Lincoln and Cadillac vs. The World

The U.S. is declaring war in some of its allies and Congressional approval is not necessary.  This isn't a military war involving guns, bombs and missiles.  This is an automotive war involving sheet metal, rubber and generous amounts of soft, supple cowhide.

2017 Lincoln Continental unveiled at
Detroit Auto Show.  (TWG Media)

Lincoln, the luxury division of Ford Motor Company, is bringing back an iconic nameplate to re-enter the flagship luxury sedan market.  Say hello to the all-new 2017 Lincoln Continental, unveiled at the 2016 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

In September 2014,  General Motors announced plans for its luxury brand, Cadillac, to produce a new flagship sedan.  That sedan is the all-new CT6 and consumers can get their first up close and personal look at the CT6 at the Detroit show.

GM Woos Used Car Buyers with New Online Service

Are you in the market for a used car?  If so, and you're interested in certified pre-owned Chevrolet, Buick, GMC or Cadillac models, General Motors is launching a new online service to help make that purchase a lot easier.

GM Chairwoman and CEO Mary Barra announced the company is offering the new Factory Pre-Owned Collection as GM continues efforts to earn lifelong customers.  FPOC will give customers access to a national inventory of low-mileage former GM lease, daily rental and company-owned vehicles never before available to the public in, what the company describes as, one easy-to-nvigate place.

"We know that many of our customers who are shopping for a used car want to complete more of the process online, and that number is growing," Barra said.  She sees Factory Pre-Owned Collection as an extension of GM's Shop-Click-Drive service for new car purchases.

Check out this video clip explaining how Factory Pre-Owned Collection works.

NAIAS 2015: Chevrolet Bolt EV Concept Signals Brand’s EV Strategy

Affordable, long-range concept builds on brand’s electrification leadership

DETROIT (GM) – Chevrolet today made a significant statement on its commitment to electrification with the introduction of the Bolt EV concept – a vision for an affordable, long-range all-electric vehicle designed to offer more than 200 miles of range starting around $30,000.

“The Bolt EV concept is a game-changing electric vehicle designed for attainability, not exclusivity,” said General Motors CEO Mary Barra. “Chevrolet believes electrification is a pillar of future transportation and needs to be affordable for a wider segment of customers.”

Leveraging the electrification prowess established by Volt and Spark EV, the Bolt EV concept is designed to offer long-range performance in all 50 states and many global markets.

Drivers will be able to select operating modes designed around preferred driving styles such as daily commuting and spirited weekend cruising, for uncompromising electric driving. The modes adjust accelerator pedal mapping, vehicle ride height and suspension tuning. The Bolt EV concept is also designed to support DC fast charging.

“We have made tremendous strides in technologies that make it easier and more affordable for Chevrolet customers to integrate an all-electric vehicle in their daily lives,” said Barra. “The Bolt EV concept demonstrates General Motors’ commitment to electrification and the capabilities of our advanced EV technology.”

Chevrolet Bolt Concept unveiled at 2015
North American International Auto Show
in Detroit. (Photo: GM)

The Bolt EV concept also pushes the envelope for crossover aesthetics. Its unique proportion, with practically no front or rear overhang, makes the most of interior space and was designed to create a roomy environment for four that feels expansive. Lightweight materials, including aluminum, magnesium, carbon fiber and even woven mesh, complement the design, while driving down the curb weight to help maximize range. Aero-optimizing features such as vented rear fenders also help contribute to range.

NAIAS 2015: Chevrolet Introduces All-New 2016 Volt

New model features expressive, sleek design and delivers 50 miles of EV range

DETROIT (GM) – Chevrolet today unveiled the all-new 2016 Volt electric car with extended range, showcasing a sleeker, sportier design that offers 50 miles of EV range, greater efficiency and stronger acceleration.

The Volt’s new, efficient propulsion system will offer a General Motors’-estimated total driving range of more than 400 miles and with regular charging, owners are expected to travel more than 1,000 miles on average between gas fill-ups.

“The 2016 Chevrolet Volt provides our owners with a no-compromise electric driving experience,” said Alan Batey, president of GM North America. “We believe our engineering prowess combined with data from thousands of customers allows us to deliver the most capable plug-in vehicle in the industry.”

2016 Chevrolet Volt unveiled at 2015

North American International Auto Show

in Detroit. (Photo: GM)

The 2016 Chevrolet Volt’s technology and range advancements are complemented by a design that blends sculpted, muscular proportions with aerodynamic efficiency, and an all-new interior with seating for five and improved functionality.

Everything from charging the battery and checking the charge status, to the intuitiveness of instrument panel controls were designed for easier use.

“According to independent surveyors, Volt owners are the most satisfied in the industry and they were our compass for developing the next-generation model,” said Batey.

NAIAS 2015: GM unveils Buick Cascada convertible

General Motors unveils first Buick drop-top in 25 years at North American International Auto Show preview event on Sunday, January 11, 2015. The Cascada is a rebadged Opel from GM's European arm. Looks quite nice! It will be GM's first mainstream convertible since the Pontiac G6 Convertible was lost to bankruptcy.

GM Kicks Off 2014 NAIAS with 2015 GMC Canyon Unveiling

DETROIT (GM) – GMC revealed the 2015 Canyon Sunday night at an event kicking off the 2014 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.  Canyon is an all-new midsize truck that redefines the segment and raises the bar for everything from horsepower and efficiency to quietness and refinement.

2015 GMC Canyon SLT Crew Cab
Photo: GM Media

When it goes on sale later this year, the all-new Canyon will give GMC one of the only three-truck lineups in the industry, similar to its corporate cousin, Chevrolet, which also will have a three-truck lineup with the recently introduced 2015 Colorado joining the Silverado 1500 and Silverado 2500 HD.

Canyon is expected to deliver class-leading capabilities with the GMC's signature refinement – all in an efficiently sized, maneuverable package for customers who want the cargo-hauling and trailering versatility of a truck without the size of a full-size pickup.

Cadillac ELR delivers shock in more ways than one!

Before you read further, go to your liquor cabinet and pour yourself a shot of vodka, bourbon, tequila or whatever you prefer.  You'll need it momentarily.

Got the drink?  OK.  Proceed.

I patiently waited for General Motors to announce pricing for the soon-to-be released Cadillac ELR luxury electric car.  That announcement finally came last week.

2014 Cadillac ELR
Photo: GM

According to the information GM released on October 10, 2013, the ELR will go on sale in January in all major American metropolitan markets with a shockingly high starting price of-- take a deep, deep breath-- $75,995.

Exhale and take the shot, now! (Pour yourself another, if necessary.)

Talk about sticker shock!

2014 Cadillac ELR interior.
Photo: GM

Now, I'm no dummy.  I realize that Cadillac is GM's premier line.  You're supposed to pay a bit more for a CTS than you pay for a Chevy Malibu.  But, while I certainly expected the ELR to be more expensive than its corporate cousin, the Volt, I certainly did not expect it be $41,000+ more expensive!!!  2014 Volts carry a starting price of $34,185 and that's after a $5,000 price cut from the previous model year.

So, aside from the added pedigree of the Cadillac name, what do you get for all of those extra Benjamins?  Let's see.

Surpise: Chevy Brings Back Camaro Z28!!!

General Motors surprised everyone with the unveiling of the 2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 at the 2013 New York Auto Show on Monday.  According to reports, the new model was received with massive cheers from automotive journalists in attendance. More details to come! (Photos: GM)

Chevy Sets 2014 Corvette Stingray Pricing

DETROIT (GM) – The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray coupe will have a suggested starting retail price of $51,995, and the Corvette Stingray Convertible will start at $56,995. Both prices include a $995 destination fee but exclude tax, title, and license.

“The 2014 Corvette Stingray perfectly embodies Chevrolet’s mission to deliver more than expected for our customers,” said Chris Perry, vice president, Chevrolet marketing. “The Corvette Stingray delivers a combination of performance, design and technology that very few manufacturers can match, and none can even come close for $52,000.”

Standard features on the all-new 2014 Corvette Stingray include:

• Seating with lightweight magnesium frames for exceptional support, and eight-way power adjustment
• Five-position Drive Mode Selector that tailors up to 12 vehicle attributes
• New seven-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Matching
• 6.2L LT1 V-8 engine with direct injection, Active Fuel Management, continuously variable valve timing and an advanced combustion system
• Carbon fiber hood on all models, and a carbon fiber removable roof panel on coupes
• Aluminum frame that is 99 pounds lighter (45 kg) and 57-percent stiffer than the previous model’s structure
• Advanced, high-intensity discharge (HID) and light-emitting diode (LED) lighting
• Dual, eight-inch configurable driver/infotainment screens, with next-generation Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system and rear vision camera
• Bose nine-speaker audio system with SiriusXM Satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, USB and SD card and auxiliary input jack
• Keyless access with push-button start
• Power tilt/telescope steering wheel
• An all-new, fully electronic top on the convertible that can be lowered remotely using the key fob

New Corvette Stingray unveiled in January at 2013 North
American International Auto Show in Detroit. (Photo: GM)

As shown at the North American International Auto Show, the Stingray coupe fitted with the major available options would be $73,360, including:

• 3LT interior package, with leather-wrapped interior ($8,005)
• Z51 Performance Package ($2,800)
• Competition sports seats ($2,495)
• Exposed-carbon-fiber roof panel ($1,995)
• Magnetic Ride Control with Performance Traction Management ($1,795)
• Dual-mode exhaust system ($1,195)
• Carbon fiber interior trim ($995)
• Sueded, microfiber-wrapped upper interior trim ($995)
• Red-painted calipers ($595)
• Black-painted wheels ($495)

The 3LT interior package includes: Bose 10-speaker surround-sound audio system; SiriusXM Satellite radio with one-year subscription and HD radio receiver; color head-up display; memory package; navigation system; heated and ventilated seats with power lumbar and bolster adjustment; premium Napa leather seating surfaces; and leather-wrapped dash and instrument panel, console and door panels.

The Z51 Performance Package includes: high-performance gear ratios; transmission-cooling system; larger 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels and tires; larger, slotted rotors and brake-cooling ducts; electronic limited-slip differential and differential cooling system; unique chassis tuning; and available Magnetic Ride Control active-handling system with Performance Traction Management. Equipped with the Z51 package, the Corvette Stingray is capable of accelerating from 0–60 mph in under four seconds, and more than 1 g in cornering.

About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4.5 million cars and trucks a year.  Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design, and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

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2013 North American International Auto Show

Slideshow of photos from Media Preview of the 2013 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan.  (All photos courtesy of NAIAS)

2013 Detroit Auto Show

Cadillac ready to debut ELR extended range electric car

Cadillac ELR going through testing in California. (Photo: GM)

The Cadillac ELR electric vehicle with extended range is wrapped in camouflage and driven through the mountains of southern California for key development tests including steep grade performance and higher altitude operation Tuesday, September 18, 2012. The Cadillac ELR, an upscale corporate cousin of the Chevrolet Volt, will make its official public debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 15, 2013.  The car is expected to hit Cadillac showrooms later this year. Pricing has not been announced, but with the Volt starting at $31.645, expect a hefty up charge for the Caddy.

2013 Buick Encore

	2013 Buick Encore Luxury Crossover
	Learn about the Encore Luxury Crossover | Follow on Twitter | Facebook

Improve Mileage, Save Money!

(NewsUSA) - While gas prices are getting seasonally lower, they remain above $3 a gallon forcing many drivers to continue penny pinching.  Finding ways to get better gas mileage is more important than ever.

Fortunately, affordable technology is finally catching up to the escalating problem. Some auto companies are trying to ease the burden of astronomical gas prices by improving technology and making it accessible. Vision Motor Company is priming its widespread release of alternative vehicles using compressed natural gas (CNG), which can cut fuel costs by up to 80 percent. Besides polluting as much as 90 percent less than traditional gasoline, natural gas vehicles can get 45 miles per gallon on CNG fuel. But, according to Vision chairman Bob Smith, new fuel-efficient spark plugs called Pulstar Pulse Plugs have truly enabled the newest car, SEERngv, to go mainstream.

Planning for a Comfortable Holiday Road Trip

(NewsUSA) - Road trips can provide a great source of tunes, good conversation and relaxation throughout any travel season. However, long hours on the road can often result in body aches, poor nutrition and other challenges for drivers stuck behind the wheel.  With the holiday travel season approaching, champion Porsche race car driver Patrick Long has developed guidelines that can help you avoid those pitfalls and make your road experience less taxing on the body.

Long, an American Le Mans Series race car driver who can be in his car for up to 12 hours at a time, recommends these tips for any kind of distance driving:

• Fuel-Up: If you pack a small cooler with water bottles and healthy snacks like fruits and veggies, this can deter the temptation to reach for non-healthy items on the road.

A Show to Remember: NAIAS 2012 Closes with Smiles, High-Fives, and Optimism

Detroit, MI (NAIAS) - After a spectacular nine day run, the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) 2012 is in the books. Today's attendance of 101,141 topped last year's final day numbers of 98,106, bringing total attendance of the 2012 show to 770,932, the highest since 2005.

2012 NAIAS at Cobo Hall
Detroit, Michigan

Bill Perkins, chairman, NAIAS, said the show lived up to its reputation of being one of the top in the world.

"From the press to the public, everyone realized that this was a very special show," said Perkins. "People want to feel good again about the industry, which is now obviously in a better place than it was a few years ago. As a result, this year's show was a 'must-see' event, as the attendance numbers indicate," he said. "Everything that could go right.did."

Toyota reveals NS4 Advanced Plug-In Hybrid Concept

DETROIT (TMS/PRNewswire) -- Toyota Motor Sales, USA revealed the NS4 advanced plug-in hybrid concept vehicle at the 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The NS4 signifies Toyota’s vision for future mobility with a focus on connectivity and the human interface.

Toyota engineers were challenged to design a new mid-sized concept for potential global market introduction by 2015. The NS4 concept is a dedicated plug-in hybrid, separate from the Prius family, designed with future mobility requirements in mind.

“In this digital age, cars are becoming another spoke in the wheel of our electronic connectivity,” said Jim Lentz, TMS president and chief operating officer. “NS4 demonstrates Toyota’s take on the human connection to the car with technology that considers both emotional and rational relationships, person-to-car and car-to-society.”

NS4’s advanced powertrain targets a next-generation Hybrid Synergy Drive plug-in system featuring reductions in component size and weight with improved overall fuel economy, better acceleration and longer all-electric range, while maintaining a short charge time.

2012 Ram 1500 and 2012 Jeep® Wrangler Win "Best for the Money" Accolades from U.S. News & World Report

AUBURN HILLS, MI (PRNewswire) -- The 2012 Ram 1500 has been named U.S. News & World Report's "2012 Best Full-Size Pickup Truck for the Money" and the 2012 Jeep® Wrangler has been named the "2012 Best Off-Road SUV for the Money." The Ram 1500 and Jeep Wrangler took top honors for outstanding value and availability of features buyers want.

RAM 1500

"The Ram Truck brand is meeting the needs and expectations of our customers with the best trucks in the market," said Fred Diaz, President and CEO of Ram Truck Brand and Chrysler de Mexico — Chrysler Group LLC. "U.S. News & World Report's 2012 Best Full-Size Pickup Truck for the Money award is a powerful, independent accolade, standing as an endorsement for the 2012 Ram 1500 and its value for the money."

Don't Tread Lightly On Winter Tire Safety

(NewsUSA) - With winter upon us, tire safety in cold weather is something every car owner should be familiar with. Most drivers concentrate on tire safety in hot weather to avoid blowouts, but the same precautions should be exercised in the winter. One of the most effective ways to be safe on the road is to use a winter tire specially designed for cold weather.

Common all-season tires contain a tread compound that gradually hardens when temperatures dip below 45 degrees, resulting in a decrease in traction. These tires also tend to collect winter road debris, like snow and ice, which can impact a vehicle's performance on wintry roads.

Mark Ballard, spokesman for Discount Tire Company, America's largest independent tire and wheel retailer, advises motorists to replace all four tires with winter tires if they can expect to encounter snow and ice during the winter months. "It's best to use winter tires, especially if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions where temperatures are below 45 degrees on a consistent basis," he explains. "Relying on an all-season tire to do the work of a winter tire can be dangerous to you and other motorists."

BMW Confirms 6-Speed Manual Transmission for the 2013 M5

Detroit, MI (BMW) -- On the occasion of the North American International Auto Show, BMW confirmed on January 9, 2012 that it will offer a 6-speed manual transmission on the North American version of the upcoming 2013 BMW M5. The 6-speed manual will be available from the start of production this summer and will be offered as a no-cost alternative to the standard 7-speed M-Double Clutch Transmission (DCT). The manual gearbox was a popular choice for U.S. customers of the previous generation M5 and continues to be a unique offer in the segment.

Honda Unveils 2013 Accord Coupe Concept

DETROIT (Honda/PRNewswire) — Honda unveiled the dynamic Accord Coupe Concept today at the North American International Auto Show, providing the first official glimpse of the athletic styling direction, as well as revealing a host of new technologies for the all-new, ninth-generation 2013 model, set to go on-sale this fall.

2013 Honda Accord Coupe Concept

The 2013 Accord will feature three all-new powertrains, including the first U.S. application of both a 2.4-liter direct-injected engine and two-motor plug-in hybrid system from Honda’s suite of next-generation Earth Dreams™ powertrain technologies. In addition, the V-6 Accord will be the first Honda sedan to feature a new 6-speed automatic transmission. Both the Accord Sedan and the Accord Coupe models are expected to achieve class-leading fuel economy ratings and will be available with a number of innovative new safety and technological features.