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[Cadillac to recall 20,000 SRX models over wheels that could fall off]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/cadillac-to-recall-20-000-srx-models-over-wheels-that-could-fall/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/cadillac-to-recall-20-000-srx-models-over-wheels-that-could-fall/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/cadillac-to-recall-20-000-srx-models-over-wheels-that-could-fall/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Cadillac SRX - front three-quarter view, silver

A potential issue with the lug nuts on 19,871 units of the 2013 Cadillac SRX in the US and Canada has lead to a recall of the luxury crossover. Those lug nuts that have a Teflon topcoat, identified by their bluish tint, could loosen and cause "creaking, rattling or grinding noises or steering vibrations." In the worst case scenario, a wheel could fall off, but there have been no reports of that happening, nor any reports of accidents or injuries due to the issue.

This is the second recall action on the SRX over the last few months. In March, Cadillac recalled 27,000 SRX models over a transmission programming issue. General Motors will begin notifying customers with the potentially faulty parts on June 3, at which time they can take their vehicles to dealers to have the tires rotated and new nuts installed. A further 7,397 SRXs exported from North America also face the recall action.

Cadillac to recall 20,000 SRX models over wheels that could fall off originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 May 2013 10:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 cadillac srxcadillaccadillac recallcadillac srxcadillac srx recallcadillacsrxrecallgmlug nutnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecallsrx recallThu, 23 May 2013 10:16:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20580817/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/23/cadillac-to-recall-20-000-srx-models-over-wheels-that-could-fall/20580817/article-detail.xml 20580817 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-cadillac-srx_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-cadillac-srx.jpg <![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[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[Next-gen GM SUVs caught wearing new boxy bodies [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/next-gen-gm-suvs-caught-wearing-new-boxy-bodies-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/next-gen-gm-suvs-caught-wearing-new-boxy-bodies-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/next-gen-gm-suvs-caught-wearing-new-boxy-bodies-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

GM's next-generation SUVs caught testing in prototype form with cladding

We recently drove the brand-new 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and found it to be vastly improved compared to the outgoing model. And now that The General's pickup trucks have been squared away, it's time to focus our attention onto their passenger-friendly companions, the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon (above).

Our spy photographers have passed along a huge smattering of photos (and a video), showing the new SUVs out testing. Both the short- and long-wheelbase models were spied, and while the overall shape of the vehicles hasn't changed all that much, we expect the updates to be substantial. In addition to new powertrain options, like GM's new small-block V8, we expect the interiors of both SUVs to get massive makeovers, providing better materials throughout their cabins and quieter, more refined environments. We even hear that some trick new suspension developments may be in store for upper-end models.

Visually, these spy shots allow us to see a couple of new details on the SUVs' front and rear fascias, including LED running lamps on the Yukon and some interesting LED taillamp treatments. Of course, the obvious third party missing from this set of photos is the Cadillac Escalade, but as we reported earlier, GM is working to further differentiate the 'Slade from the rest of the fullsize SUV lineup, and is working to make the new model "much less ostentatious."

Have a look at dozens of spy shots in our galleries above and below, and scroll down to see a video of one of the prototypes out on the road.

Continue reading Next-gen GM SUVs caught wearing new boxy bodies [w/video]

Next-gen GM SUVs caught wearing new boxy bodies [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 May 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevrolet tahoe2014 gmc yukonchevroletchevrolet tahoegmgmcgmc yukonspy photosspy picsspy shotsvideoWed, 15 May 2013 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20570138/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/15/next-gen-gm-suvs-caught-wearing-new-boxy-bodies-w-video/20570138/article-detail.xml 20570138 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-gmc-yukon-spy-shots628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-gmc-yukon-spy-shots628opt.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[GM to go coastal on dealer improvements]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/gm-to-go-coastal-on-dealer-improvements/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/gm-to-go-coastal-on-dealer-improvements/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/gm-to-go-coastal-on-dealer-improvements/#commentsFiled under: ,

Cadillac dealership

According to a report from The Detroit News citing "sources familiar with the company's plan," General Motors will spend $200 million to revamp dealerships on the East and West Coasts, specifically in California, New York and New Jersey. Many dealerships will be restyled, some will be relocated and some will be closed entirely.

Car buyers in coastal regions of the US, particularly in California, tend to prefer import brands, but GM's market share falls short even when compared to crosstown rivals Ford and Chrysler. Naturally, GM senses a prime opportunity to attract a larger share in these locations and has reportedly seen improvements already in some metropolitan areas in California where it has focused on making inroads.

In addition to restyling its East Coast dealerships, GM will reportedly move some of their service departments to offsite locations to free up space for better facilities.

GM to go coastal on dealer improvements originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 May 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>californiagmgm dealershipsnew jerseynew yorkTue, 14 May 2013 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20567283/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/14/gm-to-go-coastal-on-dealer-improvements/20567283/article-detail.xml 20567283 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/cadillac-gm-dealership_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/cadillac-gm-dealership.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[American automakers fall in latest Fortune 500 rankings]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/american-automakers-fall-in-latest-fortune-500-rankings/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/american-automakers-fall-in-latest-fortune-500-rankings/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/american-automakers-fall-in-latest-fortune-500-rankings/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Fortune 500

Not that it means anything beyond bragging rights, but if you're fixated on the positions of domestic automakers on the annual Fortune 500 list, both General Motors and Ford are still on it but they've slipped a couple of notches. The list ranks American companies and they're ordered solely by revenue. GM, fifth last year, came in seventh, while Ford fell from ninth to tenth even though both companies saw small gains in annual revenue.

GM's $152.3 billion in revenue was less than a third of that of the first company on the list: Wal-Mart, which regained the title from Exxon Mobil. Berkshire Hathaway and Apple are the firms that moved GM down. Ford, displaced by energy company Valero, had $134.3 billion in revenue.

On a side note, profitability isn't a factor, but both GM and Ford were down in this year's list compared to last year's: GM declined from $9.2 billion to $6.2 billion, Ford fell from $20.2 billion to $5.6 billion. If profits were included, Exxon Mobil would probably still be king: although the energy company made almost $20 billion less in revenue than Wal-Mart's $469.2 billion, it posted $44.9 billion in profit compared to Wal-Mart's $17 billion.

American automakers fall in latest Fortune 500 rankings originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 May 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordfortunefortune 500gmprofitrevenueFri, 10 May 2013 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20562799/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/10/american-automakers-fall-in-latest-fortune-500-rankings/20562799/article-detail.xml 20562799 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/fortune-500_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/fortune-500.jpg <![CDATA[12-cylinder 'LS12' will blow your mind, doors off [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/12-cylinder-ls12-will-blow-your-mind-doors-off/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/12-cylinder-ls12-will-blow-your-mind-doors-off/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/12-cylinder-ls12-will-blow-your-mind-doors-off/#commentsFiled under: ,



So there you are on May 1 minding your own business on the internet when a forum user called "V12Baker" uploads a picture of the engine block above. But you're on the LS1 forum, a site devoted to the legendary V8s made by General Motors, and that's a V12. V12Baker explains that he sliced two LS1 engines and used the pieces to not only make an LS12, but also a V4 with the leftovers. That is probably when, like user "3.8redbird," you write "April Fools day is April 1st not May 1st."

But the engine is real, built by a guy named Ray and his partners in a shop in Seattle, WA. Ray said they wanted to make a V12 engine for a plane, and after experimenting with Buick 215 engine blocks they got around to the LS. With a stock stroke and a 4.4-inch sleeve, the result is a 545 cubic inch motor (8.9 liters) that fires like a V16 short of four cylinders. Their first two LS12 builds went into a 3/4-scale P51 Mustang, and a Chevrolet Tahoe two years ago. The Tahoe engine, only the second build, was said to get around 525 horsepower.

They now have the parts to make five more LS12s and are refining their technique, working on simpler solutions for the crankshafts - they machined the first crankshafts from a solid piece of steel, but that's crazy expensive. One of the engines is already slated to receive a massive Littlefield supercharger and "might find its way into a long-nosed 240Z." That Z, mind you, will also be getting its own chassis since the decades-old original item couldn't begin to handle the power.

Check out EngineLabs.com for more on the build, and a brief walkaround of the engine in the video below. For the long story, the link to LS1 forums is where the story begins - and where you'll discover that the V4 is apparently the perfect size for a Harley-Davidson.

Continue reading 12-cylinder 'LS12' will blow your mind, doors off [w/video]

12-cylinder 'LS12' will blow your mind, doors off [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 May 2013 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>enginegmls v12ls1ls12v12videovimeoFri, 10 May 2013 11:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20563736/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/10/12-cylinder-ls12-will-blow-your-mind-doors-off/20563736/article-detail.xml 20563736 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/ls12-build_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/ls12-build.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[38k GM eAssist hybrids recalled for circuit board, fire risk]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/38k-gm-eassist-hybrids-recalled-for-circuit-board-fire-risk/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/38k-gm-eassist-hybrids-recalled-for-circuit-board-fire-risk/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/38k-gm-eassist-hybrids-recalled-for-circuit-board-fire-risk/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2013 Chevy Malibu Eco

General Motors has issued a recall covering 38,197 2012 and 2013 model-year Chevy Malibu Eco, Buick LaCrosse and Regal sedans equipped with eAssist, and sold in the United States. The automaker will check the generator control module for proper operation. Only vehicles built before December 2012 are being recalled.

According to the automaker, a malfunctioning generator control module could slowly drain the battery, causing an indicator to light up in the dash. If that indicator is ignored, the driver may experience a stalling engine, and in some cases, "a burning or melting odor, smoke, and, in rare instances, a fire in the trunk."

GM says the issue is not with the eAssist battery pack; the smoke and fire comes from overheating of the control board. One trunk fire has been reported, but no injuries are known. Scroll down below for the official press release from GM.

Continue reading 38k GM eAssist hybrids recalled for circuit board, fire risk

38k GM eAssist hybrids recalled for circuit board, fire risk originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 May 2013 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buickbuick lacrossebuick regalchevychevy malibu ecoeassistgmrecallMon, 06 May 2013 13:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20559352/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/06/38k-gm-eassist-hybrids-recalled-for-circuit-board-fire-risk/20559352/article-detail.xml 20559352 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013malibueco026-1303317332_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013malibueco026-1303317332.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 -1 2