Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[SpotSquad app will let you snitch on illegal parkers [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/16/spotsquad-app-will-let-you-snitch-on-illegal-parkers-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/16/spotsquad-app-will-let-you-snitch-on-illegal-parkers-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/16/spotsquad-app-will-let-you-snitch-on-illegal-parkers-w-video/#commentsFiled under: ,



If we were cynical marketers, we might suggest this as a tag line for the upcoming smartphone app called SpotSquad: "Rat out your friends and neighbors for a few lousy bucks!"

That's right, belying the stereotype of the unfailingly polite Canadian, Winnipeg-based SpotSquad is creating an app that will allow you to report parking violations to authorities, and get paid for it. The application asks that you take a photo of the violation in question, which is then forwarded to local parking enforcement authorities.

Though not a going concern yet, SpotSquad plans to demo the app in some private Winnipeg parking lots this summer, before loosing the hellish software on the innocent Canadian public. According to a report by CTV News, members of the public surveyed are split on whether or not SpotSquad is a clever idea, or a grim tattle-teller. Scroll down below to have a brief look at a how the app might work, and remember to do unto others as you'd have... never mind.

Continue reading SpotSquad app will let you snitch on illegal parkers [w/video]

SpotSquad app will let you snitch on illegal parkers [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 16 Jun 2013 17:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadaparkingparking violationspotsquadvideowinnepegSun, 16 Jun 2013 17:04:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20621068/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/16/spotsquad-app-will-let-you-snitch-on-illegal-parkers-w-video/20621068/article-detail.xml 20621068 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/spotsquad-app-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/spotsquad-app-628.jpg <![CDATA[Canada announces alignment of emissions standards with US]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/canada-announces-alignment-of-emissions-standards-with-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/canada-announces-alignment-of-emissions-standards-with-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/canada-announces-alignment-of-emissions-standards-with-us/#commentsFiled under: ,

Canada's Environment Minister Peter Kent

Peter Kent, Canada's Environment Minister, has announced his country will adopt the United States Tier 3 emissions standards for passenger vehicles. Kent (shown above) says doing so will reduce air pollution from new vehicles by around 80 percent compared to the old Tier 2 standards currently in place. The Tier 3 standards will include tighter limits on the amount of emissions from new cars and light trucks as well as reduce the amount of sulfur in gasoline from 30 parts per million to 10 parts per million.

The Global Automakers of Canada, an industry association comprised of 15 different manufacturers, has come out in support of the move, saying the new standards are a step toward reducing emissions to the benefit of all Canadians. The group also said the move will help spur automakers to embrace new technologies. And since most new cars and trucks sold in Canada are also available in the US, the necessary recalibrations should be quite easy to perform.

The Canadian Fuels Association and Toyota have also voiced their support for the policy change. For more, check out the official press release from Environment Canada below.

Continue reading Canada announces alignment of emissions standards with US

Canada announces alignment of emissions standards with US originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Jun 2013 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto emissionscanadacanadian carscar emissionsemissionsenvironment canadaenvironmental ministerglobal automakers of canadapeter kenttier 3tier 3 emissionsMon, 10 Jun 2013 18:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20606164/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/10/canada-announces-alignment-of-emissions-standards-with-us/20606164/article-detail.xml 20606164 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/canadas-environment-minister-peter-kent_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/canadas-environment-minister-peter-kent.jpg <![CDATA[Track worker killed by crane following Canadian Grand Prix]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/track-worker-killed-by-crane-following-canadian-grand-prix/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/track-worker-killed-by-crane-following-canadian-grand-prix/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/track-worker-killed-by-crane-following-canadian-grand-prix/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Track worker killed in freak crane accident following Canadian Grand Prix

The motorsports community lost a member over the weekend when a track worker was killed just after the checkered flag waved at Formula One's Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal. When the race ended, track officials were working to remove the crashed racecar of Formula 1 driver Esteban Gutierrez (shown above) when a mobile crane lifting the car ran over the unidentified 38-year-old volunteer in a freak accident.

According to The Globe and Mail, the 10-year track veteran slipped and fell, and the crane operator was unable to see him in time to keep from running over his body. Emergency workers were quick to respond, and the unnamed worker, a volunteer, was soon taken to the hospital by helicopter after being stabilized by track medics. Sadly, he later died as a result of his injuries.

Track worker killed by crane following Canadian Grand Prix originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Jun 2013 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadacanadian grand prixcircuit gilles villeneuvef1formula 1formula onemotorsportsmotorsports deathracingtrack marshaltrack safetytrack worker killedMon, 10 Jun 2013 14:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20605387/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/10/track-worker-killed-by-crane-following-canadian-grand-prix/20605387/article-detail.xml 20605387 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/canadian-grand-prix-crane-death_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/canadian-grand-prix-crane-death.jpg <![CDATA[Expedition drives from Russia to Canada over North Pole...]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/expedition-drives-from-russia-to-canada-over-north-pole/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/expedition-drives-from-russia-to-canada-over-north-pole/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/expedition-drives-from-russia-to-canada-over-north-pole/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Bus expedition from Russia to Canada via North Pole - shot on ice

No, a Ford Expedition did not drive from Russia to Canada via the North Pole, but that's exactly what a team of intrepid explorers accomplished recently. Using specially-modified buses with massive tires, the group slowly drove 2,485 miles in 70 days over drifting ice, occasionally using a pickaxe to clear a path and staying on guard for chasms that could open up and plunge the team into the frigid arctic waters. Average speeds were about 6 mph, "at the speed of a (farm) tractor." While the big tires technically allowed the buses to float if the need arose, the team preferred to stay out of the water to keep the suspension from getting coated in thick, hard ice. Falling in on foot would mean almost certain death.

According to Phys.org, the buses were powered by Toyota diesel engines, but were built with prototype parts from a previous driving expedition to the North Pole. Right now, the machines are parked in a garage in Canada's Resolute Bay while the the team rests up with family back home. They plan to continue their trek to back across the Bering Straight to Russia. If successful, the team may eventually offer a version of their buses for commercial sale.

Expedition drives from Russia to Canada over North Pole... originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 May 2013 08:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bering straightcanadadriving to the north poleexpeditionnorth poleresolute bayrussiatoyotavassili IelaguineWed, 22 May 2013 08:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20576712/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/22/expedition-drives-from-russia-to-canada-over-north-pole/20576712/article-detail.xml 20576712 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/russia-canada-arctic-expedition-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/russia-canada-arctic-expedition-628.jpg <![CDATA[Suzuki ending auto sales in Canada, too]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/suzuki-ending-auto-sales-in-canada-too/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/suzuki-ending-auto-sales-in-canada-too/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/suzuki-ending-auto-sales-in-canada-too/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Suzuki Kizashi Sport - front three-quarter view, red

Suzuki of Japan has reportedly made the decision that almost everyone assumed it would make when it announced it was leaving the US market: when the 2014 model year concludes, it will no longer sell cars in Canada. With six employees overseeing its auto business in Canada and a dealer network that has shrunk to 55 outlets in the country, we can't say we're shocked.

At the time of the US announcement, however, the senior VP of sales and marketing in the automotive division of Suzuki Canada said it would be able to survive on its own because, among other reasons, Canadians prefer smaller, more fuel-efficient cars that fit the company's offerings. Five months later, after some time to think about a 30-percent drop in sales to open up 2013 instead of the 1.4-percent increase in sales that Suzuki Canada posted last year, things have evidently changed.

The Globe and Mail reports that as is in the US, Suzuki's motorcycle, ATV and marine divisions in Canada will remain.

Suzuki ending auto sales in Canada, too originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Mar 2013 09:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadachapter 11suzukisuzuki bankruptcysuzuki canadasuzuki chapter 11suzuki closingWed, 27 Mar 2013 09:52:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20519003/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/27/suzuki-ending-auto-sales-in-canada-too/20519003/article-detail.xml 20519003 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/suzukicanada_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/suzukicanada.jpg <![CDATA[GM won't sell 2014 Chevrolet SS in Canada]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/21/gm-wont-sell-2014-chevrolet-ss-in-canada/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/21/gm-wont-sell-2014-chevrolet-ss-in-canada/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/21/gm-wont-sell-2014-chevrolet-ss-in-canada/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 Chevrolet SS - front three-quarter view

Allow us to be the first to extend our condolences to our friends to the north. General Motors has announced the 2014 Chevrolet SS will not be available in Canada. The Globe and Mail reports the automaker has confirmed the high-performance sedan won't hit Canadian dealers, though GM hasn't offered up any reasoning as to why that is.

Buyers here in the US of A, meanwhile, can look forward to getting their hands on the 415-horspower, rear-wheel drive SS by late summer. Something tells us it won't be long after that before Canadian officials start seeing individually imported 6.2-liter V8 four-doors in their neighborhoods. Fortunately, Canadian buyers will still be able to take home the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette. The C7 bowed at the Canadian International Auto Show last week, reportedly drawing sizable crowds and interest.

GM won't sell 2014 Chevrolet SS in Canada originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Feb 2013 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevrolet sscanadachevroletchevrolet sschevyssThu, 21 Feb 2013 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20471458/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/21/gm-wont-sell-2014-chevrolet-ss-in-canada/20471458/article-detail.xml 20471458 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014-chevrolet-ss-004-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014-chevrolet-ss-004-opt.jpg <![CDATA[North America's automakers ran at 97% of their production capacity last year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/16/north-americas-automakers-ran-at-97-of-their-production-capaci/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/16/north-americas-automakers-ran-at-97-of-their-production-capaci/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/16/north-americas-automakers-ran-at-97-of-their-production-capaci/#commentsFiled under:



Wards Auto began tracking North American light-vehicle production capacity utilization in 2005, and last year produced the highest amount on record: 97.8 percent of available production was utilized, an improvement of 9.3 percent versus the year before. The number represents straight-time capacity plus things like the addition of a third shift or a third crew and worker overtime due to less vacations. Production with straight-time capacity utilizing two shifts still came out to 97.1 percent in 2012, an improvement of 13.7 percent versus 2011.

In the US, capacity use was 91 percent, a rise of 12.2 percent year-on-year; the only plants to show a decline were the Ford/Mazda facility in Flat Rock that ceased production of the Mazda6 last year and where the Ford Fusion is now built, and the Subaru plant in Indiana that produces the Toyota Camry alongside Subaru vehicles. In Canada, the capacity-use numbers jumped 19.4 percent to 99.6 percent, and in Mexico overutilization was the theme, their plants running at 124 percent. The Mexican situation isn't new, that country exceeding 100 percent of capacity utilization in 2010 and 2011 as well. In total, 15.6 million vehicles were produced last year in North America, 842,000 more than in 2011.

North America's automakers ran at 97% of their production capacity last year originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 16 Feb 2013 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadacapacitycapacity utilizationfactorymexiconorth americaplantsunited statesSat, 16 Feb 2013 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20461547/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/16/north-americas-automakers-ran-at-97-of-their-production-capaci/20461547/article-detail.xml 20461547 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/ford-plant-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/ford-plant-628.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Daily Show</i> takes a long, hard look at the Detroit-Canada bridge fiasco]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/10/daily-show-takes-a-long-hard-look-at-the-detroit-canada/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/10/daily-show-takes-a-long-hard-look-at-the-detroit-canada/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/10/daily-show-takes-a-long-hard-look-at-the-detroit-canada/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Detroit Ambassador Bridge

You mean to tell me that one man owns the busiest international border crossing in the entire United States? One that carries about 25 percent of all trade between the US and Canada? Ha! With apologies to George C. Parker, if you believe that, I've got a bridge to sell you.

Wait. This is for real, as in, a real bridge? Apparently so. The Ambassador Bridge, which connects Detroit, Michigan with Windsor, Ontario, Canada is in fact owned by a billionaire Grosse Pointe, Michigan resident named Manuel "Matty" Moroun. Moroun is none too pleased with the prospect of a new bridge, proposed years ago and backed by the US and Canadian governments, competing with his own. The billionaire went so far as to fund a multi-million-dollar campaign seeking to create a constitutional amendment that would require a statewide vote to fund such a project. The proposition was voted down, meaning the bridge project could proceed.

We haven't yet explained the best part: Canada plans to pay for the entire bridge. That's right. The Canadian government has agreed to pay for the construction of the bridge, the land in Michigan that would need to be acquired and the construction of necessary on-ramps to Detroit's I-75 highway. Which would leave Michigan and its residents with, well, absolutely zero financial obligation.

Here's where we point out that a huge amount of automotive trade is carried over the Ambassador bridge. In fact, according to the New International Trade Crossing website, Chrysler has estimated that "delays at the Detroit-Windsor crossing adds more than $600 to the average car manufactured in the Michigan-Ontario region."

Leave it up to The Daily Show to turn such an oddly controversial topic into a hilarious video segment. We suggest you check it out below, and pay special attention to the parody of Chrysler's well-known "Born in Detroit" marketing campaign.

Continue reading Daily Show takes a long, hard look at the Detroit-Canada bridge fiasco

Daily Show takes a long, hard look at the Detroit-Canada bridge fiasco originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Jan 2013 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ambassador bridgebridge to canadacanadadetroitdetroit bridgemanual morounmatty morounmichigannew international trade crossingwindsorThu, 10 Jan 2013 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20425728/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/10/daily-show-takes-a-long-hard-look-at-the-detroit-canada/20425728/article-detail.xml 20425728 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/ambassador-bridge_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/ambassador-bridge.jpg <![CDATA[Chevy Camaro to be built in US once again]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/chevy-camaro-to-be-built-in-us-once-again/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/chevy-camaro-to-be-built-in-us-once-again/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/chevy-camaro-to-be-built-in-us-once-again/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Chevrolet Camaro 1LE

General Motors has announced that the next generation of the Chevrolet Camaro will once again be built in the United States, specifically at the Lansing Grand River Assembly Plant in Lansing, MI. The current Camaro has been assembled in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada, since its introduction in 2010.

The automaker cites "lower capital investment and improved production efficiencies" as key reasons for the move - indeed, the Camaro is the only rear-wheel-drive vehicle made in Oshawa; the Buick Regal and Cadillac XTS are currently manufactured there, and the upcoming Chevrolet Impala will join the front-wheel-drive group in 2013. Meanwhile, the Lansing facility currently produces two rear-wheel-drive vehicles - the Cadillac ATS and CTS - which makes the Camaro a natural fit.

The Canadian Auto Workers Union is, as expected, none too pleased by the "callous and poorly thought-out" announcement, "reacting in anger and frustration" according to a statement. CAW National President Ken Lewenza added, "General Motors has once again shown a complete and utter disregard for its workers and also Canadians in general, whose tax dollars kept the company out of bankruptcy."

The CAW says that "GM must replace lost Camaro production on a one-to-one basis." The automaker's own statement says it will "continue to meet the production targets agreed to with the Canadian and Ontario governments during the 2009 restructuring." In any case, production of the current Camaro will continue in Ontario until the next-gen model is ready to go on sale sometime within the next few years.

Feel free to read statements from both General Motors and the CAW below.

Continue reading Chevy Camaro to be built in US once again

Chevy Camaro to be built in US once again originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Dec 2012 14:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camarocanadacanadian auto workerscawchevroletgeneral motorsgmlansingontariooshawaWed, 19 Dec 2012 14:17:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20407500/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/19/chevy-camaro-to-be-built-in-us-once-again/20407500/article-detail.xml 20407500 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-chevrolet-camaro-1le_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-chevrolet-camaro-1le.jpg <![CDATA[Explosion at Bombardier R&D facility in Quebec leaves two badly injured [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/12/explosion-at-bombardier-randd-facility-in-quebec-leaves-two-badly/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/12/explosion-at-bombardier-randd-facility-in-quebec-leaves-two-badly/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/12/explosion-at-bombardier-randd-facility-in-quebec-leaves-two-badly/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Bombardier R&D facility explosion - news report screencap

Bombardier has closed its research and development complex in Valcourt, Quebec following an overnight explosion late last week. Two employees were left with severe burns after the incident, including a security guard. Both were taken to a local hospital for treatment and remain in medically induced comas. According to reports, local police heard the explosion and saw a ball of fire shoot into the sky before seeing the two men run from the building. Police say the damage appears to have emanated from a research lab, but firefighters were able to quickly get the blaze under control. Law enforcement believes the fire was accidental, but a full-fledged investigation is currently underway.

The complex is under construction as part of expansion efforts, and some have speculated the blast could have been caused by the work. There's no indication as to when the facility will reopen for business. In the interim, Bombardier has established a phone hotline to give employees and their family members information and support.

Bombardier Recreational Products spun off from Bombardier in 2003. It manufactures Ski-Doo snowmobile and jet ski recreational products, as well as Evinrude outboard motors and some ATVs. For more, watch the CBC News story about the blast in the video below.

Continue reading Explosion at Bombardier R&D facility in Quebec leaves two badly injured [w/video]

Explosion at Bombardier R&D facility in Quebec leaves two badly injured [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Nov 2012 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bombardierbombardier explosionbombardier recreational productscanadaevinrudeexplosionquebecvalcourtvideoMon, 12 Nov 2012 15:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20377231/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/12/explosion-at-bombardier-randd-facility-in-quebec-leaves-two-badly/20377231/article-detail.xml 20377231 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/bombardier-valcourt-blast_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/bombardier-valcourt-blast.jpg <![CDATA[New Ontario racetrack green-lit, hopes to woo NASCAR]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/09/canada-getting-a-new-racetrack-in-ontario/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/09/canada-getting-a-new-racetrack-in-ontario/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/09/canada-getting-a-new-racetrack-in-ontario/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Canadian Motor Speedway artist's rendering

You may think that NASCAR is exclusively an American sport, but it has quite a following in Canada, too. How do we know that? Well, aside from knowing a few fans who count themselves among our neighbors to the north, it seems that a project has been green-lighted to build a NASCAR-minded speedway in Fort Erie, Ontario.

According to reports, the $400-million project will see the construction of a new Canadian Motor Speedway, a one-mile banked oval track with spectator capacity of over 65,000, including 60,000 grandstand seats, 5,000 club chairs and 80 suites. Though it is unclear if the track will eventually join the NASCAR calendar, a mile-long oval circuit is a pretty solid indicator of the kind of racing intended for this location. Another not-so-subtle indicator of investors' hopes for the facility? The designer is four-time NASCAR champ Jeff Gordon.

Lest you think the facility is only for turnin' left, the plan also includes a 2.5-mile road course. According to Canadian Motor Speedway executive director Azhar Mohammed, "This will be a world class facility that will attract visitors from all over North America. We are very anxious to begin the next steps in seeing the speedway become a reality."

While there were some appeals against the project, they were all rejected by Ontario Municipal Board. The project will provide jobs, and eventually tourism to an area that was forced to close its slots and live horse racing recently. We look forward to seeing how this track plays into the motorsport community at large.

As the Toronto Star notes, NASCAR's Nationwide series has already announced that it will stop racing in Montreal, so the Canadian Motor Speedway could conceivably make a play for the event if it doesn't go to Mosport as rumored.

Construction for the facility is expected to take just 18 months.

New Ontario racetrack green-lit, hopes to woo NASCAR originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Nov 2012 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadacanadian motor speedwayfort eriejeff gordonnascarnextel cupontariostock carstock car racingthe chaseFri, 09 Nov 2012 10:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20373379/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/09/canada-getting-a-new-racetrack-in-ontario/20373379/article-detail.xml 20373379 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/canadian-motor-speedway-rendering_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/canadian-motor-speedway-rendering.jpg <![CDATA[CAW and Ford ratify agreement, Chrysler still pending]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/24/caw-and-ford-ratify-agreement-chrysler-still-pending/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/24/caw-and-ford-ratify-agreement-chrysler-still-pending/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/24/caw-and-ford-ratify-agreement-chrysler-still-pending/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Canadian Auto Workers union boss Ken Lewenza - headshot with gesture

According to the Detroit Free Press, Ford's Canadian employees have ratified their union contract, making Chrysler the only automaker to not have worked out an agreement with its Canadian workforce. Employees from Ford of Canada voted 82 percent in favor of a new national contract following a weekend's worth of voting.

There are 21,000 Canadian Auto Workers union members, 4,500 of which are from Ford. While General Motors workers are set to ratify a new contract on Wednesday, Chrysler has made no such progress with its staffers.

CAW President Ken Lewenza (shown above) says that a Chrysler deal could come soon, "If they meet pattern, we could wrap up tomorrow," suggesting that Chrysler could follow the lead of Ford and GM's deals. However, the Fiat-owned automaker has reportedly made stronger demands for concessions than that of GM or Ford.

According to the report, the agreement with Ford includes the addition of 635 jobs over the life of the contract, to be filled mostly with previously laid-off employees. 583 workers were laid off from the Windsor plant, while another 280 were released from St. Thomas.

Plans to keep producing engines such as the Windsor-built 5.4-liter V8 engine and the 6.8-liter V8 have helped bolster the deal. Meanwhile, Ford is set to announce that its EcoBoost engine will be built in China because the nation's government has rules requiring domestic production.

CAW and Ford ratify agreement, Chrysler still pending originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadacanadian auto workerscawfordford of canadaken lawenzawindsor canadaMon, 24 Sep 2012 15:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20331540/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/24/caw-and-ford-ratify-agreement-chrysler-still-pending/20331540/article-detail.xml 20331540 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/ken-lewenza-caw-boss_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/ken-lewenza-caw-boss.jpg <![CDATA[Canadian auto dealer uses radio spot to get even with crooks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/11/canadian-auto-dealer-uses-radio-spot-to-get-even-with-crooks/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/11/canadian-auto-dealer-uses-radio-spot-to-get-even-with-crooks/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/11/canadian-auto-dealer-uses-radio-spot-to-get-even-with-crooks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Marty Giles runs a Ford dealership in Fort McMurray in Alberta, Canada. Marty Giles had his dealership robbed over the weekend. Marty Giles has a good sense of humor... and a plan to get even.

What you are listening to in the video below is an actual radio spot, in which Giles tells listeners, "I know you've heard about our family pricing initative. Over the weekend, however, we had some non-family members come steal some rims and tires."

By that line at the 0:05 mark, we are already off to a rather humorous start. The wheels and tires belonged to a Harley-Davidson Edition Ford F-150, an F-150 FX4 and a Mustang. Rather than voice his anger, Giles decided to get even by offering a $10,000 reward to anyone who could provide information to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police on the crime. Another $10,000 will be donated to a charity of the Mounties' choosing.

According to the ad, if the tires are returned, Giles will "call off the posse... no harm, no foul."

Giles also attempts to get inside the heads of the criminals, by adding "I get a great deal on commercials, and I'll run them forever until you get caught," and several other truly great lines. Click below to hear this instant classic of a radio spot.

Continue reading Canadian auto dealer uses radio spot to get even with crooks

Canadian auto dealer uses radio spot to get even with crooks originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Sep 2012 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadaf-150fordfort mcmurraymarty gilesmustangnorth star fordnorthstar fordvideoTue, 11 Sep 2012 16:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20320753/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/11/canadian-auto-dealer-uses-radio-spot-to-get-even-with-crooks/20320753/article-detail.xml 20320753 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/ford-radio-commercial-crooks-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/ford-radio-commercial-crooks-628.jpg <![CDATA[Detroit Three ask for big cuts from CAW, union unwilling to acquiesce]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/11/detroit-three-ask-for-big-cuts-from-caw-union-unwilling-to-acqu/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/11/detroit-three-ask-for-big-cuts-from-caw-union-unwilling-to-acqu/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/11/detroit-three-ask-for-big-cuts-from-caw-union-unwilling-to-acqu/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Canadian Auto Workers

The Detroit Big Three are seeking "dramatic changes" in their contracts with the Canadian Auto Workers. According to a Reuters report, the CAW claims that the U.S. automakers are angling for deep pension and benefit cuts. The CAW says it has no intention of adhering to these proposed cuts.

According to the report, the CAW is staring down "unprecedented demands" from Ford, General Motors and Chrysler, as the current agreement between the parties is set to expire in one week.

One of the main points of contention surrounds a clause in the current deal, which expires September 17 at 11:59 p.m. EST. That clause would allow any worker with 30 years of experience to retire on full pension. The automakers are seeking to dissolve this clause.

The report also states that American automakers are refusing to commit to any new production investments in Canada. The CAW is demanding that the Big Three make such a commitment for the deal to go through.

According to a separate Detroit Free Press report, CAW President Ken Lewenza asserted that he plans to resist these wage and benefit concessions in the contract talks at this stage.

Other concessions being demanded by the Big Three include the creation of a second-tier workforce for newer employees. This would mirror the agreement set up with the UAW in America. The automakers are also asking that any new bonuses or pensions come from cuts made in other areas. At this time, all three American automakers declined to comment on these concessions, through Sergio Marchionne said last week that he would consider moving production to other plants if the CAW would not concede to its proposals.

Detroit Three ask for big cuts from CAW, union unwilling to acquiesce originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Sep 2012 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>big threecanadacanadian auto workerscawchryslerdetroit big threefiatfordgeneral motorsgmTue, 11 Sep 2012 09:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20319957/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/11/detroit-three-ask-for-big-cuts-from-caw-union-unwilling-to-acqu/20319957/article-detail.xml 20319957 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/caw_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/caw.jpg <![CDATA[Health Canada clamps down on Targa Newfoundland over collectable Marlboro suit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/30/health-canada-clamps-down-on-targa-newfoundland-over-collectable/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/30/health-canada-clamps-down-on-targa-newfoundland-over-collectable/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/30/health-canada-clamps-down-on-targa-newfoundland-over-collectable/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Zahir Rana Enzo Wreck

We're sure you remember Zahir Rana, the gentleman who piloted a Ferrari Enzo into the Atlantic Ocean during last year's Targa Newfoundland. When the gentleman took his co-pilot and his car for a swim, he happened to be wearing a racing suit once worn by Rubens Barrichello. Back when the Formula One racer drove for Ferrari, the team was sponsored by Marlboro, which meant the cigarette company's logo was plastered all over the the suit. As it turns out, Health Canada takes a dim view of tobacco advertising during any racing event, and despite the fact that Rana had bought the signed suit at a charity auction as a piece of racing history, the government agency took offense to photos from the race depicting Rana in full Marlboro regalia.

According to Wheels.ca, Targa President Bob Giannou found himself on the raw end of phone calls and letters from Health Canada, informing him of "prohibitions regarding the promotion of tobacco products," even if the reference is historical.

Does that mean Canadian officials are going to block the public appearance of the hordes of vintage race cars sponsored by the likes of Rothmans, Marlboro, John Player Special, Camel, Lucky Strike, Kool and Skoal just to name a few? Like it or not, tobacco and racing have a long and storied history together, and attempting to censor that history from the public eye is downright foolish. Good luck, Health Canada.

Health Canada clamps down on Targa Newfoundland over collectable Marlboro suit originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Aug 2012 17:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camelcanadahealth canadajohn player specialkoollucky strikemarlboroskoaltarga newfoundlandtobaccozahir ranaThu, 30 Aug 2012 17:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20313191/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/30/health-canada-clamps-down-on-targa-newfoundland-over-collectable/20313191/article-detail.xml 20313191 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/zahir-rana-enzo-wreck-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/zahir-rana-enzo-wreck-628.jpg <![CDATA[If you see a road sign doing this, run for cover]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/20/if-you-see-a-road-sign-doing-this-run-for-cover/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/20/if-you-see-a-road-sign-doing-this-run-for-cover/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/20/if-you-see-a-road-sign-doing-this-run-for-cover/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Everyone knows that highway signs aren't supposed to bounce like they just remembered the lyrics to "Jump Around" by House of Pain. But this particular sign across a highway in Calgary, Alberta, Canada doesn't care about your so-called common knowledge.

A storm that brought some serious wind sent this crossbar into gyrations so severe that cars began changing lanes to get out of the way. And if you watch all the way to the end of the short video, you'll see they had good reason.

Scroll down to watch the scary stuff.

Continue reading If you see a road sign doing this, run for cover

If you see a road sign doing this, run for cover originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>albertacalgarycanadaetcvideovideosyoutubeMon, 20 Aug 2012 12:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20304248/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/20/if-you-see-a-road-sign-doing-this-run-for-cover/20304248/article-detail.xml 20304248 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/albertasignbow_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/albertasignbow.jpg <![CDATA[Creepy or Clever Marketing? Porsche dealer puts your house in direct marketing material]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/04/creepy-or-clever-marketing-porsche-dealer-puts-your-house-in-di/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/04/creepy-or-clever-marketing-porsche-dealer-puts-your-house-in-di/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/04/creepy-or-clever-marketing-porsche-dealer-puts-your-house-in-di/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Pfaff Auto in Toronto, Canada has taken credit for creating the world's first piece of instant direct mail - a variation on the regular direct mail that goes from the doorstep straight to the waste basket. The dealership took a white Porsche 911 Carrera S to well-monied Toronto neighborhoods and photographed it in front of various homes. A print production crew in a cargo van nearby then took those photos and, right on the spot, created individual postcards using each photo that invited homeowners to a test drive. It then delivered the postcards to mailboxes, saving potential buyers from having to merely imagine a Porsche in their driveways.

This isn't the kind of marketing play you'd be likely to pull off in America, what with the guns, gates and armed guards, but it worked a treat in Toronto. Traditional direct-mail response is usually in the low single digits, but Pfaff's response rate to the "It's Closer Than You Think" campaign was 32 percent. You can watch how they pulled it off in the video below.

Continue reading Creepy or Clever Marketing? Porsche dealer puts your house in direct marketing material

Creepy or Clever Marketing? Porsche dealer puts your house in direct marketing material originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 04 Aug 2012 19:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>911advertisingcanadadirect mailmarketingpfaffpfaff autoporschetorontoSat, 04 Aug 2012 19:47:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20288557/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/04/creepy-or-clever-marketing-porsche-dealer-puts-your-house-in-di/20288557/article-detail.xml 20288557 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/pfaffporschedm_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/pfaffporschedm.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota looking to shift some Lexus RX production from Japan to Canada]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/27/toyota-looking-to-shift-some-lexus-rx-production-from-japan-to-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/27/toyota-looking-to-shift-some-lexus-rx-production-from-japan-to-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/27/toyota-looking-to-shift-some-lexus-rx-production-from-japan-to-c/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



In an effort to reduce the Yen's impact on its bottom line, Toyota says it will invest $100 million in its Cambridge, Ontario plant to increase output of the Lexus RX CUV. The Ontario factory is Toyota's only Lexus producer outside of Japan.

"This is a big and ambitious project with new technology, exacting standards and tight timelines," Brian Krinock, president of Toyota's Canada manufacturing unit, said in a press release. "Our team members have demonstrated time and time again that they thrive on these kinds of challenges."

The expansion will take the plant's Lexus capacity from 74,000 units a year to 104,000, including 15,000 RX 450h hybrids. By the time production begins in early 2014, the plant is expected to have added about 400 new jobs and take overall employment to 6,900 workers.

Continue reading Toyota looking to shift some Lexus RX production from Japan to Canada

Toyota looking to shift some Lexus RX production from Japan to Canada originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Jul 2012 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cambridgecanadalexusontariorxrx 350rx 450htoyotaFri, 27 Jul 2012 09:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20284866/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/27/toyota-looking-to-shift-some-lexus-rx-production-from-japan-to-c/20284866/article-detail.xml 20284866 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-2013-lexus-rx-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-2013-lexus-rx-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ford recalls 10,000+ 2013 Escape crossovers for brake-pedal interference issue]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/16/ford-recalls-10-000-2013-escape-crossovers-for-brake-pedal-inte/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/16/ford-recalls-10-000-2013-escape-crossovers-for-brake-pedal-inte/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/16/ford-recalls-10-000-2013-escape-crossovers-for-brake-pedal-inte/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Ford Explorer - green - front three-quarter view

A Ford factory employee noticed a potential issue with the carpet padding on the left side of the center console trim on the 2013 Ford Escape that has resulted in a recall of the hot-selling new crossover. If the padding gets out of position, it can push the trim piece out, reducing the clearance for the driver's feet between the accelerator and brake pedal. When the driver moves his or her foot from the accelerator and brake, it foot might hit the side of the brake pedal and increase the stopping distance.

Ford has notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and a full recall of all 10,000 Escape models has been initiated - that's 8,266 here in the States, a couple thousand in Canada and a couple hundred in Mexico. Owners will be notified later this month, at which time they can take their vehicles to the dealer for repair free of charge. Check out the notice from NHTSA below.

Continue reading Ford recalls 10,000+ 2013 Escape crossovers for brake-pedal interference issue

Ford recalls 10,000+ 2013 Escape crossovers for brake-pedal interference issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Jul 2012 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford escapecanadaescapefordford escape recallnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecallMon, 16 Jul 2012 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20278440/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/16/ford-recalls-10-000-2013-escape-crossovers-for-brake-pedal-inte/20278440/article-detail.xml 20278440 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/fordescapetrim_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/fordescapetrim.jpg <![CDATA[Mini Canada's former ad agency selling one last car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/14/ex-mini-ad-agency-selling-one-last-car-on-its-way-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/14/ex-mini-ad-agency-selling-one-last-car-on-its-way-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/14/ex-mini-ad-agency-selling-one-last-car-on-its-way-out/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



It isn't always kittens and cotton candy when a client splits with an advertising agency, especially at the end of a long relationship. If either side makes a statement at all, it's usually full of platitudes and the kind of celebrity divorce tone that leads you to wonder, "What happened there?"

There's none of that after Mini Canada separated from its agency of ten years, Taxi in Toronto - well, almost none of it. Instead, Taxi is taking its own 2008 Mini, the one it displayed in its boardroom, for one final publicity splurge by auctioning it on eBay and donating the proceeds to Toronto's Covenant House. It is an excellent way to go.

At the time of writing the bidding is up to $10,500 Canadian (about the same in U.S. dollars). Have a look below for a few samples of Taxi's work for Mini over the years, and head over to eBay to get in on the charity action.

Continue reading Mini Canada's former ad agency selling one last car

Mini Canada's former ad agency selling one last car originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 14 Jul 2012 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ad agencyadvertisingauctioncanadacharityebayminitaxitaxi ad agencytaxi of torontoSat, 14 Jul 2012 16:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20276511/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/14/ex-mini-ad-agency-selling-one-last-car-on-its-way-out/20276511/article-detail.xml 20276511 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/taximini_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/taximini.jpg -1 2