The Mercedes 2008 C230 Sport Sedan with the AMG Sport Package exterior side angle view closer - White
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a luxury compact car produced by the Mercedes Car Group division of Daimler AG. First introduced in 1993 as a replacement for the 190 range, the C-Class was the most affordable model in the marque's lineup, until the 1997 arrival of the A-Class. The C-Class is built at Mercedes-Benz factories in Sindelfingen and Bremen, Germany, as well as in DaimlerChrysler's South African factory in East London. The very first W202 C-Class sedan was produced on June 1, 1993, and the second generation W203 C-Class rolled off the assembly line on July 18, 2000. The third generation W204 C-Class was launched in 2007.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Mercedes-Benz F700 Concept
On starting and at full load, the air-fuel mixture is not ignited by a sparkplug as in a conventional gasoline engine. The controlled auto ignition (homogeneous combustion) to which the DIESOTTO automatically reverts within its working cycle occurs under partial load conditions, i.e. at low and medium engine speeds.
As a result of homogeneous combustion at reduced reaction temperatures, very low emissions of nitrogen oxides are produced. The rest of the emission control work in the DIESOTTO drive is handled by a standard three-way catalytic converter. In addition, in order to combine the individual subsystems into one drive concept, a highly efficient engine management and control system has been implemented.
The drive unit of the F 700 is a compact four-cylinder with a displacement of 1.8 liters, and yet it ensures that feeling of effortless, superior power afforded by a luxury sedan: a two-stage turbocharger system ensures good response and torquey pulling power. In addition, when the car moves off the internal combustion engine is assisted by the electric motor of the hybrid module. The maximum output is 175 kW (238 hp), the electric motor pitches in another 15 kW (20 hp), and the system’s maximum torque is about 400 Newton meters. The 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint time of 7.5 seconds attests to the dynamics of the F 700, whose top speed is limited to 200 km/h. Despite these outstanding performance figures, the consumption of the F 700 in the standard cycle is only about 5.3 liters, equivalent to CO2 emissions of 127 grams per kilometer – extremely low for an automobile of this category.
Anticipatory intelligence packed into the suspension
Similar advances are made by the F 700 in the area of ride comfort. Mercedes-Benz has always been a leader in the area of road roar/tire vibration characteristics and suspension comfort: the Active Body Control suspension system in the CL-Class, S- and SL-Class sets the standard worldwide with its unrivaled combination of comfort, handling safety and dynamics. This system is now surpassed by the new technology of the F 700.
For here, once again, the new research car takes an important step to the future: thanks to its active PRE-SCAN suspension, the vehicle not only responds with great sensitivity to roadway unevenness; more than that, it acts with foresight.
PRE-SCAN uses two laser sensors in the front headlamp units as “eyes”. They deliver a precise image of the condition of the roadway. Based on the image supplied by the laser sensors and the information on the vehicle state, the control unit figures out a specific strategy which the high-pressure hydraulics translate into precisely calculated fluid flows and pressures for each single wheel.
As a result of homogeneous combustion at reduced reaction temperatures, very low emissions of nitrogen oxides are produced. The rest of the emission control work in the DIESOTTO drive is handled by a standard three-way catalytic converter. In addition, in order to combine the individual subsystems into one drive concept, a highly efficient engine management and control system has been implemented.
The drive unit of the F 700 is a compact four-cylinder with a displacement of 1.8 liters, and yet it ensures that feeling of effortless, superior power afforded by a luxury sedan: a two-stage turbocharger system ensures good response and torquey pulling power. In addition, when the car moves off the internal combustion engine is assisted by the electric motor of the hybrid module. The maximum output is 175 kW (238 hp), the electric motor pitches in another 15 kW (20 hp), and the system’s maximum torque is about 400 Newton meters. The 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint time of 7.5 seconds attests to the dynamics of the F 700, whose top speed is limited to 200 km/h. Despite these outstanding performance figures, the consumption of the F 700 in the standard cycle is only about 5.3 liters, equivalent to CO2 emissions of 127 grams per kilometer – extremely low for an automobile of this category.
Anticipatory intelligence packed into the suspension
Similar advances are made by the F 700 in the area of ride comfort. Mercedes-Benz has always been a leader in the area of road roar/tire vibration characteristics and suspension comfort: the Active Body Control suspension system in the CL-Class, S- and SL-Class sets the standard worldwide with its unrivaled combination of comfort, handling safety and dynamics. This system is now surpassed by the new technology of the F 700.
For here, once again, the new research car takes an important step to the future: thanks to its active PRE-SCAN suspension, the vehicle not only responds with great sensitivity to roadway unevenness; more than that, it acts with foresight.
PRE-SCAN uses two laser sensors in the front headlamp units as “eyes”. They deliver a precise image of the condition of the roadway. Based on the image supplied by the laser sensors and the information on the vehicle state, the control unit figures out a specific strategy which the high-pressure hydraulics translate into precisely calculated fluid flows and pressures for each single wheel.
Mercedes SLR
The McLaren Mercedes-Benz SLR is inspired by the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR of 1955 which was actually based on the W196 F1 car, yet named after the road-going 300SL Gullwing.
The McLaren Mercedes-Benz SLR is a Anglo-German supercar jointly developed by Mercedes-Benz and McLaren Automotive. Built in Portsmouth and the McLaren Technology Centre in Woking, Surrey, England. Daimler AG, owner of Mercedes-Benz, also owns 40% of the McLaren Group.
Classified as a supercar and compared to cars like the Porsche Carrera GT and Enzo Ferrari, the presence of the automatic gear box, front mid-engined arrangement and its driving characteristics lead some commentators to classify the SLR McLaren as a Super GT whose closer rivals are the Aston Martin V12 Vanquish and Ferrari 599 GTB. One of the goals of the SLR was to combine both supercar and GT characteristics.
The SLR sports a 232-kilogram (511.8 lb), hand-built, 5.4-litre (5439 cc/331.9 cu in), supercharged, all-aluminum, SOHC V8 engine. The cylinders are angled at 90 degrees with three valves per cylinder and lubricated via a dry sump system. The compression ratio is 8.8:1 and the bore and stroke is 97 milimetre (3.82 in) and 92 millimeters (3.62 in), respectively. The Lysholm-type twin-screw supercharger produces 0.9 bar (13 psi) of boost, the turbine rotates at 23000 revolutions per minute, and the air is cooled via two intercoolers. The engine generates a maximum power of 626 PS (617 hp/460 kW) at 6500 revolutions per minute and a maximum torque of 780 newton-metre (575 ft·lbf) at 3250 revolutions per minute.
Unlike most of its contemporaries, its engine is front-mid mounted. McLaren took the original concept car designed by Mercedes and moved the engine 1 metre behind the front bumper, and around 50 cm behind the front axle. They also optimized the design of the center firewall.
The McLaren Mercedes-Benz SLR is a Anglo-German supercar jointly developed by Mercedes-Benz and McLaren Automotive. Built in Portsmouth and the McLaren Technology Centre in Woking, Surrey, England. Daimler AG, owner of Mercedes-Benz, also owns 40% of the McLaren Group.
Classified as a supercar and compared to cars like the Porsche Carrera GT and Enzo Ferrari, the presence of the automatic gear box, front mid-engined arrangement and its driving characteristics lead some commentators to classify the SLR McLaren as a Super GT whose closer rivals are the Aston Martin V12 Vanquish and Ferrari 599 GTB. One of the goals of the SLR was to combine both supercar and GT characteristics.
The SLR sports a 232-kilogram (511.8 lb), hand-built, 5.4-litre (5439 cc/331.9 cu in), supercharged, all-aluminum, SOHC V8 engine. The cylinders are angled at 90 degrees with three valves per cylinder and lubricated via a dry sump system. The compression ratio is 8.8:1 and the bore and stroke is 97 milimetre (3.82 in) and 92 millimeters (3.62 in), respectively. The Lysholm-type twin-screw supercharger produces 0.9 bar (13 psi) of boost, the turbine rotates at 23000 revolutions per minute, and the air is cooled via two intercoolers. The engine generates a maximum power of 626 PS (617 hp/460 kW) at 6500 revolutions per minute and a maximum torque of 780 newton-metre (575 ft·lbf) at 3250 revolutions per minute.
Unlike most of its contemporaries, its engine is front-mid mounted. McLaren took the original concept car designed by Mercedes and moved the engine 1 metre behind the front bumper, and around 50 cm behind the front axle. They also optimized the design of the center firewall.
Mercedes pace car
In motorsport, a safety car or pace car is a car which limits the speed of competing cars on a racetrack in the case of a caution period such as a major accident or obstruction on the track. During a caution period the safety car enters the track ahead of the leader. With few exceptions, competitors are not allowed to pass the safety car or other competitors during a caution period, and the safety car leads the field at a pre-determined safe speed, which may vary by series and circuit. At the end of the caution period, the safety car leaves the track and the competitors may resume racing.
In production automobiles, a safety car is one which highlights safety features (see automobile safety).
In production automobiles, a safety car is one which highlights safety features (see automobile safety).
Mercedes-Benz SLR
One thousand of the sports car Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren has been produced with the latest one bought by a japanese customer. Manufactured entirely by hand, the SLR McLaren combines unmatched power and performance. The carbon fiber composite material on the SLR comes from the techology transfer of Formula 1 racing. Link and details after the jump.
Specifications:
Specifications:
Engine
Type: V8, Supercharged
Displacement cu in (cc): 332 (5439)
Power bhp (kW) at RPM: 617(460) / 6500
Torque lb-ft (Nm) at RPM: 575(778) / 3250-5000
Redline at RPM: 7000
Brakes & Tires
Brakes F/R: ABS, vented disc/vented disc
Tires F-R: 255/35 R19 - 295/30 ZR19
Driveline: Rear Wheel Drive
Exterior Dimensions & Weight
Length × Width × Height in: 183.3 × 75.1 × 49.6
Weight lb (kg): 3897 (1768)
Performance
Acceleration 0-62 mph s: 3.8
Top Speed mph (km/h): 208 (334)
Fuel Economy EPA city/highway mpg (l/100 km): 13/18 (14.8)
Source:
Thursday, October 18, 2007
CarSalesIndia.com & RealEstate4India.com Launch Free SMS Service
PRESS RELEASE:
Sams Auto Trade a company that owns and operates several portals in the automobile and real-estate segments today launched a free SMS service for its primary products CarSalesIndia.com & RealEstate4India.com. Customers looking for cars or property can now contact the seller direct for free of cost using the online SMS service. Customers who wish to know more about this service can ring 044-42143282 or 42323282.
Buyers should find the right car or property that he or she is interested in, and click on the “send SMS” link to send a free SMS. This allows buyers and sellers to be in direct contact with each other. This feature is available for both individual and dealers.
During the launch, the company chairman and director Mr Samuel Jeyakumar said, “I am proud to say that, so far our customers have been happy with our service and appreciated our quality and timeliness. It is our pleasure to extend Free SMS as an additional treat for our customers which we are sure that both the buyer and seller will enjoy. It is another milestone for the company where we strive to show our commitment towards a world class service for the Indian market.”
To get maximum benefit from the service, customers can send SMS directly from the car or property detailed view page. This acts as a bridge to narrow the gap between seller and buyer. It is suggested that integrating strengths on the web space with the penetration of mobile market will add much more value to the company and its customers.
Car Dealers and Real Estate builders who wish to participate in the car and property advertising service may reach the company via email at info@carsalesindia.com or 044-42143282
For enquiries:
UK or India office
Mr Samuel Jeyakumar @ +44 –7725215806 – (UK)
Ms Preena Sherene @ +91 – 44-42143282 – (India)
Sams Auto Trade Pvt Ltd
373, Kaveri Complex,
94-104, Nungambakkam High Road,
Chennai – 600034,
Tamilnadu, India.
Sams Auto Trade a company that owns and operates several portals in the automobile and real-estate segments today launched a free SMS service for its primary products CarSalesIndia.com & RealEstate4India.com. Customers looking for cars or property can now contact the seller direct for free of cost using the online SMS service. Customers who wish to know more about this service can ring 044-42143282 or 42323282.
Buyers should find the right car or property that he or she is interested in, and click on the “send SMS” link to send a free SMS. This allows buyers and sellers to be in direct contact with each other. This feature is available for both individual and dealers.
During the launch, the company chairman and director Mr Samuel Jeyakumar said, “I am proud to say that, so far our customers have been happy with our service and appreciated our quality and timeliness. It is our pleasure to extend Free SMS as an additional treat for our customers which we are sure that both the buyer and seller will enjoy. It is another milestone for the company where we strive to show our commitment towards a world class service for the Indian market.”
To get maximum benefit from the service, customers can send SMS directly from the car or property detailed view page. This acts as a bridge to narrow the gap between seller and buyer. It is suggested that integrating strengths on the web space with the penetration of mobile market will add much more value to the company and its customers.
Car Dealers and Real Estate builders who wish to participate in the car and property advertising service may reach the company via email at info@carsalesindia.com or 044-42143282
For enquiries:
UK or India office
Mr Samuel Jeyakumar @ +44 –7725215806 – (UK)
Ms Preena Sherene @ +91 – 44-42143282 – (India)
Sams Auto Trade Pvt Ltd
373, Kaveri Complex,
94-104, Nungambakkam High Road,
Chennai – 600034,
Tamilnadu, India.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
My most admired car
You see, I really love about BMW Cars. Not because of it prestige but, the design and the performence that make me admired it much.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Toyota Spa test notes 2007-07-12
Panasonic Toyota Racing today completed its week's testing with a solid day of running at Belgium's Spa-Francorchamps. Following yesterday's rain-afflicted test at the same circuit, the track was again wet for the start of the day's action. There was no rain in the morning but the skies were grey and the tarmac took a long time to dry out.
The changing track surface made comparisons difficult but Jarno did some running to test tyres in different conditions. When the track dried out in the sun after lunch he successfully completed a programme that included set-up for the Belgian Grand Prix along with suspension, aerodynamics work and starts.
Toyota's next racing appointment is the European Grand Prix next week at the Nurburgring, the closest circuit to the team's Cologne factory.
Jarno Trulli:
"It's nice to come back here to Spa because it's the best track in the world. The organisers have done major work in the paddock and the results look good. The circuit has also been resurfaced and there have been changes to the Bus Stop which have improved the corner. The pit entry and the pit exit are a bit narrow but overall I like what has been done. Of course you never know what weather you'll get here and it's always difficult to test in conditions like we saw today."
"We went out for a few runs on the damp track in the morning but the racing line soon became inconsistent. It was dry in the corners but wet on the straights so that meant it was difficult to carry out much useful comparative work. The track was dry in the afternoon so we were able to run through our programme. We haven't concentrated on lap times but the car felt good. So it's been a positive day and I look forward to coming back for the race."
Pascal Vasselon, Senior General Manager Chassis:
"Spa is a unique track so the testing we have done this week has been focused firmly on the race here in September. The unsettled weather has been representative of the range of conditions that we could face during the race weekend itself. So we have been very careful to collect data in every single type of weather that we have seen in the last three days."
"We have also had a wide range of developments to test on the car from suspension to new aero parts. Overall everything has gone well and Jarno and Ralf felt comfortable and quick in the car so they should be well prepared for the Belgian Grand Prix."
Jarno Trulli
Chassis: TF107/03
Best lap time: 1m 48.491s
Total laps: 76
Total distance: 532.3km
motorsport.com
The changing track surface made comparisons difficult but Jarno did some running to test tyres in different conditions. When the track dried out in the sun after lunch he successfully completed a programme that included set-up for the Belgian Grand Prix along with suspension, aerodynamics work and starts.
Toyota's next racing appointment is the European Grand Prix next week at the Nurburgring, the closest circuit to the team's Cologne factory.
Jarno Trulli:
"It's nice to come back here to Spa because it's the best track in the world. The organisers have done major work in the paddock and the results look good. The circuit has also been resurfaced and there have been changes to the Bus Stop which have improved the corner. The pit entry and the pit exit are a bit narrow but overall I like what has been done. Of course you never know what weather you'll get here and it's always difficult to test in conditions like we saw today."
"We went out for a few runs on the damp track in the morning but the racing line soon became inconsistent. It was dry in the corners but wet on the straights so that meant it was difficult to carry out much useful comparative work. The track was dry in the afternoon so we were able to run through our programme. We haven't concentrated on lap times but the car felt good. So it's been a positive day and I look forward to coming back for the race."
Pascal Vasselon, Senior General Manager Chassis:
"Spa is a unique track so the testing we have done this week has been focused firmly on the race here in September. The unsettled weather has been representative of the range of conditions that we could face during the race weekend itself. So we have been very careful to collect data in every single type of weather that we have seen in the last three days."
"We have also had a wide range of developments to test on the car from suspension to new aero parts. Overall everything has gone well and Jarno and Ralf felt comfortable and quick in the car so they should be well prepared for the Belgian Grand Prix."
Jarno Trulli
Chassis: TF107/03
Best lap time: 1m 48.491s
Total laps: 76
Total distance: 532.3km
motorsport.com
South Africa: Locally Manufactured Toyota Corollas Head to Europe
As from next year, the South African subsidiary of motor company Toyota is expected to export its locally produced Toyota Corollas from Durban to Europe - a move set to boost the economy of KwaZulu-Natal.
The decision was taken following a meeting on Wednesday in Tokyo, Japan between the provincial government and Toyota representatives.
At the meeting with KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sbu Ndebele, the vice chairperson of Toyota Motor Corporation, Katsuhiro Nakagawa said Toyota South Africa would produce Corollas specifically to be exported to Europe.
Mr Nakagawa announced that about 50 engineers had already been sent to South Africa to help with the manufacturing of the vehicles.
"Toyota is determined to produce more vehicles in South Africa which can be exported to other countries.
"The exporting of vehicles from South Africa to other countries is very important for South Africa's economy. The automotive industry is also important for the development of South Africa," he said.
He said they also wanted an increased presence in Japanese automotive parts suppliers in South Africa as the country was considered to be the gateway to the rest of Africa.
"We want to make our South African plant more competitive compared to Toyota plants in other countries," he said.
In a bid to ensure the competitiveness of their South African plant, he acknowledged that the training of workers would be important to achieve this.
"If we skill more workers, more automotive parts supplier companies will come to South Africa".
He explained that they planned to establish a Toyota Training School in South Africa, which would benefit the company's employees and create a much needed skills base for growth.
"We want to listen to the voice of the workers to be able to produce more vehicles, more efficiently and effectively. Training, development and education of our workforce must be intensified," said Mr Nakagawa.
The production of the latest model of the Toyota Corolla in South Africa is currently proceeding well and will be launched in August this year.
"However, we are trying hard to introduce new models of Toyota to be produced is South Africa as well," he said.
Premier Ndebele appreciated the confidence shown by the company to South Africa, particularly KwaZulu-Natal.
"We appreciate the new investment of more than R4 billion at the plant at Prospecton in Durban. However, we would like to see Toyota producing other automotive components in KwaZulu-Natal as well," he said.
Mr Ndebele said they would welcome the development of an Automotive Supplier Park in the province.
He said it was important to accelerate training of the current and future workforce.
"Continuous training is very important. We have to train all the time. For the market in South Africa, the market in Africa and the market elsewhere, training is important," he said.
allafrica.com
The decision was taken following a meeting on Wednesday in Tokyo, Japan between the provincial government and Toyota representatives.
At the meeting with KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sbu Ndebele, the vice chairperson of Toyota Motor Corporation, Katsuhiro Nakagawa said Toyota South Africa would produce Corollas specifically to be exported to Europe.
Mr Nakagawa announced that about 50 engineers had already been sent to South Africa to help with the manufacturing of the vehicles.
"Toyota is determined to produce more vehicles in South Africa which can be exported to other countries.
"The exporting of vehicles from South Africa to other countries is very important for South Africa's economy. The automotive industry is also important for the development of South Africa," he said.
He said they also wanted an increased presence in Japanese automotive parts suppliers in South Africa as the country was considered to be the gateway to the rest of Africa.
"We want to make our South African plant more competitive compared to Toyota plants in other countries," he said.
In a bid to ensure the competitiveness of their South African plant, he acknowledged that the training of workers would be important to achieve this.
"If we skill more workers, more automotive parts supplier companies will come to South Africa".
He explained that they planned to establish a Toyota Training School in South Africa, which would benefit the company's employees and create a much needed skills base for growth.
"We want to listen to the voice of the workers to be able to produce more vehicles, more efficiently and effectively. Training, development and education of our workforce must be intensified," said Mr Nakagawa.
The production of the latest model of the Toyota Corolla in South Africa is currently proceeding well and will be launched in August this year.
"However, we are trying hard to introduce new models of Toyota to be produced is South Africa as well," he said.
Premier Ndebele appreciated the confidence shown by the company to South Africa, particularly KwaZulu-Natal.
"We appreciate the new investment of more than R4 billion at the plant at Prospecton in Durban. However, we would like to see Toyota producing other automotive components in KwaZulu-Natal as well," he said.
Mr Ndebele said they would welcome the development of an Automotive Supplier Park in the province.
He said it was important to accelerate training of the current and future workforce.
"Continuous training is very important. We have to train all the time. For the market in South Africa, the market in Africa and the market elsewhere, training is important," he said.
allafrica.com
Toyota Needs Discounts for Tundra Goal, Press Says
July 10 (Bloomberg) -- Toyota Motor Corp., the world's second-largest automaker, needs discounts on the Tundra truck to reach the goal of doubling its U.S. share for large pickups, the company's North American president said.
``Incentives for us are not strategic, they are tactical,'' Jim Press of Toyota Motor North America said in an interview in New York today. ``In the dealer-transaction price game, where the competitors really set the stage with their incentive activity, it drives us to the point where we recognize that incentives are part of this market.''
Toyota in June began discounts of as much as $3,500 on the 2007 Tundra, four months after the truck's release. The pickup's list prices range from $22,290 to $41,850. Edmunds.com estimates the average Tundra incentive was $5,083 last month, more than on General Motors Corp. or Ford Motor Co. large pickups.
The revamped Tundra, built in San Antonio, is bigger and more powerful than its predecessor and for the first time puts Toyota in direct competition with Ford's F-Series and GM's Chevrolet Silverado trucks. Tundra U.S. sales rose 44 percent to 82,840 in this year's first half, as the industrywide total for large pickups fell 3.1 percent.
The size of incentives on the Tundra is unusual for any new Toyota product, said John Casesa, managing partner of Casesa Strategic Advisors LLC in New York.
`Fighting Back Ferociously'
``To some extent they are really struggling with Tundra, and domestic companies are fighting back ferociously,'' Casesa said.
The average Tundra transaction price, or what customers actually pay including incentives, was $33,605 in June, according to Edmunds.com. The average was $29,657 for Ford's F-150s and $29,151 for GM's Silverado 1500s, the Santa Monica, California- based company said.
Gasoline prices that have stayed near $3 a gallon this year have slowed sales of the trucks, yet consumer demand for pickups won't fade in the long term, Press said.
``Fuel prices will not substantially change the dynamics and the size of the market, but they will require product attributes that respond more to the environment of higher gas prices or greenhouse-gas concerns or environmental needs,'' he said.
Toyota is selling ``about double the volume of the last- generation Tundra in terms of where we were last year, in a segment that's down,'' Press said. ``We're right on our target.''
The company needs to offer a competitive large truck to keep its U.S. buyers from shifting to other automakers, he said. ``Long term, it's a segment we really need to be in to continue to grow with our customers as they come into our product line.''
GM is the world's largest automaker by annual sales volume. Toyota beat GM by that measure in this year's first quarter.
The Toyota City, Japan-based company's American depositary receipts fell $1.22 to $125.71 at 4:01 p.m. in New York Stock Exchange composite trading. They have declined 6.4 percent this year
bloomberg.com
``Incentives for us are not strategic, they are tactical,'' Jim Press of Toyota Motor North America said in an interview in New York today. ``In the dealer-transaction price game, where the competitors really set the stage with their incentive activity, it drives us to the point where we recognize that incentives are part of this market.''
Toyota in June began discounts of as much as $3,500 on the 2007 Tundra, four months after the truck's release. The pickup's list prices range from $22,290 to $41,850. Edmunds.com estimates the average Tundra incentive was $5,083 last month, more than on General Motors Corp. or Ford Motor Co. large pickups.
The revamped Tundra, built in San Antonio, is bigger and more powerful than its predecessor and for the first time puts Toyota in direct competition with Ford's F-Series and GM's Chevrolet Silverado trucks. Tundra U.S. sales rose 44 percent to 82,840 in this year's first half, as the industrywide total for large pickups fell 3.1 percent.
The size of incentives on the Tundra is unusual for any new Toyota product, said John Casesa, managing partner of Casesa Strategic Advisors LLC in New York.
`Fighting Back Ferociously'
``To some extent they are really struggling with Tundra, and domestic companies are fighting back ferociously,'' Casesa said.
The average Tundra transaction price, or what customers actually pay including incentives, was $33,605 in June, according to Edmunds.com. The average was $29,657 for Ford's F-150s and $29,151 for GM's Silverado 1500s, the Santa Monica, California- based company said.
Gasoline prices that have stayed near $3 a gallon this year have slowed sales of the trucks, yet consumer demand for pickups won't fade in the long term, Press said.
``Fuel prices will not substantially change the dynamics and the size of the market, but they will require product attributes that respond more to the environment of higher gas prices or greenhouse-gas concerns or environmental needs,'' he said.
Toyota is selling ``about double the volume of the last- generation Tundra in terms of where we were last year, in a segment that's down,'' Press said. ``We're right on our target.''
The company needs to offer a competitive large truck to keep its U.S. buyers from shifting to other automakers, he said. ``Long term, it's a segment we really need to be in to continue to grow with our customers as they come into our product line.''
GM is the world's largest automaker by annual sales volume. Toyota beat GM by that measure in this year's first quarter.
The Toyota City, Japan-based company's American depositary receipts fell $1.22 to $125.71 at 4:01 p.m. in New York Stock Exchange composite trading. They have declined 6.4 percent this year
bloomberg.com
Toyota Claims All Cars Will Be Hybrids
Jim Press, the President of Toyota North America, came out with a very bold statement recently, saying that "eventually, everything will be a hybrid." What's more, he's so confident in Toyota's ability and so proud of their product line that he's comparing the "ground-breaking" Toyota Prius hybrid with the Ford Model T.
As I'm sure you already know, the Ford Model T is often lauded as the first of its kind, a car that became widely available to the masses. It was revolutionary for its time and it has shaped the automotive industry into what it is today. Toyota, or rather, Jim Press is saying that the Prius is equally revolutionary.
Although I agree that we will be seeing more hybrids in the coming years, I don't believe that everything will be a hybrid. Personally, I think that our reliance on fossil fuels will have to dry up at some point, forcing us to drive cars that don't need any sort of conventional gasoline whatsoever.
mobilemag.com
As I'm sure you already know, the Ford Model T is often lauded as the first of its kind, a car that became widely available to the masses. It was revolutionary for its time and it has shaped the automotive industry into what it is today. Toyota, or rather, Jim Press is saying that the Prius is equally revolutionary.
Although I agree that we will be seeing more hybrids in the coming years, I don't believe that everything will be a hybrid. Personally, I think that our reliance on fossil fuels will have to dry up at some point, forcing us to drive cars that don't need any sort of conventional gasoline whatsoever.
mobilemag.com
Toyota stuns Saatchi with ad business switch to CHI
Toyota has dealt Saatchi & Saatchi a hammerblow by moving the lion's share of its £50m UK advertising business into CHI & Partners.
The Japanese car marque is Saatchi's second-biggest global account behind Procter & Gamble, spending $2.5bn (£1.75bn) a year, and the UK is its biggest single European market.
It is thought that CHI, which sold a 49.9% stake in the agency to WPP earlier this year (MW April 19), will be handed the majority of the UK business in the coming weeks after a pitch against incumbent Saatchi London.
CHI has been making inroads into the Toyota account since 2004, when it was appointed to handle the launch of the Aygo model across Europe. The agency has since won pan-European briefs for the Corolla and the Yaris and handles Toyota's luxury brand Lexus across Europe. However, the only UK-specific project it had won until now was Toyota¹s tactical advertising business at the start of last year.
The news comes as Saatchi struggles to find a UK chief executive to replace Lee Daley, who left to join Manchester United as commercial director in March. Sources claim Saatchi's EMEA, Asia and Latin America chief executive Jim O'Mahony, who has been leading the search for Daley¹s replacement, could now be handed responsibility for the UK agency on top of his other duties.
Toyota's decision to move the majority of the UK account out of Saatchi follows several changes to the company's senior team in the last year.
Its former European marketing director Jon Williams moved to Toyota GB as commercial director earlier this year (MW January 18) to replace Paul Philpott, who left to join Kia UK as managing director. Toyota GB's long-serving managing director Graham Smith left to take a new role with Toyota Europe last year (MW May 11, 2006).
A source close to WPP says that the company's chief executive Sir Martin Sorrell has been tracking the Toyota business for a number of years and that CHI¹s presence on its roster was a primary reason he bought the stake in the agency.
However, industry experts suggest that the Toyota news will not sit well with the Japanese marque's rival Ford, one of WPP's biggest clients.
Publicis-owned ZenithOptimedia handles Toyota's media planning and buying.
It is not clear if the CHI appointment will affect that relationship.
CHI founding partner Johnny Hornby denies the agency has won the UK account and plays down suggestions it will take a more prominent role in Europe and possibly in the US. He says: "As we understand it, it's business as usual in the UK and we haven't won the business in Europe or America, as much as we¹d love to one day." Toyota GB marketing director Mark Hall adds: "As of today, we are still working with both Saatchi & Saatchi and CHI. For the next few months, there will not be any tangible change. Beyond that, we'll see." Saatchi was unavailable for comment as Marketing Week went to press.
marketingweek.co.uk
Toyota keeps on truckin'
Toyota has been struggling during its first season on NASCAR's Nextel Cup circuit and Busch Series, but it has been dominant during its time in NASCAR's Craftsman Truck Series, which heads to Kentucky Speedway Saturday for the Built Ford Tough 225.
When Toyota joined the Truck Series in 2004, it posted four victories. In 2005, it won nine times and finished second in the manufacturers' standings behind Chevrolet. Last year, it won a series-best 12 of 25 events and captured its first championship with driver Todd Bodine. This season, Toyota is leading the series and manufacturers' standings with six wins in 12 races.
But that success hasn't translated to Kentucky Speedway, where Toyota is 0-for-3. Chevrolet is the track leader among truckmakers with three wins, including the past two, and Dodge and Ford have won twice. How Toyota is faring on the truck series and the two stock-car series:
news.enquirer.com
Friday, July 6, 2007
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
Indias Leading Automobile Portal Launches Real Estate Website
Sams Auto Trade Pvt Ltd, Indias leading online automobile portal, has recently announced its launch of a real estate website.
The new website will allow users to register and advertise properties for sale, rent or lease. This new website has much more to offer and provides a platform for new real estate agents and brokers to reach the upper market.
The new portal can be reached via http://www.realestate4india.com/
The new website will allow users to register and advertise properties for sale, rent or lease. This new website has much more to offer and provides a platform for new real estate agents and brokers to reach the upper market.
The new portal can be reached via http://www.realestate4india.com/
Monday, April 30, 2007
Car Dealers - Register & Advertise Free Now!
At last, the management has decided to let dealers register and advertise their cars free. This is a big move in India's no 1 used car portal. This new step will provide the small and big dealers in finding a new avenue.
This is also a big boon to the new starter used car dealer. He/She can now get into the top spot of advertising for free and getting the best customers.
Good luck dealers! Tell us your story and show us your support!
Go here to register as a dealer and advertise your stock now. http://www.carsalesindia.com/dealerregister.jsp
http://www.carsalesindia.com/ is India's leading used car portal and provides excellent services including live customer leads and reports.
This is also a big boon to the new starter used car dealer. He/She can now get into the top spot of advertising for free and getting the best customers.
Good luck dealers! Tell us your story and show us your support!
Go here to register as a dealer and advertise your stock now. http://www.carsalesindia.com/dealerregister.jsp
http://www.carsalesindia.com/ is India's leading used car portal and provides excellent services including live customer leads and reports.
Thursday, March 8, 2007
Friday, March 2, 2007
Ferrari 550 Vs BMW M3
Street racing Ferrari 550 Vs BMW M3 supercharged
Ferrari 550 Vs BMW M3 - The best home videos are here
Ferrari 550 Vs BMW M3 - The best home videos are here
BMW Bra -Sexy Model
Another BMW funny ad that hass to do more with pretty girls than cars
BMW Bra - The most amazing home videos are here
BMW Bra - The most amazing home videos are here
BMW Brake Test
A BMW compared with an F1 car in a brake test.
BMW Brake Test - Watch the top videos of the week here
BMW Brake Test - Watch the top videos of the week here
Hillclimb V8 BMW M3
An E36 M3 with an M5's 5.0L V8. Its an Austrian Hillclimb car now. Insane handling and even more insane sound and speed. Turn up the speakers on this one!
Hillclimb V8 BMW M3 - Funny videos are here
Hillclimb V8 BMW M3 - Funny videos are here
Saturday, February 24, 2007
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
BMW M5 vs Alpina B5 vs Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG vs Brabus E V12
German car show Abenteuer Auto item: BMW M5 vs Alpina B5 vs Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG vs Brabus E V12.
Saturday, February 3, 2007
Thursday, February 1, 2007
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Thursday, January 25, 2007
The New BMW 325i
Technical Data
Cylinder
L6-Cylinder
Displacement (cc)
2497
Max power (bhp @ rpm)
218 @ 6500
Max torque (Nm @ rpm)
250 @ 2750
Petrol / Diesel
Petrol
Transmission type
6-Speed automatic transmission
with Steptronic
Acceleration 0 - 100km/h (s)
7.7
Top speed (km/h)
242
Fuel consumption (ltr/100km)
9.0
Nett Selling Price RM287,573.00
Personal Registration
Registration Fees & HP Endorsement RM350.00
Road Tax RM877.00
OTR Retail Price without Insurance RM288,800.00
Sunday, January 14, 2007
Monday, January 8, 2007
Sunday, January 7, 2007
Saturday, January 6, 2007
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