Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Classic Toyota 2000GT turned into solar-powered EV]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/classic-toyota-2000gt-turned-into-solar-powered-ev/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/classic-toyota-2000gt-turned-into-solar-powered-ev/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/classic-toyota-2000gt-turned-into-solar-powered-ev/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Toyota 2000GT SEV

Saying the Toyota 2000GT holds a special place in our hearts is akin to calling oxygen and water kind of important to our survival. The long-nose two-door was envisioned as a suitable competitor to the likes of the European sports cars rolling out Italy and the UK at the time, and in many ways, the Toyota was far superior. Built at a time when Japan Inc. wasn't exactly known for beautiful automobile designs, the 2000GT may have been influenced by European cars of its day, but it has stood the test of time as one of the country's all-time design greats. The low-volume coupe is a piece of automotive legend, which is exactly why choosing to use a 2000GT as a platform for an electric conversion strikes us equal parts blasphemous and awesome. But that's exactly what Japan's Crazy Car Project has done.

The engineers behind the exercise ditched the standard 2.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine in favor of a 161-horsepower electric motor. A 35kWh lithium-ion battery provides the system with power, and the hood has been covered with photovoltaic cells to help keep the car going. Likewise, the back glass is covered in a transparent solar panel. All told, the system can propel the vehicle to around 124 mph.

Inside, the 2000GT SEV features a modernized interior with plenty of tech-laden gadgets. The vehicle was built in cooperation with Toyota and debuted at the 2012 Tokyo Auto Salon. Let's hope they started with a real basket case, eh? Hit the jump to see a video of the car in action.

Continue reading Classic Toyota 2000GT turned into solar-powered EV

Classic Toyota 2000GT turned into solar-powered EV originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2000 gt2000gt2012 tokyo auto salonelectricelectric 2000gtjapanlithium ionlithium ion batterytokyo auto salontoyotatoyota 2000gttoyota 2000gt evtoyota 2000gt sevFri, 13 Jan 2012 12:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20148175/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/13/classic-toyota-2000gt-turned-into-solar-powered-ev/20148175/article-detail.xml 20148175 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/toyota-2000gt-sev-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/toyota-2000gt-sev-628.jpg <![CDATA[Japanese tsunami led to 3-6% higher transaction prices for certain cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/27/japanese-tsunami-led-to-3-6-higher-transaction-prices-for-certa/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/27/japanese-tsunami-led-to-3-6-higher-transaction-prices-for-certa/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/27/japanese-tsunami-led-to-3-6-higher-transaction-prices-for-certa/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

honda-ft

The earthquake and tsunami in Japan wreaked havoc on the automotive supply chain. Toyota, Honda and Nissan lost many thousands of units to the natural disaster, which meant that car buyers here in the U.S. sometimes had a difficult time finding and buying certain vehicles. We know how these disruptions hurt sales, but a study conducted by ALG shows that prices were also shifted because of the shortage of key vehicles.

ALG predicted that a 20-day production disruption would lead to 1.5-percent higher prices, and when production stoppage reaches 100 days, the anticipated spike in prices could be up to 10 percent. So, how'd it turn out in reality?

The study looked at the Nissan Rogue and the Honda Fit. ALG found that Rogue production was back up and running by May, and the CUV went up in price by three percent by June. That's a significant margin, especially when compared to the overall CUV price increase of .3 percent during that time.

The Honda Fit was even harder to find between March and June, and the numbers bear this out. The price of the Fit jumped by 5.6 percent during that time. The compact segment as a whole jumped by a still significant 2.3 percent during that time frame.

Hit the jump to read over the ALG press release.

Continue reading Japanese tsunami led to 3-6% higher transaction prices for certain cars

Japanese tsunami led to 3-6% higher transaction prices for certain cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Dec 2011 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car pricesearthquakefithondajapanjapan earthquakenissanrogueTue, 27 Dec 2011 10:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20133365/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/27/japanese-tsunami-led-to-3-6-higher-transaction-prices-for-certa/20133365/article-detail.xml 20133365 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/01-2012-honda-fit-sport630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/01-2012-honda-fit-sport630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Massive auto parts price fixing probe spreads to four continents]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/massive-auto-parts-price-fixing-probe-spreads-to-four-continents/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/massive-auto-parts-price-fixing-probe-spreads-to-four-continents/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/massive-auto-parts-price-fixing-probe-spreads-to-four-continents/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Investigators are currently expanding the scope of an automotive component price fixing probe. Officials in Australia, the U.S., Europe and Japan are collaborating to discern the breadth of the issue. So far, 20 automotive suppliers have been identified as being part of the investigation, though it's thought that authorities are looking into a significantly larger number of companies. In fact, a government official has already declared this investigation the largest such probe in U.S. history. Those that have been identified so far are publicly traded and must disclose such investigation to their shareholders by law. Private companies have no such obligation. According to Crain's Detroit Business, the companies in question supplied parts to both automakers and the aftermarket.

So far, only one company has been convicted of price fixing in the investigation. Furukawa Electric Company of Japan has been handed a fine of $200 million and three U.S.-based executives are headed toward incarceration. Sentencing has yet to occur for those workers.

The report says the scandal spreads across automotive systems, and subpoenas have been handed down for raids against at least 19 suppliers over six supply sectors. Even so, those subpoenas may be aimed at securing evidence against a company's competitor, not the manufacturer itself.

Massive auto parts price fixing probe spreads to four continents originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto supplierfurukawa electricjapanmonopolyprice fixingprice-fixingsupplier price fixingThu, 22 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20132886/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/22/massive-auto-parts-price-fixing-probe-spreads-to-four-continents/20132886/article-detail.xml 20132886 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/shipping-container-yard_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/shipping-container-yard.jpg <![CDATA[Infiniti moving production out of Japan to counter strong yen]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/19/infiniti-moving-production-out-of-japan-to-counter-strong-yen/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/19/infiniti-moving-production-out-of-japan-to-counter-strong-yen/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/19/infiniti-moving-production-out-of-japan-to-counter-strong-yen/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Infiniti emblem

Being a global automaker means having to deal with the rising and falling tides of currency. The climate is particularly difficult in Japan, where the yen is valued at record levels compared to the American dollar. Since a giant chunk of Japanese automotive exports are shipped off to America, that means greatly diminished profits.

As of the end of 2011, Infiniti, Nissan's in-house luxury marque, doesn't build any vehicles outside of it home country of Japan, though the QX full-size SUV was built in the United States for a time. That's all about to change, however, starting with the Infiniti JX crossover that's slated for production in early 2012 in Smyrna, Tennessee.

Soon, more models will be built outside of Japan. "As cars come up for renewal, generally they're being relocated in a function of where the majority of sales are," said Andy Palmer, executive vice president of Infiniti, speaking to Automotive News. We'd guess, then, that the upcoming small hatchback from Infiniti, which is said to be inspired by the Etherea Concept, will be built in Europe.

Even models that continue to be assembled in Japan - important, says Palmer, because, "Part of the myth of Infiniti is Japanese craftsmanship..." - will feature more parts imported from outside the country. Currently, Infiniti averages about 15 percent imported parts content for vehicles assembled in Japan, but the automaker is targeting a new goal of 65 percent "non-yen" content.

If production outside Japan goes well, expect the trend of Japanese brands building more and more vehicles beyond its borders to continue as automakers look to bolster profits in the face of a strong yen. "Somebody in this industry has got to demonstrate that you can make luxury outside of Germany and Japan successfully over time," concludes Palmer. We're guessing he doesn't mean Cadillac...

Infiniti moving production out of Japan to counter strong yen originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Dec 2011 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>infinitiinfiniti jxjapanjapanese auto productionjapanese productionjxnissanstrong yenyenyen valueMon, 19 Dec 2011 18:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20131096/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/19/infiniti-moving-production-out-of-japan-to-counter-strong-yen/20131096/article-detail.xml 20131096 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/infiniti-california_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/infiniti-california.jpg <![CDATA[Google Street View documents Japan tsunami devastation]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/13/google-street-view-documents-japan-tsunami-devastation/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/13/google-street-view-documents-japan-tsunami-devastation/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/13/google-street-view-documents-japan-tsunami-devastation/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Google Japan before and after

The online news cycle moves at a blistering pace. It's easy to forget that, while the story of the Japanese earthquake and tsunami that occurred last March may move from the front page, individuals are still struggling to cope with the widespread devastation on the island.

Google took it upon itself to document the structural destruction in some of the hardest hit areas in its Google Maps Street View function. The tech giant covered more than 27,000 miles to provide a 360-degree imagery archive of the communities that are still reeling from the natural disasters nine months later.

Google has even started a new web site to allow viewers to compare before and after images of specific areas. The Build The Memory site is a stark reminder that, while the world marches on, there's plenty of recovery left in Japan. Head over to the site for a closer look.

Google Street View documents Japan tsunami devastation originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Dec 2011 19:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earthquakegooglejapanjapan earthquakejapan tsunamistreet viewstreetviewtsunamiTue, 13 Dec 2011 19:39:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20127320/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/13/google-street-view-documents-japan-tsunami-devastation/20127320/article-detail.xml 20127320 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/google-japan-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/google-japan-628.jpg <![CDATA[Japanese pileup claims eight Ferraris, a Lamborghini and three Benzes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/05/japanese-pileup-claims-eight-ferraris-a-lamborghini-and-three-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/05/japanese-pileup-claims-eight-ferraris-a-lamborghini-and-three-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/05/japanese-pileup-claims-eight-ferraris-a-lamborghini-and-three-b/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



This is going to be painful, so we'll break it down quickly. Trust us, it will be like pulling off a Band-Aid.

[translated from Japanese]

"So, want to caravan to the car show? I'm excited to drive my Ferrari F355 there."
"Sure. I will be driving my Lamborghini. Let me call my six other friends who also own Ferraris."
"If other marques are welcome, I will invite my two friends who drive Mercedes-Benzes."

Crash!

[sounds of crying]

In all seriousness, we were glad to learn that nobody was seriously injured in the wreck. According to the Associated Press, a group of car enthusiasts were on their way to a driver's gathering in Hiroshima when one Ferrari swerved into the median barrier, likely pinballing into the other cars. Police said a total of 14 cars were caught in the wreck, including eight Ferraris, two Lambos, and a trio of Mercs. The AP report says total damage is likely over $1 million.

Click past the jump to watch both AP and Japanese news reports, including footage of the aftermath.

Continue reading Japanese pileup claims eight Ferraris, a Lamborghini and three Benzes

Japanese pileup claims eight Ferraris, a Lamborghini and three Benzes originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crashexotic carsferrariferrari crashjapanlamborghinimercedes-benzvideowreckwrecked exoticsMon, 05 Dec 2011 10:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20120797/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/05/japanese-pileup-claims-eight-ferraris-a-lamborghini-and-three-b/20120797/article-detail.xml 20120797 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/japanferrarisaccident-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/japanferrarisaccident-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Real-life Mario Kart hits the streets of Japan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/15/real-life-mario-kart-hits-the-streets-of-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/15/real-life-mario-kart-hits-the-streets-of-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/15/real-life-mario-kart-hits-the-streets-of-japan/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



It may not be as hilarious or silly as Rémi Gaillard's real-life Mario Kart experiment, but the idea of dressing up as everyone's favorite Italian plumbers and hitting the streets in go-karts has made its way to Japan. The folks at Japanese website Cliccar donned their best Mario and Luigi costumes, hopped in a pair of go-karts and hit the streets, drawing huge crowds in the process.

The Cliccar folks raced street-legal X-carts, which cost around ¥379,800 (about $4,900 based on current exchange rates), and are capable of speeds up to 35 miles per hour, or even 50 mph when tuned properly.

Follow the jump for over three minutes of real-life Mario Kart action, Japanese style.

Continue reading Real-life Mario Kart hits the streets of Japan

Real-life Mario Kart hits the streets of Japan originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 15 Oct 2011 18:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanmario kartvideoSat, 15 Oct 2011 18:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20082130/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/15/real-life-mario-kart-hits-the-streets-of-japan/20082130/article-detail.xml 20082130 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/mariokart_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/mariokart.jpg <![CDATA[A champion is crowned at the 2011 Japanese Grand Prix [spoilers]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/09/a-champion-is-crowned-at-the-2011-japanese-grand-prix-spoilers/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/09/a-champion-is-crowned-at-the-2011-japanese-grand-prix-spoilers/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/09/a-champion-is-crowned-at-the-2011-japanese-grand-prix-spoilers/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 Japanese Grand Prix

If one trend could sum up the 2011 Formula One World Championship so far, it would surely be the domination of Sebastian Vettel. The reigning champion has put up an unsurpassed fight to defend his title, claiming pole position eleven out of fourteen races so far this season, and turning them into nine checkered flags. In fact, Vettel has finished on the podium at every grand prix this season but one, having finished fourth at his home race in Germany.

On the home stretch of such a dominant campaign, and with five races still to go before the end of the season, Vettel's lead had grown so insurmountable as to have practically crowned him World Champion already. Almost, anyway, as just one point would be all he'd need to lock up the title in Japan. And if Jenson Button - his closest rival - would not win the race, Vettel wouldn't even need that point. It was pretty much a given, then, that Vettel would claim the title for the second year running. But his rivals wouldn't make it easy for him. Follow the jump to read how it went down.

Continue reading A champion is crowned at the 2011 Japanese Grand Prix [spoilers]

A champion is crowned at the 2011 Japanese Grand Prix [spoilers] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 09 Oct 2011 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mazda RX-8 Spirit R Special Edition

Mazda has chosen to commemorate the departure of the company's RX-8 with one last special edition in Japan. The Mazda RX-8 Spirit R is set to arrive at Japanese dealerships next month and will offer 1,000 lucky buyers a host of aesthetic upgrades over the base vehicle. The package starts with an RX-8 RS and adds in exclusive badging, unique head- and taillights with black bezels and red brake calipers outside. Indoors, the cabin wears special Spirit R bucket seats hewn by the people at Recaro as well as piano black transmission tunnel trim.

Models equipped with an automatic transmission will enjoy black leather seats with red contrasting stitching. Mazda says that the RX-8 Spirit R will also feature a sport-tuned suspension and larger brakes, as well as 18-inch gun metallic wheels. A total of three exterior color options will be available, including Aluminum Metallic, Sparkling Black Mica and Crystal White Pearl Mica. Hit the jump for the press release.

Continue reading Mazda RX-8 Spirit R will be last special edition before production ends

Mazda RX-8 Spirit R will be last special edition before production ends originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Oct 2011 09:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Moving Money in Japan

They do things a little differently in Japan. Now that we've qualified for the Understatement Of The Year award, allow us to elaborate. Here in the United States, banks rely on privately-contracted security services to move large quantities of money from one secure location to another. These armed guards roll around our cities in the urban equivalent of wheeled tanks, complete with heavy armor, tires that can't be flattened and enough bulletproof glass to make the president seriously consider trading in The Beast for something with a little more flair.

That's not the case in Japan. In that neck of the woods, banks ferry their cash about in what look like unarmored, clearly marked vans. Crewing these decidedly less tactical vehicles is apparently a pair of guards, each armed with nothing more than a helmet, a whistle and a baton. But what these guys lack in gear they make up for in preparation. Before both men can enter the vehicle, one must make a full walk-around to ensure no one is waiting to pounce on the van. In addition, before any money is brought out into the light of day, it's not uncommon for one or both guards to make a thorough sweep of the surrounding area. Sound bizarre? Take a look at the video after the jump and see for yourself.

Continue reading Japan's not-so-armored car services and how they move money

Japan's not-so-armored car services and how they move money originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armored cararmored vanarmoured carbankbanksjapanjapanese banksmoney transfersecure transportsecuritysecurity servicesvideoWed, 28 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20068036/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/28/japans-not-so-armored-car-services-and-how-they-move-money/20068036/article-detail.xml 20068036 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/moving-money-in-japan-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/moving-money-in-japan-628.jpg <![CDATA[Japanese automakers close plants as Typhoon Roke bears down]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/22/toyota-nissan-close-plants-as-typhoon-roke-bears-down-on-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/22/toyota-nissan-close-plants-as-typhoon-roke-bears-down-on-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/22/toyota-nissan-close-plants-as-typhoon-roke-bears-down-on-japan/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Typhoon Roke over Japan

As if the country of Japan has had enough to deal with over the last several months, the country is now facing a powerful typhoon with winds reaching up to 130 miles per hour. Tokyo Electric Power reports that 575,500 households are without power already, and that number could certainly climb.

Japanese automakers are bracing for Typhoon Roke as well. According to reports, Toyota, Honda, Nissan and Mitsubishi have all closed down plants or cancelled shifts at facilities affected by the storm.

This is the second typhoon to hit Japan so far this year, and the country averages between two and four of the storms every year. In other words, this may not be the last weather-related outage you hear about from Japanese automakers in 2011.

Japanese automakers close plants as Typhoon Roke bears down originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hondajapanmitsubishinissanroketoyotatyphoontyphoon rokeThu, 22 Sep 2011 09:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20048765/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/22/toyota-nissan-close-plants-as-typhoon-roke-bears-down-on-japan/20048765/article-detail.xml 20048765 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/typhoon-roke_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/typhoon-roke.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota launches Pixis Space; first kei cars are Daihatsus in drag]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/09/toyota-launches-pixis-space-first-kei-cars-are-daihatsus-in-dra/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/09/toyota-launches-pixis-space-first-kei-cars-are-daihatsus-in-dra/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/09/toyota-launches-pixis-space-first-kei-cars-are-daihatsus-in-dra/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Daihatsu Move

Toyota has announced that it will unveil its first-ever kei car to be sold under its recently launched Pixis sub-brand. The vehicle, called the Pixis Space, will make its official debut in late September. Based on the Daihatsu Move Conte, the Pixis Space will be sold at Toyota dealerships through what the automakers calls "Pixis stations." Yes, seriously.

After Toyota's version of the Daihatsu Move Conte makes its debut, the Japanese automaker will launch a Pixis-badged Daihatsu Hijet truck and microvan in December. By the end of 2012, Toyota says it will launch a Pixis version of the upcoming Daihatsu e:S - a vehicle that returns 70.6 miles per gallon (U.S.) as measured under Japan's JC08 test cycle.

In case you weren't aware, Daihatsu - Japan's oldest manufacturer of automobiles - operates under the control of Toyota. In other words, these Pixis machines are simply badge engineering at the kei level.

Toyota launches Pixis Space; first kei cars are Daihatsus in drag originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Sep 2011 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daihatsujapankeikei carpixispixis spacetoyotatoyota pixistoyota spaceFri, 09 Sep 2011 16:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20039045/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/09/toyota-launches-pixis-space-first-kei-cars-are-daihatsus-in-dra/20039045/article-detail.xml 20039045 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/daihatsu_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/daihatsu.png <![CDATA[Toyota to stop importing Camry models from Japan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/07/toyota-to-stop-importing-camry-models-from-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/07/toyota-to-stop-importing-camry-models-from-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/07/toyota-to-stop-importing-camry-models-from-japan/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 toyota camry

Toyota is allowing its North American teams a bit more freedom to build cars that best suit the market in which they work. Earlier in the year, Toyota announced that American designers would be more keyed in to model development, and now comes word that the automaker will no longer be importing Japanese-built Camry sedans into our market. Instead, starting with the 2012 Camry, the popular mid-size sedan will be built Stateside.

Toyota aims to sell 360,000 examples of the Camry per year. In order to produce enough units, Toyota will build the car at both its Georgetown, Kentucky plant and Subaru's assembly facility in Indiana. By building the Camry in the U.S., the automaker will be attempting to offset losses through dollar-yen exchange rates while also providing a boost to local production facilities.

Toyota to stop importing Camry models from Japan originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Sep 2011 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 toyota camrycamrycamry productionjapantoyotatoyota camrytoyota north americaWed, 07 Sep 2011 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20035722/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/07/toyota-to-stop-importing-camry-models-from-japan/20035722/article-detail.xml 20035722 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2012-toyota-camry-se-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2012-toyota-camry-se-fd.jpg <![CDATA[World vehicle population tops 1 billion]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/18/world-vehicle-population-tops-1-billion/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/18/world-vehicle-population-tops-1-billion/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/18/world-vehicle-population-tops-1-billion/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

gift-wrapped car in China

One billion. To put such a lofty figure in perspective, let's look at it this way: 1,000,000,000. One with nine zeros. It's gonna take a lot of fingers and toes for us to count that high.

Why do we care? According the number crunchers over at Wards Auto, 2010 marked the first year that the worldwide vehicle populated crested the magic billion-unit mark. That's a 3.6-percent rise over the figure recorded in 2009, and it's also the largest single-year percentage increase since 2000.

As you'd expect, much of that growth can be attributed to the rapidly expanding Chinese economy. The total number of vehicles registered in China in 2010 came in at a bit over 78 million, a 27.5-percent surge, which puts the country over the figure recorded in Japan but still far behind the nearly 240 million registered vehicles in the United States.

Here's where things get really interesting: Here in the States, there is one vehicle for every 1.3 people living. In other words, just about everyone of legal driving age has a car, or two, or three. In China, that ratio is one car for every 17 people. In India, there are a whopping 56.3 people per registered vehicle.

In other words, you can expect our worldwide vehicular population to continue growing in leaps and bounds for many, many more years.

World vehicle population tops 1 billion originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chinaindiajapannumber of cars in chinanumber of cars in the worldworld vehicle populationThu, 18 Aug 2011 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20020344/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/18/world-vehicle-population-tops-1-billion/20020344/article-detail.xml 20020344 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/chinese-car-china-gifr-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/chinese-car-china-gifr-630.jpg <![CDATA[Google Street View cars helping to rebuild quake-ravaged Japan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/16/google-street-view-cars-helping-to-rebuild-quake-ravaged-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/16/google-street-view-cars-helping-to-rebuild-quake-ravaged-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/16/google-street-view-cars-helping-to-rebuild-quake-ravaged-japan/#commentsFiled under:

Google Street View car, photo by Matt McGee via Flickr

Upon their initial arrival in Japan, privacy concerns led many citizens to view Google's Street View cars with great skepticism. PCWorld reports, however, that in the wake of the March, 2011 Tohoku Earthquake and tsunami, that mentality is fading.

As Japan works to rebuild the areas devastated by the twin natural disasters, Street View cars are providing valuable assistance. Not only are they being used to document quake-damaged neighborhoods, they're also tracking the progress in those areas as they are repaired.

Once unwanted, Google's all-seeing technology is now playing an important role in Japan, one that's being met with appreciation instead of distrust.

Google Street View cars helping to rebuild quake-ravaged Japan originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 16 Jul 2011 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>googlegoogle street viewjapanjapan earthquakestreet viewstreet view carSat, 16 Jul 2011 10:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19990753/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/16/google-street-view-cars-helping-to-rebuild-quake-ravaged-japan/19990753/article-detail.xml 19990753 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/gstreetviewmattmcgeeflickr_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/gstreetviewmattmcgeeflickr.jpg <![CDATA[Suzuki's emergency quake action plan? Moving]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/08/suzukis-emergency-quake-action-plan-moving/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/08/suzukis-emergency-quake-action-plan-moving/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/08/suzukis-emergency-quake-action-plan-moving/#commentsFiled under: ,

Suzuki Emblem

Japanese automakers are continuing to evaluate their strategies for coping with natural disasters after this year's earthquake and tsunami, and for Suzuki, that apparently means packing up shop and moving to higher ground. According to Automotive News, the manufacturer is investing around $494 million to move its factories and research center away from the coastal city of Hamamatsu. The report notes that scientists estimate that there's an 80 percent chance that an 8.0-magnitude earthquake will befall the coastline between Tokyo and Nagoya in the next 30 years, but for Suzuki, the larger concern is radiation contamination associated with a failing nuclear reactor.

Currently, the company's facilities are located near the Hamaoka reactor, which is receiving modifications to protect against the kind of meltdown seen elsewhere in the country. Suzuki plans to purchase around 67 acres of land 6.2 miles from the coast and 30 miles from the reactor for its new complex. It's also investigating new locations both in Japan and abroad for its manufacturing facilities.

Suzuki's emergency quake action plan? Moving originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Jul 2011 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earthquakehamamatsujapanjapan earthquakejapan quakejapan tsunaminatural disastersuzukisuzuki carsFri, 08 Jul 2011 14:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19985777/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/08/suzukis-emergency-quake-action-plan-moving/19985777/article-detail.xml 19985777 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/suzuki-emblem-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/suzuki-emblem-630.jpg <![CDATA[Revised Toyota Yaris coming later this year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/06/revised-toyota-yaris-coming-later-this-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/06/revised-toyota-yaris-coming-later-this-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/06/revised-toyota-yaris-coming-later-this-year/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 jdm toyota vitz
2012 Toyota Vitz/Yaris - Click above for high-res image gallery

After years of uninterrupted success, Toyota finds itself in a peculiar position. The automaker has struggled to regain its stride after the March 11 earthquake that disrupted the supply chain for months and at the same time the automaker is stuck with a quickly aging lineup.

But while the first half of 2011 has been rough, it appears that Toyota is climbing out of its funk. Factories are springing back to life, and new models are primed and ready to go. Auto Observer reports that a new Yaris will be ready for U.S. customers by the end of the year. The re-tooled Yaris should look an awful lot like the attractive JDM Vitz/Yaris that was unveiled in Japan back in December. Auto Observer claims that the new Yaris will feature all new sheet metal and an updated interior design, but the underpinnings and powertrains will remain largely intact.

When the refreshed Yaris bows, it will join a new Camry that couldn't appear fast enough.We can't think of a better way for Toyota to turn the corner than with fresh product, and it appears we will get just that by the end of the year.

Revised Toyota Yaris coming later this year originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camryearthquakejapantoyotavitzyarisWed, 06 Jul 2011 09:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19982389/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/06/revised-toyota-yaris-coming-later-this-year/19982389/article-detail.xml 19982389 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/jdm-toyota-vitz_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/jdm-toyota-vitz.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota to ship British-built Avensis back to Japan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/29/toyota-to-ship-british-built-avensis-back-to-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/29/toyota-to-ship-british-built-avensis-back-to-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/29/toyota-to-ship-british-built-avensis-back-to-japan/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Toyota Avensis wagon
Toyota Avensis wagon - Click above for high-res image gallery

Importing Toyotas to Japan may seem like selling ice to the Eskimos, but that's precisely what's in store. In fact, it's Toyota itself that will be bringing the Avensis back to its home market from its global assembly plant in the UK.

Demand for European cars in Japan has got Toyota cashing in on the game, exporting as many as 750 units of the Avensis back to the home country. Since the Avensis holds a similar position to the JDM Toyota Mark X, which is available only as a sedan, Toyota will only be offering the Avensis wagon back in Japan, packing a 2.0-liter four mated to a CVT.

Japan, of course, will only be the latest market in which the British-built Avensis will be sold, joining a list of 47 countries worldwide to which some 85% of the units built at the Derbyshire plant are exported. Unfortunately, the United States isn't one of 'em, so for those who may want a closer look, we've put together a fresh high-res image gallery for your viewing pleasure.

Continue reading Toyota to ship British-built Avensis back to Japan

Toyota to ship British-built Avensis back to Japan originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Jun 2011 07:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avensisjapantoyotatoyota avensisukWed, 29 Jun 2011 07:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19976882/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/29/toyota-to-ship-british-built-avensis-back-to-japan/19976882/article-detail.xml 19976882 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/web08-toyota-avensis-wagon_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/web08-toyota-avensis-wagon.jpg <![CDATA[Japan Inc. using deals, incentives to keep hard-fought lease customers from defecting]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/21/japan-inc-using-deals-incentives-to-keep-hard-fought-lease-cus/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/21/japan-inc-using-deals-incentives-to-keep-hard-fought-lease-cus/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/21/japan-inc-using-deals-incentives-to-keep-hard-fought-lease-cus/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Honda Emblem

Japanese automakers are turning to new lease programs in an effort to lock down buyers who may stray to other automakers due to a lower-than-average supply of popular models. Toyota, Honda and Nissan are still in the process of restoring production to pre-earthquake levels, and as a result, buyers may not find the exact model they are looking for on dealer lots. Honda has authorized its dealers to extend current lease customers' arrangements by up to six months. Additionally, the company is offering $500 to drivers who move from an old lease into a new one and promising to honor current incentives if buyers commit to an unavailable model. The automaker calls the effort the Honda Promise Program.

But Honda isn't the only company sweetening its deals. Automotive News reports that Toyota is extending its lease offers by six months and handing out a coupon worth $750 to customers who return to lease another Toyota product. Nissan is offering dirt-cheap lease options for its most popular model - the Altima. Buyers can snap up the sedan for $179 per month for two years.

Manufacturers are also pushing for better lease deals due to a dearth of quality used vehicles this season.

Japan Inc. using deals, incentives to keep hard-fought lease customers from defecting originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Jun 2011 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hondajapanjapan earthquakejapanese automakersjapanese carsleaselease dealsnissantoyotaTue, 21 Jun 2011 16:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19972736/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/21/japan-inc-using-deals-incentives-to-keep-hard-fought-lease-cus/19972736/article-detail.xml 19972736 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/honda-emblem-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/honda-emblem-630.jpg <![CDATA[Honda Fit Shuttle goes on sale in Japan in gas and hybrid spec]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/16/honda-fit-shuttle-goes-on-sale-in-japan-in-gas-and-hybrid-spec/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/16/honda-fit-shuttle-goes-on-sale-in-japan-in-gas-and-hybrid-spec/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/16/honda-fit-shuttle-goes-on-sale-in-japan-in-gas-and-hybrid-spec/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

honda fit shuttle 15x and fit shuttle hybrid
Honda Fit Shuttle hits showrooms in Japan - Click above for image gallery

Honda has launched a new compact wagon in its home market of Japan. Called the Fit Shuttle, the mini MPV comes in two flavors; the Fit Shuttle 15X and the Fit Shuttle Hybrid. The 15X gets its name from the 1.5-liter i-VTEC motor under the hood, which returns nearly 44 miles per gallon using the Japanese 10·15 testing procedure, which matches that of the standard Fit. If you desire even more fuel efficiency, the Fit Shuttle Hybrid utilizes a 1.3-liter i-VTEC engine that's paired with Honda's IMA hybrid system. The hybrid will leisurely sip fuel at a rate of nearly 59 miles per gallon using the same test, again matching the regular Fit Hybrid.

Both Fit Shuttle variants are five-passenger people movers that feature a veritable arena of cargo space, relative to the vehicle's compact size. Storage is readily available above the low load floor, but there's more hiding underneath. The rear row of seats can be stowed, creating a flat cargo space. The varying rear end arrangements allow for a wide variety of cargo to fit inside the Fit Shuttle.

Besides the cargo being comfortable, passengers will be entertained by the InterNavi system that's equipped with the Linkup Free system. Utilizing a 3G connection, Linkup Free allows users to quickly transmit and receive data while on the go.

The Honda Fit Shuttle 15X starts at 1,610,000 Yen, or about $19,943 U.S. at current exchange rates. Pricing for the Fit Shuttle Hybrid begins at 1,810,000 Yen, which is around $22,420 U.S. Click past the jump for the full press release, and check out the all-new Honda Fit Shuttle in the included image gallery.

Continue reading Honda Fit Shuttle goes on sale in Japan in gas and hybrid spec

Honda Fit Shuttle goes on sale in Japan in gas and hybrid spec originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Jun 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fitfit shuttlehondahonda fit shuttlehonda fit shuttle 15xhonda fit shuttle hybridjapanThu, 16 Jun 2011 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19968728/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/16/honda-fit-shuttle-goes-on-sale-in-japan-in-gas-and-hybrid-spec/19968728/article-detail.xml 19968728 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/lead.jpg -1 2