Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Edmunds data suggests Honda Crosstour buyers don't know what it competes against either]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/edmunds-data-suggests-honda-crosstour-buyers-dont-know-what-it/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/edmunds-data-suggests-honda-crosstour-buyers-dont-know-what-it/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/edmunds-data-suggests-honda-crosstour-buyers-dont-know-what-it/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2010 Honda Accord Crosstour - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour hasn't won too many fans amongst the automotive press, and while we're sure it fills the Accord Wagon space in Honda's lineup, the way the Crosstour has a foot both in the wagon and CUV realms still has us scratching our heads. Taking a peek at what's being cross-shopped against Honda's latest offering proves potential customers are in the same boat.

Fitting every car into a neat categorical box is a fool's errand, but the Crosstour is apparently making everyone wonder just where it belongs. According to early Edmunds' data, buyers seem to think the Crosstour competes most closely with the Toyota Venza, with ToMoCo's wagon-on-stilts being cross-shopping against the Crosstour more than any other vehicle. Other Honda models are also heavily considered against the Crosstour, according to Edmunds Auto Observer, as are a panoply of other cars. Luxury rides like the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series wind up in the comparison column, as do more traditional crossovers like the Chevrolet Equinox and Toyota RAV-4.

While the Crosstour has been called lots of unflattering things, it's clear that figuring out whether it's neatly described as fish or fowl is more of a thorny chestnut. That said, none of this is exactly important if the car is generating showroom traffic and moving units.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour


[Source: Edmunds Auto Observer]

Edmunds data suggests Honda Crosstour buyers don't know what it competes against either originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accord wagonAccordWagoncrosstourcrosstour crossovercrosstour salesCrosstourCrossoverCrosstourSaleshondahonda accord crosstourhonda crossoverhonda crosstourhonda saleshonda wagonHondaAccordCrosstourHondaCrossoverHondaCrosstourHondaSalesHondaWagonFri, 20 Nov 2009 17:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Pole Dance: NHTSA to add new side-impact crash test? [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/pole-dance-nhtsa-to-add-new-side-impact-crash-test-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/pole-dance-nhtsa-to-add-new-side-impact-crash-test-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/pole-dance-nhtsa-to-add-new-side-impact-crash-test-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

NHTSA side-impact pole test - click above to watch the video

Not satisfied with cars that manage crash forces well enough to avoid spilling your drink, and engines that run so clean they'll barely asphyxiate ants, a new crash test is reportedly coming in the works from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Along with the test will come new dummies and new testing equipment, all of which means it's likely to have a big impact on future car designs. The side-impact pole test will simulate side collisions with objects like trees or telephone poles, a type of accident that current side-impact tests don't accurately simulate.

According to The New York Times, the new test will use a 10-inch round pole that will collide with the car at speeds of up to 20 mph. A 75-degree angle will be used, and the point of impact will be just aft of the A-pillar. Naturally, automakers won't have to pass the test all at once, the standard will be phased in. For 2011, 20 percent of an automaker's fleet will have to meet the standard and by 2014, the pole crash standard will be at 100 percent - all new cars will have to comply.

It's a change that could potentially change the face of auto design, the same way pedestrian impact standards in Europe have led to some peculiar front sheetmetal. Materials changes may also be employed to meet the regulation, with additional high-strength steel being substituted. The more conventional metals currently used are easier to form, while stronger metals require all sorts of hot pressing and tempering to be put into shape. Manufacturing cost will go up, which means prices will probably also increase, or profit will decrease while prices hold steady. Safe cars are a laudable goal, but how safe is safe enough? Follow the jump to see a video of how Ford's 2010 Mustang GT convertible and coupe models fare, then let us know what you think by leaving a comment.

[Source: The New York Times]

Continue reading Pole Dance: NHTSA to add new side-impact crash test? [w/VIDEO]

Pole Dance: NHTSA to add new side-impact crash test? [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crash testcrash test videocrash test videoscrash testingcrash testsCrashTestCrashTestingCrashTestsCrashTestVideoCrashTestVideosfordford mustangford mustang crash testFordMustangFordMustangCrashTestmustangmustang crash testMustangCrashTestnhtsanhtsa standardnhtsa videoNhtsaStandardNhtsaVideopole impact crash testPoleImpactCrashTestvideovideosWed, 18 Nov 2009 14:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #153 - with Phil Berg]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/autoblog-podcast-153-with-phil-berg/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/autoblog-podcast-153-with-phil-berg/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/autoblog-podcast-153-with-phil-berg/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!


Long-serving automotive journalist Phil Berg joins regulars Chris, Sam, and Dan to chew over some recent items. Starting us off, the car we all want in our driveways, the Cadillac CTS-V Sportwagon continues to be grist for the rumormill. Staying with GM, we move on to the debut of the Buick Regal and its potential use of GM's latest mild hybrid system. We next hit up the coming Impala, which will not be a version of the stillborn Pontiac G8, before we comment briefly about third quarter reports and the fervor surrounding GM's financials. The final two items before we hit questions are the delay of BMW's new X3, and a possible wagon or SUV version of the Toyota Prius.

Let us know what you think by dropping us an email at Podcast at Autoblog dot com, reviewing the show in iTunes, filling out our survey, or even leaving us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Thanks for listening, we'll see you next week!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #153 - with Phil Berg

Autoblog Podcast #153 - with Phil Berg originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The position of the plastic fuel tanks in 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokees makes them potential fireballs, argues the Center for Auto Safety. The nonprofit organization says that the fuel tank's location makes the pre-2005 Grand Cherokees prone to catching on fire when involved in an accident. Located behind the rear axle and hanging down below the bumper, shorter vehicles can impact the tank directly, says the Center. The fuel filler neck has also sheared off during some of these incidents, leading to fuel spills and the increased potential for fires.

The Center is petitioning the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to open an investigation and recall some three million vehicles. Chrysler says the Grand Cherokee will come out of the study having met or exceeded any applicable standards. The organization also notes that NHTSA's files reveal 1993-2004 Jeeps involved in 172 crashes with fires and 254 deaths, while just one post-'05 Cherokee has had a fatal fire incident. The defect petition got underway with NHTSA on November 6, and could take a while, though this isn't the first time the agency has looked at problems with these Jeeps.

NHTSA's "defect petition" process began earlier this month, but a resolution isn't immediately forthcoming - such investigations can take many months - possibly years.

[Source: AutoWeek]

NHTSA to investigate 3 million 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee over gas tank fires? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Center for Auto SafetyCenterForAutoSafetycherokee nhtsaCherokeeNhtsaGrand Cherokeegrand cherokee firegrand cherokee investigationgrand cherokee recallGrandCherokeeGrandCherokeeFireGrandCherokeeInvestigationGrandCherokeeRecalljeep nhtsaJeepNhtsaNHTSAnhtsa jeepnhtsa recallNhtsaJeepNhtsaRecallThu, 12 Nov 2009 09:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Carbon Footprints: Ditch the dog, get a Hummer H2, save the planet?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/carbon-footprints-ditch-the-dog-get-a-hummer-h2-save-the-plan/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/carbon-footprints-ditch-the-dog-get-a-hummer-h2-save-the-plan/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/carbon-footprints-ditch-the-dog-get-a-hummer-h2-save-the-plan/#commentsFiled under: ,



If you don't like dogs, there's now a new reason to continue avoiding canis domesticus. New Zealanders Robert and Brenda Vale have put forth the hypothesis that the care and feeding of a pooch is more environmentally harmful than rolling in a Toyota Land Cruiser. Those shifty, antisocial felines aren't much better, so don't get any more smug than you already are, cat people. One ten-pound feline's care is the same to the environment as a 3300-pound Volkswagen Golf, the theory goes.

The Vales present this work in their book "Time to Eat the Dog? The Real Guide to Sustainable Living." The animals that wind up in dog food burden the land while they're alive, and the amount of goodies that people lavish upon their dogs, from squeaky toy to special grooming sessions also do the equivalent work of burning the rainforest.

The claims have been disputed, of course - no doubt by more than a few dog lovers. The chief researcher for Seattle's Sightline Institute, Clark Williams-Derry, ran some numbers of his own and came up with results that don't square with the Vales. The think-tank scientist calculated that for the Vale's numbers to add up, the average dog would have to eat twice as much as the average person, an idea that is difficult to fathom since people are heavier than most dogs.

The takeaway from all this is simply that dog (and cat) ownership does have an ecological footprint. Like everything else in your life, keeping a pet is intertwined with our insatiable consumerism. The truly concerned will carefully consider where the products and items they purchase for their pets are made, what goes into them, and what that means for the planet. The rest of you will keep letting adorable little Beaufort leaves deposit on our lawns.

[Source: Seattle Times | Image: Andrew H. Walker/Getty]

Carbon Footprints: Ditch the dog, get a Hummer H2, save the planet? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!

The usual suspects of Chris, Sam, and Dan are joined this week by Autoblog Editor Extraordinaire Chris Paukert. It's a packed 'cast, starting with the apparent go-ahead of the Cadillac Converj. The future of the Dodge Viper figures in to a few minutes of debate, as does Chrysler's marathon presentation about the company's plans going forward. Moving from Chrysler to the company's former overlords at Daimler, we talk about Mr. Paukert's Wild Ride in the AMG SLS, and take a complete left turn into Ford Ranger land and talk about the one we won't be getting. Toyota's floor mat/throttle controversy finishes up the topics before we take a couple questions and call it a night. A good, solid hour and a half for your enjoyment.

Let us know what you think by dropping us an email at Podcast at Autoblog dot com, reviewing the show in iTunes, filling out our survey, or even leaving us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Thanks for listening, we'll see you next week!

Gallery: Podcast listener pictures

Marcus's 2008 Mazda5

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #152 - Paukert enhanced!

Autoblog Podcast #152 - Paukert enhanced! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2010 VR Camaro - Click above for high-res gallery

The idea sure sounds horrible; a Camaro with styling cues from the Lamborghini Reventon; but seeing the VR Camaro tells a different story. Available only in two color schemes, a Bandit-pleasing black and gold, or Hurst-reminiscent white and gold, the VR looks badass, either way. Making it past the bombastic fascia, the rest of the body modifications are knife-edged but less over-the-top. The decklid gets a '70s-inspired ducktail spoiler, and while the styling tweaks are un-subtle, Denmark's Hermann and Brandt has used a balanced hand.

It's not all show and no go, either. The body mods have been rendered out of carbon fiber, and the big 22-inch wheels are actually lighter than original equipment. A new coil-over suspension replaces stock components, and upgraded brakes carry 12-piston (!) front calipers while rear brakes are forced to make do with eight pistons per caliper - enough for two complete braking systems in some lesser cars. The engine is also treated to a supercharger of Union Jack origins for an expected 600-plus horsepower.

Considering that GM is not exporting the Camaro to European markets that require a steering wheel on the right, the only way to get one is by importing a wrong-hand-drive (to them) version or waiting for this VR Camaro, which will be the first LHD conversion available, to arrive early next year.


Gallery: VR Camaro


[Source: CAR]

Part Chevy, Part Lamborghini: UK getting VR Camaro originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 11:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!

Abuelsamid, Lieberman, Roth and Shunk. Sounds like a law firm, but it's this week's podcast crew. Car and Driver editor-in-chief Eddie Alterman bravely wades into the pool and joins us for Episode #151 of the Autoblog Podcast, as well.

We spend a goodly amount of time going over what's in all five garages this week, before picking up actual topics. Once into news, we move through the Honda Accord Crosstour's pricing and impending launch, Ford's profitable quarter and union dealings, Edmunds' dust-up with the White House, and wrap with what might be cool at the crazy automotive cavalcade that is SEMA. It's an hour and twenty minutes of rollicking good times, so let us know what you think by dropping us an email at Podcast at Autoblog dot com, reviewing the show in iTunes, filling out our survey, or even leaving us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Thanks for listening, we'll see you next week!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #151: With Eddie Alterman of Car and Driver

Autoblog Podcast #151: With Eddie Alterman of Car and Driver originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblog podcastAutoblogPodcastcar and drivercar driverCarAndDriverCarDrivercash for clunkersCashForClunkerseddie altermanEddieAltermanedmundsedmunds white houseEdmundsWhiteHouseFord salesford sales gainFord sales resultsford uawFordSalesFordSalesGainFordSalesResultsFordUawpodcastSEMAsema 2009Sema2009Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:50:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #151Autoblog1:20:42autoblog podcast, eddie alterman, car & driver, alterman, sema, uaw, ford, ford uaw, edmunds, cash for clunkers<![CDATA[2010 Honda Accord Crosstour to start at $29,670]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/2010-honda-accord-crosstour-to-start-at-29-670/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/2010-honda-accord-crosstour-to-start-at-29-670/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/2010-honda-accord-crosstour-to-start-at-29-670/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Honda Accord Crosstour - Click above for high-res image gallery

UPDATE: Video of Accord Crosstour running footage added after the jump.

It's fair to say that the 2010 Accord Crosstour has caused Honda some heartburn in the U.S. already, but Japanese brand's new CUV has taken another step toward the showroom regardless. Honda has already given us some wheel time with the Crosstour, so keep your eyes peeled for our review at noon Eastern today. If that's not enough to keep you occupied, pricing for the 2010 Crosstour has just been released, and the new model starts just slightly under $30,000, running up to about $37,000. Honda has also released tons of new Accord Crosstour glamor shots (check 'em out in the gallery below).

EPA efficiency numbers are also included with the pricing, helping buyers understand what the care and feeding of an Accord Crosstour will do to their wallets. An EX-L loaded up with all-wheel drive ("4WD" in Hondaspeak), all the luxury goodies, and navigation earns an EPA estimated 20 mpg combined. Honda's 3.5-liter V6 with Variable Cylinder Management earns 25 mpg on the highway and 17 mpg city. Front-drive ("2WD) Crosstours muster 18/27, which are competitive figures for its class. Speaking of classes, don't forget to check out our First Drive at noon to see if the Crosstour is the Valedictorian or in need of remedial instruction.


Gallery: 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour


[Source: Honda]

Continue reading 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour to start at $29,670

2010 Honda Accord Crosstour to start at $29,670 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 honda accord crosstour2010HondaAccordCrosstouraccordaccord crosstouraccord crosstour pricingAccordCrosstourAccordCrosstourPricingcrosstourcrosstour pricingcrosstour videoCrosstourPricingCrosstourVideohondahonda accordhonda accord crosstourhonda crosstour videoHondaAccordHondaAccordCrosstourHondaCrosstourVideopricingvideoTue, 03 Nov 2009 09:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford and Canadian Auto Workers reportedly reach a deal]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/31/ford-and-canadian-auto-workers-reportedly-reach-a-deal/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/31/ford-and-canadian-auto-workers-reportedly-reach-a-deal/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/31/ford-and-canadian-auto-workers-reportedly-reach-a-deal/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ford reaches deal with CAW

Ford Motor Company and the leadership of the Canadian Auto Workers union have reached a tentative agreement after a marathon four-day wrap-up to negotiations. Union membership needs to approve the deal, which will guarantee a Great White North presence for Ford until at least 2012. Voting is underway this weekend, and if approved, the CAW will be responsible for building 10 percent of Ford's North American production, down from the current 13 percent, which the union had been trying to hold on to.

Workers did agree to time off reductions, and pledged that new employees will have to pay into their pensions. Ford's given its word that the company will build as many vehicles in Canada as it sells there, and the union deemed the pledge good enough to grant GM- and Chrysler-style concessions to Ford.

The Panther platform has been given its last rites; the St. Thomas Assembly plant is the only Ford location currently building the body-on-frame biggies, and that plant will close in September 2011. The 1,600 people in Ontario who build Town Cars and Grand Marquis are understandably unhappy about word that Ford intends to shutter the plant, but the Panther has cheated death more than once. This time, it may stick.

Better news for CAW members is that Ford's Oakville assembly complex, also in Ontario, has the go-ahead to add a third shift when needed. Ford also says it will manufacture a new vehicle at Oakville, which currently builds the Edge, Flex, MKX, and MKT crossovers, but that will likely come after the current labor agreement expires.

[Source: CBC News, Photo: Ford/CC]

Ford and Canadian Auto Workers reportedly reach a deal originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 31 Oct 2009 16:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadacanada fordCanadaFordfordford assembly plantsford canadaford cawFord crossoverford crown victoriaford edgeford flexford motor companyFord Motor Company FoMoCoford of canadaford ontarioford pantherford st thomasford unionford union dealford unionsFordAssemblyPlantsFordCanadaFordCawFordCrossoverFordCrownVictoriaFordEdgeFordFlexFordMotorCompanyFordMotorCompanyFomocoFordOfCanadaFordOntarioFordPantherFordStThomasFordUnionFordUnionDealFordUnionsgrand marquisGrandMarquislincolnLincoln MKTLincoln MKT crossoverLincoln MKT FlexLincoln MKXLincolnMktLincolnMktCrossoverLincolnMktFlexLincolnMkxOakvilleoakville assemblyoakville plantOakvilleAssemblyOakvillePlantpanther platformPantherPlatformst thomas assemblyst thomas plantStThomasAssemblyStThomasPlanttown carTownCarunionSat, 31 Oct 2009 16:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2010 Kia Forte continues string of hits from South Korea]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/2010-kia-forte-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/2010-kia-forte-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/2010-kia-forte-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Kia Forte SX - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's not that there was much wrong with the Forte's predecessor. In fact, the last time we drove a Kia Spectra, we walked away wondering if anything more might be overkill. The Spectra was good but tended to blend in with a crowd, and Kia's not into playing the role of wallflower anymore. In contrast, the Forte boldly saunters into the middle of the dance floor, comfortable in the hot glow of the pin spot, with the confidence of Tony Manero after a trip to the tailor.

Clearly, the Kia Forte looks remarkably better than the econobox it replaces and attracts the right kind of attention to the brand. Everywhere it goes, the Forte is a surprising conversation piece, though many aren't sure exactly what it is. With Kia's value pricing, you also get a lot for your dollar. So does it have the hat trick of style, value and performance? When the key to this black Forte SX tester was pressed into the palm of our hand, we were ready to find out.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Kia Forte SX


Photos copyright (C)2009 Dan Roth / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2010 Kia Forte continues string of hits from South Korea

Review: 2010 Kia Forte continues string of hits from South Korea originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!


It's Episode #150 of the Autoblog Podcast, and we raided the crypt to give you your buck-and-a-half's worth. Former podcast staples John Neff and Chris Paukert have been unearthed and join Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid, and Dan Roth for this milestone occasion.

A review of the Tokyo Motor Show starts things off, and then we drill down to talk more specifically about both ends of Toyota's sports spectrum: the Lexus LFA and the Toyota FT-86 concepts. Other Tokyo standouts like the Honda CR-Z and Subaru Hybrid Tourer concept weave into the conversation before we turn to the next-generation Honda Civic, rumored to be lighter and smaller. From there, things devolve entirely before this week's big crew wraps it up.

We'll hit your questions again next time around, keep them rolling in to Podcast at Autoblog dot com. We appreciate you filling our survey with data, and remember, if you get lonely, there's always Joystiq and Engadget. Thanks for listening! You can also leave us a message at our new Google Voice number 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Who knows... we might even play it on the podcast!


Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #150 - Tokyo Motor Show Edition

Autoblog Podcast #150 - Tokyo Motor Show Edition originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pattern bargaining is how things tend to be done in Detroit, a strategy which ensures that one automaker doesn't tend to get a plum deal at the expense of the other car builders in town. General Motors and Chrysler negotiated pretty hard with the United Auto Workers as part of the bailouts, and Ford's now in the process of securing new agreements with its labor force. While the Blue Oval didn't need government money to stay afloat (well, aside from those low interest technology loans, anyway), it wants parity with its rivals workforce deals.

Several Ford plants have approved the new deal, in which Dearborn has asked for the same concessions that its rivals have already secured. Most recently, however, three Ford facilities have voted down the plan to hold firm entry-level pay and benefits, limits on the union's right to strike over wages and benefits, and consolidates skilled trades. Those opposed to Ford's new agreement argue that the true spirit of pattern agreements would lift Chrysler and GM up to where Ford's current agreements are. Kansas City's F-150 plant slapped down the proposed contract by 92%, but Ford will await the final tally before conceding defeat - or celebrating successful negotiations. Contentious labor dealings are certainly not something Ford wants to deal with at this precarious moment. Even while business has been trending up lately, there's still a long way to go, and if labor puts a skip in the get along, it could be a nail in the coffin of a successful recovery.

[Source: Automotive News - sub req. | Image: Bill Pugliano/Getty]

REPORT: Three Ford plants vote down new contract with UAW originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Some loyalties run deep in Detroit, take Chevrolet's relationship with its advertising agency. Campbell-Ewald has been urging people to buy bowties since 1922, when a single magazine ad contained more words than a BMW press release. Chevrolet's account is huge, and the automaker is not looking to make a clean break from its long-time agency, the layer-cake of ongoing efforts is far too tall for that. What's most likely to happen is that Chevrolet will accept outside pitches from hungry, creative operations.

The acceptance of outside solicitation will help keep C-E on its toes, as well. Names of well known agencies have been tossed about as supplemental providers, but with so many other auto brands reviewing their contracts with their respective agencies, including Cadillac, some of the best companies might have a problem pitching yet another player at this point. Since these tertiary players aren't expected to take on full agency roles, it bodes well for small shops worldwide. Time to head to your basement and get storyboarding; it could be you doing the next viral campaign for the Malibu. Just don't create fake stalkers or anything.

[Source: Business Week]

Chevrolet follows Cadillac into the advertising agency review breach originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ad agencyAdAgencyadvertisingadvertising agencyadvertising contractAdvertisingAgencyAdvertisingContractcampbell ewaldCampbellEwaldchevroletchevrolet ad agencchevrolet adschevrolet advertisingchevrolet advertising contractchevrolet contractChevroletAdAgencChevroletAdsChevroletAdvertisingChevroletAdvertisingContractChevroletContractchevy adsaChevyAdsagm adsgm advertisingGmAdsGmAdvertisingThu, 22 Oct 2009 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Where's the Beef? Autoblog Podcast takes a week off]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/psa-wheres-the-beef-autoblog-podcast-takes-a-week-off/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/psa-wheres-the-beef-autoblog-podcast-takes-a-week-off/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/psa-wheres-the-beef-autoblog-podcast-takes-a-week-off/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!


Before our faithful listenership starts getting worried, we put the Podcast on a break this week. We're doing our show-coverage thing in Tokyo and we're also staring down episode #150 of the 'cast. Rather than grind out something mediocre, we've elected to take a little extra time and mark the halfway point to our second hundredth episode with a good show. In the meantime, we hope our friends at Joystiq and Engadget can help fill the void. We'll be back soon, or you can drop us a note at Podcast at Autoblog dot com. Or leave us a message at our new google voice number 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763).

PSA: Where's the Beef? Autoblog Podcast takes a week off originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 13:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblogautoblog podcastAutoblogPodcastfeaturedpodcastThu, 22 Oct 2009 13:53:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Hyundai may extend Assurance program, go after fuel economy crown]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/report-hyundai-may-extend-assurance-program-go-after-fuel-econ/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/report-hyundai-may-extend-assurance-program-go-after-fuel-econ/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/report-hyundai-may-extend-assurance-program-go-after-fuel-econ/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you haven't noticed, Hyundai's been on a multifaceted tear lately. Earlier this year, Hyundai came out with its Hyundai Assurance Program, letting customers return their cars if they suffered a loss of employment. CEO John Krafcik confirms that Hyundai Assurance is staying until the end of 2009, and its future beyond that is under serious scrutiny. Aside from its new models, the innovative car-return initiative was probably the biggest news to come out of Hyundai all year, and other automakers have followed suit with similar plans of their own.

While everyone else is down and the overall market has taken a 30% whack, Hyundai's U.S. sales are up 2% for the first nine months of this year.

Rather than rest on its laurels, Hyundai wants to further increase its sales. Turning over the cars it has to offer has made the Korean automaker's model mix relatively fresh, and word is they are going after America's fuel-economy crown, as well. While there is a hybrid Sonata on the way, the new model is probably not going to move Hyundai up from #3 in fuel efficiency all on its own (the automaker trails Toyota and Honda), so the rest of its fleet is reportedly getting a fine-toothed once over.


[Source: Automotive News - sub. req.]

REPORT: Hyundai may extend Assurance program, go after fuel economy crown originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assurancecar returnCarReturnHyundaiHyundai Assurancehyundai assurance gas lockhyundai assurance plushyundai saleshyundai sonataHyundaiAssuranceHyundaiAssuranceGasLockHyundaiAssurancePlusHyundaiSalesHyundaiSonataThu, 22 Oct 2009 10:40:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Indian firm Reva to build electric cars in upstate NY]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/report-indian-firm-reva-to-build-electric-cars-in-upstate-ny/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/report-indian-firm-reva-to-build-electric-cars-in-upstate-ny/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/report-indian-firm-reva-to-build-electric-cars-in-upstate-ny/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Indian EV maker Reva is looking into assembling cars in Syracuse New York with Bannon Automotive

Sure, Syracuse, New York has the Carrier Dome, but if a pending deal between Indian electric car maker Reva and Long Island-based Bannon Automotive is finalized, the city may soon be known more for EV production. Bannon Automotive has been negotiating with India's Reva for months now, and the licensing deal that's been tentatively brokered is pending the full approval of the Indian firm's entire board.

State development loans and Department of Energy lending guarantees are behind the move to renovate a 150,000 square foot building in Clay, NY. Over the course of three years, 250 jobs will be created by building Reva NXR vehicles. The Reva NXR can hit 65 mph and has a range of 100 miles when boasting a lithium ion battery, while lead-acid powered NXRs top out at 50 mph and go 100 miles. If all the loose ends with funding and approvals get wrapped up, the electric vehicle effort will be the latest in an effort to entice clean energy manufacturers to New York.

[Source: Syracuse Post-Standard via NYT Blog]

REPORT: Indian firm Reva to build electric cars in upstate NY originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bannon automotivebannon syracuseBannonAutomotiveBannonSyracuseelectric cars syracuseelectric vehicle syracuseelectric vehicles syracuseElectricCarsSyracuseElectricVehiclesSyracuseElectricVehicleSyracuseev syracuseEvSyracuserevareva bannonReva Electric Car Companyreva evreva nxgreva nxrreva syracuseRevaBannonRevaElectricCarCompanyRevaEvRevaNxgRevaNxrRevaSyracusesyracusesyracuse evsyracuse new yorkSyracuseEvSyracuseNewYorkThu, 22 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Toyota sued for pranking woman to sell Matrix]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/18/report-toyota-sued-for-pranking-woman-to-sell-matrix/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/18/report-toyota-sued-for-pranking-woman-to-sell-matrix/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/18/report-toyota-sued-for-pranking-woman-to-sell-matrix/#comments

If you're trying to sell cars, perhaps it's best to not alienate or scare the daylights out of potential customers. Toyota has tried a few new approaches lately, and agency Saatchi & Saatchi may have thought it out-clevered itself with a faux-stalker effort for the Matrix, but it's landed both the agency and the automaker in legal hot water.

Amber Duick, a California woman who was seriously freaked out by a fake stalker named Sebastian Bowler -- no, we're not sure how it was intended to tie in to the Matrix, either -- has asked Toyota for $10 Million in exchange for the hornswoggling she received. Emails from the nonexistent Mr. Bowler so intimidated Ms. Duick that her work suffered and she made her boyfriend sleep with weapons nearby, just in case.

The whole punking came about by her opting in, Toyota's lawyers say -- as in, she asked for it. Sure, says Duick's own attorney, if you count an undecipherable and dubious online personality test forwarded by a friend as an actual opt-in agreement, instead of just a legal fig-leaf. The legal flap is going to take some time for both parties to work out or ride through the court system, but you paranoids out there can rest easy; Saatchi wrapped up this campaign last year, so it's on to some other internet silliness to push the Matrix now. Thanks for the tip, Martin!

[Source: ABC News]

REPORT: Toyota sued for pranking woman to sell Matrix originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 18 Oct 2009 14:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amber duickAmberDuickmatrixmatrix bowlerMatrixBowlersaatchiSaatchi and SaatchiSaatchi++SaatchiSaatchiAndSaatchiSaatchiSaatchisebastian bowlerSebastianBowlertoyotatoyota matrixtoyota matrix advertisingtoyota matrix fake stalkertoyota matrix lawsuittoyota matrix stalkertoyota online advertisingToyotaMatrixToyotaMatrixAdvertisingToyotaMatrixFakeStalkerToyotaMatrixLawsuitToyotaMatrixStalkerToyotaOnlineAdvertisingSun, 18 Oct 2009 14:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Auction find: <i>Duel</i> Peterbilt for beating up on Valiants]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/17/auction-find-duel-peterbilt-for-beating-up-on-valiants/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/17/auction-find-duel-peterbilt-for-beating-up-on-valiants/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/17/auction-find-duel-peterbilt-for-beating-up-on-valiants/#commentsFiled under: , ,



One of the most sinister automotive movie characters ever, the tanker-hauling Peterbilt from the seminal Spielberg picture, Duel, is up for auction. Perhaps only a little less evil than the '58 Plymouth in John Carpenter's adaptation of Christine, nearly 40 years have done little to dull this truck's malevolent countenance. The MotoExotica and Manheim event in St. Louis started on Friday, and finishes up today, October 17th.

The 1960 Pete has an overhauled engine, and air and electrical lines on the chassis have been replaced, too, according to the seller. It appears that this truck is the second of three used in the filming of the movie. It's a 1960 Peterbilt 281 made up to look like the 1956 model that was used for most of the scenes. Since that '56 was on its last legs, this truck was its double, and has also appeared in other productions, like a David Lee Roth video. We can't find out if there's a reserve, but it did just come out of a restoration, so it'll likely be well above the $20,000 range that normal 281s seem to trade for. Add in its matching vintage trailer and the movie provenance, which is purportedly documented, and this truck could well go for more money.

For a work vehicle, it's likely pulled its last real load a long time ago. Movie appearances tend to make people all kooky about a vehicle having some sort of added value just because it exists on a few million frames of release print somewhere. Either way, we've found both the movie's trailer and the full feature (they're embedded after the jump), where you can see the Peterbilt in action. Thanks for the tip, Greg.

Gallery: Duel Peterbilt for Auction in St. Louis


[Source: MotoeXotica]

Continue reading Auction find: Duel Peterbilt for beating up on Valiants

Auction find: Duel Peterbilt for beating up on Valiants originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 17 Oct 2009 11:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>duelduel peterbiltDuelPeterbiltfilm vehicleFilmVehicleMovie Carmovie carsmovie truckmovie vehicleMovieCarMovieCarsMovieTruckMovieVehiclepeterbiltpeterbilt 281Peterbilt281spielbergspielberg duelSpielbergDuelSat, 17 Oct 2009 11:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2010 Chevrolet Equinox sets the tone for New GM]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/review-2010-chevrolet-equinox-sets-the-tone-for-new-gm/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/review-2010-chevrolet-equinox-sets-the-tone-for-new-gm/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/review-2010-chevrolet-equinox-sets-the-tone-for-new-gm/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Chevrolet Equinox - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's fitting that General Motors has a vehicle named after an astronomical phenomenon that marks the seasons. The first Equinox came from the "old" GM during the autumn of its long slide. Since then, the General has emerged from a government-funded chrysalis, and the Equinox has followed suit with a redesign. Hopefully, the freshening signifies a springtime in GM's fortunes; a future desperately in need of a green infusion of the cash variety. Its products need to not only compete - but exceed - what's available from the competition. That figures to be a tall order, because the opposition is in rare form.

Just across town, Ford isn't sitting around - the Escape gets tweaks and updates seemingly every year. The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 also crowd the top of the family CUV class, with the Mazda CX-7 and Hyundai Santa Fe playing supporting roles. Into this company of A-students wades the Equinox, fresh from reform school. Have the model's rough edges and troublesome behavior been smoothed out enough by remedial study? Follow the jump to find out.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Chevrolet Equinox


Photos copyright (C)2009 John Neff / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2010 Chevrolet Equinox sets the tone for New GM

Review: 2010 Chevrolet Equinox sets the tone for New GM originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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