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.

FIRST LOOK: 2016 Cadillac CT6 flagship luxury sedan

Cadillac took the wraps off of its highly anticipated new flagship car on Wednesday night, the eve of the 2015 New York Auto Show.

It's long. It's sleek. It's elegant. Not quite Elmiraj concept elegant, in my humble opinion, but CT6 is a beautiful car. At first glance-- albeit, only via still photography and video-- CT6 is certainly flagship worthy.  For this "old school" dude, it's the 21st century Fleetwood Brougham.  CT6 also is loaded with technological firsts including a rear camera mirror which streams high definition images to the rearview mirror for an unobstructed view, according to GM, and available exclusive engines including a 3.0L twin-turbo V6.

The CT6, first announced by GM CEO Mary Barra in September 2014 at the Detroit Homecoming Conference, will be assembled at GM's Detroit-Hamtramck plant.  Production begins at the end of this year for the North American market and early 2016 for Europe, Korea, Japan, Israel and the Middle East.  Production for the Chinese market also will begin in early 2016 at an all-new plant in China.

Video: GM Media

Chevrolet Commits to Bolt EV Production

Game-changing, long-range EV to be built at Orion Assembly facility in Michigan

CHICAGO (GM) – Chevrolet this morning confirmedproduction of its next-generation pure electric vehicle, based on the Bolt EV concept. It will be built at General Motors’ Orion Assembly facility near Detroit. 

Chevy Bolt EV Concept at 2015 North

American International Auto Show in

Detroit. (Photo: GM)

GM North America President Alan Batey made the announcement ahead of the Chicago Auto Show. The Bolt EV concept was introduced last month at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. 

“The message from consumers about the Bolt EV concept was clear and unequivocal: Build it,” said Batey. “We are moving quickly because of its potential to completely shake up the status quo for electric vehicles.”

Leveraging the industry-leading battery technology found in the Chevrolet Volt and Spark EV, the Bolt EV concept was developed as a game-changing, long-range pure electric for all 50 states, designed to offer more than a GM-estimated 200 miles of range at a target price of around $30,000. 

The progressively styled concept vehicle features selectable driving modes for preferred driving styles, such as daily commuting, and it was designed to support DC fast charging. 

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.

The muscular 2016 Cadillac CTS-V

I would LOVE to drive this machine!!!

Cadillac adds ATS Coupe to its evolving lineup

2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe at North American International Auto Show
Photo: TWG Media/Mike Woolfolk

DETROIT (GM) – Cadillac introduced the all-new 2015 ATS Coupe, a quicker and more personal addition to the award-winning ATS product line. Designed to be lighter, more agile and more engaging than its competitors, it extends Cadillac’s product-driven growth and the brand’s tradition of dynamic luxury Coupes.

2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe will feature

redesigned crest logo.

Photo: TWG Media/Mike Woolfolk

Cadillac’s first-ever compact luxury Coupe goes on sale this summer, offering drivers the choice of rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and the power from a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder or a 3.6L six-cylinder. In all combinations, ATS Coupe takes advantage of its lightweight and strong structure to deliver exhilarating performance with efficiency, with a segment-leading power-to-weight ratio.

“The 2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe is a natural step in the brand's progression, and another fun-to-drive and technologically advanced product for a new generation of drivers extending our target groups,” said Uwe Ellinghaus, chief marketing officer, Global Cadillac. “It is an exclusively distinctive American alternative, unique in its class, yet delivering a sporty and sophisticated driving experience rivaling the world's best.”

Editor's Note: As displayed at NAIAS '14, the ATS Coupe is lower and sleeker than the first-generation CTS Coupe, which may or may not see a second generation. 

Cadillac Evolves its Iconic Crest Logo

DETROIT (GM) – Cadillac is introducing an evolution of the historic Cadillac Crest, a revision in synch with new products such as the award-winning 2014 CTS and 2015 ATS Coupe. The new Cadillac Crest will begin appearing on vehicles in the second half of 2014.

The unmistakable Cadillac Crest has a heritage of evolution, marking new eras. Cadillac’s product and design advances are moving the brand forward. The Cadillac Crest evolves now to reflect this growth, just as it has for more than 111 years.

Cadillac Elmiraj Concept, introduced

in 2013, was first to feature new logo.

Photo: GM Media

Sleeker and streamlined, the revised Crest first appeared on the Elmiraj concept in 2013.

“The Crest remains a consistent symbol of Cadillac and our core values,” said Andrew Smith, Cadillac executive design director. “This new Crest matches the lower, longer, leaner mantra of our current car designs, and reflects the evolution of our Art and Science philosophy.”

Accompanied over the years by a crown, chevron or laurel wreath, the Crest has been the central aspect of Cadillac heraldry throughout the brand’s history. It was last revised in 1999.

The latest update sharpens the focus on the Crest. Cadillac’s characteristic script lettering remains.

“Our goal was to evolve the emblem design to integrate with the new vehicle form while maintaining the core graphic elements that preserve its strong brand recognition,” Smith said. “This resulted in retaining the iconic ‘crest’ shape and color palette with geometric grid from the original Cadillac family ‘coat of arms.’”

The update to the Crest occurs amid significant growth for the brand. Cadillac is the fastest-growing full-line luxury auto brand, building on a 22-percent sales increase in the U.S. in 2013.

This month marks the U.S. debut of the ELR, an electrified luxury coupe featuring 340 miles of driving range. Later in 2014, Cadillac will launch the next-generation Escalade luxury SUV and the 2015 ATS Coupe.

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.

Redesigned Cadillac CTS Scores Second Motor Trend Car of the Year Award

Great news for General Motors and its Cadillac luxury brand.  Motor Trend has announced that the 2014 Cadillac CTS sedan, the third generation of the popular model, is its Car of the Year for 2014.

Motor Trend Editor-in-Chief Ed Loh
presents Car of the Year Award to CTS
Chief Engineer Tony Roma.
Photo: Jeffrey Sauger for Cadillac

“The all-new 2014 Cadillac CTS prevailed over one of the most competitive fields in recent memory because it best met our award’s key criteria. Our judges were particularly impressed by the CTS’s responsive powertrains and masterful balance of smooth ride and sporty handling,” said Motor Trend editor-in-chief Ed Loh.

Motor Trend’s Car of the Year program is open to any all-new or substantially upgraded 2014 automobile. Rather than being compared against one another, contending vehicles are first put through Motor Trend’s full battery of performance tests to measure acceleration, braking, and limit handling.

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.

GM Unveils All-New 2015 Cadillac Escalade

NEW YORK (GM) – Cadillac has introduced the all-new 2015 Escalade, a sophisticated luxury SUV designed to establish new benchmarks for hand-tailored craftsmanship and technology.

2015 Cadillac Escalade
Photo: GM

The fourth-generation Escalade is an entirely new design yet instantly recognizable. Much of the story of Cadillac’s redesigned flagship SUV is on the interior, where new levels of luxury combine with the latest technology.

“Cadillac’s growth provides the ideal stage for the all-new Escalade to take a major leap forward,” said Bob Ferguson, senior vice president, Global Cadillac. “The 2015 Escalade is completely new and elevated in design and technology, inside and out. The clear objective is to once again assume the leadership position among luxury SUVs.”

From its introduction, Escalade quickly became the standard among luxury SUVs with a formula of bold design, powerful capability and luxurious accommodations for up to eight occupants. Three succeeding generations led luxury SUV customers to confer icon status on it. The 2015 Escalade takes design and technical elements from Cadillac’s product expansion to elevate the brand’s signature SUV.

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)

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

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."

Chevrolet Unveils Two Concepts at Detroit Auto Show

DETROIT (GM) – Chevrolet today introduced two concept coupes at the 2012 North American International Auto Show aimed at inspiring next-generation buyers to take the wheel and suggest ideas for a car they can co-create.

“Chevrolet has always stood for making the aspirational attainable for all generations” said General Motors North America President Mark Reuss. “These two concepts interpret that vision for a new generation. We’re seeking out our newest customers’ opinions, listening to their advice, and engaging them in new ways.”

According to U.S. Census data, there are 80 million American consumers approaching 30. They represent 40 percent of today’s potential car-buying public and a combined $1 trillion in purchasing power.  Over the past year, Chevrolet has conversed with young consumers across the United States.  Based on their feedback, the Chevrolet concepts explore the styling and functionality this group of new buyers says they are looking for in a car.

GM Kicks-Off 2012 NAIAS with Debut of New ATS Sedan

The eyes of the automotive world are focused on the Motor City as the 2012 North American International Auto Show gets underway in Detroit this week.  The official media previews begin on Monday morning.  However, General Motors kicked things off on Sunday night with a special media event at the College for Creative Studies, home to one of the world's most recognized programs for transportation design.

GM-North America President
Mark Reuss unveils all-new
Cadillac ATS in Detroit on
January 8, 2012.

The highlight of the evening was the unveiling of the all-new Cadillac ATS sedan, which GM officials say will challenge the world's best premium cars.

The rear-drive ATS brings Cadillac’s blend of technologically driven performance, elegance and design to a new audience of spirited drivers. Its sophisticated driving experience is enhanced with Cadillac CUE, a comprehensive, in-vehicle user experience that merges intuitive design with industry-first controls and commands for information and media data.

“Designed with quick, nimble and fun-to-drive dynamics, ATS expands Cadillac’s portfolio into a crucial global segment,” said Don Butler, vice president of marketing for Cadillac. “For a new group of luxury consumers, this is a car that will fit their lifestyle and challenge the segment’s status quo.”