As expected early this 2012 year, automakers posted some very optimistic sales numbers for the United States marketplace for 2011. A place where consumers still love their cars, 2011 provided an excellent year for North American car fans. No other time in the North American auto industry has motorists been able to explore so much freedom and choice.

In only three years, the American auto industry has turned from forecasted shambles to a rosier, settled environment. Hitting Chrysler and General Motors in the most severe manner, no major auto company was truly immune to the economic troubles started in late 2008. Similar to reaction from the global banking and financial sector, it wasn’t until a key period where the public truly understood until bankruptcy papers were being filed.

The combination of troubled business models and customers losing access to money or car loans needed for purchases led to a disappointing start of the 2009 calendar year. Between seven major automakers selling vehicles in the United States (GM, Ford, Chrysler, Nissan, Honda, Toyota and Hyundai/Kia), auto sales amounted to 9,124,380 cars in all of 2009 (5,145,746 units lower than just two years prior). It was only through a United States government sponsored new car purchase program that the tides began to reverse. Known as “Cash for Clunkers,” motorists were able to trade in an old vehicle for a guaranteed trade-in credit.

After the 12 months of 2011, the same seven automakers have steadily performed better than the disastrous 2009 auto sales year. When the 2011 year ended, 10,987,403 were sold by the seven high volume automakers in the United States. Up 20.4 percent from 2009, the 2011 results continued the gains made after 2010 as some elements of the economy recuperated. Recognizing there is so many reasons to celebrate the improvement of the North American motor vehicle industry, the recent auto sale numbers indicating positive momentum from dismal 2009 figures have shown that the current car business is far from past glory.

The Detroit Three

For automakers Chrysler, Ford and General Motors, six years have seen once-proclaimed Big Three transform into the more modest moniker Detroit Three. In 2005, General Motors led United States car sales handsomely with 4,454,385 vehicles. Thanks to declining sales due to a changing economy and the doom of bankruptcy, 2009 vehicle sales dropped 53.2 percent for GM at just 2,084,492 units. Recovering with auto sales reaching 2,503,820 vehicles after 2011, the improvement comes with the loss of brands Pontiac and Hummer as well as the offloading of the now troubled Saab. The major source for General Motors’ traction in the United States automotive marketplace remains the Chevrolet division with 1,775,812 products sold last year. In 2011, the Chevrolet Cruze accounted for 231,732 of Chevrolet’s sales becoming a star for the auto industry.

In the case of Chrysler Group, a sales drop of 59.6 percent from 2005 to 2009 indicated a particularly volatile presence not seen since the 1979 bankruptcy. Over the past six years, Chrysler was separated from Daimler-Benz, sold to a private equity group, filed bankruptcy and was partly rescued by Italian auto giant Fiat Group. As Chrysler’s 1,369,114 unit sales recovery in 2011 is still almost one million vehicles short of 2005 levels. Chrysler will be relying on vehicles like the 2013 Dodge Dart to entice consumers while also attempting to lure commercial vehicle contracts with the Ram brand that should include at least one new work van in the near future.

While Ford Motor Company escaped the need for government assistance, the past six years has taken the Blue Oval car company on a wild ride. Selling 3,168,156 vehicles in 2005, Ford Motor Company posted 2,148,806 in 2011 sales. As Ford devoted their business back to cars, truck sales have taken a sizable hit. Despite a reduction in truck sales, the Ford F-150 and Ford Escape remain the top-selling vehicles by the carmaker in 2011. Losing Mercury and still struggling to bring Lincoln back to the luxury car forefront challenges Ford’s total recovery. A reborn Ford brand line-up that includes the 2013 Taurus and Fusion sedans plus the 2013 Escape crossover are future vanguards for healthy auto sales.

Some people (even the same ones who originally wished the US government to protect financial institutions with taxpayer dollars) wanted to allow General Motors and Chrysler to succumb to liquidation. Led first by former president George W Bush’s administration with emergency financial aid and later by Barack Obama’s White House directing the needed loans through GM and Chrysler’s bankruptcy, both car companies survived. Wanting to be relieved of the public taunting of phrases such as “Government Motors”, GM and Chrysler paid back the emergency assistance late in 2011. Regardless of political leaning or perhaps free of such constraints, government intervention of the two American auto companies stabilized what could have been a much harsher industry-wide events. What if many more autoworkers would be out of the job? What if the 100th year of Chevrolet had been marred with a giant production blackout continuing to this day? Those and other questions can be answered hypothetically.

US Auto Market for Import Brands

While the mighty Detroit Three restructured their business model, many would believe the Japanese automakers Honda and Toyota have finally entered prime position to eat drastically eat away at the market. However, just like the American based companies, the Japanese carmakers have been suffering similar sales slippage from 2005 levels. Toyota Motor Corporation 2011 auto sales of 1,644,661 units is 27 percent lower than the 2005 year (Toyota fell just short of Chrysler with yearlong sales in 2005). Honda’s United States auto sales have also been noticeably lower at 21.5 percent over 2005 numbers. Third place in US sales among the Japanese carmakers is Nissan. Suffering a drop of about 230,000 vehicles from 2005 to 2009, Nissan pulled an enviable achievement recovering all but around 34,000 units in US sales delivering 1,042,534 vehicles to customers during 2011.

Bucking the trend of the economic hardships felt by leading auto companies was the South Korea’s Hyundai/Kia. In 2009, Hyundai/Kia actually posted a modest growth. Still emerging as a trustworthy company in the United States in 2005, the South Korean entity of Hyundai Motor America and sister group Kia Motors were able to benefit from a slimmer market profile. Kia and Hyundai brands have steadily sailed forward in American auto sales that totalled 1,131,183 vehicles after the 2011 calendar year. Increasing annual sales by 400,000 cars and crossover vehicles 2005 through 2011, records a sensational 54.77 percent increase in sales.

The US Auto Sales Recovery to Date

Despite successes and disappointments, the results of these seven top auto companies (totalling 10,987,403 units in 2011) shows that recovery is not yet a full recuperation to previous years. The point of observing this six-year span of sales numbers in the United States paints a picture of a different time in the auto industry on a continent. From the buzz at the upcoming auto shows, with all the uncertainty that recalls, the latest in advanced propulsion technology, the lessons of the past pushes a stride to former glory or even to a greater future.

Information source: Chrysler Group, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, American Honda Motors, Hyundai Motor America, Kia Motors, Nissan Americas, Toyota Motor Corporation
Photo source: Chris Nagy, Chrysler Group

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After the magnificent display that was the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show, I wrote an article on the notion that the California coast was the place automakers preferred to display their latest creations and concepts. Wondering if the 2012 auto show in Detroit would be have the same amount of enthusiasm, the sensory overload-inducing debuts set to occur at this week’s opening of the North American International Auto Show leads me to concludes thoughts of the Motor City becoming less of an industry focal point seems a waste of mental energy. The biggest auto manufacturers of the United States, Japan, Europe and even India are expected to provide an automotive delight.

Ahead of major auto shows, the marketing departments of carmakers are challenged to entice interest in a vehicle debut without giving too much away from the physical spectacle. Leading into the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, various tactics are being rolled out by auto brands. Whether they want to unveil the entire full image of the vehicle or a mere teaser photo, the auto companies are careful in their attempts to grab the attention of media and the overall car-adoring public.

For the 2012 edition of the North American International Auto Show, the following is a few of the production-based 2013 model year vehicles making a world debut:

Toyota Prius c

The smallest member of the now established Prius hybrid family, Toyota plans to capitalize on the high efficiency small car market with what will become North America’s first subcompact gasoline-electric vehicle. Roughly 5 inches longer than the 2012 Yaris, the Toyota Prius c liftback body style is a careful execution of small car values with high technology.

Beyond the Toyota Synergy Drive powertrain technology, the interior of the Prius c will incorporate an array of infotainment solutions thoughtful to the youth market the Japanese-based automaker wants to attract. With Bluetooth standard, optional equipment to be offered on the Toyota Prius c includes Toyota Entune multimedia system. Through Toyota Entune, occupants of the Prius c are given access to traffic and weather updates as well as Pandora Internet radio.

Two vital unknowns remain with the pending introduction at the 2012 auto show. Firstly, what will be the fuel economy expectations from the Toyota Prius c hybrid powertrain? Toyota has indicated a city range of more than 50 miles per gallon is estimated for the smallest Prius. Secondly, when the Prius c reaches showrooms, what can the younger generation of Toyota buyers expect to buy for the subcompact? If placed around the $20,000 range (in between the Yaris and common Prius hybrid), the Toyota Prius c could be a major spoiler to the eco-car marketplace.

Cadillac ATS

No longer the 1950s and 1960s when Cadillac’s hulking convertibles defined American luxury, it’s become the objective of the division in the 21st century to redefine its image among the top premium cars. While not hitting a home run with every new product, Cadillac has cemented a reputation for featuring solid luxury and effective technology on smaller vehicles. Applying their lessons to what will be their smallest production vehicle since the disastrous Cimarron of the 1980s, the 2013 Cadillac ATS will be the General Motors division latest test in the modern luxury car marketplace.

The Cadillac ATS has expected to be the most vibrant display of compact vehicle refinement of their new car line-up at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Through the teaser image, we can expect to see the 2013 Cadillac ATS to resemble its bigger brother CTS sedan. One of the more compelling characteristics of the compact car is the use of an all-new rear wheel drive platform. Specifically aiming at the BMW 3-Series and the Mercedes-Benz C Class, the Cadillac ATS sedan will have a strong assortment of engine power to support what should be a fierce luxury car battle. To offer three powerplant choices, the 2013 ATS will offer a 2.5 liter 4-cylinder engine, the 3.6 liter V-6 already found on Cadillac products and a new 270-horsepower, turbocharged 2-liter engine to debut in the vehicle.

The 2013 Cadillac ATS will also feature available Magnetic Ride Control suspension and the brand’s latest CUE in-car infotainment system.

Ford Fusion

The third-highest selling vehicle in the Ford Motor Company behind the Ford F-150 and the Ford Escape, the Fusion exists in the narrow but important market segment of mid-sized family sedans.

Kept under a great deal of secrecy by the auto company, there has not even been as much as a teaser shot ushered out for the 2013 Ford Fusion. Unsure of how radical or tame the 2013 Fusion styling will be on the four-door sedan, observers at the unveiling should expect Ford to advertise the new vehicle’s improved fuel economy and technology. Judging from the discontinuation of the Escape hybrid with the 2013 model year vehicle, a hybrid version of the new Ford Fusion might not be a guarantee. What should be certain with the 2013 Fusion’s powertrain is the inclusion of an EcoBoost engine (likely the 2-liter, four-cylinder powerplant). Based on the competition in the vehicle category, expect the all-wheel drive option to return as a substitute to standard front-wheel power. New technology expected on the upcoming Ford Fusion’s interior is an available Lane Keeping System and the revised version of MyFord Touch.

Ahead of the 2012 North American International Auto Show debut, Ford provided potential customers a chance to interact with the 2013 model year sedan through a unique mobile app. Available free for Apple iPhone and Android devices at fordfusionapp.com, the app supplies an experience with 19 unlockable driving courses through augmented reality. When the 2013 Ford Fusion is presented on January 10^th, users of the Ford Fusion mobile app will be able to witness full images of the new car.

Dodge Dart

With close automobile rivals Chevrolet and Ford staking claims to the subcompact car category, Chrysler Corporation’s Dodge division stood on the sidelines unable to compete. Though many automotive photographers were able to snap spy shots of a proposed small car based on the Dodge Hornet concept for years, corporate restructuring of the auto company has tightened resources for new car debuts. Reactivating a long-running Dodge nameplate, the Chrysler Group’s subcompact 2013 Dart will be targeting the growing entry-level car segment.

Teasing automotive enthusiasts with the same successful spoon-feeding of images that welcomed the 2011 Dodge Durango’s return, only a front corner and interior panel shot defines the 2013 Dodge Dart leading into this year‘s North American International Auto Show. The first all-new product created for the North American market by Chrysler through its 2009 collaboration with Fiat Group, the 2013 Dodge Dart rests on the same compact platform as the Alfa Romeo Giulietta. While the Giulietta is a hatchback, the 2013 Dodge Dart making its debut in Detroit will be a more Americanized four-door sedan shape. Conforming to the Dodge brand identity, the Dart will be aggressively styled with touches found on the new Dodge Charger. Mechanicals for the 2013 Dodge Dart is likely to include a 1.4 liter and 2-liter engine with an available 9-speed automatic transmission.

The smallest vehicle in a brand line-up, the 2013 Dodge Dart will perhaps face the fiercest fight in the modern car industry. Ford Fiesta, Chevy Sonic, Hyundai Accent and Toyota Yaris have either new or redesigned products each providing competitive powertrains, standard equipment and fuel economy.

Nissan Pathfinder Concept

Nissan’s most enduring SUV (sport utility vehicle) brand, the Pathfinder lived up to its name since debuting in 1986. In constant production since introduction, the Nissan Pathfinder’s ability to connect with the North American consumer led the Japan-derived brand to share the Pathfinder name briefly with the large Amanda SUV. Rolling out at the 2012 North American International Auto Show as a concept vehicle, the exterior design for Nissan’s latest generation of the Pathfinder should remain close to the production model set for release later this year.

A four-wheel drive set to offer seating for seven passengers, the Nissan Pathfinder Concept will feature a refreshed exterior design. A more aerodynamic look than the predecessor model, the teaser photo of the Pathfinder Concept unveils a roof similar to the Nissan Quest minivan and body panels featuring aggressive flaring like the Juke. Buyers of the next generation Nissan Pathfinder should feel confident that the powerplant options should consist of the VQ series six-cylinder and the VK series eight-cylinder engine.

Users of Facebook will be some of the first observers to see the Nissan Pathfinder Concept. After 8:30am on Monday, Facebook users who log into the Nissan page will be able to view the new vehicle after clicking on the “Pathfinder Reveal” tab.

Information and photo source: Chrysler Group, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Nissan Americas, Toyota Motor Corporation

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Merging the particular tastes of luxury car buyers with their popular full-sized sport utility vehicle platform of the 2000s, General Motors’ brand Cadillac adopted the Escalade. After tweaking the Escalade into the 2002 model year, Cadillac struck gold in creating a desirable premium SUV. An eight-cylinder now topping 403 horsepower, four-wheel drivetrain and spacious leather interior with high-tech entertainment items were the exact features Cadillac needed to lure buyers back to American luxury excellence. Expanding to the Escalade EXT pick-up bed truck, extended length ESV and the Escalade Two-Mode Hybrid model, the large premium vehicle rose to become a staple among the contemporary luxury-seeking crowd.

While popularity brought fortunes to a then-struggling Cadillac sales tally, the increased attention to the Escalade line-up has made the full-sized vehicle candy those perpetuating grand theft autos. In August, the Cadillac Escalade (specifically 2008-2010 models) topped a list tallied by the IIHS (Insurance Institute of Highway for Highway Safety) for most preferred vehicles among thieves in the United States. According to the data collected by the IIHS, more than 8 times the average vehicle claims have been filed on the Escalade EXT pick-up model. Revealed as a North American-wide issue, the 2002 Cadillac Escalade was also established as the fifth most targeted vehicle in Canada by the country’s insurance bureau at the end of 2011. The value of the Escalade, as well as its expensive high-end components including Xenon headlamps and custom wheels, has made the sport utility vehicle attractive for parts or as a whole.

Realizing that the Cadillac Escalade owners are now facing a higher-than normal chance of being parted with their over $60,000 vehicle, the 2012 model year sports a new arsenal of factory-installed automotive security. Five individual security enhancements are introduced on the 2012 Cadillac Escalade insuring greater protection among several common thefts.

Standard on all 2012 Cadillac Escalade will be a tougher steering column lock system as well as an improved car key. Designed to greater resist manoeuvring the sport utility vehicle, the new steering column locking mechanism on 2012 Escalade is said to be nearly temper-proof. The only method to unlock the steering column will be the new, improved PASS Key 3+ featuring highly detailed encryption.

Highlighted oddly in the 1980s comedy film ‘Twins’ where Arnold Schwarzenegger deactivated a car‘s alarm system by picking up the rear of a Cadillac sedan, some less sophisticated vehicle warning sirens were electronically programmed to turn off when a vehicle is lifted to a particular angle. A program meant to determine when a vehicle is being legitimately towed, some advanced car thieves have exploited this by using a tow truck to steal an Escalade. An available feature on the 2012 Cadillac Escalade is called an inclination sensor if an unintended change of vehicle angle is detected. The inclination sensor upgrade also prevents flat-bedding or even attempts to steal wheel and tires. Also protecting the lavish wheels of the 2012 Escalade will be a new locking system.

While the Cadillac Escalade can be the objective of some thieves, other criminals settle for the potentially valuable items inside of the sport utility vehicle. Protecting against property theft, the 2012 model year Escalade has an available shock sensor designed to detect breaking of glass.

An OnStar equipped vehicle, the 2012 Cadillac Escalade line-up has electronic tracking technology to relay to law enforcement. In addition, in efforts to slow a fleeing theft, the OnStar system on the Escalade can be used to send a message to the vehicle’s electronic controls slowing the Cadillac safely.

Along with the new security solutions introduced on the 2012 model year Cadillac Escalade, General Motors published the following list of precautions owners of all vehicles should take in reducing car thefts and break-ins:

• Do not leave valuables unattended in unlocked cars, or in plain sight
• Park vehicles in well-lit areas or inside locked garages
• Don’t leave cars running with the keys in the ignition.
• Do not defeat the ignition/key cylinder immobilizers with aftermarket remote- start systems
• Always lock your vehicle with the key fob, which also sets the alarm system
• Use wheel locks with premium wheels
• Do not leave driver’s license, registration or insurance certificate in your car
• Purchase a vehicle with OnStar or the aftermarket OnStar FMV mirror, which will enable your vehicle to be tracked if stolen.

The combination of Cadillac’s new high-tech security advancements as well as the highly prudent actions of the Escalade owners in 2012 and beyond will be key to assure the luxury vehicle loses its flavour to car thieves.

Information and photo source: General Motors

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Enduring the ride that was the 2011 year for better or worse, we have now arrived in the new year of 2012. For the auto industry, 2011 has taken some auto companies on differing paths. For companies like Ford Motor Company, Hyundai and General Motors, their year ends with a series of successes leading to certain profitability at the end of 2011. Other automakers have gone into 2011 expecting a new beginning only to face what could be an ending. Swedish’s car company Saab could have a short-lived life beyond General Motors unless a solid financial rescuer comes to its aid. As automakers think shortly back to the 2011 year, seeking for top spot in the 2012 automobile market, some vehicles reflect clear winners for attracting the interests of rightfully demanding consumers.

While not necessarily dominating sales charts, the following new vehicles captured the mood of 2011 in automotive design and innovations:

Hyundai Veloster

Infusing their line-up with character, Hyundai first sought to attract an upscale clientele. Sculpting a reinvented brand perception with the Veracruz, Genesis and Equus, Hyundai’s focus on product development has worked from the top down. As the Hyundai Accent received a much-overdue redesign for the 2012 model year, observers noted the absence of the three-door hatchback version. Planning something sportier and unique, the Veloster came to life at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show projecting some deep personality from Hyundai.

Powered by a spunky 138-horsepower from a 1.6 liter Gamma powerplant, the Hyundai Veloster delivers pep along with excellent fuel economy of 32 miles per gallon in combined city and highway driving. Drivers could choose from an innovative 6-speed dual-clutch transmission or the more pleasuring 6-speed manual gearbox. Standard equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, a 7-inch LG touch screen stereo system with Pandora and Bluetooth connectivity meant the 2012 Hyundai Veloster had the ingredients to be an instant hot item at a $17,300 starting price. Officially launched in October, the 2012 Hyundai Veloster accumulated 7,096 in sales by the end of November.

For sale during only the final quarter of 2011, the Veloster has already received the attention of a young crowd looking for what hidden talent rests in the radical three-door vehicle. At the 2011 SEMA Show, several examples for modded out PM Lifestyle/UTI Veloster elevated Hyundai to a flashier world stage. A turbocharged production version of the three-door Hyundai Veloster in the near future should only allow the car to continue its quest to become a recognized pocket rocket from 2012 and beyond.

Lamborghini Aventador

Replacing the Murcielago, Italian sports car builder Lamborghini is pressured to improve upon 48 years of delivering dream rides. A supercar moved by 700-horsepower, the Aventador is the bull’s newest progression in Lamborghini’s heritage.

Built around a full carbon fiber monocoque, aluminum combines with the exterior construction of the Lamborghini Aventador LP-700-4 ’s structure for an ultra-lightweight supercar. A driver and passenger step into the Aventador though the upward opening scissor doors that have become a Lamborghini staple. Rated to weigh just over 3,472 pounds, the all-new Lamborghini Aventador is in excess of 400 pounds lighter than the outgoing Murcielago. Mid-mounted in the Lamborghini Aventador LP-700-4 is a 6.5 liter V-12 engine. Handling the 700 horsepower in a strategic manner is accomplished through an all-wheel drive system supplied by Haldex. Seven gears are arranged through a unique ISR (Independent Shifting Rod) transmission insuring quick, responsive movements through shifts. With 0 to 62-mile per hour acceleration runs occurring in a prompt 2.9 seconds, the Aventador LP-700-4 inspired launches into the roads of 2012.

Chevrolet Cruze

Accustomed to selling their compact sedans as bargain haulers, Chevrolet had devoted questionable dedication to the Cavalier and even the Cobalt. When the Chevrolet Cruze was launched in North America in late 2010, the sophisticated world sedan demonstrated we could expect greater things from the top General Motors brand in the smaller vehicle class.

Stylish without being overwhelming, the compact Cruze was welcomed by as many as 215,057 customers for the current year as of November 2011 (making it Chevrolet’s best-selling car and second only to the Silverado pickup in overall bowtie products sold in the year). A good reason for the positive reception of the Chevrolet Cruze rests in the fact the car does not represent the usually expected ‘corner-cutting’ in the development process. Ten airbags, StabiliTrak electronic stability control with anti-lock braking and detail to noise reduction standard on all Cruze models recognizes the motorist deserves better from 2011 model year vehicles. Powered by the Ecotec family of engines, a 1.8 liter and turbocharged 1.4 liter provides an amply power range for the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. Propelled by one of two high efficiency power plants, the Cruze features robust power at a low cost of operations. For optimal fuel economy, the Cruze Eco version can go up to 42 miles per gallon when linked to the six-speed manual transmission.

As the Chevrolet Volt attracted all the press and Chevrolet’s Centennial was passionately celebrated with commemorative editions of the Camaro and Corvette, the Chevrolet Cruze sales success played an immediate role insuring their will be many more parties in honour of the brand.

Volkswagen Jetta

While the Chevrolet Cruze was accomplishing the act of bringing refinement to entry-level vehicles through minor overall price increases, the Volkswagen Jetta entered 2011 attempting to re-establish itself as an affordable small sedan. Extremely popular in North America from the mid-1980s to the early 2000s, the German car brand scared off some buyers when the Jetta steered into premium car pricing. Wanting increased sale volumes, Volkswagen redesign of the 6th generation Jetta sedan heavily involved making the a better value to North American car buyers.

Larger than the more expensive predecessor model, the 2011 Volkswagen Jetta took a more back-to-basics approach in engineering. Gone is the high-end materials and suspension system in favour of lower-cost, easier to produce components as the 2011 model year Jetta arrived for a retail price starting under $16,000. Designed to win over young families, the 2011 Jetta incorporated standard comfort and safety features including a 60/40 split rear seat as well as up to six airbags. The new Jetta is recognized as an IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2012. Powered by the 2-liter and 2.5 liter gasoline engines, the 140-horsepower turbocharged clean diesel powerplant of the 2011 Jetta TDI delivers up to 42 miles per gallon fuel economy.

A vehicle created to boost Volkswagen‘s United States sales, the all-new Jetta sedan was a mission accomplished in the first 11 months of 2011 netting sales almost 59 percent higher than the 2010 pattern.

Audi A7 Sportback

Audi has tempted more luxury car buyers than ever with a flourishing line-up of technologically advanced upscale vehicles in 2011. The Audi A7 Sportback was introduced to the marketplace this year as the perfect conveyance of the brand’s drive for modern luxury and performance. Though the five-door represents a late arrival to an automotive category of unconventional sport coupes wearing more than two doors (i.e. Mercedes CLS-Class and Porsche Panamera), the Audi A7 Sportback blend of the new A6 sedan architecture into a radiant-looking creation. Composing of a combination of steel and aluminum, the 2012 model year A7 Sportback was launched in April to brisk sales that totalled to over 5,000 vehicles by the end of November. North American customers receive the supercharged 3.0 TFSI V6 powerplant routed to the quattro drivetrain through an eight-speed Tiptronic transmission. Seating for four passengers provides an individualized performance luxury feel. The Audi A7 Sportback’s MMI system with an available 15-speaker supplied by Bang & Olufsen and Audi connect solutions are some highlights in store for all occupants.

With the best yet to come from the unique coupe, the high-performance Audi S7 Sportback is due for the 2013 model year.

Information source: Audi AG, Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A., General Motors, Hyundai Motor America, VW Group

Photo source: Audi AG, Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A., Chris Nagy

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From the 1980s through to the latter half of the 2000s, American automakers reluctantly participated in the small car market. Poor build quality, lack of reliability and overall unattractiveness tainted not only the reputation in the small car category but potential first-time car buyers. When Chevrolet committed to replace the Korean-built Aveo with the 2012 Sonic, the bowtie brand immediately asserted the new small vehicle would be an enthusiastic entry.

When the 2010 Paris Motor Show presented the global car media the first conceptual look of the Chevrolet Sonic subcompact, the intent was to condense the performance feeling of the Camaro or Corvette in a smaller package. To sell the sportier ambitions for Chevrolet, the exhibition car was named the Aveo RS Concept. To be presented at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the 2013 Sonic production car will dazzle with ‘RS’ badging in thrilling performance style.

Infused with a similar vibe as the 2011 SEMA Show cars, the Chevrolet Sonic RS is the awaited model observers expected to add some aggression to the subcompact. Offered both as a four-door sedan and five-door hatchback body style, the upcoming Chevrolet Sonic RS trim level ups the youthful appearance ante. The 2013 Sonic RS wears unique bodywork that includes special front and rear fascia as well as side rocker panel moldings. On the front, the 2013 Chevy Sonic RS subcompact’s dynamic-looking fog lamps fixtures shine the roadways. A new exterior colour being introduced for the 2013 Sonic RS (along with other Sonic models) is Black Granite Metallic. The Black Granite Metallic will be one of four colours available with the Chevrolet Sonic’s RS trim level.

Rolling on 17-inch five-spoke wheels, the 2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS rides on a lowered and more responsive suspension system suited to sporty driving. Backed by electronic handling aids, the 2013 Sonic RS gains a driver confidence with features such as electric power steering, StabiliTrak stability control and electronic brake assist. The RS version of the 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will be the only model to be equipped with four-wheel disc brakes for additional braking prowess with a full anti-lock braking system.

Already powered by a turbocharged engine, Chevrolet saw little need to upgrade the performance beyond what is found on the brand new Sonic. Good for 138 horsepower and a responsive 148 pounds-feet of torque, the Ecotec 1.4 liter displacement engine propelling the 2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS should be trust-worthy enough for almost 35 miles per gallon fuel economy. One change coming with the availability of the 2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS is the inclusion of a 6-speed automatic transmission alongside the manual gearbox choice. For the 2012 model year premiere of the Sonic, the only transmission mated with the 1.4 liter turbocharged engine was a 6-speed manual.

With the RS model, the 2013 Chevrolet Sonic reinforces the performance-oriented exterior with a functional but racy cabin. A thicker steering wheel featuring a flat-bottom appearance, aluminum foot pedals and specific graphics on the Sonic’s motorcycle-inspired instrument cluster will be some initial elements defining the RS model. RS-badged sport seating is found for the driver and front passenger who are within reach of standard MyLink infotainment technology. A seven-inch touch screen guides Chevrolet’s new integrated navigation and entertainment system inside the 2013 Sonic RS. Featuring Bluetooth connectivity, smart phones can transmit navigational information and can even allow pictures as well as video to be viewable when the Chevy Sonic RS is at rest. Pandora and Stitcher Internet radio services can also be accessed through the Sonic RS’ MyLink system delivering music selections with cutting-edge technology.

To be built as the Orion Assembly Center alongside other Chevrolet Sonic models, General Motors vice president of Global Chevrolet Marketing Chris Perry said, “The new Chevrolet Sonic RS pushes Chevrolet’s performance heritage in a new direction, for a new generation of drivers”. As Detroit prepares to host the official presentation of the 2013 Sonic RS as a production, it will remain to be seen if this announcement could provoke rival automaker Ford to battle. Part of the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show was a concept car called the Ford Fiesta ST. Could a pint-sized performance war be shaping up in the American small car category?

Information and photo source: General Motors

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As car fans, we often pick sides of your favourite brands. Claiming allegiance to an automaker, there is a pride in the technological advantages claimed by a choice company. VTEC, EcoBoost, SkyActiv and TDI identify some popular names of solutions used to define a particular automaker. However, when it comes to developing some of the newest technologies in motoring, it is rare that a single auto company can carry the costly and long process alone. In fact, some notable automakers went out of business or close to bankruptcy attempting to go in alone through the development of technology that became essential to modern cars and trucks. Heading into the end of this year, two major auto companies are in talks that could result in the furthering of advanced powertrains.

In a very brief statement (consisting of a single sentence), General Motors confirmed they are currently conversing with Germany auto company BMW in co-developing future vehicle technology. With very little detail given on top of the simple admittance that discussions are taking place, General Motors has stated fuel cell technology could be a joint venture. Both companies have been working on the prospect of using hydrogen and fuel cells as a future propulsion for automobiles.

General Motors had been confident fuel cell vehicles would be a future (perhaps distant) power source since the turn of the 21st century. The Autonomy and Hy-wire concept cars were visions for General Motor’s possible fuel cell-powered roadways. However, GM’s cash shortage during bankruptcy and the industry rush towards electric batteries placed their development plans for hydrogen power on the technological back burner. In 2009, BMW produced limited test run of a gasoline/hydrogen burning vehicle called the Hydrogen 7 sedan. The BMW Hydrogen 7 was created under the understanding that employing hydrogen for internal combustion engines could be appreciated as requiring less drastic and more easily adaptable. Hydrogen use for internal combustion engines would also provide incentive for creating hydrogen refueling infrastructure. Though General Motors and BMW have incorporated battery-supported, electrified vehicles in production, the promise for hydrogen motoring seems like a solution either company is willing to abandon.

It can be inferred from the release that the General Motors/BMW partnership can lead to other areas of automotive research. The future product development partnership could also involve focus with other emerging technologies. This year, both auto companies have made an active campaign to incorporate a greater use of carbon fiber construction in future vehicles. An super lightweight but strong engineered material once viewed as too exotic for widespread use in the car industry, carbon-reinforced polymers (popularly referred to as carbon fiber) expanded production and refinement through the past 20 years have realized greater cost-effective use.

In Munich, the BMW i brand concept vehicles are structured around the extensive employment of carbon fiber. According to estimates, BMW Member of the Board Klaus Draeger indicated that carbon fiber construction methods could result in 250 to 350-kilogram (551 to 772-pound) weight savings over other electric cars. Overcoming the weight burden associated with electrified powertrains, the use of carbon fiber alongside aluminum allowed the BMW i3 concept to coast weighing a comfortable 2,755.8 pounds. The same construction has been utilized through the concept BMW i8 sports coupe.

In Detroit, a major polymer producer and General Motors have pledged to further the widespread adaptation of carbon fiber materials. Working with Japanese branded company Limited, General Motors is researching faster and more cost efficient manufacturing procedures that could see the practical application of carbon fiber to high volume automotive products.

If a technology-sharing results from the most recent talks, this will be the second time that General Motors and BMW have been jointly involved in as many years. Six years ago, the two companies along with Chrysler were involved in a hybrid transmission venture. With General Motors large trucks and sport utility vehicles adapting what would be known as a two-mode hybrid, BMW created the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 for the North American market.

Information source: BMW, General Motors
Photo source: Chris Nagy

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Saddled with the high upfront costs currently attached to the early electric production cars, the new driving lifestyle will drastically affect the refueling environment for consumers. Whether a full EV (electric vehicle or a plug-in hybrid model, charging of a vehicle’s battery pack will see private parking lots or garage become an active hub for the operations of electric cars. For the most part cancelling-out the trip to the gas station, electrified vehicles would ideally be completely ready for a complete zero emissions run over a reasonable, unobtrusive course of time. Owners of electric vehicles will quickly become acquainted that not all charging operations are equal.

Similar to gasoline highway fuel economy estimates that automakers publish to sell their vehicles most effectively, charging times for electric cars varies depending on certain factors. For example with the Nissan Leaf fastest battery charge time is recorded at 7 hours. However, if the Leaf is charged to using a standard 110-volt household outlet, the electric car would take a very long 21 hours. In order to achieve faster charging times, electric car owners will need to opt for a home charging unit. One of several leading units coming to market is from GE (General Electric) and will now have the additional advantage of being sold through major on-line website Amazon.com.

Priced at $1,099.00 with free basic shipping through Amazon, the GE Wattstation is a modern looking wall-mounted charging device. The Design of the GE Wattstation is meant to provide a simple interface for users to understand and operate. By simply inserting the cord into an electric vehicle’s power inlet, charging through the GE Wattstation is indicated by a green charging icon on the terminal. The Wattstation is universal for any current electrified vehicle including full electrics vehicles like the Nissan Leaf and the Chevy Spark EV to plug-in hybrids such as the Chevy Volt or an upcoming Toyota Prius model. When the GE Wattstation is not in use, the power cord can be wrapped around the device just as easily as a garden hose. With a shut-off button on the unit, zero power consumption is achieved when the GE Wattstation is not in use.

Suitable for installation inside a garage or even outside, the GE Wattstation comes with a step-to-step DVD detailing the proper method for mounting the unit. The charging unit is configured to be easily integrated with existing properties. Even outside the house, the sturdy design of the GE Wattstation wall charger withstands harsh weather and is secured against theft.

Expanded distribution of the at-home Wattstation unit is part of GE’s comprehensive power supply hardware needs intended to brand themselves as a potential household name as well as a commercial application for EV charging. Besides being sold through Amazon, the distribution of the GE Wattstation will also involve electric car company CODA Automotive. Through an agreement entered last month, CODA Automotive endorses the GE Wattstation as original equipment. Now across the United States and Canada, 46 published public locations have industrialized GE DuraStation charging units capable of replenishing electric vehicle batteries. GE has also entered a deal in September to buy Chevrolet Volts for use at their Shanghai headquarters cross promoting the technology in China. With electric cars finally earning a chance to shine in the 21st century, the construction of the infrastructure on personal, commercial and public property will need to grow at a pace faster than the EV lifestyle itself. The business opportunity presented to rapid electric charging solutions has not been lost on companies like GE.

As the first crop of mass-produced electric cars open to nationwide marketing, the GE Wattstation will have immediate industry competition. When announcing the Focus Electric vehicle, Ford Motor Company entered a collaboration with electrical hardware producer Leviton to create their own charging unit. The Ford branded 240-volt vehicle unit will be sold for $1,499 with the cooperation of Best Buy and their Geek Squad group. Consumers can expect to see a fast-growing competition from charging unit providers GE, Leviton, and other companies as they seek industry leadership no matter what EV prevails.

Information source: Ford Motor Company, GE
Photo source: GE

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We knew it was only be a matter of time when an automotive safety alarm bell would sound over an electric vehicle. One of the heaviest promoted vehicles unleashed on the North American marketplace in the past few years, the plug-in hybrid Chevrolet Volt represented a new way that automobile producers and customers could view roads in the near future. A high-profile vehicle, the brand-new Chevy Volt is now facing a publicly visible probe into a potentially dangerous defect that appeared during the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s New Car Assessment Program.

Following a standard side impact pole test in May of 2011 where a Chevrolet Volt was awarded a five-star rating (thanks in part to side curtain airbags), the major drama for the American-built plug-in hybrid car did not develop until three weeks after the crash. In June, a fire that engulfed the crashed car as well as three other vehicles was linked to the Volt‘s electrical propulsion system. Revealed in paperwork filed on the 25th of November, the resulting incident was traced to a failure of the Chevrolet Volt’s lithium-ion battery pack. Like most modern battery-powered vehicles sold or about to be sold in North America, the Volt’s electrical storage is temperature-controlled. Through the initial crash test, the NHTSA team discovered the coolant line damaged following the side impact, which is believed to be connected to excessive heat from an injured lithium-ion battery pack causing the vehicle fire.

Since the June fire, an investigation started by the NHTSA has included an attempt to replicate the condition that created the fire. In early November, three Chevrolet Volts were subjected to identical side impact pole crash test intent in recreating the potential cause of the fire five months earlier. Though those tests did not result in fires of the lithium-ion battery, the retest of the vital Chevrolet Volt component was recorded to have spark and smoke accompanied by an elevation in temperatures that reached up to 180 degrees Fahrenheit. While attempting to notify the public of their investigation on the Chevy Volt’s primary energy storage pack, the NHTSA cautions that there are no real-world incidents yet to result in a side impact causing the kind of battery damage occurring in the New Car Assessment Program test.

Reacting to this disturbing news made public, General Motors was prompt in reassuring that the auto company is working closely with the NHTSA in detailing this crash test concern. Senior vice president of global product development Mary Barra has commissioned an engineering team to track down and eliminate any further electrical problems. For owners of the plug-in hybrid Volt feeling uneasy about their Volts for the interim, Chevrolet has extended to them use of another General Motors vehicle for no charge (no pun intended). General Motors also asserts the favourable Chevy Volt crash test results that totalled a 5-Star rating as attributes of the vehicle.

With 5,003 examples of the Chevrolet Volts sold this year up to the end of October, the vehicle enters wide sales distribution across the United States and into Canada against a fair share of public praise as well as criticism. Admirable for its innovative production car powertrain that could be the key to the next generation of automobiles, some doubt the nearly $40,000 (offset partially by federal test credits) Chevy Volt is nothing more than an eco-friendly publicity machine. While some will forgive the plug-in hybrid Volt if a fix to the potential risk of battery overheating is fixed quickly, the hatred for the car by others could be compounded with the NHTSA investigation. Remaining in opposition for the Chevy Volt are some people who has acute techno-fright when it comes to electrified vehicles.

A first major challenge relating to a safety defect (and one can expect a last), the resolution for the Chevrolet Volt is important in determining future acceptance of electrified vehicles. Besides the returning exploration for the Chevrolet Volt sedan, General Motors future premium expression of the plug-in hybrid system in the Cadillac ELR wagers heavily on maintaining confidence in the reduced-emissions technology.

Information source: General Motors, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Photo source: Chris Nagy, General Motors

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As convertible weather gives way to snow tires in most part of the United States and Canada, the chances dwindle for seeing the newest cars in pristine condition. For reason of controlled environmental factors and the ability to better lure cold-snapped car enthusiasts, the indoor auto show season becomes a regular cure to the blahs that kick in during late fall.

From the late 1980s through to the beginning of the 2000s, the North American International Auto Show existed as the grand showcase for the United States automobile market. Mainly a showcase for General Motors, Ford Motor Company and Chrysler in their figurative backyard, strength of those companies magnetically drew Japanese as well as European manufacturers to the Detroit show.

At the same time as Detroit’s reign as an uncontested mega show, planners behind the Los Angeles Auto Show scheduled the exhibition a week ahead of the North American International Auto Show. This scheduling created a logistical nightmare for auto companies (in particularly the Detroit 3). Levelled with more criticism than Michael Bay from hardcore Transformers Generation 1 fans following the live-action trilogy adaptation, the Los Angeles Auto Show organizers finally bowed to pressure to reschedule their event in 2006. Instead of being the earliest North American major automobile exhibit on the yearly calendar, the Los Angeles Auto Show was moved to one of the latest in the year.

Following the weakened grip the Detroit auto manufacturers on the industry and the increased global focus in general, the Detroit North American International Auto Show is perceived to have lost some of its glamour. Adding the increased allure of an auto show in a generally warmer climate, the Los Angeles Auto Show has connected well in the car-centric California city. Some observers have also questioned lately if the LA car show could be overshadowing the Detroit display.

A question that must be asked when comparing the exhibit in Los Angeles and Detroit, is there a superior auto show?

Size of Exhibition

Both the North American International Auto Show and the Los Angeles Auto Show provides a chance for any visitor to lose themselves in the best of modern automotive culture. With the Detroit show housed in the Cobo Center next door to the Red Wing hockey team’s Joe Louis Arena, exhibition floor space is rated at 623,500 square feet. The Los Angeles Convention Center has 720,000 square feet of advertised space. Both auto shows boast additional floor space with some estimates quoting for the North American International Auto Show as utilizing almost a million square feet of room.

The past two edition of these annual auto shows were not dictated by the size of the convention centers. Since 2009, the auto industry presence at major auto shows is beginning to recuperate from the economic damage. While many had downsized their presentations, other automakers chose not to display at either the Los Angeles or Detroit shows. The biggest drop in auto brand participation at the 2009 North American International Auto Show involved luxury brands like Bentley, Rolls-Royce and Porsche deciding to sit out Detroit. Nissan and Mitsubishi had also been no-shows at the North American International Auto Show as a corporate entity. However, while some companies like Ferrari chose not to appear at Los Angeles as well, Porsche and Rolls-Royce found the auto show hosted inside the largest prestige car market of the United States impossible to miss.

Japanese brand Nissan was absent from the North American International Auto Show in 2010 and 2011 pledging to return for the upcoming 2012 edition.

Show Prices:

For both auto shows, general adult admission is $12 at the gate. For the 2011 edition of the Los Angeles Auto Show, individuals over 65 of age are given $8 show entrance while children under 12 are admitted free with an adult. From November 18 through to Thanksgiving Day, there is a $2 discount if entrants use the E-Ticket system to purchase show admission. The North American International Auto Show’s pricing scheme offers adults over 65 years with $6 admission while free admission for children only covers up to 6 years of age (7-12 year old children are admitted at $6).

In regards to any auto shows, local residents should scan regional newspapers and deal sites for coupons or discount offers on general admission.

Quality of Vehicles at Show:

The North American International Auto Show long had the ability to produce an impressive amount of global and United States automotive lovers with the first peak at the latest showroom vehicles. In the past edition of the Detroit-based auto show, the passion returned with 35 world car premieres bringing allure to the Motor City.

In recent editions of the Los Angeles Auto Show, new car debuts for the North American and world public has become more common. The debut of over 50 vehicles is taking place at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show. During the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show, 21 world automotive debuts included the first presentation of the 2013 Ford Escape, 2013 Ford Shelby GT500, and the all-new Cadillac XTS.

With announcement still pending for the 2011 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, an early world premiere confirmation came from Toyota. The newest member of their hybrid gasoline/electric family, the Toyota Prius c, will work on outshining the domestic auto companies in their hometown. Detroit still remains a leading show for automotive design concepts. In 2011, an unfinished mock-up of the ninth-generation Honda Civic, Kia KV7, GMC Sierra All Terrain and the Ford Vertrek gave visitors of the North American International Auto Show is look into the future.

Event Attendance:

Thanks to a bullish auto industry recovery after the near ruins of 2008 and early 2009, auto show attendance in general has surged. With nine public days planned for the 2012 Detroit North American International Auto Show, the Los Angeles allows visitors an extra day. Through the 2011 edition of the North American International Auto Show, the organizers announced 735,370 spectators attended the exhibition. The Los Angeles Auto Show is more secretive on the event attendance at the past event (in 2010) but some estimates put visitor total at 900,000 people.

Los Angeles benefits include being held in one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the United States. The car culture of California is also a major draw pulling audiences to the Los Angeles Auto Show every year. Prestige auto brands like BMW, Porsche and Infiniti recognize how important it is for their niche products to appeal in a land where personal fashion

The North American International Auto Show could also benefit as a spectator draw to hockey fans through the course of the exhibition. For 2012, there will be three Detroit Red Wings home games at Joe Louis Arena coinciding on public exhibition days in the nearby Cobo Center. One scheduled event has the Red Wings hosting the Columbus Blue Jackets on a Saturday possibility presenting the perfect opportunity for families to make a full afternoon with hockey and automobiles.

The Conclusion:

I know the point of this article is to obtain an answer to determining the most superior auto show but there are some serious obstacles preventing me from making such a subjective call. Besides the competitive attributes both the North American International Auto Show and the Los Angeles Auto Show had through the categories, the car lover inside of me would happily attend any true celebration of automotive passion. For readers and auto show goers, the decision is left in your hands on where your motoring spirit is fostered.

Information source: Los Angeles Auto Show, North American International Auto Show
Photo source: Ford Motor Company, General Motors

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A reality for too many motorists, the necessity of automotive ownership has becoming a crunch time in the pocketbook. With near zero flexibility related pricing for a gallon of gasoline, the need achieve tangible savings through daily driving has resulted in cost savings to be found in other areas.

For some, taking the time to compare auto insurance rates could be a short-term savings on operating a motor vehicle. A longer-term solution for new car buyers is to buy a more efficient car. Thanks to an American auto industry that has been brought to realize the presence of high quality, smaller vehicles on United States roadways, a selection of fuel-efficient subcompact cars offers a fresh line of choices for the 2012 model year.

Ford Fiesta

While introduced to the North American marketplace last year, the Ford Fiesta is strangely one of the older designs in the United States’ B-segment class. By no means outdated, a Fiesta was instantly propelled as a youthful vehicle offered as either a four-door sedan or five-door hatchback. Having sold over 84,000 Ford Fiesta models since the subcompact went on sale summer of 2010, the Ford Motor Company realized a great deal of Americans were ready for 33 mile per gallon average fuel economy. Another aspect Ford recognized when selling the Fiesta was the inclusion of some high-class options. With as many of 80 percent of Fiestas fitted with Ford SYNC, over 50 percent of cars sold up to the end of September 2010 were equipped with leather seating and heated seats.

For those fearful that a small car does not offer the accident survivability of the favoured sport utility or crossover vehicles, drivers and passengers of the Ford Fiesta were immediately comforted with a Top Safety Pick rating following Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash testing.

Chevrolet Sonic

More than just a mere replacement to the Daewoo-based Aveo, the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is a reinvention of the General Motors subcompact car for the North American market. Finally creating a chic, sporty and refined entry-level product, the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is the first bowtie-wearing subcompact since the discontinuation Chevette to be manufactured in the United States.

The Sonic is far from being a performance car but minor touches enables economy car buyers to perceive sense of raciness similar to that included on the Camaro and Corvette. Powered by a 135 horsepower, Ecotec 1.8 and a 138 horsepower, turbocharged 1.4 liter engine, up to 40 miles per gallon highway fuel economy is capable from the peppy powerplants. Exterior design of the four-door sedan as well as five-door hatchback versions of the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic project a great deal of character. Wheels up to 17 inches in diameter can be ordered on the 2012 Sonic and Chevrolet’s Z Spec products allow the subcompact car to reach considerable factory tuner heights. Behind the wheel of every 2012 Sonic, a compact motorcycle-inspired instrument panel is both stylish and user-friendly.

Toyota Yaris

Receiving a much-needed modernization, the Toyota Yaris enters 2012 a refreshed subcompact vehicle. One of the few B-segment vehicles available with a three-door to differentiate itself from competitors, a five-door model is also part of the 2012 Toyota Yaris line-up. Reasoning through research that 70 percent of customers would prefer a hatchback, the 2012 Yaris five-door model features 68 percent more cargo room EPA-rated 15.6 cubic feet. A highly practical design, the 106 horsepower, 1.5 liter four-cylinder powerplant delivers highway fuel economy up to 38 miles per gallon mated with the 5-speed manual.

The 2012 Toyota Yaris arrives to showrooms with a sizable and attractive standard features range. Nine airbags are included with Toyota‘s Star Safety System along with air conditioning, electric power steering and power door locks are found on all 2012 Yaris models. For a little economy car fun, the 2012 Toyota Yaris SE enhances the exterior with 16-inch alloy wheels, integrated fog lights and a rear spoiler. Leather-trimmed steering wheel and special sport seating are included inside of the 2012 Yaris SE model.

Kia Rio

Debuting as a sketch during the start of the new year, the up-and-coming Kia Motors exhibited a greater sense of style for their value-leading Rio. Considered a convenient vehicle package for fuel-efficient travel, the 2012 Kia Rio adds additional technology to further maximize each gallon of gasoline. The 2012 Rio will be the first North American B-segment vehicle to feature Idle Stop and Go technology configured to place the engine on a stand-by mode automatically when the vehicle is not in motion. The 2012 Kia Rio’s completely revised 1.6 liter inline-four powerplant (producing 138 horsepower) adds gasoline direct injection. Despite higher horsepower, improved engine technology and 6-speed manual or automatic transmission choices allows the 2012 model year Kia Rio to travel an estimated 35 miles per gallon average (about 3-4 miles per gallon further than the 2011 car).

In keeping with Kia’s bang for the buck reputation, air conditioning, tilt steering wheel as well as a full array of safety equipment including four-wheel disc brakes and six airbags are standard for every 2012 Kia Rio model. For the top-tiered 2012 Rio SX model at $17,500 MSRP, a rich set of standard features includes 17-inch wheels, Bluetooth connectivity, power-folding outer mirrors and Kia’s UVO in-vehicle infotainment system.

Nissan Versa

A lighter, restyled vehicle for 2012, the new sedan and hatchback versions of the Nissan Versa presents greater cargo as well as interior space over its predecessor. For the Nissan Versa Sedan an additional cubic-foot of trunk space brings storage to 14.8 cubic-feet total. Like or hate the Continuously Variable Transmission, Nissan has proceeded to revise their Xtronic CVT on the new Versa. Delivering the maximum fuel economy for the 2012 Nissan Versa, the Xtronic CVT combined with the new 1.6 liter, 109-horsepower engine produces a 33 miles per gallon through combined city and highway driving. A 5-speed manual is standard on the lower cost model priced at a very thrifty $10,900. Among an attractive set of convenience features inside of the 2012 Versa is Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System as well as a 5-inch touch-screen display offered with XM Satellite Radio and XM NavTraffic.

Prior to Mercedes-Benz’s announcement for taking over the North American distribution of the Smart car brand from the Penske Automotive Group, plans had a Versa-based five-door on the drawing boards.

Information and photo source: Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Kia Motors, Nissan North America, Toyota Motor Corporation

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For a luxury car brand once riding high on mammoth-sized cars, Cadillac’s reputation for big cars has declined through the 21st century. While success for the modern Cadillac CTS level of vehicles, the car was vital in allowing Cadillac to recover from a period of stale, out-of-touch luxury. Since the 2002 genius of the mid-sized vehicle, Cadillac has tried to replicate the trend with larger vehicles. The Cadillac STS was created to the CTS design theme copying the smaller car almost too well. On the other hand, the lingering desires of old-school luxury kept the DTS in production until the spring of this year. Discontinuing both models for 2012, Cadillac bases their large car philosophy on a single product, the XTS.

After a long-awaited final presentation, the brand new large, luxury flagship for Cadillac debuts in one of the United States’ premium car magnate regions. Immediately planning to lure trendy, status-seeking buyers for when the vehicle goes on sale this upcoming spring, the all-new 2013 Cadillac XTS premieres at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Smart and graceful, the 2013 Cadillac XTS formal presentation mimics the stunning XTS Platinum Concept in outer design. The production example of Cadillac’s “Art and Science philosophy”, the 2013 XTS features all the staple characteristics found on the brand’s luxury products including the vertical headlamps and chrome grille design. The most strikingly identifying mark on the 2013 XTS is a contoured streak along the side of the sedan.

Measuring 10.4 inches longer in total length than the Cadillac CTS at 202 inches, it’s amusingly that the 2013 Cadillac XTS design isn’t entirely the grandest proportions found in the General Motors luxury car range. The XTS sedan 1.7 inches slimmer in wheelbase length compared to the mid-sized CTS. Exterior features of note on the all-new sedan includes a capless fuel filler and the selection of 19 or 20-inch wheels. Magnetic Ride Control (fast-acting road comfort technology pioneered by Cadillac) is found as support of steady travels inside the 2013 XTS sedan.

With 104.2 feet of passenger volume for 5 passengers, the 2013 Cadillac XTS delivers the cabin comfort luxury car buyers are expecting in 21st century sedan. With electronics important to the 21st century appeal, Cadillac will introduce their new CUE technology inside of the XTS sedan. The basis of Cadillac’s CUE system is an eight-inch center screen but introduces voice and even gesture recognition for interactively. Capable of connecting with up to 10 Bluetooth enabled devices at a time, CUE features numerous loadable apps as well as Pandora Radio. Besides entertainment, the CUE system on the Cadillac XTS also allows the 12.3-inch instrument panel to be driver-customized so only the information wanted is shown.

In times of vigilance, the Cadillac XTS will be communicated additionally through the seat itself. Called the Safety Alert Seat, the enhancement vibrates the seat on either the driver’s left or right side as a warning. The Safety Alert Seat comes as an available feature along with an advanced safety equipment bundle that includes Forward Collision Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert and Lane Departure Warning. Colour Heads-up Display and adaptive cruise control is also optional safety aids found on this premium quality vehicle.

Powering the new 2013 Cadillac XTS sedan is a capable 3.6 liter V-6 featuring gasoline direct injection. An enhanced version of the General Motors High-Feature V-6 engine that powered the CTS and STS, the LFX design embodies numerous weight-saving features includes integrating the cylinder head with the exhaust manifold to form a single lightweight component. The 2013 model year XTS will be offered with front-wheel as well as all-wheel drivetrains through a six-speed automatic transmission. For the 2013 XTS sedan, Cadillac has estimated horsepower just on the 300 plateau. 300 horsepower seems a little light for a large scale vehicle like the Cadillac XTS keeping in mind that the 2012 CTS receives 318 horsepower from the exact same LFX engine. The one performance avenue where the XTS’ direct-injected 3.6 liter V-6 excels over large luxury car sedan is fuel consumption. Producing around 22 miles of travel from each gallon, the XTS tops many class rivals including the six-cylinder BMW 7 Series. For those looking for more than fuel economy, some individuals will likely need to wait for a V-Line edition of the XTS rumoured to have a twin-turbocharged powerplant.

The production of the XTS and the lavish principles shown in the Ciel Concept displayed during the summer shows that Cadillac is ready for a return to the time their biggest cars were the marvels of the world. With its pending release, Cadillac will be eager to reassume their position as a large luxury car industry mainstay.

Information and photo source: General Motors

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Supplying 21st century with once-unobtainable access to a vehicle, a dizzying assortment of smartphone and tablet apps provides the driver with an out-of-car experience. Over the course of the past two years, virtually every automaker is now engaged with a brand-specific mobile application making their automotive products more accessible than ever before. Managing fuel consumption, connecting car breakdown cover companies or customizing a virtual car to the liking of a potential buyer, today’s merger of automotive and computer technology has spawned multiple apps worth highlighting.

OnStar RemoteLink

Developed as one of the early widespread adopters of vehicle telemetric technology, General Motors launched OnStar on 1997 model year Cadillacs. Becoming a technology that would be credited for saving lives in crashes and recovering vehicles through Stolen Vehicle Tracking, OnStar handed smartphone users their own free app designed to work in conjunction with existing plans.

Working on most Cadillac, Chevrolet, Buick and GMC vehicles equipped with OnStar, their RemoteLink mobile app feeds real-time information including fuel tank contents, oil life and tire pressures. Also available on the OnStar RemoteLink app is the ability to remotely lock or unlock a vehicle from anywhere within phone signal. For Chevrolet Volts, the OnStar RemoteLink app allows the user to monitor battery capacity and dictate electric charging times. A new feature available through the OnStar RemoteLink app relates to navigation. A mobile app use of OnStar RemoteLink can refer a destination to the OnStar center and will receive directions immediately on an in-dash navigation system or through the OnStar Turn-by-Turn service.

Rolls-Royce Ghost App

While even this so-called entry level Rolls-Royce Ghost’s six-figure price tag is beyond the means of many motorists, an Apple app allows practically anyone to bask in the glow of excess glamour. Designed for use on the Apple iPod Touch, iPhone and iPad, the Rolls-Royce Ghost app operates as a sales tool for the lucky of us who can even consider the super-luxury sedan. Providing a photorealistic virtual model of exterior as well as interior surfaces that can be tailored to an assortment of available colours and materials, the magnificence of Royce-Royce’s Ghost sedan is obtainable for all in the app world.

BMW i DriveNow and MyCityWay

A bold undertaking for the Munich, Germany automaker BMW, their radical sub-brand will become an epicenter of innovation. Presenting distinctive electrified vehicles to the marketplace by 2013, BMW i is also involved in spearheading several indirect ventures. The mobile apps DriveNow and MyCityWay fit into the planning for rethinking the way people commute.

Operating only in Munich and Berlin at this time, DriveNow is a vehicle by-demand service that allows users to quickly rent a car. Similar to several drive-sharing services set up in major cities, the BMW i supported business of DriveNow uses the mobile app to direct customers to available BMW and MINI products. Drivers will be billed by the minute for vehicle usage through the service.

MyCityWay is a comprehensive mobile application providing a complete collection of information relating to specific city areas. Merging as many as 50 Apps or more, MyCityWay provides mobile users everything from locating the nearest public restroom to the hippest events in town. Transit, weather and traffic alerts are also part of this extensive mobile app intended to minimize time traveling between destinations. Available for 40 cities at the end of 2011 on continents in Asia, Europe and in the Americas, MyCityWay is preparing for greater expansion in the near future along with the DriveNow service.

Ford Mustang Customizer App

Introduced in mid-September, Ford conceived a fun and interactive way for the tech world’s young citizen to relate to a vehicle that caused such uproars in the mid-1960s. Appearing first as a web-based program for desktop and laptop computers, the Mustang Customizer experience has migrated to the an app available through iPhone and Android supported devices. Providing an assortment of exterior dress-up equipment, 2012 Ford Mustang products (including the Boss 302 edition) can be customized to countless colour and factory available accessories.

Audi Roadside Assistance App

Designed to work with Audi Roadside Assistance coverage packages, the new service app available on Apple iPhones, Android and select Blackberry phones is free for use by covered motorists. Providing expedited breakdown coverage, owners in need of jump-start, fuel delivery or tire repair will have help arrive even in hard to distinguished locations thanks to a phone’s GPS capability. A great companion with Audi’s breakdown insurance plans, the Audi Roadside Assistance App can also allow owners of the luxury brand vehicles find the closest service center.

MyFord Mobile App

Prepared for the upcoming Ford Focus Electric vehicle, the MyFord Mobile App was devised to help future owners navigate with their zero emissions lifestyle. Relaying information pivotal for allowing users to optimize the capacity of the lithium-ion battery pack, MyFord Mobile App provides a driver the ability to calculate routes in relations to the available battery power storage. Recording your recent driving, the MyFord Mobile App allows you to download your vehicle’s data. Users can also share ownership milestones over social media networks Twitter and Facebook. Other basic features presented through MyFord Mobile App also includes door lock/unlock capability as well as GPS location of the Ford Focus Electric vehicle.

Information and photo source: Audi AG, BMW, Ford Motor Company, General Motors

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This past week, a most prolific figure of American motoring celebrated their centennial. Founded by Swiss engineer Louis Chevrolet and early American car business mogul William Durant on November 3rd 1911, Chevrolet assembled their first prototype vehicle in an era when the number of auto companies was as diverse as the mobile App world today. Surviving the sizable competition, two world wars, heightened government regulations and the recent bankruptcy of parent company General Motors, Chevrolet is entering 100 years as an industry star. Enjoying sales success with the new Chevrolet Cruze compact, winning back consumer enthusiasm with the Corvette ZR1 and Chevrolet Camaro as well as preparing a new globalized focus to be highlighted with the upcoming Malibu, the motivation for the auto brand is as absolute as their past achievements.

While particular Chevy products will mean something to a variety of world motorists, the following eight vehicles display the evolution of the 100-year old car company.

1912 Chevrolet Series C Classic Six

The car that launched the Chevrolet name, the first prototype was constructed in 1911 with regular production started in 1912. Producing fewer than 9,000 examples of the Series C Classic Six over three years, this earliest Chevrolet was a high society touring vehicle featuring European styling inspiration. In 1914, this vehicle was succeeded by the smaller, less expensive Baby Grand. The first Chevrolets wore an insignia reflecting an adaptation on the Swiss cross that would eventually morph into the iconic “Bowtie“ badge.

1969 Chevrolet Camaro

Launched in 1967, the Chevrolet Camaro was immediately positioned against the Ford Mustang in order to capture the young drivers seeking a nimble but powerful American sports car. The 1969 model year of the Camaro allowed the car to project itself as more than a “me too” entry in the pony car segment. Featuring seven different engines starting with a 140-horsepower inline six-cylinder powerplant, maximum power was acquired through the COPO sourced Camaro ZL1. The last year for the first generation body style, the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro also served as the Indianapolis 500 pace car for the triumph of Mario Andretti at the Brickyard. The pace car wearing white with orange striping has grown to be one of the most recognized designs ever to lead the Indy 500 competitors to green. The colouring scheme was revived for the 2011 500-mile event at Indianapolis Motor Speedway as Chevy shares a centennial celebration with the Brickyard.

1960 Chevrolet Corvair

While performance and overall abundance allows most Chevrolets to become major cultural items, a particular car in the auto brand’s history had an indirect and unintentional impact the whole car industry.

A creative attempt at a compact car, the rear-engined Chevrolet Corvair debuted in 1959 as a 1960 model. Attaching some European flair to this economy vehicle in the Chevrolet line-up, the Corvair was definitely am attractive car sold in coupe, sedan, wagon, convertible and even utility-oriented van as well as pick-up in the early 1960s. Selling well at the beginning, the Corvair became the example of public safety activist Ralph Nader. Though the Chevrolet Corvair was targeted as unsafe, the vehicle was roughly no less unstable than many other automobiles on the market. However, the damage done against the Chevrolet Corvair enacted a new level of safety standards that has saved countless lives on the roads.

1957 Chevrolet Belair

Considered by many as on of the most beautiful American cars ever built, the Chevrolet Belair in the 1957 model year combined the best of V-8 power and striking yet simple style. Built in an era where automakers would build almost their entire vehicle line-up off one chassis, the premium-trimmed Chevrolet Belair coupe or convertible model is the most envied model. Rare models of the 1957 Chevrolet Belair featured the brand’s first application of fuel injection allowing a 283 cubic-inch engine to produce 283 horsepower (a major feat for the 1950s). One year after the 1957 model, Chevrolet sailed along the styling path of the late 1950s involving excessive chrome and monster vehicle proportions.

1955 Chevrolet Corvette

While the first year of the Chevrolet Corvette in 1953 was a monumental time for the long-enduring American built sports car, the 1955 model year presented the fiberglass two-seater with its soul.

Selling just over 3,800 vehicles in the first two years of production, the Corvette was almost dismissed by General Motors by the time 1955 rolled forward. Powered by the adequate ‘Blue Flame’ inline-six initially, Corvette engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov was able to persuade that the 1955 model should have a V-8 engine. The first of what would be known as the small-block engines, the 265 cubic-inch V-8 was introduced just as Ford began marketing their potent Thunderbird sports car. Thanks to the competition from a long-standing foe and a new devotion to speed, the Chevrolet Corvette speaks American performance driving on the streets and on the track through every incarnation since the 1955 model year.

1977 Chevrolet Caprice

Affectionately called the ‘Flying Brick’ by some, the Chevrolet Caprice built from 1977 to 1990 was a staple of United States cities. The 1977 model year Chevrolet Caprice was one of many larger General Motors to undergo a much-publicized downsizing in the wake of the oil crisis of the earlier 1970s. Seeing its wheelbase reduced by 5.5 inches compared to the previous generation Caprice, the modern-looking downsized car was well received by customers in showrooms but found growing admiration among larger entities. Law Enforcement agencies ordered a bundle of Chevrolet Caprice sedans revering the V-8 power and still beefy steel bodies. Taxi companies were also a steady customer of the Caprice appreciating the rear room and trunk space as good for business. Redesigned in 1991, the Caprice would remain an American fleet duty worker until 1997. Recently, the Caprice name is readying for a return to the United States as Chevrolet’s new law enforcement product.

1998 Chevrolet Silverado

It is amusing to note that the richest history of Chevrolet is found in the work-duty pickup trucks. Dating back to their first truck in around 1918, Chevrolet progression in the pickup truck category involves steady capability and even style. During the 1950s, Chevrolet trucks were defined by employing design cues shared with cars including the 1957 Belair.

Carrying on from the tradition of tough truck endurance of the C/K line, the Silverado pickup truck succeeded the full-sized true utility vehicle in the 1998 model year. Making the Chevrolet Silverado so important was the changing urban automotive landscape that accepted larger trucks. The Silverado was considerably more refined and adaptable for a variety of terrains. At one time, the high volumes of Chevrolet Silverado and other related large utility vehicles were integral for General Motors business model. When fuel costs skyrocketed in 2008, General Motors overdependence on their truck sales (which began to slump considerably) almost led to the auto company’s downfall. However, even as cars have become the new focus with the bowtie brand, the Chevrolet Silverado continues to be a pivotal leader in brand sales accounting for nearly one of every four Chevrolet products sold in 2011 up to the end of October.

2011 Chevrolet Volt

The first plug-in hybrid vehicle introduced for the mass market, the Chevrolet Volt started as a 2007 concept car that Robert Lutz quickly green lit for production frustrated that Japanese auto company Toyota was receiving all the press for their hybrid drive system. Able to travel up to 40 miles on electricity alone, Chevrolet constructed a four-door compact sedan possessing a 0.28 drag coefficient skin around the innovative powertrain. Sold in limited markets since last year, Chevrolet has widened the availability of the Volt for the 2012 model year. Retailing with a suggested manufacturer price tag at nearly $40,000, ownership of the Chevrolet Volt is assisted by government tax credits while the technology remains an experiment.

Potentially reshaping not just Chevrolet but the whole 21st century auto industry, the Chevrolet Volt could be the key to many more anniversaries for the car company.

Information source: General Motors, Corvette-America’s Sports Car, Cars of the Sizzling ‘60s
Photo Source: Chris Nagy, General Motors

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Making its first visit to the Las Vegas SEMA Show, the American-made Chevrolet Sonic subcompact will be containing for attention in a spotlight where the Camaro and Corvette is certain to dominate the attendees’ fantasies. While Chevrolet has mastered the profiling of sportiness in their high performance V-8 machines, the bowtie brand would like to have customers for their budget-oriented vehicles see the same inspiration of power and excitement. Bringing a customized Chevrolet Volt outfitted with the auto brand’s Z-Spec parts line to last year‘s Las Vegas SEMA Show, the 2011 showroom floor will show the next incarnations of dealer-authorized accessories for the Sonic as well as the Cruze.

Consisting of a wide range of modifications, the Z-Spec introduces dealer-optional components tailored for dressing up an otherwise tame econoboxes. Ahead of the 2011 SEMA Show, two of the four Chevrolet Sonic show cars are presented as a guide to the Z-Spec design nature. The Chevy Sonic Z-Spec #1 is painted Torch Red with black graphics while a Z-Spec #2 version of the Sonic hatchback wears a flat white paint colour. Both Chevrolet Sonic show cars feature unique ground effect kits, rear spoilers and stylized decals on the outside. Presented in white on the Sonic Z-Spec #1 and black on the version #2 of the subcompact, special 18-inch Z-Spec concept wheels fills up the wheel housings.

Unveiled alongside the stock Chevrolet Sonic at the 2011 Detroit North American International Auto Show, the experimental Z-Spec accessories range is created to optimize vehicle styling and performance. Both versions of the Z-Spec are included with brake and suspension modifications. A high-flow exhaust system is also included in order to allow better performance from the Chevrolet Sonic’s 1.4 turbocharged powerplant.

Sharply demonstrating the interior styling options offered under the Z-Spec equipment range, the two modified Chevrolet Sonic hatchbacks have swapped out stock items for racier alternatives. Z-Spec customization components for the Chevrolet Sonic models include sport pedal kits, shifters, and a special racing-inspired steering wheel featuring a flat-bottom shaping. On the Sonic Z-Spec #1 concept, the interior is dressed with Cobalt Red custom trim and perforated black suede seating inserts. A pair of Z-Spec branded custom racing seats is equipped on the Sonic Z-Spec #2 vehicle. Two other versions of the Chevrolet subcompact car, Sonic Z-Spec 4D Concept and the Sonic Dusk, will also complete a quartet for the SEMA Show display.

After a year of sales success in North America, the Chevrolet Cruze will be celebrating their recent presence in the automotive marketplace with two SEMA Show cars. Featuring the same modifications as the Chevrolet Sonic Z-Spec models, the Cruze Z-Spec and the Cruze Dusk are handsomely stylized beyond stock trim. The milder Chevrolet Cruze Dusk version wears a unique grille and is outfitted with a custom stereo system.

Chevrolet‘s vice president of global marketing and strategy Chris Perry introduces the Z-Spec Sonic and Cruze SEMA Show concept cars as “The heritage of Chevrolet cars like the Corvette and Camaro is being expressed in smaller packages for the next generation,”. Chevrolet has said the Sonic Z-Spec enhancement parts will be available by the end of the 2011 making the Las Vegas convention appearance a kick-off to changing perception of smaller cars

Photo and information source: General Motors

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In the 1950s, most auto company has defined safety features in a more simplistic way. Instead of engineering handling the safety aspects of a vehicle, carmakers tragically left the progression of safety to automotive stylist. Over decades, safety has evolved from being a laughing matter to a realistic intent for saving lives of motorists and passengers. Anti-lock brakes, airbags, electronic stability and better vehicle construction have been effective in reducing deadly accidents to a series of whiplash compensation claims.

With all the great innovations created to protect vehicle occupants and pedestrians, sometimes the quest for safe driving has taken a wrong turn. The following are four leading examples of automotive safety equipment set on a collision course for failure.

Chrysler’s Electronic Voice Alert

In an age where computer technology delighted a first generation of youngsters with Pac Man, one auto company’s idea for modern safety involved treating experienced motorists like a teenager driving their family’s car for the first time with an obsessive parent. Evolving loosely from the early 1980s Speak & Spell education toy, Electronic Voice Alert provided audio messages in addition to the vehicle information center (aka. dashboard warning lights).

Introduced on the upscale K-car models including 1983 Chrysler LeBaron and Dodge 600, the Electronic Voice Alert system was initially admired for its ability to promote safe driving as computer voice warnings were given to buckle seat belts or insure doors were closed. Incorporated in higher scale vehicle in the Chrysler line-up, the Electronic Voice Alert quickly earned a reputation for diminishing the driving experience with the repeated voice warnings. The constant instruction from the Electronic Voice Alert ended up being more of a nuisance than an advantage leading to the discontinuation of the feature after the 1988 model year.

Cadillac Night Vision

Applying military-inspired technology into automobiles is far from a new phenomenon. Finding a widespread citizen use for advances in night vision equipment, the beginning of the 21st century was to witness the vision of objects more clearly in minimum light conditions.

A highlight feature added to the 2000 Cadillac DeVille, General Motors installed the Night Vision system into the full-sized luxury car trying to infuse life to a rather dreary Cadillac division after the 1990s. Operating through a camera mounted behind the grille of the Cadillac sedan, the Night Vision view broadcasted onto the DeVille’s windshield. Allowing views at night to be highlighted in a monochromatic black and white display, the system demonstrated effectiveness on the Cadillac DeVille but failed to win over buyers. The fact the Cadillac DeVille’s Night Vision system was a most expensive $2,000 option did not entice Cadillac luxury seekers forcing the brand to drop the advanced safety unit after the 2004 model year.

Not working for Cadillac, the notion of car-based night vision systems is not an extinct piece of automotive safety technology. Still restricted to luxury vehicles, version of night vision are currently found on the Lexus LS sedan as well as certain Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

Rear-Engined Cars

Accepted largely as a design feature created in the interests of practicality or performance, rear-engined vehicles were briefly promoted by auto makers in the late 1940s and 1950s as a safety feature. The safety theory of a rear-mounted powerplant car was to put the dangers of engine fires behind the passenger compartment. If an engine fire would occur at speed, the flames and fumes would not rush into the cabin. In During the post World War 2 era, several high-profile American auto brands sought to master the rear engine configuration.

The 1948 Tucker Torpedo was one rear-mounted powerplant car built around a vehicle that would be seen ahead of its time for multiple safety features. In a lesser-known concept, Kaiser-Fraser Motors featured a rear-engined sedan they believed would be the future of American motoring. Clearly, that future was not realized. At least in a safety aspect, rear-mounted powerplant would not prove itself as a safer alternative to conventional front engined automobiles. The highly publicized campaign against the Chevrolet Corvair pointing at the rear-engined compact’s alleged handling issue did not help.

Automatic Seat Belts

In 1972, Volkswagen engineers began to experiment with a technology that would automatically apply the vehicle safety belt too many drivers continued to avoid. For American driver up to 1979, it seemed that the only way to improve driver seat belt usage was to strap the safety device to their wrist. Mandatory on new vehicles sold in the United States since 1968, a 1983 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration authored by B.M. Phillips found that only 11 percent of drivers were using safety belts. While those numbers of seat belt usage was troubling, the automatic seat belt was a safety solution that did more harm than good.

When the automatic seat belt reached production, the only effective way the system would work was to allow only the shoulder belt to be applied to the driver requiring the driver to still buckle a lap restraint. With only part of the safety restraint engaged, the driver improper usage of the automatic seat belt system compromised protection in an accident. There was also an issue automatic seat belts were rigged on the venerable doorframe rather than a sturdier roof B-pillar.

During the late 1980s, the United States Department of Transportation buoyed the cause of automatic seat belts by allowing automakers to install the devices in new vehicle as an alternative to more expensive driver-side airbags. Naturally, penny-pinching auto company executives during this era attempted to adapt the automatic seat belt hastily in production vehicles. Volkswagen and Jaguar products as well as the Honda Accord were examples employing the automatic seat belt technology during its brief popularity. As time progressed, the automatic seat belt was considered a safety gimmick gone bad and was abolished from new cars as of the mid-1990s in favour of airbags.

Information source: General Motors, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, United States Department of Transportation
Photo source: Chrysler Group, General Motors, Honda, Volkswagen

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