 612hp Mercedes SL65 AMG. Now the flagship Ferrari can reclaim itself as the world's most powerful front-engined production GT.



Nothing was said about its chassis, but as we know it is a development of the 612 Scaglietti's aluminum chassis, with wheelbase shortened and the rear seats eliminated. This means the 599GTB will be significantly lighter than 612 as well as the 1730 kg 575M. Ferrari said it has a weight to power ratio of 2.6 kg / hp. That translate to 1612 kg.

From the pictures, the new GT looks more muscular than the old car. It features a front end design similar to 612 Scaglietti but a new tail with only one circular taillight each side, in contrast to Ferrari's traditional twin circular taillights. Another feature is the return of "flying buttresses" C-pillars with a curvy rear screen recessed between them. At the first glance, the new design is not as striking as Ferrari fans hope for. We shall let a final judgment to be made when we see the car in natural light.


 
Jan 9, 2006
Lexus LS460 arrives


Following Tokyo show's LF-sh concept, the production Lexus LS460 is launched in Detroit motor show. This is the fourth generation LS, and you can see it has moved closer again to its key rival Mercedes S-class. Size-wise, LS460 is now on a par with Mercedes. It measures 5030 mm long, 1875mm wide, 1475mm tall and it wheelbase measures 2970mm. It even offers a long-wheelbase version for the first time to rival the LWB S-class. This brings at extra 120mm to the wheelbase and overall length.

As indicated by its name, the V8 has been enlarged from 4.3 litres to 4.6 litres. Power made a big jump from 290hp to 380hp, while torque is increased from 320 lbft to 370 lbft. This put it very close to the larger capacity Mercedes S500 (388hp / 391lbft). Toyota finally understood smoothness and quietness is not enough. It gave the V8 direct injection and other enhancement to improve its efficiency to beyond the level of its German benchmark.



Transmission is another highlight. You think Mercedes' 7-speed automatic very impressive? Toyota gives the new Lexus the world's first 8-speed automatic ! it is developed by its subsidiary Aisin so that the German are unlikely to get it. With the powerful V8 and the efficient transmission, LS460 can accelerate from 0-60 mph in less than 5.5 seconds, according to the press material. It's slightly slower than S500, but faster than BMW 750i and other class rivals.

The LS460 rides on multi-link suspensions at all corners. Standard car has conventional coil springs but adaptive air suspensions will be optional, like the current car. VDIM electronic stability system integrates various driving aids, such as ECB electronically controlled brake, EPS electronic power steering, VSC vehicle stability contro and the usual ABS, BA and EBD. The VDIM is notorious in GS for ruining driver involvement, we shall see whether it will repeat the same mistake in the LS.



Being the flagship model of the Lexus brand, unsurprisingly, the LS gets countless of luxurious equipment - power rear door closer, power trunk lid closer, heated seats, heated steering wheel, power reclining rear seats with power leg rests and massagers, fold tables, LCD TV screens for the rear passengers and 19-speaker Mark Levinson audio system.

One thing we must praise is the styling of the new car. The first 3 generations LS were criticized for copying Mercedes designs. The latest car is no more. Its so-called "L-finesse" design combines simplicity and elegance, unlike its German rivals.

If the new Lexus can sort out the problem of VDIM and deliver an involving handling, it has every reason to challenge the leading position of Mercedes S-class and BMW 7-series. Even if it is not, it can still present a stronger than ever threat to the German.
 
Jan 9, 2006
Mazda Kabura concept


One of the most interesting concept cars shown at Detroit is Mazda Kabura. This coupe is built on an enlarged MX-5 platform and the same 2.0 MZR engine driving the rear wheels. There is a fair possibility that it could enter production, although that will require considerable re-engineering and tune down its show-car styling. If it get greenlight, it could bridge the gap between MX-5 and RX-8 and adds to the dynamic fun image of Mazda.



The radical look of Kabura was designed by Mazda's new North American design chief, Franz von Holzhausen. Holzhausen is the designer of Pontiac Solstice, so it is not surprising he gave the Kabura a striking and imaginative look. Highlight of the car include separate front fenders and a transparent window on the bonnet to see through the engine.

Another radical design is the 3+1 seating arrangement. Limited by the 4050mm length and 2550 mm wheelbase, the little coupe cannot accommodate 4 full size seats of course. However, instead of the usual 2+2 with unusable dog seats, it copied the idea of Fiat's Trepiuno show car (2004 Geneva) to offer 3 regular-size seats and a small seat (behind the driver is a small seat; beside the driver is a full-size passenger seat that is mounted 6 inches ahead of the driver seat, thanks to the elimination of glovebox; this enable sufficient space for another full-size seat behind it.)


 
Jan 9, 2006
Audi S6 goes V10 too


A surprise debut in the North America auto show is the Audi S6, the high performance version of the A6. The new S6 can be distinguished from lesser A6 by its single-frame grille with extra vertical chromed bars, slightly flared wheelarches, 19-inch wheels and a tiny rear spoiler. Underneath the skin is the new generation, 40:60 split Quattro system (as in RS4 and S8) and a 5.2-litre V10 mated with 6-speed Tiptronic box.

The V10 engine is a detuned version of the S8's unit, which was in turn detuned from Lamborghini Gallardo's unit. It still has all the advanced technologies including FSI direct injection. Now max power is reduced by 30hp to 420hp, actually the same as RS4's V8. So what's the point to have a V10 instead of the 25 kg lighter V8 ?

The answer lies on the V10's accessible torque. From 3000 to 4000 rpm, it delivers 398 lbft of torque. That is 82 pound-foot more than the V8 can provide at 5500 rpm. This match the "effortless performance" character of the S6. Audi said 0-60 takes 5.0 seconds only. Top speed is limited at 155mph.
 
Jan 9, 2006
Audi Roadjet concept


An off-form Walter de Silva not only created the controversial Lamborghini Miura "concept" but also this Audi Roadjet concept car. Disappointingly, this car looks plain ugly, now I understand why he called back Luc Donckerwolcke to oversee Audi's design department and himself would rather spend time on the least significant Lamborghini.

The Roadjet has two missions. The first one is to showcase the company's new technologies. Its 3.2 FSI V6 got the company's first variable valve lift system to enhance power to 300 hp (from the current 255 hp). It gets the first 7-speed DSG gearbox, and for the first time use the DSG on a North-South mounted engine and drive the Quattro system.

Another mission is to go production. As you can see, its exterior design is almost production ready. Although the hatchback vehicle look more like an A3, it is sized between the A4 and A6, with 4.7m length and 1.85m width. A 2.85m wheelbase actually surpasses the A6, ensuring remarkable space efficiency. The car is very tall at 1.55m and the passengers sit higher than regular cars, thus it could be seen as a crossover between hatchback and MPV. If it go production, it will probably be called A5.
 
Jan 9, 2006
Chevrolet Camaro


Just when Chrysler is reviving Dodge Challenger, GM responded with the new Camaro, designed to resemble the 1969 Camaro. In my eyes it looks cooler than the Challenger. No decision about production yet, but everybody expect so. If yes, it will probably get Corvette's 400hp 6.0 V8 and 6-speed manual gearbox, while floorpan may come from the next generation Holden Commodore.
 
Jan 9, 2006
Lincoln MKS


The Lincoln MKS concept shown at Detroit show could be very important to Lincoln's future, because it will form the successor to the Lincoln LS sedan. The stylish car is said to be based on the Volvo S80 / Ford 500 platform. Power comes from Ford's new 250hp 3.5 V6 or Volvo's Yamaha-built 315hp 4.4 V8, mated to a new 6-speed automatic gearbox and Haldex 4WD system. Seems very promising. It just need the greenlight from the management.
 
Jan 9, 2006
Peugeot 207


Here is the picture of the new Peugeot 207, the replacement to 206. It will made official debut at March's Geneva show. The new Peugeot best seller is built on the 1007 platform. Measuring 4030mm long, 1472mm tall and 2540mm wheelbase, it is considerably larger than 206, although I doubt its ability to match the Japanese for interior space.



The car will be powered by 75hp 1.4 8V, 90hp 1.4 16V and 110hp 1.6 16V engines initially. Later, most of them will be replaced by the new generation engine developed jointly with BMW. In 1.6-litre normally aspirated form it will produce 116hp, or in turbocharged form 143hp or 170hp. The latter will power 207 GTI.
 
Jan 9, 2006
Industry News

North America COTY: Honda Civic

This year's North American Car of the Year award has been announced at Detroit motor show. The title went to Honda Civic, while Ford Fusion and Pontiac Solstice were runner-ups.

Strangely, the same car came only 4th at home. In the Japanese COTY contest, Civic trailed Mazda MX-5, Lexus GS and BMW 3-series.

GM becomes China's best seller

It may be losing the global top position to Toyota, but GM is still growing stronger in the China market. Last year, it overtook long-standing leader Volkswagen as the best selling car maker in China, with a record 665,390 cars delivered. This represented a 35.3 percent growth from a year ago.
 
Jan 6, 2006
Aston Martin goes 4-door !


The most interesting car in the Detroit motor show is this one: Aston Martin Rapide. Named after the 1961 Lagonda Rapide (also a 4-seater, based on DB4), the new Rapide is the four-door, four-seater version of the DB9. This is very interesting, as Porsche has already announced to introduce its 4-door coupe Panamera in 2009, Aston Martin uses DB9 as the basis can save a lot of development time and push the car to the market a year earlier than Porsche. Even more interestingly, the Rapide is the brainchild of Aston Martin boss Ulrich Bez. He was the motivator behind Porsche's 989 four-door GT project back in the late 80s. The project was cancelled by Porsche in favour of the cheaper Boxster, but the concept still exist in his mind. After the successful launch of Mercedes CLS, now both Porsche and Bez wants to revive their four-door coupe programs.

While Porsche Panamera will be develop from the SUV platform of Cayenne with all kinds of sophisticated (and heavy) technologies, the Aston Rapide is much more simple and classical in mechanical design - V12 power, rear wheel drive and conventional suspensions. Basically, it is a longer DB9, with 25 cm added to the wheelbase to accommodate the full size rear seats (DB9 got only dog seats) and a pair of rear doors. Another 5cm and 4cm are added to the rear overhang and height respectively, primarily for styling purpose. This keeps the beautifully flowing lines of DB9 unchanged. The enlargement is easy because DB9's aluminum VH platform was designed to enable variable dimensions.



The car gains 140kg from the DB9, but it is not any slower, thanks to a power boost of 30hp. Now the 6.0-litre V12 develops 480 horsepower. Mated with a 6-speed ZF automatic gearbox, Aston guarantees 180-plus mph and 0-60 under 5 seconds. The more weight also needs stronger stopping power, so Aston gave it a set of carbon ceramic brakes from Brembo.

From the pictures you can see the Rapide is very beautiful (I doubt if Porsche can match it). Based on the experience of DB9, undoubtedly it will have a very beautiful, high quality and exclusive cabin too. However, due to the low and curvy roof line, its rear seats are unlikely to be very spacious.

The Rapide will go on sale in 2008. Aston will priced it at around £160,000, equals to the flagship Vanquish. It won't be a large scale production - only 500 cars a year is estimated - so Porsche does not need to be worry.
 
Jan 6, 2006
Volvo returns to hatchback with C30


Volvo is showing the new C30 as a "design concept" in Detroit motor show. Apart from the fancy big wheels and aggressive aero kits, this car is virtually the production version of C30, which will go on sale this fall. From its exterior look, you can see it is derived from the S40 (hence the Ford Focus / Mazda 3 platform). Basically, it is a life-style hatchback version of the S40. After getting rid of the boot, its length is shortened by 23cm. A very distinctive glass tailgate and pronounced shoulders are shaped to remind us the 1971 Volvo P1800 ES hatchback.

The concept is powered by a tuned-up version of the S40T5 / Ford Focus ST's 2.5-litre inline-5 turbo engine. Now good for 260 horsepower, 268 lbft of torque, 155 mph and 0-62 in 6.0 seconds. The gearbox is a 6-speed manual. However, the car remains front-wheel-drive and is likely to go without limited slip differential. How well it can handle the power through the front wheels is yet to be seen.

Undoubtedly, the C30 will be a premium hatch rivaling Audi A3, Alfa Romeo 147 and BMW 1-series.
 
Jan 6, 2006
Dodge Challenger returns


Dodge Challenger is a concept car shown in Detroit motor show, but it is also highly likely to go into production. The car is built on the Chrysler 300 platform with wheelbase shortened by 4 inches. It utilizes the SRT-8's 425hp 6.1-litre HEMI V8. A new 6-speed manual gearbox and the lighter weight enable higher performance - 174 mph top speed, 0-60 in 4.5 seconds. Outside, the retro-style car resembles the original Challenger, a muscle car produced from 1970-74. If it really go into production, Chrysler will have 4 cars built on the LX platform - Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum, Dodge Charger and this one. Unlike its sisters, the Challenger will be a 2-door coupe.
 
Jan 6, 2006
Chrysler concept mirrors Rolls-Royce


Also derived from the LX platform but less likely to enter production is the Chrysler Imperial concept. It reuses the Imperial name which was the company's flagship luxury model / brand since the 20s but disappeared for the last 20 years. The Chrysler 300 platform was stretched by 3 inches and the overall length grew by 17 inches. Another 6 inches was added to the height. It has an imposing styling that clearly imitates Rolls-Royce Phantom. Seems that Chrysler's creative studio finally run out of imagination.

The car is powered by the standard 340hp 5.7 Hemi V8 and runs a 5-speed automatic gearbox like Chrysler 300C.
 
Jan 6, 2006
Porsche Cayenna Turbo S gains power
To strike back Mercedes ML63 AMG, Porsche has upgraded the Cayenne Turbo S with 521 horsepower and 531 lbft of torque. The extra power comes from increased turbo boost and larger intercoolers. Now the car sprints to 60mph in 5.0 seconds and the regulated top speed is raised to 168 mph. This is the most powerful Porsche since the Carrera GT.
 
Jan 6, 2006
Mazda CX-7 crossover


CX7 is the latest SUV-MPV crossover vehicle from Mazda, primarily destined to the USA. Like Nissan Murano, it looks very sporty, so in styling terms it is a crossover between SUV and sports car. The car was designed by Shunsuke Kawasaki, who penned Mazda 6 and the RX-01 concept car in 1995 (I hope you remember that car).

The CX7 seats 5 people only - strangely, CX7 is a 5-seater while Mazda 5 is a 7-seater, confusing? compare with real MPVs, its interior and cargo loading is rather small and inflexible, but it shines in styling and quality (look at that dashboard ! it makes MX-5 looks boring !).

The CX7 is either FWD or 4WD. The latter uses "Active Torque Split" (or Haldex electromagnetic clutch in my language) to send torque towards the rear differential. This system comes from Mazda 6 MPS (Mazdaspeed 6), as is the 2.3-litre four-cylinder 16V turbocharged engine with balance shafts and direct injection. However, it is detuned to 244 hp and 258 lbft. Transmission is a new 6-speed automatic. The car rides on MacPherson strut up front (from the Japanese MPV) and multi-link suspensions at the rear (from Mazda 5)
 
Jan 6, 2006
Oh ! even Lambo goes retro !


Is Walter de Silva joking?

It's not April Fool yet, but Mr. Silva is already doing silly things. Lamborghini, traditionally renowned for futuristic styling, is going retro under the leadership of Mr. Silva.

Last year, when Luc Donckerwolcke was promoted to head Audi design, his boss, the Audi-Seat-Lambo design chief Walter de Silva took over his job at Lamborghini. The first car penned by Mr. Silva is this silly concept car - Lamborghini Miura !

How can Lamborghini describe it as a "concept car" ? being 90% identical to the original 1966 Miura, I don't know what "concept" it introduces. Call it a "replica" and I might accept it.

Come on, Mr. Silva, don't put it into production. Retro theme could only ruin the image of Lamborghini. It might work for Ford GT, because Ford is the most outdated car maker in the world. Lamborghini can only look forward.
 
Jan 6, 2006
Pontiac Solstice GXP got turbo


If Pontiac Solstice feel slightly underpowered, then you can wait for the forthcoming turbocharged version, GXP, which will go on sale this fall. The GXP replaces the standard car's 177hp 2.4-litre Ecotec engine with a turbocharged 2.0-litre Ecotec. It produces 260 horsepower and 260 lbft of torque, even more powerful than the similar engine used by Opel Astra OPC (240 hp / 236 lbft). Compare with the Opel engine, the Pontiac engine has added variable valve timing to both intake and exhaust valves, plus direct fuel injection. The latter is first introduced for GM's America products, although it has been introduced to Opel's 2.2-litre Ecotec engine last year. Besides, the turbocharger is upgraded to twin-scroll.

Despite of the ultra-high specific output of 130 horsepower per litre, GM said the engine has little turbo lag because of a lightweight turbine and a 9.2:1 compression ratio (enabled by the direct injection). Also, the 2.0 turbo engine should weight about the same as the 2.4 naturally aspirated engine, thus front-to-rear weight distribution remains the same at 52:48.

GM claims the Solstice GXP can sprint from 0-60 mph in less than 5.5 seconds. This must be a good news to Pontiac's fans. Good news to Lotus too, because there is high possibility the US version of Europa S could adopt this engine.
 
Jan 6, 2006
Industry News

USA sales result 2005

By company:
Company
 Sales (units)
 vs 2004
GM (include Saab) 4,454,385 -4.3%
Ford (include PAG brands and Mazda) 3,412,180 -4.8%
DaimlerChrysler (Chrysler + Mercedes) 2,529,254
Toyota 2,260,296 +9.7%
Honda 1,462,472 +4.9%
Nissan 1,076,669
Hyundai group (including Kia) 730,863 +6.1%
VW group (including Audi & Bentley) 310,915 -7.6%
BMW group (including Mini & RR) 307,465 +3.7%
Subaru 196,002 +4.6%
Porsche 31,933 +1.5%
Isuzu 12,177 -55.2%

Other facts and figures:

- Chevrolet overtook Ford as the best selling brand, with 2,651,124 units vs 2,634,041 units. Thanks to the addition of Daewoo cars and the sales decline of the Ford brand.
- Lexus continued to be the best selling luxurious brand
- Ford F-series continued to be the best selling vehicle and truck
- Toyota Camry is again the best selling car.
- Chevrolet TrailBlazer beat Ford Explorer to be the best selling SUV
- Chrysler minivans continued to dominate MPV segment

Porsche to end Carrera GT's production

Porsche has delivered the 1,111th Carrera GT to its customer, claiming it became "the most successful high-performance sports car of all time", i.e., implying it has surpassed Ferrari F40's record of 1100 units. (Remark: some sources said Ferrari produced 1311 F40s) However, as demand of the Carrera GT is drying up, Porsche will end its production in April. That means it will not meet the original goal of selling 1500 units. Still, the Carrera GT project should be a profitable one.
 
Copyright© 1997-2006 by Mark Wan
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