Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/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/Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry.<![CDATA[Chrysler decides to keep third shift at Windsor minivan plant, VW Routan to live on]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/11/chrysler-decides-to-keep-third-shift-at-windsor-minivan-plant-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/11/chrysler-decides-to-keep-third-shift-at-windsor-minivan-plant-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/11/chrysler-decides-to-keep-third-shift-at-windsor-minivan-plant-v/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2009 Volkswagen Routan - click above for a high res image gallery

Earlier this spring as Chrysler stumbled toward bankruptcy court, one of the announced cost-cutting decisions was the elimination of the third shift at the Windsor assembly plant. That's the factory that produces the Chrysler Town and Country, Dodge Caravan and Volkswagen Routan minivans. According to Ken Lewenza, president of the Canadian Auto Workers union, the company has reversed course and will keep the third shift operational. Preserving the final shift will prevent 1,200 layoffs at the factory.

The change was made possible by a revised labor deal agreed to this spring, which cut $207 million in annual costs. Earlier this year, the plant "temporarily" ceased building the Routan for Volkswagen due to slow sales. According to VW of America communications director Steve Keyes, the Routan will live on as well. Keyes tells Autoblog "We will be introducing the 2010 MY vehicle this Fall and continue work on future models. Our goal was to capture 5 percent of the segment and we're meeting that target."


Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Volkswagen Routan


[Source: Reuters, Volkswagen]
Photos Copyright (C)2008 Damon Lavrinc / Weblogs, Inc.

Chrysler decides to keep third shift at Windsor minivan plant, VW Routan to live on originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 11 Jul 2009 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chrysler minivanchrysler minivan plantchrysler minivansChryslerMinivanChryslerMinivanPlantChryslerMinivansvolkswagenvolkswagen routanVolkswagenRoutanwindsor minivan plantWindsorMinivanPlantSat, 11 Jul 2009 17:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Ex-Chrysler media man Vines named head of P.R. at... Christian publishing house?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/ex-chrysler-media-man-vines-named-head-of-christian-publishin/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/ex-chrysler-media-man-vines-named-head-of-christian-publishin/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/ex-chrysler-media-man-vines-named-head-of-christian-publishin/#commentsFiled under: ,



Former Chrysler PR chief Jason Vines has had more than his fair share of jobs over the years. He's had automotive gigs at Chrysler, Ford and Nissan, he's worked as a stand-up comedian, he spent time at Compuware and he even spent time at the food rescue program Forgotten Harvest. We've even spotted Vines (seen here at left, with comedian David Spade) regularly hanging with John McElroy on Autoline After Hours.

The likable master of spin has reportedly found yet another calling, as he's been named the Vice President of public relations and communications at Zondervan; a Christian publishing division of HarperCollins out of Grand Rapids, MI. The move is a bit of a surprise, considering the fact that Vines' outspoken personality (some would call him outspoken, others crass) doesn't exactly jibe with the conservative nature of most Christian organizations. Vines' new job shows that really talented people tend to find work even in a down market.

[Source: Automotive News - subs req'd | Image: Bill Pugliano/Getty]

Ex-Chrysler media man Vines named head of P.R. at... Christian publishing house? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jul 2009 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslercommunicationscompuwaredavid spadeDavidSpadefordForgotten harvestForgottenHarvestharper collinsharpercollinsjason vinesJasonVinesprzondervanThu, 09 Jul 2009 09:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Consumer groups reportedly asking for liability warning labels on used Chryslers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/consumer-groups-reportedly-asking-for-liability-warning-labels-o/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/consumer-groups-reportedly-asking-for-liability-warning-labels-o/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/consumer-groups-reportedly-asking-for-liability-warning-labels-o/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



When Chrysler was in Chapter 11, the U.S. bankruptcy court decided that the new Pentastar would be free of any liability for accidents that involve Chrysler-branded products sold prior the bankruptcy. Automotive News is reporting that five consumer groups are looking to get the word out that used Chrysler products will not be eligible for such liability claims by putting a warning sticker on each and every used Dodge, Chrysler, and Jeep that is for sale.

The Federal Trade Commission is reviewing the petition, which states that consumers who purchase a used Chrysler vehicle risk "being held responsible for millions of dollars in medical expenses, hundreds of thousands of dollars in lost income and other losses - with no possibility of recompense - even if their injury was clearly Chrysler's fault." Under the current plan, customers looking to sue Chrysler for defective product concerns will have to go after old Chrysler, which is broke, bankrupt, and doomed.

Chrysler, of course, is against the petition, as the warning may harm a dealer's ability to sell used Chrysler-branded products. In an email to Automotive News, Chrysler spokesman Michael Palese wrote "In Chrysler's bankruptcy, the ability to form a new company free from the product liability burden of the old company was essential to the new company's survival." Palese also mentions that the petition has also uncovered no new defects or safety issues.

Automotive News is also reporting that General Motors has worked out a deal with state attorneys general to consider claims as long as they were submitted after the automaker's bankruptcy.

[Source: Automotive News - subs req'd | Image: Robyn Beck/AFP/Getty]

Consumer groups reportedly asking for liability warning labels on used Chryslers originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bankruprcychryslerconsumer groupConsumerGroupgmliabilitypentastarWed, 08 Jul 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Respect Your Elders: Even Richard Petty stung by Chrysler's bankruptcy?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/respect-your-elders-even-richard-petty-stung-by-chryslers-bank/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/respect-your-elders-even-richard-petty-stung-by-chryslers-bank/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/respect-your-elders-even-richard-petty-stung-by-chryslers-bank/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Richard Petty - quite possibly the best NASCAR racer of all time and the man in charge of Richard Petty Motorsports - says that Chrysler stopped paying his team after filing for bankruptcy last month. No surprise there. The lack of funds prompted RPM to lay off nine workers, although Petty is now saying there is hope that the automaker will soon work out some sort of deal to begin making payments once again now that it's clear of court proceedings.

It isn't clear at this moment if Petty's team, which is in the final year of its current contract with Chrysler, will soldier on using Dodge Chargers Challengers next year. Earlier this month, The King said his team would be willing to talk to any and all manufacturers regarding the 2010 NASCAR season, including Dodge. We'll surely know soon enough, but internet message boards are awash with rumors the team has been in talks with *gasp* Toyota.

[Source: ESPN via MLive.com | Image: Jason Smith/Getty]

Respect Your Elders: Even Richard Petty stung by Chrysler's bankruptcy? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>king richardKingRichardNASCARpettyrichard pettyrichard petty dodgerichard petty dodge challengerrichard petty motorsportsrichard petty toyotaRichardPettyRichardPettyDodgeRichardPettyDodgeChallengerRichardPettyMotorsportsRichardPettyToyotaWed, 08 Jul 2009 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler fills out board of directors]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/chrysler-settles-on-board-of-directors/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/chrysler-settles-on-board-of-directors/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/chrysler-settles-on-board-of-directors/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The new Chrysler Group, LLC is out of bankruptcy, in bed with the Italians and the U.S. Government, and now it has a complete board of directors. Chrysler is forging ahead with a fresh group of board members, including former governors, Fiat royalty, and some people you've probably never heard of.

Chrysler announced the rest of its nine member board of directors over the holiday weekend, joining active chairman C. Robert Kidder, who was announced in May. Among the new board members are former Michigan Governor and U.S. Congressman James Blanchard, Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne, Fiat Powertrain CEO Alfredo Altavill and former Northwest Airlines CEO Douglas Steenland.

Noticeably absent from the board is overt representation from the United Auto Workers, which is perhaps surprising as the labor group owns part of the new Chrysler. Hit the jump to read up on all of the automaker's board members.

[Source: Chrysler | Image: Bill Pugliano/Getty]

Continue reading Chrysler fills out board of directors

Chrysler fills out board of directors originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alfredo AltavillAlfredoAltavillboard of directorsBoardOfDirectorschryslerchrysler groupChryslerGroupdodgejeepllcsergio marchionneSergioMarchionneMon, 06 Jul 2009 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Diesels: Six automakers reportedly kill plans for oil burners]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/dead-diesels-six-automakers-kill-plans-for-oil-burners/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/dead-diesels-six-automakers-kill-plans-for-oil-burners/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/dead-diesels-six-automakers-kill-plans-for-oil-burners/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Diesel's near-term prospects in America took a huge hit with the revelation that nine diesel-powered 2010 models are on hold. Ford, General Motors, Chrysler, Toyota, Honda, and Nissan have put the kibosh on rolling out more oil burners due to cost and perception issues.

Toyota's obviously on a hybrid run and doesn't want to expel the effort or expense of investing in diesel for the American market -- and having to overcome America's dirty diesel perceptions. The others, as mass market manufacturers, simply need more justification for the cost and complexity of oilburners in order to make the case for consumers to spend more.

Additionally, diesel's benefits are weighted differently according to EPA or CAFE standards. The EPA mileage numbers present diesels well, but CAFE's differing fuel mileage equation makes gas-hybrids look better than diesels, and CAFE is something all automakers are looking at. However, you'll notice that German brands aren't mentioned -- their price premium and European diesel volumes make a worthwhile case for diesels, so those diesel Jetta Sportwagons won't be going away any time soon.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Dead Diesels: Six automakers reportedly kill plans for oil burners originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010cafechryslerdieselepafordgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmhondanissantechtechnologytoyotaWed, 01 Jul 2009 16:57:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Chrysler christens Brandon Faurote as new chief designer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/report-chrysler-christens-brandon-faurote-as-new-chief-designer/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/report-chrysler-christens-brandon-faurote-as-new-chief-designer/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/report-chrysler-christens-brandon-faurote-as-new-chief-designer/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Chrysler Firepower Concept - Click above for a high-res image gallery

When Sergio Marchionne revamped Fiat, he installed new designers at each company division and charged them with creating products that would define each brand and move metal. Marchionne has apparently done the same with Chrysler, putting Brandon Faurote in charge of Chrysler, Joseph Dehner in at Dodge, and Mark Allen in at Jeep.

Faurote has been with the Pentastar since he was 22, and has worked on offerings like the 1999 Jeep Cherokee and the 2001 Chrysler and Dodge minivans. Since 2003, his title has been Chief Designer - Advanced Product Design, and he's given us concept cars like the 2005 Chrysler Firepower (pictured). He's also given us the Chrysler Imperial, so we pray his eye for the brand leads more toward artillery than royalty.

Joseph Dehner leads the Dodge charge and has the Crossfire and 2001 Chrysler Sebring in his quiver... but also the exterior design of the 2007 Sebring. Mark Allen has the the 2006 Jeep Wrangler and 2009 Dodge Ram 150 to take credit for, as well as super cool Jeep concepts like the Jeep JT and Jeep J8 Sarge. Here's to hoping Fiat encourages - and pays for - them to give us their best. Hat tip to 13enS!


Gallery: Chrysler Firepower Concept


[Source: The Motor Report]

REPORT: Chrysler christens Brandon Faurote as new chief designer originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 09:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerdesigndesignerdesignersdodgejeepsergio marchionneSergioMarchionneWed, 01 Jul 2009 09:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Nopar: Pontiac G6 "Super Bee"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/28/nopar-pontiac-g6-super-bee/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/28/nopar-pontiac-g6-super-bee/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/28/nopar-pontiac-g6-super-bee/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Pontiac G6 "Super Bee" - Click above for photo gallery

While Pontiac gets ready to take a dirt nap next to Oldsmobile and the folks at Chrysler's Auburn Hills HQ brush up on their Italian, at least one American driver is showing us what might have been if the once-proposed Chrysler/GM merger (remember those days?) had come to be. Consider the perfect storm of hideous product decisions that could have ensued under such a tie-up.

What's that? Your mind's eye can't envision a scenario so horrifying? No worries. Autoblog reader Berto snagged some photos illustrating just how kooky things could have gotten. Imagine one automaker's muscle heritage fused with the base-level front-drive mediocrity of another. Imagine, friends, the Pontiac G6 V6 Super Bee. Thanks, Berto!


Gallery: Nopar: Pontiac G6 V6 Super Bee


[Photos: Berto]

Nopar: Pontiac G6 "Super Bee" originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 28 Jun 2009 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>g6 v6G6V6pontiac g6PontiacG6super beeSuperBeeSun, 28 Jun 2009 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Comcast pulls ad criticizing GM, Chrysler to review claims]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/26/comcast-pulls-ad-criticizing-gm-chrysler-to-review-claims/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/26/comcast-pulls-ad-criticizing-gm-chrysler-to-review-claims/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/26/comcast-pulls-ad-criticizing-gm-chrysler-to-review-claims/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Commercial regarding GM and Chrysler's liability claims -- Click above to view the after the jump

A group called the Ad Hoc Committee of Consumer Victims of GM and Chrysler put together a commercial to run on Comcast throughout the weekend. The group numbers 460 people, 300 of whom are plaintiffs against GM, the rest against Chrysler, all of whom claim catastrophic injuries or the deaths of relations due to defective vehicles from the two companies.

The ad attacks the issue of New GM not being responsible for such liabilities. The claims, said to add up to about $1.25 billion for just the GM parties, would be addressed by the Old GM and lumped in with every other unsecured creditor's claims. That means that if the plaintiffs received anything at all, it wouldn't be much. GM is just following the government's orders -- it was the Administration that decreed post-bankruptcy Chrysler and GM won't be responsible for vehicles sold previous to bankruptcy.

GM's attorneys called Comcast, and Comcast explained pulling the ad by saying "We have temporarily stopped airing the ad while we conduct a review of the claims it makes." The commercial only asserts a few facts which could be easily checked, and makes a generalization about claims that won't be reported if people know nothing will come of them. Comcast hasn't given any timeline for that review, though. You can watch the ad after the jump and see for yourself.

[Source: Washington Post via TTAC]

Continue reading Comcast pulls ad criticizing GM, Chrysler to review claims

Comcast pulls ad criticizing GM, Chrysler to review claims originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Jun 2009 15:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslergeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmgovernmentlegallemon lawLemonLawproduct liabilityProductLiabilityvideoFri, 26 Jun 2009 15:26:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Alfa Romeo to lead American charge, Fiat 500 to go it alone]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/26/report-alfa-romeo-to-lead-american-charge-fiat-500-to-go-it-al/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/26/report-alfa-romeo-to-lead-american-charge-fiat-500-to-go-it-al/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/26/report-alfa-romeo-to-lead-american-charge-fiat-500-to-go-it-al/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Alfa Romeo has been toying with the idea of returning to America for years, but now that Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne is working from Auburn Hills, the time seems more ripe than ever as details emerge on Fiat/Chrysler's strategy vis-a-vis the North American market. While Marchionne implements management restructuring designed to reduce Chrysler's executive hierarchy and separate its divisions into more independent units, a product strategy is rapidly being put into place to make up for lost time during the bankruptcy procedure and get the company back on track.

With Maserati and Ferrari already present in North America and Lancia offering little to entice North American buyers, the Italian side of the partnership looks poised to enter the market with Fiat and Alfa Romeo models. However, while future Chryslers, Dodges and Jeeps will share underpinnings with their Fiat and Alfa Romeo counterparts - including an Alfa GTX to be based on the new Jeep Grand Cherokee - the Fiat brand itself will have a very limited presence in the North American market, offering only the 500 retro hatchback as a stand-alone model... not unlike BMW's Mini brand. Other Fiat models will carry Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep badges, while Alfa Romeo will take the higher profile on this side of the Atlantic, offering cars under the stoic marque to compete with other European luxury brands. As the Freep points out, Chrysler and Alfa had collaborated in the early '90s to bring Alfas Stateside with limited success, but Marchionne evidently thinks it'll have better luck this time around.

[Source: Detroit Free Press]

REPORT: Alfa Romeo to lead American charge, Fiat 500 to go it alone originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Jun 2009 09:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfa romeoAlfaRomeochryslerchrysler fiatchrysler llcchrysler restructuringChryslerFiatChryslerLlcChryslerRestructuringdetroit ffee pressDetroitFfeePressfiatfiat 500fiat chryslerFiat500FiatChryslerfreepsergio marchionneSergioMarchionneFri, 26 Jun 2009 09:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler bankruptcy lawyers rack up $12.7M bill in first month]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/25/chrysler-bankruptcy-lawyers-rack-up-12-7m-bill-in-first-month/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/25/chrysler-bankruptcy-lawyers-rack-up-12-7m-bill-in-first-month/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/25/chrysler-bankruptcy-lawyers-rack-up-12-7m-bill-in-first-month/#commentsFiled under: ,



During bankruptcy, just about everyone involved with the affected company is going to feel the pain in some form. That is, of course, unless you're a lawyer. New York law firm Jonas Day has represented Chrysler during its time spent in Chapter 11 bankruptcy, and Automotive News is reporting that the firm billed $12.7 million for the month of May alone. That figure included 72 partners working on the case, in addition to another 193 lawyers chipping in. About $256,000 of that figure accounts for expenses, and the rest encompasses some hefty legal fees.

We're not all that surprised that it takes over 250 lawyers to execute a Chapter 11 bankruptcy of Chrysler's magnitude in only 40 days, but the figures for the firm's head lawyer, Corinne Ball, are staggering. Ball booked 15 hours a day, seven days per week for the entire month, at a bill rate of $900 per hour! That's $401,310 to you and I. On average, lawyers on the case billed $477 per hour, while paralegals came in at $224.

How much does it cost to feed 266 lawyers for a month? $5,878. That's about $20 per person for three meals, seven days a week. Taxi fees? $4,247. Document copying was a hefty $52,000 and hotel bills rang up at $62,000. Recession? What recession? Those numbers are pretty large, but in the end, results are worth big money. And getting a company the size of Chrysler out of bankruptcy in 40 days is no small task.

[Source: Automotive News, sub. req'd | Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty]

Chrysler bankruptcy lawyers rack up $12.7M bill in first month originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Jun 2009 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2009 Dodge Ram - Click above for high-res image gallery

One week after Chrysler announced that it was re-opening seven of its plants, one truck plant is being put back on the shelf. Automotive News reports that the Fenton, MO Dodge Ram 1500 plant will close on July 10, yet the facility will still reopen on June 29.

After the July 10 re-shutdown, the plant will remain closed "contingent upon volumes." In other words, Chrysler already has 68,000 Rams sitting on dealer lots -- a 115 day supply. The Missouri plant is already scheduled for ultimate closure sometime in the third quarter, and since July 10 officially qualifies as being in the third quarter, we've got the feeling the Fenton plant isn't coming back. The 1,200 UAW workers in Fenton will receive buyout package offers and, in some cases, the opportunity to transfer to other plants.


Gallery: In the Autoblog Garage: 2009 Dodge Ram


[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Chrysler idling Ram plant it just reopened originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Jun 2009 09:01:00 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 dynamic duo of Chris and Sam carry off Episode #133 of the Autoblog Podcast without a hitch. Though down a man, the pair didn't cheap out on topics or duration, it's the same podcast goodness. It kicks off with Hyundai's impressive showing in the recently released Initial Quality Survey results. From there, they hit Chrysler's RWD/FWD dilemma with its Sebring/Avenger replacement, the rumor that Mustangs could have had IRS for $100 per car, and reports of an Ecotec engine for the Buick LaCrosse. Keeping it on the Buick tip, spyshots of a Tri-Shield variant of the new 2010 Astra get mentioned. The nullification of all pre-bankruptcy liability claims against GM and Chrysler is next before talk settles briefly on Hyundai's 2010-on lineup and then turns to your questions. It almost seems like the Chris and Sam show is a juggernaut without that other guy. Thanks for listening, and please, keep your questions and comments rolling in to Podcast at Autoblog dot com.

In our ongoing efforts to promote and direct the Podcast, please fill out our quick survey so we can snag the best sponsors for your favorite listening experience!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #133

Autoblog Podcast #133 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Jun 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblog podcastautoblog podcast 133AutoblogPodcastAutoblogPodcast133buick astrabuick ecotecbuick lacrosseBuickAstraBuickEcotecBuickLacrossechryslerchrysler 200cchrysler bankruptchrysler bankruptcychrysler bankruptcy approvedchrysler liabilitychrysler sebringChrysler200cChryslerBankruptChryslerBankruptcyChryslerBankruptcyApprovedChryslerLiabilityChryslerSebringfeaturedgm bankruptcygm liabilityGmBankruptcyGmLiabilityhyundaihyundai 2011hyundai iqshyundai lineuphyundai qualityhyundai sonataHyundai2011HyundaiIqsHyundaiLineupHyundaiQualityHyundaiSonatapodcastpodcast 133Podcast133podcastsWed, 24 Jun 2009 13:29:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #133Autoblog64:00autoblog, autoblog podcast, podcast, autoblog podcast 133<![CDATA[REPORT: GM pursuing Chrysler for repayment of Two-Mode Hybrid development]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/23/report-gm-persuing-chrysler-for-repayment-of-two-mode-hybrid-de/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/23/report-gm-persuing-chrysler-for-repayment-of-two-mode-hybrid-de/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/23/report-gm-persuing-chrysler-for-repayment-of-two-mode-hybrid-de/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Our friends at PickupTrucks.com are reporting that General Motors has filed documents in court in an attempt to get "New" Chrysler to honor its full pre-bankruptcy debt of $531,275 (of which Chrysler has so far only agreed to pay back about a third) for work on the sophisticated Two-Mode hybrid powertrain that was jointly developed by the two American automakers along with Daimler and BMW.

Chrysler and General Motors have both filed for Chapter 11 protection from creditors, which allows the automakers to renegotiate - or in many cases completely cancel - past contracts that are no longer desirable. It seems that Chrysler's contract with The General, which is supplying the hybrid transmissions to Chrysler, has yet to be picked up by New Chrysler.

This case is a bit more intriguing than most - such as Chrysler's canceled contract with Cummins for light-duty diesel engines for the Ram pickup - as it pits General Motors across the courtroom and on the other side of bankruptcy negotiations. We suspect that New Chrysler may be keen to pick up its old tab since the automaker is still planning to use the Two-Mode Hybrid technology for future vehicles, starting with the 2010 Dodge Ram, though possibly with more favorable terms.

[Source: PickupTrucks.com]

REPORT: GM pursuing Chrysler for repayment of Two-Mode Hybrid development originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Jun 2009 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerchrysler 2-modechrysler bankruptcychrysler contractchrysler gmchrysler gm contractchrysler hybridchrysler two modechrysler two-modeChrysler2-modeChryslerBankruptcyChryslerContractChryslerGmChryslerGmContractChryslerHybridChryslerTwo-modeChryslerTwoModegmgm 2-modegm two modegm two-modeGm2-modeGmTwo-modeGmTwoModegreenTue, 23 Jun 2009 19:28:00 EST<![CDATA[POLL: 54% of Americans against Cash for Clunkers, 59% expect GM quality to dip under gov't. ownership]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/23/poll-54-of-americans-against-cash-for-clunkers-59-expect-gm/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/23/poll-54-of-americans-against-cash-for-clunkers-59-expect-gm/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/23/poll-54-of-americans-against-cash-for-clunkers-59-expect-gm/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



America's "Cash for Clunkers" bill is on the cusp of being signed by President Obama, but according to a new survey by Rasmussen Reports, a majority of U.S. citizens aren't in favor of the plan.

According to the telephone survey, fully 54% of those queried are against the measure, while 35% are in favor and 12% aren't sure how they feel about it. That's up from a similar survey done last month, in which just 34% were against consumer vouchers for trading in older, less efficient cars and trucks. In fairness, Rasmussen Reports indicates that the change could have been influenced by a change in the wording of the respective surveys (the initial survey did not indicate how much the program might cost the government).

While that news may not perk up the spirits of Capitol Hill, the survey's findings that 17% of those asked say they are "very likely" to purchase a new vehicle this year because of the program (and a further 18% admit they are somewhat likely) ought to cheer up a few members of Congress.

Perhaps most interesting of all is news that many Americans would appear to have little faith in the ability of the government to help General Motors improve its fortunes, with 41% expecting for GM's quality to deteriorate under federal ownership. (Presumably, this leaves 59% of those surveyed that feel otherwise or are undecided). Perhaps more damaging is that the study's findings say that fully 57% of those questioned believe that the government is likely to pass laws and regulations that give Chrysler and General Motors unfair advantages over other automakers that did not receive bailout funds.

Oddly, Rasmussen Reports' findings to not disclose the number of people it surveyed, or any +/- accuracy estimates. Perhaps one has to have a 'premium membership' to get access to that data. In any case, check out the link for more of the study's findings.

[Source: Rasmussen Reports via Instapundit | Image: Matt Cardy/Getty]

POLL: 54% of Americans against Cash for Clunkers, 59% expect GM quality to dip under gov't. ownership originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Jun 2009 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Outside of bankruptcy, General Motors and Chrysler were no longer competitive enough to remain solvent. After Chapter 11 reorganization, the two automakers will have a clean financial statement and a whole lot fewer employees, plants, and dealers. Another area where the two automakers will receive a clean bill of health is product liability lawsuits, and the savings will be huge, The Detroit News reports. GM, for example, had $928 million in liability expenses (including court costs and lawyer fees) in 2008 and $1.1 billion in 2007.

The government has ruled that the new GM and Chrysler will not be held liable for vehicles sold by the old GM and Chrysler. Lawyers are still debating whether or not cars and trucks purchased after bankruptcy proceedings began will be covered, but anything before bankruptcy is apparently out of the picture. University of Michigan law professor and bankruptcy scholar John Pottow told the DetNews that GM lawyers gave him the impression that it was the government that was driving this issue:
"What's fascinating about this is that it is the government taking the hard line here, insisting that the new company should emerge free of those liabilities. It's the government actually thinking like hardheaded investors instead of taking the more predictable, more socialist line."
While the two companies' ledgers will look better without the threat of liability, the move is brutal for those who are awaiting trial or have already been awarded money but have yet to receive any funds. Those who have been permanently disabled as a result of alleged vehicle defects will now likely never receive a dime for their injuries. While pre-bankruptcy liabilities will be swept under the rug, GM and Chrysler will continue to cover all applicable warranties both pre- and post-bankruptcy.

In the meantime, attorneys general from a number of states aren't taking the matter lying down - eight separate states have filed objections to the provision in federal bankruptcy court on Friday.

[Source: The Detroit News]

Bankruptcy filing reportedly allows GM, Chrysler to shed hundreds of product liability lawsuits originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bankruptcyChapter 11Chapter11chryslergeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmlemon lawLemonLawliabilityproduct liabilityProductLiabilityMon, 22 Jun 2009 14:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler pondering whether Sebring/Avenger replacements should go rear-wheel drive?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/22/report-chrysler-pondering-whether-sebring-avenger-replacements/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/22/report-chrysler-pondering-whether-sebring-avenger-replacements/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/22/report-chrysler-pondering-whether-sebring-avenger-replacements/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Chrysler 200C concept car - click above for high-res image gallery

Setting the Challenger and 300 aside, what Chrysler needs now most of all is a C/D segment car that moves more metal than the pitiful performance of its current offerings. According to Automotive News, Chrysler shifted just 133,626 of its Sebring and Dodge Avenger platform-mates, a number that pales in comparison to class leaders like the Toyota Camry (436,617) and Honda Accord (372,789). The constant clamor to put the 200C concept into production in some form has got Chrysler looking for ways to make that car a reality, but finding a platform that will play on Main Street is a thorny little chestnut.

Replacing the universally jeered Sebring and Dodge Avenger (and their Mitsubishi platform) by going rear-wheel drive is a possibility. The 200C show car sat on a shortened version of the LX platform, in theory inviting both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations. Fiat's D-Evo platform, debuting with the replacement for Alfa Romeo's 159, is another possibility, but there are concerns it may not be flexible enough to grow to the size the 200C needs. Fiat's bid for General Motors' Opel unit brought with it speculation that the 200C could snag the Epsilon platform, but that's since fallen off the radar.

While a rear-drive Chrysler midsizer sporting the sharp exterior and interior design of the 200C and priced like a Fusion would be something distinctive, the sales case for such a departure from the class-norm of FWD remains yet to be convincingly argued. Tuned properly, such a vehicle could give much higher-zoot iron a run for its money, and performance enthusiasts likely would embrace such a model; though they may not actually buy one. Chrysler needs to close sales, not set internet chatrooms abuzz, so regardless of how it comes to market, the 200C must be more fully realized than the current Chrysler midsizers.


Gallery: Chrysler 200C Concept


[Source: Automotive News (subs req)]

Chrysler pondering whether Sebring/Avenger replacements should go rear-wheel drive? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avenger replacementAvengerReplacementchrysler 200cchrysler 200c conceptchrysler 200c evchrysler 200c ev conceptchrysler 200c platformchrysler 300chrysler cd platformchrysler fiatchrysler groupchrysler llcchrysler midsizechrysler platformchrysler project dchrysler projectdchrysler sebringchrysler sedanChrysler200cChrysler200cConceptChrysler200cEvChrysler200cEvConceptChrysler200cPlatformChrysler300ChryslerCdPlatformChryslerFiatChryslerGroupChryslerLlcChryslerMidsizeChryslerPlatformChryslerProjectdChryslerSebringChryslerSedandodge avengerDodgeAvengermidsize chryslerMidsizeChryslerproject dProjectDsebring replacementSebringReplacementMon, 22 Jun 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Return of the 'Runner: Plymouth Road Runner Concept shackled to the virtual world]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/return-of-the-runner-plymouth-road-runner-concept-shackled-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/return-of-the-runner-plymouth-road-runner-concept-shackled-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/return-of-the-runner-plymouth-road-runner-concept-shackled-to/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Plymouth Road Runner Concept - Click above for image gallery

Nearly a year ago, the cover of Mopar Enthusiast asked the question: Could the Plymouth Road Runner be reborn? The obvious answer: No. But that didn't stop the buff book from publishing a host of gorgeous renderings by Michael Leonhard, an independent artist hailing from Austria.

Based on the Dodge Challenger, the Road Runner concept takes its cues from the '71-72 models, and in Leonhard's active imagination, it would be powered by a choice of 5.7-, 6.1- or 7.0-liter engines, each available with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox, complete with paddle shifters. The 20-inch (front) and 22-inch (rear) wheels combine a little old-school nostalgia with a new-school flavor, along with a glowing Roadrunner logo placed between the LED tail lamps. We'll let the artist and his work speak for themselves, so check out the gallery below and make the jump for Leonhard's own description, along with a brief video of the concept.


Gallery: Plymouth Road Runner Concept

Continue reading Return of the 'Runner: Plymouth Road Runner Concept shackled to the virtual world

Return of the 'Runner: Plymouth Road Runner Concept shackled to the virtual world originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Jun 2009 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Fri, 19 Jun 2009 14:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Future Chrysler, Alfa Romeo and Fiat product plans revealed?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/future-chrysler-alfa-romeo-and-fiat-product-plans-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/future-chrysler-alfa-romeo-and-fiat-product-plans-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/future-chrysler-alfa-romeo-and-fiat-product-plans-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,


Alfa Romeo Kamal concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to automotive consulting firm IHS Global Insight, the Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep lineups are going to look drastically different over the next few years under Fiat control. No surprises there, but the report goes on the forecast which current Chrysler vehicles will be dropped and which ones will be transferred to new platforms. We've already heard that the next Alfa Romeo 169 sedan will be built atop Chrysler's LX platform in Ontario, Canada and that the Fiat 500 will be built ASAP in Toluca, Mexico, but that's only the beginning.

If IHS is right, joining the 500 in Toluca will be the Jeep Panda, which, as you may have guessed, will be a version of the Fiat Panda wearing Jeep's trademark seven-slot grille. Furthermore, Alfa Romeo may get two new SUVs that would be built in Jeep factories in Jefferson, Michigan and Toledo, Ohio - one midsize 'ute called the GTX that's based on the WL platform that underpins the Jeep Grand Cherokee and a smaller one built on Fiat's C-EVO platform, which will also underpin the next Jeep Liberty. That leaves the unloved Jeep Compass and its somewhat more likable brother, the Patriot, to die slow and inglorious death.

Fiat's C-EVO platform will also spawn the next-gen Dodge Journey, Chrysler Sebring (and presumably the Dodge Avenger if it survives past its current form), and Dodge Caliber. Moving downward in size a notch will (finally) be the Dodge Hornet, which will forgo Bad Chrysler's old deal with Nissan in order to share its Fiat 199 platform with the Alfa Romeo MiTo, both of which will be assembled in Belvidere, Illinois sometime in 2011. Thanks for the tip, Dad!


Gallery: Alfa Romeo Kamal concept


[Source: Global Insight]

Future Chrysler, Alfa Romeo and Fiat product plans revealed? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Jun 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfa romeoalfa romeo gtxalfa romeo kamalalfa romeo mitoalfa romeo suvalfa romeo suv crossoverAlfaRomeoAlfaRomeoGtxAlfaRomeoKamalAlfaRomeoMitoAlfaRomeoSuvAlfaRomeoSuvCrossoverbelividere assmebly plantBelividereAssmeblyPlantdodge hornetDodgeHornetglobal insightGlobalInsightihs global insightIhsGlobalInsightjeepjeep compassjeep libertyjeep pandajeep patriotJeepCompassJeepLibertyJeepPandaJeepPatriottoledotoledo jeeptoledo jeep plantToledoJeepToledoJeepPlanttolucatoluca mexicotoluca plantTolucaMexicoTolucaPlantFri, 19 Jun 2009 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Chrysler kills light-duty Cummins engine for Dodge Ram 1500, at least for now]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/reort-chrysler-kills-light-duty-cummins-engine-for-dodge-ram-15/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/reort-chrysler-kills-light-duty-cummins-engine-for-dodge-ram-15/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/reort-chrysler-kills-light-duty-cummins-engine-for-dodge-ram-15/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2009 Dodge Ram - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to court documents, Chrysler has put at least a temporary halt to the expected light-duty Cummins diesel engine for the Dodge Ram 1500. Mark Land, director of public relations at Cummins, tells our sleuthy friends at PickupTrucks.com:
This is not a surprise. We're OK with this. We've been trying to rework development of the [light-duty diesel] engine over the last several months, given the current economic climate.
It may not come as too much of a shock to anyone that's been paying attention, but it's unwelcome news nonetheless. Just like all other contracts that Chrysler had with its suppliers, the agreement between Dodge and Cummins to build the diesel powerplant was voided when the automaker filed for bankruptcy and the deal was not transferred to New Chrysler. Fortunately, there's still a ray of hope that the engine program will live on. Says Land:
Chrysler hasn't told us they don't want to [build the engine], it just won't happen under the terms of the original contract with the New Chrysler.
Even without Chrysler, Cummins plans to eventually put the light-duty diesel engine into production. There remains a possibility that another automaker (Nissan perhaps?) may pick up the powerplant for use in a consumer-grade vehicle.


Gallery: 2009 Dodge Ram


[Source: PickupTrucks.com]

REPORT: Chrysler kills light-duty Cummins engine for Dodge Ram 1500, at least for now originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Jun 2009 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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