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[China continues foreign automotive investment incentives after all]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/china-continues-foreign-automotive-investment-incentives-after-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/china-continues-foreign-automotive-investment-incentives-after-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/china-continues-foreign-automotive-investment-incentives-after-a/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Buick and China flags fly at dealership

China has reversed a policy that would have nixed incentives for investments from foreign automakers, paving the way for further expansion by General Motors, Volkswagen and others. Legislators had removed automotive manufacturing from the list of industries that would receive government support in the future, but foreign investment fell off significantly in April. The country's National Development and Reform Commission responded by not only reinstating foreign automotive investment but by giving the business "preferential treatment," according to Automotive News. Last year, China's central and western regions attracted $19.2 billion in foreign investment across the board.

With China serving as the world's largest automotive market, manufacturers are keen to make inroads in the region. The local government incentivised foreign-owned manufacturing plants for some seven years before the National Development and Reform Commission removed the industry from its approved list in an attempt to stave off overcapacity. Automotive News reports GM and VW have both invested heavily in the region, with the latter set to begin construction on an all-new facility. The new plant is part of a $13 billion investment in China and will join Volkswagen's 12 other car and component facilities in the region.

China continues foreign automotive investment incentives after all originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 May 2013 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chinachinese auto marketchinese carschinese governmentgeneral motorsgminvestmentnational development and reform commissionvwThu, 23 May 2013 08:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20575202/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/23/china-continues-foreign-automotive-investment-incentives-after-a/20575202/article-detail.xml 20575202 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/buick-and-china-flag-at-dealer_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/buick-and-china-flag-at-dealer.jpg <![CDATA[Ford and Chrysler reducing summer plant shutdowns]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/ford-and-chrysler-reducing-summer-plant-shutdowns/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/ford-and-chrysler-reducing-summer-plant-shutdowns/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/ford-and-chrysler-reducing-summer-plant-shutdowns/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Dodge Dart production line worker

Most domestic automaker assembly plants traditionally take a couple of weeks off during the summer. The shutdowns give each plant time for much needed repairs and maintenance, and in some cases, help better align production with demand. Not this year, though, as demand for many models is outstripping what Ford, Chrysler and General Motors plants can produce.

Ford has announced that it will shorten its annual summer shutdown for most North American plants from two weeks to one. The shorter shutdown will increase the carmaker's annual North American production by 40,000 units on top of the 200,000 extra units that it was already planning to produce this year versus last. Automotive News reports that Ford produced 2.8 million vehicles on this continent in 2012, and that output this year has already increased 13 percent through April.

Chrysler, meanwhile, is also operating at full tilt and plans to run some plants through the summer with no shutdown at all. Those not getting a break include Jefferson North where the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango are assembled, Toledo North that will assemble the new Cherokee, and Conner Avenue, home of SRT Viper production. Other assembly plants will be down for a single week, while all of Chrysler's engine and transmission plants except one in Indiana will continue operating with no shutdown this summer.

Lastly, GM is keeping its cards closer to its chest. The automaker declined to comment to Automotive News about its summer production plans, instead saying that the company "does things a bit differently" now compared to the past, tying plant shutdowns to model life cycles and market demand rather than traditional annual timetables.

Continue reading Ford and Chrysler reducing summer plant shutdowns

Ford and Chrysler reducing summer plant shutdowns originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 May 2013 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerfordgeneral motorsgmplant shutdownshutdownsummer shutdownWed, 22 May 2013 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20579690/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/22/ford-and-chrysler-reducing-summer-plant-shutdowns/20579690/article-detail.xml 20579690 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/dodge-dart-production_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/dodge-dart-production.jpg <![CDATA[Car sales in Europe up for first time in 19 months]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/car-sales-in-europe-up-for-first-time-in-19-months/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/car-sales-in-europe-up-for-first-time-in-19-months/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/car-sales-in-europe-up-for-first-time-in-19-months/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Volkswagen factory's famous cylindrical car elevator garage

Automotive News reports the European automotive market has posted first gain in 19 months. Germany and Spain helped push the swell thanks to higher-than-average consumer confidence, though the EU saw registrations jump two percent overall compared to the prior year. In April, buyers took home 1.08 million new vehicles, up from 1.06 million during the same month in 2012. Analysts are hoping the news is the first sign of a legitimate recovery for a region that has suffered some of the slowest auto sales in 20 years. Even so, the market continues to suffer - four-month sales are down 7 percent to 4.18 million units.

Peugeot-Citroen saw its sales fall off by 10 percent last month. Ford and General Motors both posted declines of 0.6 percent and four percent respectively, with Chevrolet suffering through a 28-percent decline last month. There were winners in the region, however. Mercedes-Benz sales increased by 13 percent while Volkswagen registrations jumped by around 9 percent. Sales were particularly strong in the United Kingdom, Spain and Germany.

Car sales in Europe up for first time in 19 months originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 May 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto salescar saleschevroleteueuropeeuropean unioneuropean car salesfordgeneral motorsmercedes-benzsalesvwMon, 20 May 2013 14:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20575189/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/20/car-sales-in-europe-up-for-first-time-in-19-months/20575189/article-detail.xml 20575189 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/vw-factory-car-elevator-garage_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/vw-factory-car-elevator-garage.jpg <![CDATA[GM stock prices finally eclipse $33 IPO price]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/gm-stock-prices-finally-eclipse-33-ipo-price/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/gm-stock-prices-finally-eclipse-33-ipo-price/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/gm-stock-prices-finally-eclipse-33-ipo-price/#commentsFiled under: ,



General Motors has reached an important milestone this morning: the price for one share of the company has climbed to over $33. That's higher than the Initial Public Offering price from 2010. At roughly 12:15PM Eastern today, GM shares were up $0.97 on the day, some 2.99 percent, for a total of $33.36. The Detroit Free Press reports that the last time GM stock closed over $33 was on May 4, 2011. GM stock has been steadily growing in value throughout 2013. The stock price is up by 14 percent since the start of the year.

The jump over $33 per share is undoubtedly great news for both investors and GM employees, who've suffered through some scary moments over the last few years. In 2012, the share price fell below $19. Later that summer, GM CEO Dan Akerson spent some $500,000 on 25,000 shares as a vote of confidence in the embattled automaker (shares that are now worth roughly $825k... nicely played, Dan).

As has been widely reported, the $33 price still is far from the break-even point for the shares purchased by the US Government, however. The Treasury Department is still planning on divesting itself of GM shares by early 2014, and would need to see roughly $75 per share to break even on the investment it made in 2009 as part of the company's bankruptcy restructuring.

GM stock prices finally eclipse $33 IPO price originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 May 2013 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dan akersongeneral motorsgeneral motors stockgmgm ipogm stockgm stock priceFri, 17 May 2013 13:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20573955/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/gm-stock-prices-finally-eclipse-33-ipo-price/20573955/article-detail.xml 20573955 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/gm-renaissance-center-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/gm-renaissance-center-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 GMC Sierra Regular Cab revealed]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2014-gmc-sierra-regular-cab-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2014-gmc-sierra-regular-cab-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2014-gmc-sierra-regular-cab-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Despite initially launching in just the Crew Cab configuration, the lineup of 2014 GMC Sierra and 2014 Chevrolet Silverado trucks will eventually grow to include three cab sizes and three bed lengths. Oddly enough, our first look at the Regular Cab bodystyle has arrived in a General Motors press release discussing the aerodynamics of the new truck, with an image showing a Sierra Regular Cab testing in the wind tunnel. GMC's website says that Regular Cab and Double Cab models will be available by summer.

While it really didn't take too much imagination to figure out what the two-door version would look like, this Regular Cab Z71 looks pretty sharp with its standard-length (6.5-feet) bed - a longer bed will also be offered. In regards to the aero tuning of the 2014 Sierra, these images show just how far GM has gone in maximizing the truck's fuel efficiency and reducing its noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels. Interestingly, the press release shows visual evidence that keeping the tailgate up is best for aero - there's always been some Mythbusters-level contention about such things -but GM also says that adding tonneau covers (preferably soft) and running boards can also help improve the overall aerodynamics. Scroll down for all of this aero info in the official press release.

Continue reading 2014 GMC Sierra Regular Cab revealed

2014 GMC Sierra Regular Cab revealed originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 May 2013 14:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 gmc sierra2014 gmc sierra regular cabchevy silveradogeneral motorsgmcgmc sierragmc sierra regular cabThu, 16 May 2013 14:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20572439/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/16/2014-gmc-sierra-regular-cab-revealed/20572439/article-detail.xml 20572439 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-gmc-sierra-regular-cab_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-gmc-sierra-regular-cab.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Cadillac XTS gets 410-hp twin-turbo V6]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/2014-cadillac-xts-gets-410-hp-twin-turbo-v6/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/2014-cadillac-xts-gets-410-hp-twin-turbo-v6/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/2014-cadillac-xts-gets-410-hp-twin-turbo-v6/#commentsFiled under: , ,



General Motors told us so back in March, but it is now official: The twin-turbocharged 3.6-liter V6 announced for the 2014 Cadillac CTS will also join the options list for the 2014 Cadillac XTS. The LF3 engine puts out 410 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque in the XTS, however, which is 10 hp and 61 lb-ft down from its application in the CTS. It will be identifiable from the outside by a specific grille treatment and a badge on the decklid. The 3.6-liter V6 with 304 hp and 264 lb-ft holds steady as the standard engine, and both will be yoked to a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

Also new for the front-wheel drive model for 2014 are updates that include electric power steering and optional Automatic Parking Assist that can maneuver the sedan into parallel parking spots. The three trims above standard - Luxury, Premium and Platinum - get Intellibeam headlights that automatically switch between high- and low-beam,

The four current trim levels remain but the list of optional extras for the higher specs grows with a rear-seat entertainment system equipped with DVD screens in the front seatbacks, memory settings for the front passenger seat and an armrest in the back seat fitted with radio and sunshade controls. The press release below has more info on all of the changes.

Continue reading 2014 Cadillac XTS gets 410-hp twin-turbo V6

2014 Cadillac XTS gets 410-hp twin-turbo V6 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 May 2013 22:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 cadillac xtscadillaccadillac twin-turbocadillac xtsgeneral motorsgmlf3twin-turbo v6Tue, 14 May 2013 22:42:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20569240/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/14/2014-cadillac-xts-gets-410-hp-twin-turbo-v6/20569240/article-detail.xml 20569240 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-cadillac-xts_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-cadillac-xts.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan NV200 puts on a Bowtie as new Chevy City Express]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/nissan-nv200-puts-on-a-bowtie-as-new-chevy-city-express/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/nissan-nv200-puts-on-a-bowtie-as-new-chevy-city-express/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/nissan-nv200-puts-on-a-bowtie-as-new-chevy-city-express/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2015 Chevy City Express

Your eyes do not deceive you - that is, in fact, a Nissan NV200 work van with Chevrolet badging. General Motors and Nissan today announced a partnership where the Japanese automaker will build Bowtie-badged vans for Chevy dealers to sell throughout the United States and Canada. The new van, called the City Express, is expected to go on sale in the fall of 2014.

"Our fleet customers have asked us for an entry in the commercial small van segment, so this addition to the Chevrolet portfolio will strengthen our position with fleets and our commercial customers," Ed Peper, US vice president of GM fleet and commercial sales, said in a press release.

No details have been released regarding specific changes for the new City Express, though from the images released today, it's clear that the vehicle's front fascia has been reworked, and some super-sexy new wheel covers have been added. If we're honest, the NV200 wasn't all that pretty to begin with, and this, well, isn't any better. Not that looks are of primary concern in the commercial truck business, of course.

Nissan already sells the NV200 in several global markets; it has even been selected as the New York City Taxi of Tomorrow. Pricing for the new City Express will be revealed closer to the van's launch, and we'll be curious to see how it lines up with the NV200's numbers. Either way, we think this has all the signs of a win-win for both companies - Nissan has the capacity and Chevy has a pretty pronounced need for modern commercial vans.

Have a look below for the official press release from GM.

Continue reading Nissan NV200 puts on a Bowtie as new Chevy City Express

Nissan NV200 puts on a Bowtie as new Chevy City Express originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 May 2013 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2015 chevy city expresschevychevy city expressgeneral motorsgmnissannissan nv200Tue, 14 May 2013 11:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20568180/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/14/nissan-nv200-puts-on-a-bowtie-as-new-chevy-city-express/20568180/article-detail.xml 20568180 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-2015-chevy-city-express628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-2015-chevy-city-express628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Would you allow advertisements on your infotainment system? [w/poll]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/11/would-you-allow-advertisements-on-your-infotainment-system-w-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/11/would-you-allow-advertisements-on-your-infotainment-system-w-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/11/would-you-allow-advertisements-on-your-infotainment-system-w-p/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



As consumers find new ways to avoid commercials and advertisements, companies are constantly trying to find new ways of marketing to them. Other than radio commercials, it's hard to think of a way for ads to show up in our cars, but Reuters is reporting that General Motors is considering selling ads show inside its in-car infotainment systems.

In the article, GM CEO Dan Akerson talked about the possibility of in-car ads with the example being a "brought to you by Alltstate" message showing up on the infotainment screen. Of course, this doesn't even begin to factor in what sort of ads we'll start seeing in GM cars once it launches its widespread 4G LTE Internet access for most vehicles starting with the 2015 model year.

Does this kind of advertising creep strike you as being par for the future course, or insidious beyond your wildest dreams? Make your voice heard, in our poll below.

View Poll

Would you allow advertisements on your infotainment system? [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 11 May 2013 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingdan akersongeneral motorsgmin-car advertisingSat, 11 May 2013 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20560845/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/11/would-you-allow-advertisements-on-your-infotainment-system-w-p/20560845/article-detail.xml 20560845 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/cadillac-cue_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/cadillac-cue.jpg <![CDATA[Treasury to begin selling off more GM stock]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/treasury-to-begin-selling-off-more-gm-stock/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/treasury-to-begin-selling-off-more-gm-stock/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/treasury-to-begin-selling-off-more-gm-stock/#commentsFiled under: , ,

GM Rencen with American flags

Reuters reports that earlier this week the US Treasury announced the sale of another tranche of General Motors stock. It didn't say how many of the 241.7 million shares it holds in the automaker it would sell, nor exactly when - the discretion apparently intended to keep hedge funds from profiting from the situation. The government's ownership is broken down into common and diluted shares, representing close to 18 percent of the company at the moment, down from the 60.8 percent it owned in 2009 after GM's bankruptcy. This follows a share sale in February, when Treasury sold 17.2 million shares for $489 million.

Although GM's share price is nowhere near the $70-per-share or so that Treasury would need to break even, the department has reiterated that the point of the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) wasn't to make money but to save jobs. GM's share price has, however, almost edged back to its November 2012 IPO price of $33. At the time of writing, shares were trading for $32.10. Based on the timetable Treasury gave in December, it should be fully divested of its GM ownership within a year from now.

Treasury to begin selling off more GM stock originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 May 2013 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bailoutfinancial crisisgeneral motorsgmgm bankruptcygm stocktarptreasurytroubled asset relief programThu, 09 May 2013 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20561573/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/09/treasury-to-begin-selling-off-more-gm-stock/20561573/article-detail.xml 20561573 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/gyi0061332043_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/gyi0061332043.jpg <![CDATA[GM to build $1.3 billion Cadillac plant in China]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/08/gm-build-cadillac-plant-china/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/08/gm-build-cadillac-plant-china/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/08/gm-build-cadillac-plant-china/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



General Motors has gotten approval to build a $1.3 billion manufacturing facility for its Cadillac brand in China. China's National Development and Reform Commission signed off on plans for GM to build the plant in the country's Shanghai's Jinqiao zone; construction is expected to begin in June of this year. According to a Bloomberg report, the plant will have an annual production capacity of 150,000 units.

No surprise here, but Cadillac would like to sell a lot more cars in the plush Chinese luxury market. The brand moved only 30,010 cars in China last year, compared with 400k for Audi, and about 330k for BMW. With Cadillac already telling us that it would be moving production of its XTS sedan to China - a production decision that saves having to pay 25-percent import tariffs - approval of the factory is a critical win for the company.

In fact, according to earlier comments by GM China president Bob Socia, it's at least conceivable that Chinese-built Cadillacs could be shipped back to the US for sale. The brave new world of globalization, getting stranger by the minute.

GM to build $1.3 billion Cadillac plant in China originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 May 2013 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cadillaccadillac xtschinageneral motorsgmWed, 08 May 2013 18:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20562283/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/08/gm-build-cadillac-plant-china/20562283/article-detail.xml 20562283 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/cadillac-xts-china-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/cadillac-xts-china-628.jpg <![CDATA[GM's Reuss would like a 'nice, light, rear-drive car that's inexpensive']]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/gms-reuss-would-like-a-nice-light-rear-drive-car-thats-inex/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/gms-reuss-would-like-a-nice-light-rear-drive-car-thats-inex/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/gms-reuss-would-like-a-nice-light-rear-drive-car-thats-inex/#commentsFiled under: , ,



We'll admit we had to read the quote from General Motors President of North America Mark Reuss a few times just to make sure we weren't missing something obvious. But it is correct - Reuss told Automotive News he'd like "A really nice, light, rear-drive car that's inexpensive..." to join the Chevrolet line-up. Which means, if we've read this correctly, that Reuss wants the same thing that enthusiasts have been caterwauling about, like rutting cats and babies with colic, to join the Mazda Miata since the demise of the Honda S2000 - even after the arrival of the Subaru BRZ/Scion FR-S. The rest of the quote: "[W]e know that rings a bell." Indeed. As loud as Christ Church Cathedral, Mr. Reuss.

Mind you, this present-day evolution of Reuss' comments made at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show is still only wishlist material. As then, such a car is "not on the drawing board" according to AN. Even if it were, it wouldn't look like the 130R concept whose warm reception still has Reuss talking about the kind of car it represents. Nevertheless, if such a car were to appear, its sweet spot is the gentler end of the $20,000s, and it would utilize a "scalable and efficient" platform to compete against those aforementioned Japanese twins.

Feel free to speculate in Comments as to what kind of coupe Chevrolet should join the competition with, then forget this ever happened.

GM's Reuss would like a 'nice, light, rear-drive car that's inexpensive' originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 May 2013 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>130rchevychevy code 130rcode 130rgeneral motorsgmmark reussTue, 07 May 2013 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20560023/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/07/gms-reuss-would-like-a-nice-light-rear-drive-car-thats-inex/20560023/article-detail.xml 20560023 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/chevy-130r-concept_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/chevy-130r-concept.jpg <![CDATA[2014 GMC Sierra 4.3L V6 to offer segment-best 305 LB-FT]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/2014-gmc-sierra-4-3l-v6-to-offer-segment-best-305-lb-ft/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/2014-gmc-sierra-4-3l-v6-to-offer-segment-best-305-lb-ft/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/2014-gmc-sierra-4-3l-v6-to-offer-segment-best-305-lb-ft/#commentsFiled under: , ,

GM 4.3-liter V6 Engine

General Motors has released more information on the 4.3-liter V6 available in the 2014 GMC Sierra. The engine will serve up 285 horsepower and 305 pound-feet of torque, with a six-speed automatic transmission, and giving the V6 Sierra a maximum tow rating of 7,200 pounds in regular cab, short bed four-wheel drive configuration. GM claims that figure is 500 pounds more than the equivalent Ford F-150 equipped with a 3.7-liter V6, and 700 pounds more than the Ram 1500 with its 3.6-liter V6. Buyers can expect to see the 2014 GMC Sierra with the 4.3-liter engine start at $25,085 including destination.

While the engine does deliver more torque than either of its main competitors, it falls short on the horsepower front. The 3.7-liter V6 in the F-150 develops 302 hp while the 3.6-liter V6 in the Ram 1500 yields 305 hp. GM says fuel economy estimates for its newest entry will land later this year. Check out the full press release below for more information.

Continue reading 2014 GMC Sierra 4.3L V6 to offer segment-best 305 LB-FT

2014 GMC Sierra 4.3L V6 to offer segment-best 305 LB-FT originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 May 2013 17:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 gmc sierrageneral motorsgmgmcgmc sierragmc sierra v6v6Mon, 06 May 2013 17:49:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20559409/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/06/2014-gmc-sierra-4-3l-v6-to-offer-segment-best-305-lb-ft/20559409/article-detail.xml 20559409 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/gm-v6-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/gm-v6-628.jpg <![CDATA[Chevy sees greener pastures with 2014 Silverado High Country]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/05/2014-chevy-silverado-high-country-official/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/05/2014-chevy-silverado-high-country-official/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/05/2014-chevy-silverado-high-country-official/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 Chevrolet Silverado High Country - front three-quarter view

It's no secret that fullsize pickups are the financial engines that power Detroit automakers - it's been that way for decades. In recent years, though, growing consumer appetites for dolled-up trucks has meant even more opportunities for manufacturers to line their coffers while pleasing increasingly discerning customers. Trims like King Ranch on the Ford F-Series and Laramie Longhorn on Ram trucks now include high-end amenities that were the exclusive preserve of luxury cars just a few years ago.

General Motors has been content to let its GMC brand harvest top-shelf pickup buyers for some time now - particularly with its high-line Denali models - but it's hard to turn away easy profits. GM says over 30 percent of new pickup sales now transact above $40,000, and that figure is growing by the year. Thus, it's no surprise that execs are finally letting Chevrolet get in on the action with this new range-topping High Country trim for the 2014 Silverado. Officials tell Autoblog that it's the first premium-branded Chevy pickup since the Cameo Carrier of the 1950s.

Sitting above the LTZ and Z71 off-road model, the Silverado High Country sets itself apart with trim-specific chrome grille and body-color bumpers front and rear - the only fullsize Chevy so equipped - along with unique 20-inch alloy wheels and a few bits of chrome frosting to go with the usual complement of badges. Available only in crew cab configuration, High Country will be offered in both two- and four-wheel drive with the buyer's choice of V8 engines - 5.3-liter or 6.2-liter - along with either a 5-foot, 8-inch or 6-foot, 6-inch box. There are no specific powertrain or suspension calibrations for the model.

Continue reading Chevy sees greener pastures with 2014 Silverado High Country

Chevy sees greener pastures with 2014 Silverado High Country originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevy silverado2014 chevy silverado high countrychevychevy silveradochevy silverado high countrygeneral motorshigh countrySun, 05 May 2013 20:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20556432/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/05/2014-chevy-silverado-high-country-official/20556432/article-detail.xml 20556432 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-chevrolet-silveradohighctry-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-chevrolet-silveradohighctry-628.jpg <![CDATA['Birthplace of GM' now back in company hands [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/05/birthplace-of-gm-now-back-in-company-hands-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/05/birthplace-of-gm-now-back-in-company-hands-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/05/birthplace-of-gm-now-back-in-company-hands-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Durant Dort Factory One

General Motors has signed a purchase agreement for the Durant-Dort Carriage Company factory in Flint, Michigan for an undisclosed sum. Calling the location "Factory One," GM President of North America Mark Reuss said he isn't sure what will be done with the site yet, but when it's "reborn" it will "be great and it's going to be something we can all be proud of - GM and Flint."

According to Wikipedia, William Durant co-founded the Durant-Dort Carriage Co. with Josiah Dallas Dort in 1886. They leased a factory to build carriages from the Flint Woolen Mills, and the office building across the street is where Durant dreamed up the idea for General Motors - coincidentally, both David Dunbar Buick and Charles Nash, who would open their own respective car companies, worked for the carriage company.

GM will also take over the upkeep of the carriage company's office building. It has been suggested that the boardroom there could become a museum, but publicly all we know is that Reuss says, "We're going to make that area a really special area." Scroll down to watch a video offering a bit of history on the venture, as well as an announcement message from GM's Reuss.

Continue reading 'Birthplace of GM' now back in company hands [w/video]

'Birthplace of GM' now back in company hands [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 May 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dortdurant-dort carriage coflintgeneral motorsgmmark reussmichiganwilliam durantSun, 05 May 2013 17:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20557141/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/05/birthplace-of-gm-now-back-in-company-hands-w-video/20557141/article-detail.xml 20557141 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/durant-dorch-factory-one_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/durant-dorch-factory-one.jpg <![CDATA[GM nets $865M in Q1, down 14%]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/gm-nets-865m-in-q1-down-14percent/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/gm-nets-865m-in-q1-down-14percent/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/gm-nets-865m-in-q1-down-14percent/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

General Motors RenCen

As the last of the Detroit automakers to check in with its first-quarter earnings in 2013, General Motors has announced that it saw a net income of $0.9 billion, which, according to Automotive News, is rounded up from $865 million, to go with Q1 revenue of $36.9 billion and a pre-tax profit of $1.8 billion. These numbers are all slightly lower than Q1 2012 in which GM posted a $1 billion net income, $37.8 billion in revenue and a pre-tax profit of $2.2 billion.

In North America, GM's pre-tax income was $1.4 billion (down from $1.6 billion last year), which, says AN, is being attributed to fullsize trucks with excessive rebates on existing models and idled plants retooling for the redesigned 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra. GM Europe was the only division in which the automaker lost money with a pre-tax loss of $0.2 billion.

In comparing GM's Q1 earnings with its Detroit counterparts, Ford just posted a net income of $1.6 billion - and its highest quarterly pre-tax profit since 2000 - while Chrysler brought in $166 million. All three Detroit automakers posted a market share gain in the first quarter, which is an accomplishment that hasn't been achieved since Q1 1993. Scroll down below for the official announcement from GM.

Continue reading GM nets $865M in Q1, down 14%

GM nets $865M in Q1, down 14% originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 May 2013 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>general motorsgmgm earningsgm profitsgm q1 2013 earningsgm q1 earningsq1 2013Thu, 02 May 2013 17:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20556213/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/02/gm-nets-865m-in-q1-down-14percent/20556213/article-detail.xml 20556213 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/gmrenaissancecenter04_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/gmrenaissancecenter04.jpg <![CDATA[Detroit automakers gain Q1 market share simultaneously for first time in 20 years]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/detroit-automakers-gain-market-share-simultaneously-for-first-ti/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/detroit-automakers-gain-market-share-simultaneously-for-first-ti/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/detroit-automakers-gain-market-share-simultaneously-for-first-ti/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

General Motors, Ford and Chrysler logos

While monthly sales figures might be an easy way of tracking the progression of the auto industry and individual automakers, looking at market share might be more indicative of how each company is actually standing up against its competitors. For the Detroit Three automakers, they have collectively lost almost 30 percent of the market over the last 20 years, but now, for the first time since 1993, Ford, General Motors and Chrysler have each posted market share gains at the same time in the first quarter of 2013.

According to Automotive News, Ford's share increased the most by 0.7 percent, GM was up 0.5 percent and Chrysler rose marginally by 0.2 percent, giving the Detroit automakers a total market share of 45.6 percent. As for the Japan's Big Three, the article reports that Toyota is up by 0.7 percent, Nissan is down the same amount and Honda has seen "little change."

Detroit automakers gain Q1 market share simultaneously for first time in 20 years originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>big threechryslerdetroit threedomestic automakersfordgeneral motorsgmus market shareWed, 01 May 2013 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20553655/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/01/detroit-automakers-gain-market-share-simultaneously-for-first-ti/20553655/article-detail.xml 20553655 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/big-three-logos_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/big-three-logos.jpg <![CDATA[C7 Corvette practicing as Indy 500 pace car?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/c7-corvette-practicing-as-indy-500-pace-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/c7-corvette-practicing-as-indy-500-pace-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/c7-corvette-practicing-as-indy-500-pace-car/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2014 Chevrolet C7 Corvette Stingray spy shot - Indy pace car?

Although the C7 Corvette may have gotten snubbed at this year's Super Bowl, it looks like the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray will be front and center for some of the brightest lights in automotive racing. These spy shots show Chevrolet engineers testing a Stingray coupe with safety lights added to the front and rear of the car as we normally see on a pace car, and judging by the timing and the history of General Motors pacing the Indianapolis 500, it looks like this Corvette could be getting ready for next month's big race.

We contacted Chevrolet PR, who remained understandably coy on the subject, but we have good reason to believe this is, in fact, the pace car. (We also note the recently-revealed Camaro Convertible Hot Wheels Edition has already been confirmed for race-related duties, yet it hasn't been revealed as the pace car).

Preparing for pace duty, this C7 adds small strobes into the lower grille and a light bar integrated into the rear window opening, and the factory LEDs on the side of the headlights will also be programmed to flash. Judging by the white tape still covering the rocker panels, there could be other changes planned for the car as well. If this is in fact the pace car for the 2013 Indy 500, that would mark the 12th time a Corvette has led the field to the green flag. Either way, we should know soon - the 97th running of the race is Sunday, May 26.

C7 Corvette practicing as Indy 500 pace car? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 indy 5002014 chevy corvettechevrolet corvette pace carchevychevy corvettegeneral motorsgmindianapolis 500indy 500pace carTue, 30 Apr 2013 09:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20552377/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/30/c7-corvette-practicing-as-indy-500-pace-car/20552377/article-detail.xml 20552377 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/c7-corvette-indy-500-pace-car_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/c7-corvette-indy-500-pace-car.jpg <![CDATA[US Treasury denies pay hikes for GM, Ally execs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/us-treasury-denies-pay-hikes-for-gm-ally-execs/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/us-treasury-denies-pay-hikes-for-gm-ally-execs/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/us-treasury-denies-pay-hikes-for-gm-ally-execs/#commentsFiled under: , ,

GM CEO Dan Akerson - gesturing at lectern

In December, the US Treasury granted General Motors the rights for the company to once again buy corporate jets and for its executives to fly on them, but neither those execs nor the ones at Ally Financial will get any raises this year. The automaker, worried that top talent might leave for higher-paying pastures, reportedly sought a more "market-based approach to executive compensation" for 12 of its top 25 execs. Because the federal government still has stakes in both GM and Ally, though, the companies need approval for pay raises, and they were declined. Neither company sought raises for their CEOs, and Ally's request didn't involve any additional cash compensation for the executives in question.

While the Treasury says that cash salaries for the 25 top executives at GM and Ally combined are just four percent below the median compared to similar positions, total cash compensation is 56 percent below the median. That would include GM CEO Dan Akerson (shown), who got a little more cash last year because of a compensation rearrangement speculated to potentially involve his retirement, but the overall annual pay package of $9 million hasn't changed for him since 2010 according to the Treasury.

What's more, it's said the overall compensation at both firms dropped by double-digit percentages compared to last year due to an influx of new appointments among the top 25 executives. The Treasury has said it will divest itself of all GM shares it owns by March 2014, but hasn't given a any guidance on divestiture of its Ally stock, the financial firm dealing with a much more complicated situation.

US Treasury denies pay hikes for GM, Ally execs originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allyally financialdan akersonexecutive compensationexecutive paygeneral motorsgmgm bankruptcytarptreasuryus treasuryMon, 29 Apr 2013 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20550829/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/29/us-treasury-denies-pay-hikes-for-gm-ally-execs/20550829/article-detail.xml 20550829 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/gm-ceo-dan-akerson-at-lectern_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/gm-ceo-dan-akerson-at-lectern.jpg <![CDATA[GM alters Akerson's pay mix because he may retire]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/28/gm-alters-akersons-pay-mix-because-he-may-retire/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/28/gm-alters-akersons-pay-mix-because-he-may-retire/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/28/gm-alters-akersons-pay-mix-because-he-may-retire/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Dan Akerson

General Motors has tweaked CEO Dan Akerson's pay mix to compensate for the possibility that the 64-year-old executive may retire before his long-term restricted stock vests in three years. Last year, Akerson saw his pay jump by 44 percent to $11.1 million, including $1.99 million in restricted stock as salary units, which vest immediately. Previously, Akerson was awarded around $2 million in restricted stock that could be forfeited on retirement.

The change has led some analysts to believe Akerson may retire earlier than he had planned. While speaking with Bloomberg, GM spokesperson Tom Henderson said, "We certainly wouldn't speculate on what he will actually do. That's up to him."

Akerson received $7.7 million in 2011 despite his actual pay target being closer to $9 million. If that seems steep, keep in mind his compensation falls well behind that of Ford CEO Alan Mulally, who brought home $21 million in compensation in 2012. GM is required to report changes to executive pay to the federal government.

GM alters Akerson's pay mix because he may retire originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 28 Apr 2013 13:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>akersondan akersondan akerson pay mixgeneral motorsgmSun, 28 Apr 2013 13:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549774/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/28/gm-alters-akersons-pay-mix-because-he-may-retire/20549774/article-detail.xml 20549774 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/dan-akerson-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/dan-akerson-628.jpg <![CDATA[GM gives $100k to Red Cross for Texas-like emergencies]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/gm-gives-100k-to-red-cross-for-texas-like-emergencies/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/gm-gives-100k-to-red-cross-for-texas-like-emergencies/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/gm-gives-100k-to-red-cross-for-texas-like-emergencies/#commentsFiled under: ,



The General Motors Foundation has provided a $100,000 grant to the American Red Cross to assist with relief efforts in West, Texas. Last Wednesday, the fertilizer plant in the town of 2,800 people caught fire and then exploded, the blowup registering as a 2.1-magnitude earthquake and felt up to 45 miles away. Fourteen people died, ten of them the firefighters and first responders who were there to put out the fire and get people to safety, 200 people were injured and entire blocks of the town were destroyed.

The GM Foundation grant will keep the Red Cross able to respond quickly to disasters in The Lone Star State, the incident in West being just one of the 6,000 annual efforts that the Red Cross makes in Texas alone.

A press release below has more information on the grant and the history of the foundation.

Continue reading GM gives $100k to Red Cross for Texas-like emergencies

GM gives $100k to Red Cross for Texas-like emergencies originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Apr 2013 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>american red crosscharitygeneral motorsgmgm foundationgrantphilanthropyred crosstexaswestwest texasWed, 24 Apr 2013 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20547634/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/24/gm-gives-100k-to-red-cross-for-texas-like-emergencies/20547634/article-detail.xml 20547634 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/plant-explosion-texas-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/plant-explosion-texas-628.jpg -1 2