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[How They Roll: NYT investigates the wheels of Mexican drug cartels]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/how-they-roll-nyt-investigates-the-wheels-of-mexican-drug-carte/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/how-they-roll-nyt-investigates-the-wheels-of-mexican-drug-carte/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/how-they-roll-nyt-investigates-the-wheels-of-mexican-drug-carte/#commentsFiled under:



The Mexican drug trade business is booming. Drugs are flowing between Mexico and the U.S. on a daily basis, overwhelming the Mexican military and U.S. border patrol officers. Most of the drugs arrive stateside via cars and trucks, and the vehicles transporting contraband range from a Rolls Royce to a VW Rabbit. The New York Times spent some time in Sinaloa, Mexico with Mexican General Federico Solórzano at what looked to be a used car lot.

The general's troops have seized 766 vehicles to date ranging from Jaguars to brand new SUVs to classic muscle cars. Custom choppers, pickup trucks and sports cars are all accounted for on the lot, but these vehicles are different from cars and trucks you can purchase at your local dealership: they have secret compartments for carrying drugs and weapons across the Mexican boarder. The vehicles housed untold millions of dollars in addition to automatic weapons in false sidewalls, modified bumpers and trap doors. General Solórzano reportedly told the NYT that vehicles have been retrofitted with bullet-proofing tech, machine gun turrets, secret compartments that hold sharp nails for police cruisers in hot pursuit and even a smoke machine to assist in losing the Federalis.

The vehicles are being stored at a military base because drug traffickers have raided police facilities and took back the vehicles seized near the border. In total, the Mexican government is said to have over 14,000 vehicles in its possession, yet tons of drugs make the trip from South America to the U.S. without detection. The vehicles will eventually be sold at auction or will be used by other federal agencies, but the apparent crawl of the Mexican legal system means trials are sometimes years away. Head over to the NYT to read more about the vehicles that bring drugs from the Mexican boarder to a town near you. Pretty interesting stuff. Top tip, Mehul!

[Source: New York Times | Image: Jesus Alcazar/AFP/Getty Images]

How They Roll: NYT investigates the wheels of Mexican drug cartels originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drug carteldrug cartelsDrugCartelDrugCartelsGeneral SolórzanoGeneralSolórzanomexican drug tradeMexicanDrugTrademexiconew york timesNewYorkTimesWed, 16 Dec 2009 07:59:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: China's Changan delays plan to enter North American auto market]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/report-chinas-changan-delays-plan-to-enter-north-american-auto/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/report-chinas-changan-delays-plan-to-enter-north-american-auto/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/report-chinas-changan-delays-plan-to-enter-north-american-auto/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Changan is coming to America, just not yet. Aiming to establish a base in Mexico with which to move into the U.S. market, the Chinese automaker signed a deal last year to build a plant south of the border. The familiar story of planetary financial catastrophe has encouraged Changan to tap the brakes on its plans, however.

Said the company's R&D head to Reuters, "We are still doing market research there. There won't be any big investment for the time being." As if the crisis weren't enough, Changan, like other Chinese makers, is also looking at getting into the luxury market with a vehicle developed in-house, and that will divert potential resources from overseas expansion. That means we Americans won't get to sample MPVs like the Changan Joice (shown above) for a while longer.

[Source: Reuters]

REPORT: China's Changan delays plan to enter North American auto market originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 08:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>changanChangan JoiceChanganJoicechinese automakerchinese carChineseAutomakerChineseCarmexicoWed, 25 Nov 2009 08:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyundai reportedly shopping locations for third North American plant - in Mexico [UPDATE]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/hyundai-reportedly-shopping-locations-for-third-north-american-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/hyundai-reportedly-shopping-locations-for-third-north-american-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/hyundai-reportedly-shopping-locations-for-third-north-american-p/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Hyundai Veracruz - Click above for high-res image gallery

Hyundai is on a mission to expand its American market share. And so far, the going's been good for the Korean automaker, which has been taking the fight to its Japanese rivals with increasing ferocity. Now reports indicate that Hyundai-Kia is looking into building a third assembly plant in North America. Only it probably won't be in the United States - like its existing plant in Alabama and the one being built in Georgia - and it won't be in Canada either; sources say the third plant is likely to end up in Mexico.

The reports are apparently substantiated by the Mexican government, which is understandably keen to encourage foreign investment. If and when it goes online - it's targeted for 2013 - the plant could be capable of churning out 150,000 vehicles annually, helping Hyundai quadruple its North American output by 2013. The plant could be used to produce the Hyundai Accent and Kia Rio for North American consumption, but not the Veracruz crossover - which may prove a little confusing, considering that the location Hyundai's looking at is in Veracruz, Mexico.

UPDATE: Hyundai has released the following statement regarding a possible third plant in NA.
"The recent report of Hyundai Motor Co. planning an investment in a Mexican manufacturing subsidiary is completely groundless. Neither HMC nor its affiliates in the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group have any plans to invest in manufacturing operations in Mexico at this time."

Gallery: 2007 Hyundai Veracruz


[Source: Inside Line]

Hyundai reportedly shopping locations for third North American plant - in Mexico [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hyundaihyundai manufacturinghyundai mexicohyundai-kiaHyundaiManufacturingHyundaiMexicomexicoNAFTApromexicoveracruzWed, 18 Nov 2009 15:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Mexico's Cimex Conin concept renderings looks like a Latino Lambo LM002]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/mexicos-cimex-conin-concept-renderings-looks-like-a-latino-lamb/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/mexicos-cimex-conin-concept-renderings-looks-like-a-latino-lamb/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/mexicos-cimex-conin-concept-renderings-looks-like-a-latino-lamb/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Cimex Conin Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Though automakers too numerous to list operate plants and build cars in Mexico, the country South of the Border doesn't really have a homegrown auto industry to speak of. One model doesn't exactly constitute as an "industry," but the Cimex Conin concept certainly seems like a step in the right direction.

While Autoblog's own staffers seem divided on the merits of the classic Lamborghini LM002 (don't believe the rest of 'em, Lambo's off-road supercar will forever be epically cool), the Italian SUV has aged into a truly iconic design. Since the Conin looks like a dead-ringer for the LM002, we'd argue that the its boxy SUT shape would look perfect storming the deserts in Baja... or, ya know, picking up the groceries at the local Food City.

Details on what actually underpins or powers the Conin are scarce, but we surmise it will be rear- or four-wheel drive and sport a range of fuel efficient gasoline and diesel engines. We'll take one to park next to the 'ol Subaru Brat in our own fantasy garage.


Gallery: Cimex Conin Concept


[Source: Autoblog Spanish]

Mexico's Cimex Conin concept renderings looks like a Latino Lambo LM002 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cimexCimex Conincimex conin conceptCimexConinCimexConinConceptconinlamborghini LM002LamborghiniLm002mexicoTue, 03 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Border Drive? Umm... No. Mexico car production reportedly down nearly 40%]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/15/border-drive-umm-no-mexico-car-production-reportedly-down-n/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/15/border-drive-umm-no-mexico-car-production-reportedly-down-n/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/15/border-drive-umm-no-mexico-car-production-reportedly-down-n/#commentsFiled under:



Mexico hasn't accounted for nearly as much ink as the U.S. and Canada in recent discussions of the auto industry. But in case anyone was wondering, they're in a big hurt south of the border as well. While the American market's decline in auto sales factors in at about 25% overall, the Latin American Herald Tribune reports that Mexico has seen a 30.6% drop in sales volume.

And that's the best news. Exports from the automaker plants based in Mexico fell 35.5%, and production descended into the deepest hole, posting a 37.7% contraction compared to last year. The economic rebound everyone is saying is here (or really close) should get Mexico's numbers back in line before long - September's production was only down 22% and exports only dropped 18.7%. But until then... ¡Ay, caramba!

[Source: Latin American Herald Tribune | Image: Jose Castañares/AFP/Getty]

Border Drive? Umm... No. Mexico car production reportedly down nearly 40% originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 16:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto industryauto salesAutoIndustryAutoSaleslatin americaLatinAmericamanufacturingmexican auto productionmexican carmexican carsMexicanAutoProductionMexicanCarMexicanCarsMexicomexico auto productionMexicoAutoProductionNAFTAsalesThu, 15 Oct 2009 16:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Mexico developing 'smart' speed bumps to increase safety, decrease fuel consumption]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/15/mexico-developing-smart-speed-bumps-to-increase-safety-decrea/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/15/mexico-developing-smart-speed-bumps-to-increase-safety-decrea/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/15/mexico-developing-smart-speed-bumps-to-increase-safety-decrea/#commentsFiled under: ,

Speed bumps are the bane of many an urban driver all around the world. We understand that the little protrusions were first installed to promote safety by getting drivers to slow down in congested areas, but we can't be the only ones that think the dang things have been getting out of hand as of late. Such is apparently the case in Toluca, Mexico, where a company called Decano Industries is working on a new smart speed bump that may both increase safety and decrease fuel consumption. Wait... smart speed bump?

Apparently, Decano's innovative devices measure the force of impact from an oncoming vehicle and immediately collapse if the car is traveling the speed limit or below. If a car is moving too fast, the speed bump stays in place, causing the familiar jarring impact we've all come to know and loathe. The government of Mexico City sees enough promise in the technology that its providing grant money to the company and helping get the system patented.

There's more on the line than just controlling speed. A 2006 study by Mexico City Autonomous University found that the constant acceleration and deceleration caused by speed bumps actually causes more pollutants and increases fuel consumption. A slow and steady speed would be much more environmentally friendly. In this instance, it would seem that dumber drivers equals smarter speed bumps. Who knew?

[Source: USA Today | Image: Flickr/boulanger.iE via C.C. 2.0]

Mexico developing 'smart' speed bumps to increase safety, decrease fuel consumption originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DECANOdecano industriesdecano speed bumpsDecanoIndustriesDecanoSpeedBumpsMexicoMexico CityMexicoCitysmart speed bumpsmart speed bumpsSmartSpeedBumpSmartSpeedBumpsTolucatoluca mexicoTolucaMexicoThu, 15 Oct 2009 10:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford Fiesta U.S.-spec gets caught in Mexican factory]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/ford-fiesta-u-s-spec-gets-caught-in-mexican-factory/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/ford-fiesta-u-s-spec-gets-caught-in-mexican-factory/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/ford-fiesta-u-s-spec-gets-caught-in-mexican-factory/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ford Fiestas being built in Mexico -- Click above for high-res image gallery

What is reported to be the coming U.S.-spec Ford Fiesta has been photographed during assembly in Mexico, and the minor changes we can glean so far center around the grille. Compared to its European counterpart, the American version gets a much chunkier front end which has pushed the leading edge of the hood back. The Ford emblem is now completely surrounded by the front clip.

Below that, the central opening is larger, ringed with chrome, and the bisecting bar on the Euro version has been moved up and fitted with a U.S. license plate holder. Outside, the single fog light has been reworked into a giant, glass covered alien eye. Make no mistake - it's still hot, and we still can't wait to see it when it's unveiled at the LA Auto Show next month.


Gallery: Dummies Ford Fiesta americano


[Source: Autoblog Spanish (translated)]

Ford Fiesta U.S.-spec gets caught in Mexican factory originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 fiesta2010 ford2010 ford fiesta2010Fiesta2010Ford2010FordFiestabudgetfiestafordford fiestaFordFiestahatchbackla 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009La2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009manufacturingmexicoplantsspy shotsSpyShotsMon, 12 Oct 2009 15:59:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Mexican Ford Focus commercial features familiar soundtrack, surprise ending]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/11/video-mexican-ford-focus-commercial-features-familiar-soundtrac/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/11/video-mexican-ford-focus-commercial-features-familiar-soundtrac/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/11/video-mexican-ford-focus-commercial-features-familiar-soundtrac/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above to watch the video after the jump

The Ford Focus is an automotive study in duality. Europeans get a really good, second generation version of Ford's C-segment wunderkind, while motorists here in the U.S. make do with an updated family based on the first-generation model. Actually, we call the second-gen Focus the "Euro" model, but the fact is that most of the free world receives the newer, superior model, while America waits patiently for the 2011 model to come hither. Our Mexican neighbors to the south have nothing to wait for, for in the land of Pancho Villa, the upgraded Focus is the Focus of record.

Beyond the jump is the latest commercial for the Focus, and it's a good one. For starters, Ford's marketing team chose some sweet tunes for the commercial's sound track. Here's a hint on the song: you'll want to wax vintage automobiles and paint acres of fencing as soon as you hear it.

The commercial appears to be some sort of Skip-Barber-meets-Tim-Burton driving school, with a Bourne Supremacy-style pursuit and an ass-kicking parallel parking job. At the end of the video, members of the Mexico viewing audience gets a quick glimpse of a lime green 2010 Focus RS in all its 300 horsepower glory. Hit the jump to view the video - and if you can't remember where you've heard that soundtrack before, watch the second video as well. Thanks for the tip, Miguel!

[Source: Ford via YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Mexican Ford Focus commercial features familiar soundtrack, surprise ending

VIDEO: Mexican Ford Focus commercial features familiar soundtrack, surprise ending originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 ford focus rs2010FordFocusRseuro focusEuroFocusfocus adfocus commercialfocus spotFocusAdFocusCommercialFocusSpotfordford adford commercialford focusford focus rsford spotFordAdFordCommercialFordFocusFordFocusRsFordSpotmexicomexidoFri, 11 Sep 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Fiat to assemble 500 in Mexico, build engines in Michigan?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/17/fiat-to-assemble-500-in-mexico-build-engines-in-michigan/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/17/fiat-to-assemble-500-in-mexico-build-engines-in-michigan/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/17/fiat-to-assemble-500-in-mexico-build-engines-in-michigan/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Fiat 500 Abarth - click above image for high-res gallery

For the last couple of decades, there has been a genuine dearth of affordable Italians autos for us Americans. Sure, you could buy a lightly used Alfa Romeo Milano or a derelict Fiat Strada, but then you'd be a braver person than us. Or maybe you could get your hands on a severely fire-damaged Ferrari 308, but that's a entirely different level of sadomasochism. One that we're not comfortable with. But in reality, the cheapest piece of Italian four-wheeled machinery available to us Yanks has come with a trident badge. In other words, a $100,000 Maserati.

But hey, there's some good news for working class Italophiles -- the Fiat 500 is coming! Finally, Italian design and craftsmanship in an affordable package. Only thing is, the Cinquecento is going to be Italian design and Mexican craftsmanship. Er, make that Italian design and Mexican/American craftsmanship. According to an Associated Press report, Chrysler Group LLC is planning on building U.S.-bound 500s at their Toluca, Mexico assembly plant where they build the PT Cruiser. Not only that, but the engines that power the little-bitty Fiats might be built in Trenton, Michigan. Hmmm. Not really so Italian after all, is it?

Chrysler is reportedly also planning on building another very small car along with the 500. No official word on any of the other Fiat or Alfa Romeo products that might be heading our way - yet.


Gallery: Fiat 500 Abarth


[Source: Detroit News]

Fiat to assemble 500 in Mexico, build engines in Michigan? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Aug 2009 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>500Alfa RomeoAlfaRomeoChryslerCinquecentoFiatFiat 500Fiat500ItalyMexicoMon, 17 Aug 2009 18:20:00 EST<![CDATA[2010 Lincoln Mark LT debuts for our friends to the South]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/07/2010-lincoln-mark-lt-debuts-for-our-friends-to-the-south/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/07/2010-lincoln-mark-lt-debuts-for-our-friends-to-the-south/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/07/2010-lincoln-mark-lt-debuts-for-our-friends-to-the-south/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Lincoln Mark LT - Click above for a high-res image gallery

The Lincoln Mark LT was an unmitigated failure in the US market, but in Mexico it's been the marque's top-seller, with 6,000 units leaving dealers since 2005. So while the gussied-up F-150 was unceremoniously euthanized in the US, Ford's luxury brand had to whip up something with a star badge, a split grille and a work-over with el feo palo for our southern compadres.

The 2010 Lincoln Mark LT looks a lot like the Ford F-150 Platinum fitted with a new grille (Ford didn't even change the headlights) and some Lincoln badging, because essentially, that's what it is. The new LT shares all the mechanicals with Ford's top-selling pickup, including its 310 hp 5.4-liter V8 powerplant, a choice of 5.5- or 6.5-foot beds and a tow rating of 10,000 lbs.

We're guessing there won't be many American pickup truck buyers disappointed that the 2010 Lincoln Mark LT won't be available in the US market. Heck, most truck buyers didn't even know the original Mark LT even existed to begin with. Click on the gallery below to check out the 2010 Mark LT in all its frankentruck glory.


Gallery: 2010 Lincoln Mark LT

01-2010-lincoln-lt02-2010-lincoln-lt03-2010-lincoln-lt04-2010-lincoln-lt05-2010-lincoln-lt


[Source: Pickuptrucks]

2010 Lincoln Mark LT debuts for our friends to the South originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Aug 2009 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 lincoln mark lt2010LincolnMarkLtford f-150FordF-150lincoln pickup truckLincolnPickupTruckmexicoFri, 07 Aug 2009 11:31:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: VW chooses Mexican plant for new compact sedan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/22/report-vw-chooses-mexican-plant-for-new-compact-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/22/report-vw-chooses-mexican-plant-for-new-compact-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/22/report-vw-chooses-mexican-plant-for-new-compact-sedan/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Volkswagen Jetta 2.5 Special Edition - Click above for hi-res image gallery

Adding a vote of confidence to Mexico's struggling auto industry, Volkswagen has announced that it will begin assembly of a new compact car (working title "New Compact Sedan") in the country next year.

The German automaker will invest about $1 billion in the program, with $400 million of the funds directed towards a new assembly line at its plant in Puebla. The facility currently produces Jetta and New Beetle models - in 2008, a record 450,000 units were produced with about 80 percent of the volume exported.

The news follows the report last year, when Volkswagen announced a $1 billion investment in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to begin production of a mid-size sedan for the North American market. With a capacity of 150,000 vehicles, the Chattanooga assembly plant is scheduled to open in 2011.


Gallery: 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 2.5 Special Editon


[Source: Automotive News, subs. req'd]

REPORT: VW chooses Mexican plant for new compact sedan originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Jul 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BoraInvestmentJettaManufacturingMexicoNew BeetleNewBeetlePlantPueblaVolkswagenWed, 22 Jul 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mexican Cash-for-Clunkers program announced, only brands built in country are eligible]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/17/mexican-cash-for-clunkers-program-announced-only-brands-built-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/17/mexican-cash-for-clunkers-program-announced-only-brands-built-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/17/mexican-cash-for-clunkers-program-announced-only-brands-built-i/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Mexican President Felipe Calderon has announced a Cash-for-Clunkers program for buyers wishing to trade their cars in for something locally produced. So far, 500 million pesos ($37M USD) have been set aside for the program, but Calderone has reportedly said the subsidy could be doubled to one billion if the program proves successful.

New car buyers will be given 15,000 pesos ($1,100 U.S.) for the cars they turn over to recycling depots or junkyards, and they can apply that to cars worth up to 160,000 pesos ($11,760 U.S.). Eligible vehicles include those built in Mexico or imported by any of the seven companies that have assembly plants in the country.

[Source: El Universal (translated)]

Mexican Cash-for-Clunkers program announced, only brands built in country are eligible originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Jul 2009 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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According to the Detroit Free Press, the 14 plants that General Motors is expected to announce for closure on Monday was going to be 16 plants until the UAW got its way on Capitol Hill. The union charged GM with closing factories, but instead of a commensurate reduction in production, GM was moving some of the manufacturing elsewhere, specifically China and Mexico.

GM said it will produce 1.83 million cars in the U.S. 2014 as opposed to 2 million today, and it would get one-third of its production that year from overseas. That one-third would notably be small cars, so much in play lately for every reason. The UAW suggested it would be amenable to "innovative labor agreement provisions" in order to make small car production work for GM domestically.

In that case it isn't Mexico or China that will suffer, but Canada. Our northern neighbor is expected to lose 23% of its GM export production (has anyone told CAW head Ken Lewenza yet?) while Asian importation climbs 98%.

For now, an assembly plant and a stamping plant have been spared from the initial list of U.S. closures. Another four plants have been designated "stand-by locations" that will come on line in case of a steep rebound in auto sales.

[Source: Detroit Free Press]

REPORT: Two plants saved from closing under new GM/UAW agreement originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 30 May 2009 14:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assemblyassembly plantAssemblyPlantcanadacawchinageneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmmanufacturingmexicoplantsstampingstamping plantStampingPlantuawunionunionsSat, 30 May 2009 14:05:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Largest American Axle plant to idle as work shifts to Mexico]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/29/report-largest-american-axle-plant-to-shutter-as-work-shifts-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/29/report-largest-american-axle-plant-to-shutter-as-work-shifts-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/29/report-largest-american-axle-plant-to-shutter-as-work-shifts-to/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Blaming the current economic conditions and still wounded from a near-fatal labor strike, Detroit-based auto supplier American Axle & Manufacturing Inc. will reportedly lay off at least 500 workers at its largest plant and send the remaining jobs south of the border to Mexico.

This time last year, the manufacturer was embroiled in an ongoing UAW labor dispute. The strike crippled General Motors, eventually forcing the automaker to stop production on many of its popular trucks before American Axle reached terms with the union and ended the strike after three months. The dispute couldn't have come at a worse time. Its resolution last spring was followed by a plummeting economy dumping vehicle production, choking GM's demand for American Axle components (accounting for 74% of the floundering supplier's sales).

Founded in 1994, American Axle will start moving the facility's production to Guanajuato, Mexico over the summer. More than 500 of the 700 workers at the Detroit complex will be laid off indefinitely, and only 232 of the company's most senior workers will likely have jobs remaining when the dust settles later this year. Thanks for the tip, Farzin.

[Source: The Detroit Free Press]

REPORT: Largest American Axle plant to idle as work shifts to Mexico originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Apr 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>American AxleAmericanAxleclosingDisputeJobs lostJobsLostLayoffMexicoproductionStrikeWed, 29 Apr 2009 16:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan to shift Versa/Tiida production from Japan to Mexico]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/22/nissan-to-shift-versa-tiida-production-from-japan-to-mexico/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/22/nissan-to-shift-versa-tiida-production-from-japan-to-mexico/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/22/nissan-to-shift-versa-tiida-production-from-japan-to-mexico/#commentsFiled under: ,



With a rapidly appreciating yen and an expected loss of almost $3 billion for the 2008 fiscal year, Nissan is shifting some small car production to Mexico from Japan. The Versa/Tiida (as it's known elsewhere) is expected to be built south of the border for export to the rest of the world. North American-market models are already built in Mexico, and this would consolidate production. CEO Carlos Ghosn already announced cost-cutting efforts that would eliminate 20,000 jobs worldwide, including 12,000 in Japan. The U.S. dollar has dropped 15 percent against the yen in last six months, costing Nissan nearly $1.3 billion.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. req'd]

Nissan to shift Versa/Tiida production from Japan to Mexico originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 22 Feb 2009 11:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exchange rateexchange ratesExchangeRateExchangeRatesmexicomexico productionMexicoProductionnissan tiidanissan versaNissanTiidaNissanVersaSun, 22 Feb 2009 11:03:00 EST<![CDATA[One in 20 Million: Honda celebrates U.S. production milestone ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/04/honda-produces-20-millionth-vehicle-in-america/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/04/honda-produces-20-millionth-vehicle-in-america/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/04/honda-produces-20-millionth-vehicle-in-america/#commentsFiled under: ,



In spite of Honda's latest production cuts, the Japanese automaker reached a significant milestone this week. Twenty-seven years after opening its Marysville, Ohio, assembly plant, Honda has produced its 20 millionth vehicle in North America. The original U.S. plant is still open but it has been joined by assembly operations in East Liberty, Ohio; Lincoln, Alabama; and Greensburg, Indiana. The automaker also has assembly lines in Alliston, Ontario, and El Salto Jalisco, Mexico.

Many of the vehicles assembled in North America are destined for sale on our shores. According to the automaker, more than 77% of all Honda and Acura vehicles sold in the U.S. in 2008 were produced in North America (representing a total of 1,421,427 units). The positive financial implications are obvious when you realize that Honda partners with more than 620 North American suppliers (545 in the U.S. alone) and purchased parts and materials worth more than $19.5 billion in 2008 alone. The automaker also points out that their cumulative North American engine production has topped 18.4 million units, and they have assembled more than 13 million automatic transmissions domestically. Check out the full press release after the jump.

[Source: Honda]

Continue reading One in 20 Million: Honda celebrates U.S. production milestone

One in 20 Million: Honda celebrates U.S. production milestone originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Feb 2009 17:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20 million20MillionEast LibertyEastLibertyel saltoel salto mxicoel salto plant mexicoElSaltoElSaltoMxicoElSaltoPlantMexicoHondaLincolnMarysvilleMexicomilestoneOhioOntarioproductionrecordWed, 04 Feb 2009 17:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Cologne plant begins pumping out 2009 Ford Fiesta]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/14/cologne-plant-begins-pumping-out-new-fiesta/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/14/cologne-plant-begins-pumping-out-new-fiesta/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/14/cologne-plant-begins-pumping-out-new-fiesta/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the Fiesta beginning production

Ford has finally begun production of the all-new 2009 Ford Fiesta in Cologne, Germany, today. After an investment of 455 million Euros (about $674 million) to restructure and modernize the plant, Ford is expecting its 4,000 employees will be able to roll out 148,000 Fiestas by the end of the year, which is an impressive 1,900 cars each day). In January 2009, the Valencia plant in Spain will also begin building the Fiesta. There are also production plants in China, Thailand, and Mexico that are tooling up for the newest small Ford in order to meet worldwide demand, which finally includes the U.S. where it will also be sold in both sedan and hatchback configurations around 2010. Based on the Verve concept, the new compact is exactly what the automaker needs in today's efficiency-conscious marketplace, and its stylish enough not to be considered a cheapskate or eco-geek while driving.

Gallery: 2009 Ford Fiesta begins production


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Cologne plant begins pumping out 2009 Ford Fiesta

Cologne plant begins pumping out 2009 Ford Fiesta originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Aug 2008 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ChinaCologneFiestaFord FiestaFordFiestaManufacturingMexicoThailandThu, 14 Aug 2008 12:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Mexico confiscates trucks crossing border for cheap diesel]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/09/mexico-confiscates-trucks-crossing-border-for-cheap-diesel/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/09/mexico-confiscates-trucks-crossing-border-for-cheap-diesel/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/09/mexico-confiscates-trucks-crossing-border-for-cheap-diesel/#commentsFiled under: ,

Thinking with their wallets, and avoiding $4.59/gallon fuel prices, truck owners in the States have been sneaking across the Mexican border to fill up with low-cost diesel (in Mexico, the fuel averages just $2.20/gallon). While filling a primary fuel tank isn't illegal, Mexico prohibits additional fuel tanks (aka auxiliary tanks) to be filled and moved across the border, so many truck owners with long-range tanks are finding themselves breaking Mexican federal law. Truck owners are getting stopped on the Mexican side of the border and their trucks are confiscated while authorities run tests to determine the origin of the fuel. If found in violation, owners face stiff fines. The Mexican Consulate is offering a blanket warning for all truck owners equipped with secondary fuel tanks to not drive those vehicles into Mexico. Not only do those owners risk truck confiscation, but the Mexican fuel is not formulated to U.S. ultra-low-sulfur regulations meaning emissions components will likely be damaged. (As if the trucks breaking the law are fitted with emission components in the first place...)

[Source: PickupTrucks.com]

Mexico confiscates trucks crossing border for cheap diesel originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 09 Aug 2008 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>borderDieseldriving acrossDrivingAcrosslow cost fuelLowCostFuelMexicoPickup trucksPickupTruckssave moneySaveMoneySat, 09 Aug 2008 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Fiat considering plant in Mexico]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/13/fiat-considering-plant-in-mexico/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/13/fiat-considering-plant-in-mexico/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/13/fiat-considering-plant-in-mexico/#commentsFiled under:


Click above for a high-res gallery of Fiat's Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione

As the dollar weakens, European manufacturers continue to scramble for manufacturing opportunities offshore to salvage profits. Fiat is the latest to jump into the fray. Company sources are saying the Italian automaker is currently considering Mexico as a production site -- with their eyes on an existing plant that could be tooled up for 150,000 cars a year. With their Alfa Romeo brand launching in the United States next year, and Fiat sales up significantly in South America, a plant in centrally-located Mexico could easily supply demand for both markets. If approved, the Mexican plant would start building Alfa Romeos and Fiats in 2011.

Gallery: 2009 Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione

[Source: Automotive News, subs. req'd]

Fiat considering plant in Mexico originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 May 2008 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfa romeoAlfaRomeofactoryfiatmanufacturingmexicosouth americaSouthAmericaunited statesUnitedStatesTue, 13 May 2008 15:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan cutting production in Mexico to compensate for low U.S. demand]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/27/nissan-cutting-production-in-mexico-to-compensate-for-low-u-s-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/27/nissan-cutting-production-in-mexico-to-compensate-for-low-u-s-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/27/nissan-cutting-production-in-mexico-to-compensate-for-low-u-s-d/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's been easy to forget about Nissan's small car offerings with the recent introduction of the redesigned Maxima in New York and the impending arrival of the GT-R for the first time on U.S. shores. But some of Nissan's more compact vehicles remain the bread and butter of the brand and fill the transportation needs of the masses. However, they're far from exciting and recent sales in the U.S. bear this out. To cope with these slow movers, Nissan is planning to idle its Aguascalientes, Mexico plant for a seven days this month so it can realign production with demand. According to Automotive News, the slowdown of car sales in America is expected to cause a bit of a slump for Mexico's burgeoning automotive industry, as many of the export models built there are intended for sale in the States. After the seven day closure, things should be back to normal, and hopefully sales of Nissan's small cars will rise along with fuel prices.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Nissan cutting production in Mexico to compensate for low U.S. demand originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Mar 2008 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AguascalientesAguascalientes MexicoAguascalientes-MexicoAguascalientesMexicoMexiconissansalessentraslow salesslow-salesSlowSalesversaThu, 27 Mar 2008 18:58:00 EST