Ford Motor Co. and Toyota Motor Corp., by partnering to build a hybrid system for light trucks, hope to cross one of the auto industry’s biggest hurdles – significantly boosting the fuel economy of large pickups and SUVs.
The two automakers plan to jointly develop hybrid technology for light trucks as U.S. regulators finalize plans to toughen fuel economy requirements for pickups later this decade.
Ford sells the nation’s best-selling large pickup – the F series. Toyota is the world’s biggest marketer of gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles for front-wheel based light vehicles, with sales of 3.3 million since introducing the Prius in 1997.
"We expect to create exciting and socially beneficial technologies with Ford, and we can do so because our two companies have enough experience to create a synergy effect in hybrid technology," said Takeshi Uchiyamada, a Toyota executive vice president.
The new hybrid system will be introduced in Ford and Toyota rear-wheel drive SUVs and light trucks later this decade.
It's the first time the automakers have collaborated on product development.
The companies have signed a memorandum of understanding and expect a formal agreement to be signed next year.
By that time, it should be clear how the Obama administration will formalize a proposal to hike corporate average fuel-economy standards to 54.5 mpg by the 2025 model year -- doubling the current requirement.
The new standard requires a 5 percent annual increase in fuel economy for cars starting with the 2017 model year through the 2025 model year. Under current law, automakers’ fleets must improve to 35.5 mpg in the 2016 model year, up from 27.3 mpg now.
Pickups exempt
The plan for 5 percent annual increases could be changed if a midcourse review, planned to begin in 2018, determines that it would adversely affect industry costs and vehicle sales.
The Obama administration's current CAFE proposal, details of which still must be worked out, will exclude full-sized pickups from any increases from the 2017 model year through the 2019 model year.
Beyond 2019, annual increases would begin at a rate still to be determined, until they reach an annual rate of 5 percent a year in the 2022-2025 model years.
Light trucks other than full-sized pickups would have to achieve 3.5 percent annual increases in mileage standards in the 2017-21 model years and 5 percent increases in the 2022-25 model years.
The sharp hike in fleet mpg will force automakers to make vehicles smaller and lighter, offer more hybrids and enhance powertrains to include such technologies as turbochargers and direct injection.
Detroit automakers dominate the full-sized pickup market, with the F series and General Motors' Chevrolet Silverado ranking as the top-selling vehicles in the nation.
Some Toyota Tundra and Nissan Titan models also might be considered full-sized pickups under federal criteria to be determined.
Credits for hybrids
Under the current White House plan, which is to be proposed formally in September and become final in July 2012, Detroit automakers would receive credits for meeting CAFE targets by increasing the use of hybrid technology in pickups.
The exemption for full-sized pickups was opposed by some overseas automakers -- notably Volkswagen AG and Daimler AG -- that make SUVs and crossovers that are classified as light trucks but would not be treated the same.
Administration official say one reason for the special treatment of full-sized pickups is that they were "significantly challenged" to meet the 2012-16 mileage targets.
Because of the wide choice of engines, transmissions, drivetrains, bed sizes and towing capacity available, automakers have struggled to meet higher fuel-economy requirements for large pickups without sacrificing consumer preferences.
That challenge is the primary reason Ford and Toyota have decided to pair up, analysts say.
GM has marketed mild-hybrid full-sized pickups and SUVs for several years under a technology partnership with BMW and Chrysler, but sales have been lackluster because of higher sticker prices and reduced performance, such as limited towing capacity.
“To some extent, this agreement allows Ford to cost-effectively catch up and potentially surpass GM, who arguably has a head start on light-truck hybrids and mild hybrids,” Barclays Capital analyst Brian Johnson said in a report today.
Global challenges
Ford and Toyota expect the partnership to reduce costs and bring hybrid technology to the marketplace sooner and at a lower price. The companies plan to develop components as equal partners but integrate the new hybrid system in future trucks and SUVs separately.
"By working together we will be able to serve our customers with the very best affordable, advanced powertrains, delivering even better fuel economy," Ford CEO Alan Mulally said in a statement. "This is the kind of collaborative effort that is required to address the big global challenges of energy independence and environmental sustainability."
The two automakers also agreed to work together on developing next-generation telematics and other in-vehicle Internet-based services.
"This agreement brings together the capability of two global leaders in hybrid vehicles and hybrid technology to develop a better solution more quickly and affordably for our customers," said Derrick Kuzak, Ford's vice president of product development.
The companies did not release financial details or identify which vehicles will be involved.
But investors seemed to welcome the news, pushing Ford shares higher in New York Stock Exchange trading today while shares in other automakers slumped. Ford shares closed up 1 cent at 10.01. GM shares fell 44 cents, or 2 percent, to close at $21.72.
The Ford and Toyota product development teams first met in April, Kuzak said.
The next step of the project is a feasibility study, which will begin soon, to determine the scope of the collaboration, he said.
Uchiyamada, speaking through a translator, said both companies are eager to start. While they "would like to know the timing now," they must take the appropriate steps before full development can begin.
They play to begin development work next year.
Ford and Toyota previously collaborated in 2004 when the two companies agreed to a patent-sharing deal where Toyota licensed some of its hybrid technology to Ford.
Ford used the licensed technology in the Escape Hybrid and the now-defunct Mercury Mariner Hybrid. In return, Toyota obtained the use of Ford's diesel and direct-injection engine technology.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Make better use of higher-octane fuel, stop-start
As the industry pushes for better fuel economy, it's strange that two known mileage boosters -- higher-octane gasoline and stop-start technology -- aren't being exploited to their full potential.
There are obstacles to getting the full benefit from either, but those obstacles should be surmountable.
-- Octane: Higher octane improves combustion by allowing a higher compression ratio. But powertrain engineers can't squeeze the most compression out of regular gasoline because octane levels at the pump fluctuate. (That's why the pad you push to select a grade of gasoline at the pump hedges by saying "minimum octane rating.")
Greg Johnson, Lincoln brand powertrain manager, puts it this way: "We're limited by what is the mean octane rating of the fuel we're developing for."
Fuel-saving technologies such as turbocharging would be more productive if regular gasoline consistently had octane levels at the high end of its range, according to Stephen Ross, combustion technical leader at Ford Motor Co.
As the industry aims for 54.5 mpg corporate average fuel economy by 2025, the feds need to bring automakers and oil companies together to achieve consistent octane levels.
-- Stop-start: The problem here is regulatory: The EPA test for calculating CAFE doesn't measure stop-start benefits, and that has slowed penetration of stop-start systems. A stop-start system shuts off the engine when a car is stopped and restarts it when the driver releases the brake pedal.
Stop-start boosts fuel economy 8 to 10 percent, according to Mike Omotoso, senior manager for global powertrains at J.D. Power and Associates.
Brett Smith, co-director of the manufacturing, engineering and technology group at the Center for Automotive Research in Ann Arbor, Mich., says the federal government has said it intends to give a credit for stop-start systems in the 2017-25 rules.
That makes sense. After all, automakers get credits for using greener air-conditioning systems. Why not add a few mpg to the CAFE score of a vehicle with stop-start?
There are obstacles to getting the full benefit from either, but those obstacles should be surmountable.
-- Octane: Higher octane improves combustion by allowing a higher compression ratio. But powertrain engineers can't squeeze the most compression out of regular gasoline because octane levels at the pump fluctuate. (That's why the pad you push to select a grade of gasoline at the pump hedges by saying "minimum octane rating.")
Greg Johnson, Lincoln brand powertrain manager, puts it this way: "We're limited by what is the mean octane rating of the fuel we're developing for."
Fuel-saving technologies such as turbocharging would be more productive if regular gasoline consistently had octane levels at the high end of its range, according to Stephen Ross, combustion technical leader at Ford Motor Co.
As the industry aims for 54.5 mpg corporate average fuel economy by 2025, the feds need to bring automakers and oil companies together to achieve consistent octane levels.
-- Stop-start: The problem here is regulatory: The EPA test for calculating CAFE doesn't measure stop-start benefits, and that has slowed penetration of stop-start systems. A stop-start system shuts off the engine when a car is stopped and restarts it when the driver releases the brake pedal.
Stop-start boosts fuel economy 8 to 10 percent, according to Mike Omotoso, senior manager for global powertrains at J.D. Power and Associates.
Brett Smith, co-director of the manufacturing, engineering and technology group at the Center for Automotive Research in Ann Arbor, Mich., says the federal government has said it intends to give a credit for stop-start systems in the 2017-25 rules.
That makes sense. After all, automakers get credits for using greener air-conditioning systems. Why not add a few mpg to the CAFE score of a vehicle with stop-start?
Friday, August 19, 2011
Ford F150 Heritage problems with lighting system.
We just purchased a used Ford F150 pickup for our nephew. The lights were all working and then all of a sudden the blinkers and brake lights quit. My husband bought a manual and it suggested changing out some little plug located under steering column on the right side. I can’t remember what they are called but it was 2 square plug ins.
Replaced these, lights worked perfect and then went out again on the way to school. Please help. What would you suggest we try?
Replaced these, lights worked perfect and then went out again on the way to school. Please help. What would you suggest we try?
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Hyundai dealers to inspect, repair Sonatas prone to wandering
Hyundai Motor America said its U.S. dealers will fix a steering problem found in some 2011 Sonata mid-sized sedans after more than 4,000 owners complained about the car's steering system.
Drivers have complained that the 2011 Sonata is prone to drifting or pulling to the left while being driven.
The company suspects that about 41,000 Sonatas with 18-inch wheels could be affected by the problem, Hyundai spokesman Jim Trainor said. He said the fix is a service campaign, not a recall.
Hyundai said it has received or tracked about 4,000 complaints -- representing about 3 percent of the nearly 150,000 Sonatas built from September 2010 through April 2011, Trainor said. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has received 198 complaints about the 2011 Sonata's steering, many of which described vehicle tracking problems seemingly similar to the one being addressed in this campaign.
Consumers can set up an appointment with a dealer to inspect the Sonata's wheel alignment and tracking, Trainor said. If necessary, the dealer will install new front suspension struts and perform a wheel alignment, both for free.
Last year, Hyundai recalled about 138,000 2011 Sonatas for a different steering problem. The recall followed a probe by U.S. safety regulators into customer complaints that a steering shaft could potentially become detached from the steering wheel.
Drivers have complained that the 2011 Sonata is prone to drifting or pulling to the left while being driven.
The company suspects that about 41,000 Sonatas with 18-inch wheels could be affected by the problem, Hyundai spokesman Jim Trainor said. He said the fix is a service campaign, not a recall.
Hyundai said it has received or tracked about 4,000 complaints -- representing about 3 percent of the nearly 150,000 Sonatas built from September 2010 through April 2011, Trainor said. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has received 198 complaints about the 2011 Sonata's steering, many of which described vehicle tracking problems seemingly similar to the one being addressed in this campaign.
Consumers can set up an appointment with a dealer to inspect the Sonata's wheel alignment and tracking, Trainor said. If necessary, the dealer will install new front suspension struts and perform a wheel alignment, both for free.
Last year, Hyundai recalled about 138,000 2011 Sonatas for a different steering problem. The recall followed a probe by U.S. safety regulators into customer complaints that a steering shaft could potentially become detached from the steering wheel.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Toyota will debut ultra-frugal plug-in Prius
Toyota Motor Corp. will unveil an ultra-frugal, plug-in hybrid version of its Prius compact car at the IAA in Frankfurt next month.
The car will be the cleanest and most technically advanced Prius built to date, Toyota said on Monday.
According to the automaker, the plug-in Prius has a fuel consumption rating of 2.2 liters/100km (106.9 mpg US/128.4 mpg UK).
It will have CO2 emissions of 49 grams per kilometer, almost half the emissions of the standard Prius, and will be the first Toyota EV to use a new compact lithium-ion battery that offers a driving range of 20km in electric mode, a significant improvement over the 2km range offered by the current model.
Previous Toyota electric vehicles have used nickel-metal hydride batteries.
The Prius plug-in hybrid has the same 1.8-liter gasoline engine and electric motor setup as the hybrid Prius. Toyota said the battery can be charged in 90 minutes using a domestic mains connection.
Next summer, the Prius will join an expanded Toyota hybrid range in Europe that will include the Auris hybrid, the new seven-seat Prius+ and the Yaris hybrid.
The car will be the cleanest and most technically advanced Prius built to date, Toyota said on Monday.
According to the automaker, the plug-in Prius has a fuel consumption rating of 2.2 liters/100km (106.9 mpg US/128.4 mpg UK).
It will have CO2 emissions of 49 grams per kilometer, almost half the emissions of the standard Prius, and will be the first Toyota EV to use a new compact lithium-ion battery that offers a driving range of 20km in electric mode, a significant improvement over the 2km range offered by the current model.
Previous Toyota electric vehicles have used nickel-metal hydride batteries.
The Prius plug-in hybrid has the same 1.8-liter gasoline engine and electric motor setup as the hybrid Prius. Toyota said the battery can be charged in 90 minutes using a domestic mains connection.
Next summer, the Prius will join an expanded Toyota hybrid range in Europe that will include the Auris hybrid, the new seven-seat Prius+ and the Yaris hybrid.
Friday, August 12, 2011
Chrysler takes Ram to Wal-Mart
Chrysler Group's Ram truck brand plans on expanding its experiential advertising into Wal-Mart stores across the country this fall, executives said during a Web chat with journalists this morning.
The promotion will be in "thousands of Wal-Mart stores" and will integrate another of Ram's partners, Mossy Oak camouflage, said Marissa Hunter, head of Ram advertising, during the chat.
"We recognize the alignment between truck buyers, the hunting/fishing lifestyle and Wal-Mart," Hunter said. "We are working on promotion that brings all three together."
Hunter declined to comment on further details of the program. A Wal-Mart spokesman was unavailable for immediate comment.
Ram also announced today that it will launch two new commercials for its "Code of the West" advertising campaign.
The campaign — created by the Richards Group, a Dallas advertising and marketing agency — and was rolled out earlier this summer.
Actor Sam Elliott will still lend his voice to the advertisements as Ram continues to build its brand identity. It was spun off from Dodge in 2009.
Hunter said: "The role of these spots is twofold. First, continue to create overall awareness about the capability of the full Ram lineup. Second, do so in a manner that inspires consumers to think differently about the Ram Truck brand."
Through the first seven months of 2011, Ram brand U.S. sales were up 25 percent. Fred Diaz, CEO of the Ram brand and Chrysler de Mexico, said during the chat that he expects sales to continue to grow for the rest of the year.
He said: "The fourth quarter always represents a key selling season opportunity for commercial business which historically increases commercial sales by up to 50 percent."
The promotion will be in "thousands of Wal-Mart stores" and will integrate another of Ram's partners, Mossy Oak camouflage, said Marissa Hunter, head of Ram advertising, during the chat.
"We recognize the alignment between truck buyers, the hunting/fishing lifestyle and Wal-Mart," Hunter said. "We are working on promotion that brings all three together."
Hunter declined to comment on further details of the program. A Wal-Mart spokesman was unavailable for immediate comment.
Ram also announced today that it will launch two new commercials for its "Code of the West" advertising campaign.
The campaign — created by the Richards Group, a Dallas advertising and marketing agency — and was rolled out earlier this summer.
Actor Sam Elliott will still lend his voice to the advertisements as Ram continues to build its brand identity. It was spun off from Dodge in 2009.
Hunter said: "The role of these spots is twofold. First, continue to create overall awareness about the capability of the full Ram lineup. Second, do so in a manner that inspires consumers to think differently about the Ram Truck brand."
Through the first seven months of 2011, Ram brand U.S. sales were up 25 percent. Fred Diaz, CEO of the Ram brand and Chrysler de Mexico, said during the chat that he expects sales to continue to grow for the rest of the year.
He said: "The fourth quarter always represents a key selling season opportunity for commercial business which historically increases commercial sales by up to 50 percent."
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Noise from front suspension
Vehicle Involved: Saturn SKY 2007
Repair Procedure: Noise from the front suspension system occurs most likely while the vehicle is being driven over small bumps, or on rough road surfaces. The noise is more noticeable in cold weather, and is caused by faulty sway bar bushings rubbing against the bar or clamps.
Replace the sway bar bushings and install new design clamps, to correct the problem. Test drive the vehicle to verify the repair is complete.
TSB No. RCB 11-06
Repair Procedure: Noise from the front suspension system occurs most likely while the vehicle is being driven over small bumps, or on rough road surfaces. The noise is more noticeable in cold weather, and is caused by faulty sway bar bushings rubbing against the bar or clamps.
Replace the sway bar bushings and install new design clamps, to correct the problem. Test drive the vehicle to verify the repair is complete.
TSB No. RCB 11-06
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Grabby or touchy Brakes when applied and/or MIL light on.
Vehicles Involved: Cadillac, Escalade 2009; Chevrolet, Silverado, Tahoe 2009; GMC, Yukon, Sierra 2009
Condition: Vehicles equipped with two-mode Hybrid System may experience grabbing brakes or a touchy brake pedal when the brakes are applied. The ABS light may come on and a DTC C012E may be set in the EBCM.
Repair: The EBCM must be reprogrammed with the latest calibration available. Re-flashing the control module should correct the problem.
TSB No. BPI 11-06
Condition: Vehicles equipped with two-mode Hybrid System may experience grabbing brakes or a touchy brake pedal when the brakes are applied. The ABS light may come on and a DTC C012E may be set in the EBCM.
Repair: The EBCM must be reprogrammed with the latest calibration available. Re-flashing the control module should correct the problem.
TSB No. BPI 11-06
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Honda recalls 2.5 million vehicles globally for software issue
- Honda Motor Co. said today it will recall 2.49 million cars, small SUVs and minivans worldwide, including its popular Accord sedan, to repair a software problem that could damage the automatic transmission.
The recall includes 1.5 million vehicles in the United States, 760,000 in China and 135,142 in Canada, the automaker said in a statement.
Globally, the recall affects four-cylinder Accord sedans for the model years 2005 to 2010.
The company is also recalling vehicles in parts of Europe, the Middle East, South America, Mexico and Puerto Rico. The recall did not affect vehicles sold in Honda's home Japan market.
In the United States and Canada, the recall also includes the CR-V crossover for the model years 2007 to 2010 as well as the small SUV Element from 2005 to 2008.
In China, the recall also includes more than 160,000 Odyssey minivans from 2005 to 2009 and about 4,000 Spirior cars, which are based on the European version of the Accord, for the 2010 model year.
Without updating the software, the automatic transmission in these vehicles could be damaged if the driver quickly shifts between gears. That might cause the engine to stall or make it difficult to put the car into park.
This week, Consumer Reports said it was not recommending the 2012 Honda Civic. This has led some industry analysts to ask if that is a symptom of larger problems at the automaker, which ranks fifth in U.S. sales this year.
The company has said it disagreed with the influential U.S. consumer advocate's assessment.
Chris Martin, Honda spokesman at the company's U.S. headquarters in California, said today the recall was not a sign of deeper difficulties.
Martin said the current recall was the result of "extremely unusual circumstances. The far majority of our consumers would never really encounter this. It's software programing. It's not a weakness in the transmission per se."
No injuries or deaths have been reported from this problem, Martin said.
Honda said the problems might arise if the transmission were quickly shifted between the reverse, neutral and drive positions. A driver might do this in an attempt to dislodge a vehicle in mud or snow.
The automatic transmission secondary shaft bearing could be damaged in this scenario.
An update to transmission control module software will ease the transition between gears and reduce the possibility of damage.
Honda will begin informing U.S. consumers at the end of August. It did not disclose expected cost of the recall.
The software update will take about a half-hour, but customers may have to leave their cars at Honda dealerships for a longer period, Martin said.
The recall includes 1.5 million vehicles in the United States, 760,000 in China and 135,142 in Canada, the automaker said in a statement.
Globally, the recall affects four-cylinder Accord sedans for the model years 2005 to 2010.
The company is also recalling vehicles in parts of Europe, the Middle East, South America, Mexico and Puerto Rico. The recall did not affect vehicles sold in Honda's home Japan market.
In the United States and Canada, the recall also includes the CR-V crossover for the model years 2007 to 2010 as well as the small SUV Element from 2005 to 2008.
In China, the recall also includes more than 160,000 Odyssey minivans from 2005 to 2009 and about 4,000 Spirior cars, which are based on the European version of the Accord, for the 2010 model year.
Without updating the software, the automatic transmission in these vehicles could be damaged if the driver quickly shifts between gears. That might cause the engine to stall or make it difficult to put the car into park.
This week, Consumer Reports said it was not recommending the 2012 Honda Civic. This has led some industry analysts to ask if that is a symptom of larger problems at the automaker, which ranks fifth in U.S. sales this year.
The company has said it disagreed with the influential U.S. consumer advocate's assessment.
Chris Martin, Honda spokesman at the company's U.S. headquarters in California, said today the recall was not a sign of deeper difficulties.
Martin said the current recall was the result of "extremely unusual circumstances. The far majority of our consumers would never really encounter this. It's software programing. It's not a weakness in the transmission per se."
No injuries or deaths have been reported from this problem, Martin said.
Honda said the problems might arise if the transmission were quickly shifted between the reverse, neutral and drive positions. A driver might do this in an attempt to dislodge a vehicle in mud or snow.
The automatic transmission secondary shaft bearing could be damaged in this scenario.
An update to transmission control module software will ease the transition between gears and reduce the possibility of damage.
Honda will begin informing U.S. consumers at the end of August. It did not disclose expected cost of the recall.
The software update will take about a half-hour, but customers may have to leave their cars at Honda dealerships for a longer period, Martin said.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
1980 chevrolet
I'm working on my son's 1980 Chevy truck. Its been sitting for some time, and going thru things, I found the headlights don't work. I don't have any power to the switch. I don't find a fuse for them in the box, is there a fusible link or something else i'm missing.
Response:
There are 2 ways the system gets its power. 1 is a fusible link on the starter the other is a post on the radiator core support connecting the positive battery to acessories.
Response:
There are 2 ways the system gets its power. 1 is a fusible link on the starter the other is a post on the radiator core support connecting the positive battery to acessories.
Monday, August 1, 2011
Ford to recall 1.1M pickup for gas tank problem
Ford to recall 1.1M pickup trucks with gas tanks that can fall off and cause fires
Ford Motor Co. is recalling 1.1 million pickup trucks because the gas tanks can fall off and cause fires.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said Monday on its website that the metal straps holding the tanks can rust, allowing them to fall, rupture and catch fire.
The defect has been blamed for eight fires, three of which spread to the rest of the truck. One person was injured, suffering first- and second-degree burns, Ford spokesman Wes Sherwood said.
The recall affects certain 1997 through 2004 Ford F-150 models, as well as some 1997 through 1999 model year F-250 pickups. Also affected are Lincoln Blackwood pickups from the 2002 and 2003 model years. They were sold in cold-weather states where salt is used to clear roads. The salt corroded straps holding the tanks and they broke, NHTSA said.
The trucks were originally sold or are now registered in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Washington, D.C.
Sherwood said the company will notify owners in September to bring their trucks to dealers who will replace the straps with new ones that are coated to resist corrosion. Parts to fix the problem, he said, won't be widely available until then.
People with questions should contact their dealer, who can install a cable to hold the tanks in place until the replacement straps arrive, Sherwood said.
Ford Motor Co. is recalling 1.1 million pickup trucks because the gas tanks can fall off and cause fires.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said Monday on its website that the metal straps holding the tanks can rust, allowing them to fall, rupture and catch fire.
The defect has been blamed for eight fires, three of which spread to the rest of the truck. One person was injured, suffering first- and second-degree burns, Ford spokesman Wes Sherwood said.
The recall affects certain 1997 through 2004 Ford F-150 models, as well as some 1997 through 1999 model year F-250 pickups. Also affected are Lincoln Blackwood pickups from the 2002 and 2003 model years. They were sold in cold-weather states where salt is used to clear roads. The salt corroded straps holding the tanks and they broke, NHTSA said.
The trucks were originally sold or are now registered in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Washington, D.C.
Sherwood said the company will notify owners in September to bring their trucks to dealers who will replace the straps with new ones that are coated to resist corrosion. Parts to fix the problem, he said, won't be widely available until then.
People with questions should contact their dealer, who can install a cable to hold the tanks in place until the replacement straps arrive, Sherwood said.
GM wants solar chargers at 500 Chevy stores by '13
General Motors aims to have solar-powered charging stations for plug-in vehicles at as many as 500 Chevrolet stores by the end of 2012.
GM said last week that it had invested $7.5 million in Sunlogics, which makes solar canopies that can charge up to 12 Chevrolet Volts or other plug-in vehicles at a time. The systems have been installed in nine Chevrolet stores so far.
Through GM's program with Sunlogics, dubbed Green Zone, dealers pay $10,000 a year for 10 years for a 12-station system. Dealers also can install a six-vehicle station for $8,500 per year.The GM venture owns and maintains the stations.
Excess energy generated by the solar panels can be used by the dealership, potentially knocking $6,000 a year, on average, off the annual energy bill.
Stores in sunny states will generate more, potentially offsetting the entire annual cost of the charging system, said Mary Alice Kurtz, a GM manager who is handling the installation of the systems at dealerships.
"It's a minimal investment for the dealer with no upfront capital," Kurtz said. "And they don't have to manage any of it because we do that for them. Let them sell cars."
Joe Serra, dealer principal at Serra Automotive Inc., says the 12-space charging station already in place at his Chevrolet store in Grand Blanc, Mich., serves as a billboard to advertise that he's a green business.
Says Serra: "The question isn't whether to install a solar canopy. It's where -- and how many."
GM said last week that it had invested $7.5 million in Sunlogics, which makes solar canopies that can charge up to 12 Chevrolet Volts or other plug-in vehicles at a time. The systems have been installed in nine Chevrolet stores so far.
Through GM's program with Sunlogics, dubbed Green Zone, dealers pay $10,000 a year for 10 years for a 12-station system. Dealers also can install a six-vehicle station for $8,500 per year.The GM venture owns and maintains the stations.
Excess energy generated by the solar panels can be used by the dealership, potentially knocking $6,000 a year, on average, off the annual energy bill.
Stores in sunny states will generate more, potentially offsetting the entire annual cost of the charging system, said Mary Alice Kurtz, a GM manager who is handling the installation of the systems at dealerships.
"It's a minimal investment for the dealer with no upfront capital," Kurtz said. "And they don't have to manage any of it because we do that for them. Let them sell cars."
Joe Serra, dealer principal at Serra Automotive Inc., says the 12-space charging station already in place at his Chevrolet store in Grand Blanc, Mich., serves as a billboard to advertise that he's a green business.
Says Serra: "The question isn't whether to install a solar canopy. It's where -- and how many."
Friday, July 29, 2011
Obama sets fuel economy target of 54.5 mpg by 2025
White House: Rule backed by automakers representing 90% of vehicles sold
President Obama, flanked by the chiefs of U.S. and import-brand automakers, today proposed doubling corporate average fuel economy standards to 54.5 mpg by 2025.
The targets, if finalized next July as expected, would continue the pace at which mileage standards were raised by the Obama administration from 2012-16. The current standard requires a corporate average of 35.5 mpg by 2016, up from 27.3 mpg for 2011 models.
The latest targets represent one of the biggest hikes in fuel-efficiency goals since the government created fuel-efficiency standards in the 1970s to reduce dependence on foreign oil.
The Obama plan -- endorsed by leading auto manufacturers, California state regulators, the UAW, environmentalists and consumer advocates -- would require a 5 percent annual improvement in the fuel economy of passenger cars from 2017-25.
Mileage standards for light trucks would increase 3.5 percent a year from 2017-21, with a 5 percent yearly increase tentatively planned for the remainder of the period.
The new goals for light trucks represent a victory for Detroit automakers, which rely on a heavier mix of large pickup and SUV models for sales and profits.
The administration, bowing to the industry's requests, also agreed to a mid-course review of the standards starting in 2018 to consider their impact on manufacturers' costs, technology and sales.
The White House said the proposal was backed by automakers that account for more than 90 percent of all vehicles sold in the United States.
Ford Motor Co.'s Alan Mulally, General Motors' Dan Akerson and Chrysler Group's Sergio Marchionne were joined by UAW President Bob King at the event. Leaders from BMW, Honda, Hyundai, Jaguar/Land Rover, Kia, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Toyota and Volvo also attended.
Savings
"This agreement on fuel standards represents the single most important step we've taken as a nation to reduce our dependence on foreign oil," Obama said.
"These outstanding companies are committing to do a lot more," he said. "By 2025, the average fuel economy of their vehicles will almost double to 55 mpg. This is an incredible commitment that they've made.... They wouldn't be doing it if they didn't think it was good for business and good for America."
The administration said the requirements will save U.S. households $1.7 trillion in fuel costs and result in an average fuel savings of over $8,000 per vehicle by 2025.
The proposal will cut U.S. oil consumption by 12 billion barrels. By 2025, oil consumption would be reduced by 2.2 million barrels a day - or as much as half of the oil imported daily from OPEC, the White House estimates.
The standards will also curb carbon pollution by cutting more than 6 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas over the life of the program. The White House says that is more than the amount of carbon dioxide emitted by the United States last year.
The White House, under pressure from California and environmental groups, originally proposed a fuel economy target of more than 62 mpg by 2025.
The rule "was weakened by auto-industry lobbying," Dan Becker, head of the Washington-based Safe Climate Campaign, told Bloomberg News.
A path forward
In the past, Detroit and other automakers have vigorously opposed tougher fuel economy rules, claiming consumers would not pay higher prices for the technology required to meet higher standards. They also claimed safety would be compromised.
But the 2009 government-led bailout of GM and Chrysler -- as well as the emergence and growing consumer acceptance of hybrids, electric vehicles, and other technology -- left automakers little choice but to back the plan.
"This proposed rule presents a path forward that greatly improves fuel economy while preserving customer choice and future industry growth," GM said in a statement that was largely shared by other automakers.
Ford said it supported the new rule, in principle, because it protected jobs, will provide customers with a full range of affordable vehicle choices, and benefits the environment.
"This agreement provides the regulatory certainty we need to design and build fuel-efficient vehicles during the next 14 years," Mulally said in a statement.
VW dissents
Volkswagen AG said today it would not endorse the proposal because it places an unfair burden on makers of passenger cars, while allowing special flexibility for manufacturers of heavier light trucks. Mercedes-Benz expressed similar concerns.
"The largest trucks carry almost no burden for the 2017-2020 timeframe, and are granted numerous ways to mathematically meet targets in the outlying years without significant real-world gains," VW said in a statement. "The proposal encourages manufacturers and customers to shift toward larger, less efficient vehicles, defeating the goal of reduced greenhouse gas emissions."
VW also opposes the deal because it does not encourage wider use of diesel engines, which represent more than 20 percent of the automaker's growing U.S. sales.
"If one-third of the vehicles on the road today were clean diesel, the US would save 1.4 million barrels of oil a day," VW said in a statement.
White House officials said today the proposal is designed to encourage the introduction of new alternative-fuel technologies and that diesel engines are already established in the market.
Other automakers, while backing the overall deal, also expressed reservations about portions of the plan.
"The proposed fuel economy standards for 2017-2025 are extremely challenging – especially for smaller companies and those that primarily sell passenger cars, such as Mazda – but we are committed to meeting them," Jim O'Sullivan, CEO of Mazda North American Operations, said in a statement.
Photo credit: Whitehouse.gov
California support
The California Air Resources Board's decision to back the proposed standards also played a key role in winning industry support for the deal.
In the past, California has pursued its own fuel economy regulations that were often more stringent than federal standards and largely opposed by automakers.
The Detroit News reported that the talks with automakers, California officials and the White House went past 1 a.m. today. Automakers used the last-minute discussions to seek assurances that California will abide by the results of the mid-term review that will ensure that the 2022-2025 rules can be met, the paper said.
Automakers sought the opportunity to sue if California attempts to enact its own tougher rules in case the federal government opts to lower the requirements in the final years, the News said.
It wasn't immediately clear how the issue was resolved.
Many automakers today praised the Obama administration for crafting a new deal that sets a single national standard for fuel economy improvements.
In a prepared statement, Nissan endorsed the "one national program."
Scott Becker, senior vice president of administration and finance for Nissan Americas, said the deal "supports long-term planning and technology development."
John Mendel, head of sales for American Honda, said the automaker appreciated "the state of California's decision to harmonize its regulations with federal initiatives."
Chrysler said it supported "in principle" the proposed new fuel economy rules.
"We remain committed to the goal of a single, national, and coordinated program that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance our country's energy security," Chrysler said in a statement.
Automakers are expected to meet the new rules by adopting more light-weight materials, wider use of alternative powertrains such as gasoline and diesel-electric hybrids and batteries, and the adoption of other technology.
"There is still a great deal of uncertainty as to how the market will respond and what vehicle technologies consumers will embrace, which is why we are rolling out and testing a range of alternative fuel options," James Lentz, head of Toyota Motor Sales, said in a statement.
Credits and incentives
As part of the rules announced today, the administration said it was considering a number of incentive programs to encourage early adoption and introduction of advanced, 'game-changing' technologies.
They include incentives for electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and fuel cells vehicles; incentives for advanced technology systems for large pickups, such as hybrid powertrains; and credits for technologies that reduce carbon dioxide emissions and fuel economy improvements that are not captured by the standards' test procedures.
The Environmental Protection Agency also plans to propose credits for improvements in air conditioning systems to encourage greater efficiency and use of alternative refrigerants that lower global warming.
The EPA will also weigh new credits for vehicles powered by compressed natural gas, and allow automakers to bank and trade credits, including a one-time, carry-forward of unused credits from the 2010-2016 model years through the 2021 model year, the White House said.
President Obama, flanked by the chiefs of U.S. and import-brand automakers, today proposed doubling corporate average fuel economy standards to 54.5 mpg by 2025.
The targets, if finalized next July as expected, would continue the pace at which mileage standards were raised by the Obama administration from 2012-16. The current standard requires a corporate average of 35.5 mpg by 2016, up from 27.3 mpg for 2011 models.
The latest targets represent one of the biggest hikes in fuel-efficiency goals since the government created fuel-efficiency standards in the 1970s to reduce dependence on foreign oil.
The Obama plan -- endorsed by leading auto manufacturers, California state regulators, the UAW, environmentalists and consumer advocates -- would require a 5 percent annual improvement in the fuel economy of passenger cars from 2017-25.
Mileage standards for light trucks would increase 3.5 percent a year from 2017-21, with a 5 percent yearly increase tentatively planned for the remainder of the period.
The new goals for light trucks represent a victory for Detroit automakers, which rely on a heavier mix of large pickup and SUV models for sales and profits.
The administration, bowing to the industry's requests, also agreed to a mid-course review of the standards starting in 2018 to consider their impact on manufacturers' costs, technology and sales.
The White House said the proposal was backed by automakers that account for more than 90 percent of all vehicles sold in the United States.
Ford Motor Co.'s Alan Mulally, General Motors' Dan Akerson and Chrysler Group's Sergio Marchionne were joined by UAW President Bob King at the event. Leaders from BMW, Honda, Hyundai, Jaguar/Land Rover, Kia, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Toyota and Volvo also attended.
Savings
"This agreement on fuel standards represents the single most important step we've taken as a nation to reduce our dependence on foreign oil," Obama said.
"These outstanding companies are committing to do a lot more," he said. "By 2025, the average fuel economy of their vehicles will almost double to 55 mpg. This is an incredible commitment that they've made.... They wouldn't be doing it if they didn't think it was good for business and good for America."
The administration said the requirements will save U.S. households $1.7 trillion in fuel costs and result in an average fuel savings of over $8,000 per vehicle by 2025.
The proposal will cut U.S. oil consumption by 12 billion barrels. By 2025, oil consumption would be reduced by 2.2 million barrels a day - or as much as half of the oil imported daily from OPEC, the White House estimates.
The standards will also curb carbon pollution by cutting more than 6 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas over the life of the program. The White House says that is more than the amount of carbon dioxide emitted by the United States last year.
The White House, under pressure from California and environmental groups, originally proposed a fuel economy target of more than 62 mpg by 2025.
The rule "was weakened by auto-industry lobbying," Dan Becker, head of the Washington-based Safe Climate Campaign, told Bloomberg News.
A path forward
In the past, Detroit and other automakers have vigorously opposed tougher fuel economy rules, claiming consumers would not pay higher prices for the technology required to meet higher standards. They also claimed safety would be compromised.
But the 2009 government-led bailout of GM and Chrysler -- as well as the emergence and growing consumer acceptance of hybrids, electric vehicles, and other technology -- left automakers little choice but to back the plan.
"This proposed rule presents a path forward that greatly improves fuel economy while preserving customer choice and future industry growth," GM said in a statement that was largely shared by other automakers.
Ford said it supported the new rule, in principle, because it protected jobs, will provide customers with a full range of affordable vehicle choices, and benefits the environment.
"This agreement provides the regulatory certainty we need to design and build fuel-efficient vehicles during the next 14 years," Mulally said in a statement.
VW dissents
Volkswagen AG said today it would not endorse the proposal because it places an unfair burden on makers of passenger cars, while allowing special flexibility for manufacturers of heavier light trucks. Mercedes-Benz expressed similar concerns.
"The largest trucks carry almost no burden for the 2017-2020 timeframe, and are granted numerous ways to mathematically meet targets in the outlying years without significant real-world gains," VW said in a statement. "The proposal encourages manufacturers and customers to shift toward larger, less efficient vehicles, defeating the goal of reduced greenhouse gas emissions."
VW also opposes the deal because it does not encourage wider use of diesel engines, which represent more than 20 percent of the automaker's growing U.S. sales.
"If one-third of the vehicles on the road today were clean diesel, the US would save 1.4 million barrels of oil a day," VW said in a statement.
White House officials said today the proposal is designed to encourage the introduction of new alternative-fuel technologies and that diesel engines are already established in the market.
Other automakers, while backing the overall deal, also expressed reservations about portions of the plan.
"The proposed fuel economy standards for 2017-2025 are extremely challenging – especially for smaller companies and those that primarily sell passenger cars, such as Mazda – but we are committed to meeting them," Jim O'Sullivan, CEO of Mazda North American Operations, said in a statement.
Photo credit: Whitehouse.gov
California support
The California Air Resources Board's decision to back the proposed standards also played a key role in winning industry support for the deal.
In the past, California has pursued its own fuel economy regulations that were often more stringent than federal standards and largely opposed by automakers.
The Detroit News reported that the talks with automakers, California officials and the White House went past 1 a.m. today. Automakers used the last-minute discussions to seek assurances that California will abide by the results of the mid-term review that will ensure that the 2022-2025 rules can be met, the paper said.
Automakers sought the opportunity to sue if California attempts to enact its own tougher rules in case the federal government opts to lower the requirements in the final years, the News said.
It wasn't immediately clear how the issue was resolved.
Many automakers today praised the Obama administration for crafting a new deal that sets a single national standard for fuel economy improvements.
In a prepared statement, Nissan endorsed the "one national program."
Scott Becker, senior vice president of administration and finance for Nissan Americas, said the deal "supports long-term planning and technology development."
John Mendel, head of sales for American Honda, said the automaker appreciated "the state of California's decision to harmonize its regulations with federal initiatives."
Chrysler said it supported "in principle" the proposed new fuel economy rules.
"We remain committed to the goal of a single, national, and coordinated program that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance our country's energy security," Chrysler said in a statement.
Automakers are expected to meet the new rules by adopting more light-weight materials, wider use of alternative powertrains such as gasoline and diesel-electric hybrids and batteries, and the adoption of other technology.
"There is still a great deal of uncertainty as to how the market will respond and what vehicle technologies consumers will embrace, which is why we are rolling out and testing a range of alternative fuel options," James Lentz, head of Toyota Motor Sales, said in a statement.
Credits and incentives
As part of the rules announced today, the administration said it was considering a number of incentive programs to encourage early adoption and introduction of advanced, 'game-changing' technologies.
They include incentives for electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and fuel cells vehicles; incentives for advanced technology systems for large pickups, such as hybrid powertrains; and credits for technologies that reduce carbon dioxide emissions and fuel economy improvements that are not captured by the standards' test procedures.
The Environmental Protection Agency also plans to propose credits for improvements in air conditioning systems to encourage greater efficiency and use of alternative refrigerants that lower global warming.
The EPA will also weigh new credits for vehicles powered by compressed natural gas, and allow automakers to bank and trade credits, including a one-time, carry-forward of unused credits from the 2010-2016 model years through the 2021 model year, the White House said.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
White House pushes automakers to agree to 54.5 mpg target by 2025
The latest White House proposal calls for a 5 percent annual mileage increase for cars from 2017-2025. For light trucks and SUVs, the average yearly increase would be 3.5 percent from 2017-2021. After that, the annual figure would rise by 5 percent, industry and congressional sources say.
The White House is pushing automakers to agree by tomorrow to a corporate average fuel economy target of 54.5 mpg by 2025 -- a figure 1.7 mpg less than the 56.2 mpg standard it floated earlier this month.
The easing of the White House plan stems from a concession to makers of light trucks and SUVs, and particularly larger vehicles in that segment, such as Ford's F-150 pickup, sources said.
The latest White House proposal, the most definitive of any it has put forth, calls for a 5 percent annual mileage increase for cars from 2017-2025, said industry and congressional officials who asked not to be named because their discussions with the White House are confidential.
For light trucks and SUVs, the average yearly increase would be 3.5 percent from 2017-2021. After that, the annual figure would rise by 5 percent, industry and congressional sources said.
Some lawmakers have been briefed this week by the White House on the status of its negotiations with automakers.
Within the light truck class, the average annual increase would be lower than 3.5 percent for heavier vehicles and higher than 3.5 percent for lighter vehicles, industry officials said.
Mid-course review
Under the White House proposal, the targets would be subject to a mid-course review to be completed well before 2022, they said.
That means both the 5 percent annual increase in fuel efficiency for cars and plans to ratchet up the 3.5 percent figure for trucks and SUVs would be evaluated for their impact on industry costs, technology and sales.
The administration wants to submit an agreement with automakers and California state regulators to the U.S. Office of Management and Budget for review in coming weeks, before issuing it as a proposal in September.
The final rule is to be adopted in July 2012, the White House has said.
The White House wants the industry as a whole -- particularly Ford Motor Co. and General Motors -- to agree to the latest proposal, which was made this week to individual automakers one-by-one.
The rest of the industry is leaning toward following the lead of Ford and GM, sources said.
A White House spokesman declined comment today on the new proposal, which was reported earlier by The Wall Street Journal.
Progress reported
The 2017-25 targets would build on a standard of 35.5 mpg for 2016 that was agreed to by the Obama administration, automakers and California regulators.
"Ongoing discussions are yielding progress and we appreciate the careful and constructive approach by all parties," GM spokesman Greg Martin said today. "We are hopeful there is a path forward that greatly improves vehicle fuel economy while preserving customer choice and future industry growth."
Ford declined to comment today but the automaker has issued conciliatory statements about the White House's evolving plan in recent weeks.
The California Air Resources Board, which can legally walk away from any agreement between the Obama administration and automakers, did not immediately comment today.
Environmentalists, consumer advocates and science groups have been pushing for a 2025 target of between 56 mpg and 62 mpg.
The White House is pushing automakers to agree by tomorrow to a corporate average fuel economy target of 54.5 mpg by 2025 -- a figure 1.7 mpg less than the 56.2 mpg standard it floated earlier this month.
The easing of the White House plan stems from a concession to makers of light trucks and SUVs, and particularly larger vehicles in that segment, such as Ford's F-150 pickup, sources said.
The latest White House proposal, the most definitive of any it has put forth, calls for a 5 percent annual mileage increase for cars from 2017-2025, said industry and congressional officials who asked not to be named because their discussions with the White House are confidential.
For light trucks and SUVs, the average yearly increase would be 3.5 percent from 2017-2021. After that, the annual figure would rise by 5 percent, industry and congressional sources said.
Some lawmakers have been briefed this week by the White House on the status of its negotiations with automakers.
Within the light truck class, the average annual increase would be lower than 3.5 percent for heavier vehicles and higher than 3.5 percent for lighter vehicles, industry officials said.
Mid-course review
Under the White House proposal, the targets would be subject to a mid-course review to be completed well before 2022, they said.
That means both the 5 percent annual increase in fuel efficiency for cars and plans to ratchet up the 3.5 percent figure for trucks and SUVs would be evaluated for their impact on industry costs, technology and sales.
The administration wants to submit an agreement with automakers and California state regulators to the U.S. Office of Management and Budget for review in coming weeks, before issuing it as a proposal in September.
The final rule is to be adopted in July 2012, the White House has said.
The White House wants the industry as a whole -- particularly Ford Motor Co. and General Motors -- to agree to the latest proposal, which was made this week to individual automakers one-by-one.
The rest of the industry is leaning toward following the lead of Ford and GM, sources said.
A White House spokesman declined comment today on the new proposal, which was reported earlier by The Wall Street Journal.
Progress reported
The 2017-25 targets would build on a standard of 35.5 mpg for 2016 that was agreed to by the Obama administration, automakers and California regulators.
"Ongoing discussions are yielding progress and we appreciate the careful and constructive approach by all parties," GM spokesman Greg Martin said today. "We are hopeful there is a path forward that greatly improves vehicle fuel economy while preserving customer choice and future industry growth."
Ford declined to comment today but the automaker has issued conciliatory statements about the White House's evolving plan in recent weeks.
The California Air Resources Board, which can legally walk away from any agreement between the Obama administration and automakers, did not immediately comment today.
Environmentalists, consumer advocates and science groups have been pushing for a 2025 target of between 56 mpg and 62 mpg.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Mercedes to add fifth model at U.S. factory
Daimler AG will add a fifth Mercedes-Benz model at its U.S. assembly plant near Tuscaloosa, Ala., company sources told Automotive News Europe.
The model will be a variant of the Mercedes M-class crossover with a coupelike roofline. Production will likely start as soon as 2015, the sources said.
The new M-class body style will be positioned against the BMW X6 built in Spartanburg, S.C., and likely will be called MLC.
Mercedes is adding the M-class variant as part of a $2 billion investment in the Alabama site that was unveiled on Thursday. That project will pave the way for C-class production while providing tooling for new generations of the R class and G class as well as a redesigned M class that went into production this week.
Mercedes' coupe-like M class will rival the BMW X6, shown.
An expanded M-class lineup would fit with Mercedes' original vision for the factory before the first M class was built in Alabama 14 years ago. Executives said then the "M" designation would eventually represent a family of vehicles beyond the inaugural SUV. To date, the M's variations have been primarily engine options.
Mercedes has a precedent for charting product plans more than four years out. In 2009, the company announced its intention to build the C class in Alabama – starting in 2014.
A Mercedes spokesman declined to comment on future product plans, nor on how much Tuscaloosa's capacity and headcount will be increased in the future. Production at the plant is already close to its 160,000-unit annual capacity, and the factory employs 2,800 people.
Mercedes' internal development code for the new M-class variant is C166.
Mercedes is battling German rival BMW for the title of best-selling luxury brand in the United States, following an 11-year reign by Toyota's Lexus.
Through June, BMW sold 113,705 of its namesake vehicles in the United States. Mercedes, not counting its Sprinter commercial vans, had 110,926 sales. Lexus, hampered by the March earthquake in Japan, sold 88,010 vehicles.
Last year, BMW globally sold 46,404 units of the X6 and 102,178 of its sibling model, the X5, also built in Spartanburg.
The model will be a variant of the Mercedes M-class crossover with a coupelike roofline. Production will likely start as soon as 2015, the sources said.
The new M-class body style will be positioned against the BMW X6 built in Spartanburg, S.C., and likely will be called MLC.
Mercedes is adding the M-class variant as part of a $2 billion investment in the Alabama site that was unveiled on Thursday. That project will pave the way for C-class production while providing tooling for new generations of the R class and G class as well as a redesigned M class that went into production this week.
Mercedes' coupe-like M class will rival the BMW X6, shown.
An expanded M-class lineup would fit with Mercedes' original vision for the factory before the first M class was built in Alabama 14 years ago. Executives said then the "M" designation would eventually represent a family of vehicles beyond the inaugural SUV. To date, the M's variations have been primarily engine options.
Mercedes has a precedent for charting product plans more than four years out. In 2009, the company announced its intention to build the C class in Alabama – starting in 2014.
A Mercedes spokesman declined to comment on future product plans, nor on how much Tuscaloosa's capacity and headcount will be increased in the future. Production at the plant is already close to its 160,000-unit annual capacity, and the factory employs 2,800 people.
Mercedes' internal development code for the new M-class variant is C166.
Mercedes is battling German rival BMW for the title of best-selling luxury brand in the United States, following an 11-year reign by Toyota's Lexus.
Through June, BMW sold 113,705 of its namesake vehicles in the United States. Mercedes, not counting its Sprinter commercial vans, had 110,926 sales. Lexus, hampered by the March earthquake in Japan, sold 88,010 vehicles.
Last year, BMW globally sold 46,404 units of the X6 and 102,178 of its sibling model, the X5, also built in Spartanburg.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
This time, GM takes low-key approach to mild-hybrid technology
Stroll around the soon-to-launch 2012 Buick LaCrosse and look for the shiny logo that touts General Motors' latest gas-saving technology, eAssist.
You won't find one.
There's no badge. No attempt to brand eAssist as a breakthrough green technology -- even though the hybrid seems worthy of at least its own little green decal.
eAssist combines an electric motor-generator, brake regeneration and a menu of other little tricks to boost fuel economy by 25 percent, to 25 mpg in city driving and 36 mpg on the highway.
But Buick executives want to keep the focus on the car and let the technology sit quietly in the background.
"The focus isn't 'Come in and buy this new technology,'" Roger McCormack, Buick's product marketing director, said during a media event here. "It's 'Come in and experience all the same great things about the LaCrosse. And oh, by the way, here's a big boost in fuel economy."
It seems GM has learned from its mistakes.
Five years ago, GM rolled out "Hybrid" versions of the Chevrolet Malibu and Saturn Aura, based on an earlier, weaker version of the eAssist technology. Shoppers thought "Toyota Prius" -- until they found that the technology only eked out a few extra mpg.
Sales flopped.
This time, the term "hybrid" won't appear on the vehicle or in any of the upcoming LaCrosse advertising.
The 2012 LaCrosse goes on sale this summer with eAssist as the standard powertrain, along with a 2.4-liter, direct-injected 4-cylinder engine and six-speed transmission. Buyers can get a new, more powerful version of the LaCrosse's 3.6-liter V-6 (17 city, 27 highway) for the same price ($30,820, including freight).
Noticing the mpg
Sure, eAssist will get plenty of play when national ads roll out this fall. And GM will use dealer tutorial videos and live demos so sales folks can negotiate those "It's-not-exactly-a-hybrid" discussions with customers.
But I'll bet most buyers will pay only passing heed to how the technology works -- and will stare long and hard at that difference in mpg.
eAssist uses regenerative braking to charge a small lithium-ion battery stored in the trunk. The battery provides extra power to an electric motor-generator that takes the place of an alternator. It assists the engine with up to 15 hp when the car is accelerating onto the highway, for example.
The electric motor in the so-called mild-hybrid system never powers the car all on its own, unlike the electric motor in a full hybrid such as the Prius. In the LaCrosse, the motor only assists the gasoline engine.
That's why the LaCrosse's city mpg rating trails that of luxury competitors like the Lincoln MKZ hybrid (41 city, 36 highway) or the Lexus HS hybrid (35 city, 34 highway).
But the LaCrosse with eAssist also costs $4,000 to $6,000 less than those vehicles. Buick is betting that buyers will like their return on investment.
Evolving industry
There's one more reason why GM isn't making a "hybrid" fuss.
With the Obama administration mulling a 56.2 mpg requirement by 2025, these sorts of fuel-economy advances simply are becoming the cost of doing business.
Sheri Hickok, GM's vehicle chief engineer for mid-sized and full-size vehicles, puts it this way: "The industry is evolving to where fuel economy itself is becoming the message, not some special technology."
You won't find one.
There's no badge. No attempt to brand eAssist as a breakthrough green technology -- even though the hybrid seems worthy of at least its own little green decal.
eAssist combines an electric motor-generator, brake regeneration and a menu of other little tricks to boost fuel economy by 25 percent, to 25 mpg in city driving and 36 mpg on the highway.
But Buick executives want to keep the focus on the car and let the technology sit quietly in the background.
"The focus isn't 'Come in and buy this new technology,'" Roger McCormack, Buick's product marketing director, said during a media event here. "It's 'Come in and experience all the same great things about the LaCrosse. And oh, by the way, here's a big boost in fuel economy."
It seems GM has learned from its mistakes.
Five years ago, GM rolled out "Hybrid" versions of the Chevrolet Malibu and Saturn Aura, based on an earlier, weaker version of the eAssist technology. Shoppers thought "Toyota Prius" -- until they found that the technology only eked out a few extra mpg.
Sales flopped.
This time, the term "hybrid" won't appear on the vehicle or in any of the upcoming LaCrosse advertising.
The 2012 LaCrosse goes on sale this summer with eAssist as the standard powertrain, along with a 2.4-liter, direct-injected 4-cylinder engine and six-speed transmission. Buyers can get a new, more powerful version of the LaCrosse's 3.6-liter V-6 (17 city, 27 highway) for the same price ($30,820, including freight).
Noticing the mpg
Sure, eAssist will get plenty of play when national ads roll out this fall. And GM will use dealer tutorial videos and live demos so sales folks can negotiate those "It's-not-exactly-a-hybrid" discussions with customers.
But I'll bet most buyers will pay only passing heed to how the technology works -- and will stare long and hard at that difference in mpg.
eAssist uses regenerative braking to charge a small lithium-ion battery stored in the trunk. The battery provides extra power to an electric motor-generator that takes the place of an alternator. It assists the engine with up to 15 hp when the car is accelerating onto the highway, for example.
The electric motor in the so-called mild-hybrid system never powers the car all on its own, unlike the electric motor in a full hybrid such as the Prius. In the LaCrosse, the motor only assists the gasoline engine.
That's why the LaCrosse's city mpg rating trails that of luxury competitors like the Lincoln MKZ hybrid (41 city, 36 highway) or the Lexus HS hybrid (35 city, 34 highway).
But the LaCrosse with eAssist also costs $4,000 to $6,000 less than those vehicles. Buick is betting that buyers will like their return on investment.
Evolving industry
There's one more reason why GM isn't making a "hybrid" fuss.
With the Obama administration mulling a 56.2 mpg requirement by 2025, these sorts of fuel-economy advances simply are becoming the cost of doing business.
Sheri Hickok, GM's vehicle chief engineer for mid-sized and full-size vehicles, puts it this way: "The industry is evolving to where fuel economy itself is becoming the message, not some special technology."
Monday, July 18, 2011
Glitch-hunting Hyundai sweats the details
Rapid response to problems is paying off
Hyundai's best engineers were initially baffled by the reports.
Customers from Australia were complaining that the printing on interior door trim items such as window and lock controls was inexplicably smearing like wet paint.
It was 2009, and the South Korean automaker was well on its way to becoming a global powerhouse, thanks to huge strides in improving quality. Executive Vice President Shin Myeong-ki, chief of quality control, could ill afford any slip that would slow that momentum.
Tedious detective work uncovered the culprit -- and is an example of how an increasingly quality-conscious Hyundai Motor Co., fighting hard to bury memories of shoddily built cars, is sniffing out glitches one by one. There were only two cases from Down Under, but Shin ordered a full investigation.
"When the complaints came in, we were worried that it was a worldwide problem with the ink," Shin recalled in an interview at Hyundai's global headquarters here.
Engineers followed their noses: A certain perfume brand was reacting with the ink like solvent.
"But there are so many different perfumes, we had to buy boxes of different brands to test which one it was. Eventually we isolated it," says Shin, who politely declined to identify the offending fragrance. Hyundai changed the ink formula and today still tests cars for reactions to perfumes.
Sweating such details is one way Hyundai has transformed its image from a laggard in quality and reliability to an industry leader in 10 years. The work has paid off in top-tier recognition in assessments from J.D. Power and Associates, Consumer Reports and other third parties.
In 2011, Hyundai tumbled in the J.D. Power Initial Quality Study, falling to No. 11 from No. 7 in 2010 and No. 4 in 2009. The slips were attributed mostly to the launches of several new models over the past two years, including the Genesis Coupe in 2009 and the Elantra compact and Sonata sedan in 2010. But this year, Hyundai still cracked the top 10 for the first time in Power's Vehicle Dependability Study, edging Honda to rank third among nonpremium brands.
"This remains key for Hyundai's continued success as reliability/durability remains by far the most frequently mentioned factor by consumers when choosing a new vehicle," Raffi Festekjian, Power's director of automotive research, said of Hyundai's dependability study showing.
Hyundai's obsession with customer feedback highlights the growing importance of "soft quality," or customer perception of quality through touch and feel, fit and finish, and intuitive controls.
When Shin logs into e-mail each morning, the first thing he checks is a database of field complaints filed the previous day by customers and dealers worldwide.
Today's automakers generally are beyond bolts falling off or cars breaking down. The new frontier is perceived quality -- pre-empting costumer complaints or catching them before they multiply.
Failure to alert headquarters of trouble in the field is one reason Toyota Motor Corp. suffered last year's rash of recalls. The independent North American Quality Advisory Panel hired by Toyota to assess its problems zeroed in on that fact.
"Design quality issues, and drivers' complaints about them, will increasingly differentiate manufacturers in independent quality ratings," the panel warned in its May 23 report to Toyota.
"Avoiding these kinds of design problems is becoming more and more important to a vehicle's acceptability," the report said. "Avoiding such design quality problems requires monitoring systems to not only hear customers' voices but also to listen to them."
For Hyundai, that's preaching to the choir.
But it wasn't always that way. In the mid-1990s, Hyundai was nearly chased out of the United States because lackluster quality repelled customers otherwise won over by low sticker prices.
The road to redemption began in 1999, with the appointment of Chairman Chung Mong-koo.
Perception vs. reality
Chung put engineers, not businessmen, in charge. Quality task forces were set up in plants. The company focused on achieving top scores in the J.D. Power assessments.
It implemented the Motorola-pioneered Six Sigma business strategy for quality improvement. And Hyundai added more quality-control stations along assembly lines. Buffers at the end of lines provided room to adjust assembly speed and let workers fix problems.
The changes were a must for Hyundai to make good on the 100,000-mile powertrain warranty the company introduced in 1998 to lure customers and motivate its engineers.
The overhaul transformed Hyundai from a wannabe into one of the world's biggest manufacturers. Today, U.S. sales are booming, and the company has enough North American production capacity to lift 2011 sales above 600,000 units for a record.
But even Hyundai concedes its reputation for quality still trails the improvements.
"These days, many people say Hyundai's quality has improved," says Vice Chairman Shin Jong-woon, an aerospace engineer by training who oversees quality management and product planning at Hyundai and its Kia Motors Corp. affiliate. "But the perception has not quite caught up to the quality improvements."
Shin Jong-woon took over quality control at both brands in 2002, knowing he had to do something. So he began erecting a quality pyramid -- a kind of blueprint for building up the Hyundai brand.
Hyundai's best engineers were initially baffled by the reports.
Customers from Australia were complaining that the printing on interior door trim items such as window and lock controls was inexplicably smearing like wet paint.
It was 2009, and the South Korean automaker was well on its way to becoming a global powerhouse, thanks to huge strides in improving quality. Executive Vice President Shin Myeong-ki, chief of quality control, could ill afford any slip that would slow that momentum.
Tedious detective work uncovered the culprit -- and is an example of how an increasingly quality-conscious Hyundai Motor Co., fighting hard to bury memories of shoddily built cars, is sniffing out glitches one by one. There were only two cases from Down Under, but Shin ordered a full investigation.
"When the complaints came in, we were worried that it was a worldwide problem with the ink," Shin recalled in an interview at Hyundai's global headquarters here.
Engineers followed their noses: A certain perfume brand was reacting with the ink like solvent.
"But there are so many different perfumes, we had to buy boxes of different brands to test which one it was. Eventually we isolated it," says Shin, who politely declined to identify the offending fragrance. Hyundai changed the ink formula and today still tests cars for reactions to perfumes.
Sweating such details is one way Hyundai has transformed its image from a laggard in quality and reliability to an industry leader in 10 years. The work has paid off in top-tier recognition in assessments from J.D. Power and Associates, Consumer Reports and other third parties.
In 2011, Hyundai tumbled in the J.D. Power Initial Quality Study, falling to No. 11 from No. 7 in 2010 and No. 4 in 2009. The slips were attributed mostly to the launches of several new models over the past two years, including the Genesis Coupe in 2009 and the Elantra compact and Sonata sedan in 2010. But this year, Hyundai still cracked the top 10 for the first time in Power's Vehicle Dependability Study, edging Honda to rank third among nonpremium brands.
"This remains key for Hyundai's continued success as reliability/durability remains by far the most frequently mentioned factor by consumers when choosing a new vehicle," Raffi Festekjian, Power's director of automotive research, said of Hyundai's dependability study showing.
Hyundai's obsession with customer feedback highlights the growing importance of "soft quality," or customer perception of quality through touch and feel, fit and finish, and intuitive controls.
When Shin logs into e-mail each morning, the first thing he checks is a database of field complaints filed the previous day by customers and dealers worldwide.
Today's automakers generally are beyond bolts falling off or cars breaking down. The new frontier is perceived quality -- pre-empting costumer complaints or catching them before they multiply.
Failure to alert headquarters of trouble in the field is one reason Toyota Motor Corp. suffered last year's rash of recalls. The independent North American Quality Advisory Panel hired by Toyota to assess its problems zeroed in on that fact.
"Design quality issues, and drivers' complaints about them, will increasingly differentiate manufacturers in independent quality ratings," the panel warned in its May 23 report to Toyota.
"Avoiding these kinds of design problems is becoming more and more important to a vehicle's acceptability," the report said. "Avoiding such design quality problems requires monitoring systems to not only hear customers' voices but also to listen to them."
For Hyundai, that's preaching to the choir.
But it wasn't always that way. In the mid-1990s, Hyundai was nearly chased out of the United States because lackluster quality repelled customers otherwise won over by low sticker prices.
The road to redemption began in 1999, with the appointment of Chairman Chung Mong-koo.
Perception vs. reality
Chung put engineers, not businessmen, in charge. Quality task forces were set up in plants. The company focused on achieving top scores in the J.D. Power assessments.
It implemented the Motorola-pioneered Six Sigma business strategy for quality improvement. And Hyundai added more quality-control stations along assembly lines. Buffers at the end of lines provided room to adjust assembly speed and let workers fix problems.
The changes were a must for Hyundai to make good on the 100,000-mile powertrain warranty the company introduced in 1998 to lure customers and motivate its engineers.
The overhaul transformed Hyundai from a wannabe into one of the world's biggest manufacturers. Today, U.S. sales are booming, and the company has enough North American production capacity to lift 2011 sales above 600,000 units for a record.
But even Hyundai concedes its reputation for quality still trails the improvements.
"These days, many people say Hyundai's quality has improved," says Vice Chairman Shin Jong-woon, an aerospace engineer by training who oversees quality management and product planning at Hyundai and its Kia Motors Corp. affiliate. "But the perception has not quite caught up to the quality improvements."
Shin Jong-woon took over quality control at both brands in 2002, knowing he had to do something. So he began erecting a quality pyramid -- a kind of blueprint for building up the Hyundai brand.
Friday, July 15, 2011
FREE Wiring Diagrams - Automotive Electrical
Download Free Automotive Wiring Diagrams Free
www.freeautomechanic.com/wiringdiagrams.html
Need a wiring diagram for your car, truck or auto lighting or engine. We even offer Stereo wiring diagrams... The images are in ".pdf " format and require Adobe Acrobat Reader to be viewed at there highest quality. This will insure the ability to read the automotive wiring diagram with ease. Adobe Acrobat Reader is available as a free download at Adobe.com
As this is a free service it receives an overwhelming amount of requests and may take up to a week or longer for a response. Just submit a request for the wiring diagram you want (ex. "Need wiring diagram for charging system")
we will provide you with the a basic automotive wiring diagram in an email that can be viewed, saved or printed for future use . Automotive basic wiring diagrams are available free for domestic and asian vehicles. Some european wiring diagrams are available also.
Available Wiring Diagrams for Most cars and Trucks:
Air Conditioning
Anti-Lock Brakes
Anti-Theft
Body Computer
Computer Data Lines
Cruise Control
Defogger
Door Locks
Electronic Power Steering
Electronic Suspension
Engine Controls
Exterior Lights
Ground Distribution
Headlights
Horns
Instrument Cluster
Interior Lights
Memory Systems
Mirrors
Power Distribution
Power Windows
Seats
Shift Interlock
Sound Systems
Starting/Charging
Supplemental Restraints
Transmissions
Warning System
www.freeautomechanic.com/wiringdiagrams.html
Need a wiring diagram for your car, truck or auto lighting or engine. We even offer Stereo wiring diagrams... The images are in ".pdf " format and require Adobe Acrobat Reader to be viewed at there highest quality. This will insure the ability to read the automotive wiring diagram with ease. Adobe Acrobat Reader is available as a free download at Adobe.com
As this is a free service it receives an overwhelming amount of requests and may take up to a week or longer for a response. Just submit a request for the wiring diagram you want (ex. "Need wiring diagram for charging system")
we will provide you with the a basic automotive wiring diagram in an email that can be viewed, saved or printed for future use . Automotive basic wiring diagrams are available free for domestic and asian vehicles. Some european wiring diagrams are available also.
Available Wiring Diagrams for Most cars and Trucks:
Air Conditioning
Anti-Lock Brakes
Anti-Theft
Body Computer
Computer Data Lines
Cruise Control
Defogger
Door Locks
Electronic Power Steering
Electronic Suspension
Engine Controls
Exterior Lights
Ground Distribution
Headlights
Horns
Instrument Cluster
Interior Lights
Memory Systems
Mirrors
Power Distribution
Power Windows
Seats
Shift Interlock
Sound Systems
Starting/Charging
Supplemental Restraints
Transmissions
Warning System
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
VW, Ford lead in U.S. auto quality survey
Less than a month after Ford Motor Co. was pummeled in one quality survey, a second survey has ranked it the No. 2 highest-quality U.S. automaker.
The second survey, released by Strategic Vision Inc. on Tuesday, said that customers' overall feeling about their vehicles is more important than particular problems.
Volkswagen was the top-ranked car company in the survey, helped by the Golf, Jetta and Tiguan models.
Ford owners reported more problems with their vehicles than the industry average, but rated the overall quality of the vehicles highly, according to the survey. They were particularly happy with the Ford Mustang coupe and convertible, the Flex, and the F-150 and 250/350 pickup trucks.
"People think of quality in a very different sense than just counting problems," said Christopher Chaney, a Strategic Vision vice president in charge of automotive research.
A company's use of new technology or styling can also play important roles, he said.
On a statistical basis, Ford tied with American Honda and Nissan Motor Corp. for the No. 2 ranking. Still, Ford fared better in the Strategic Vision study than it did in a survey by J.D. Power and Associates last month, where it fell to 23rd place, its lowest ranking in a decade. The J.D. Power survey records difficulties faced by new car owners in the first 90 days of ownership.
Ford has recently been criticized for a clunky control system for its radios and difficult-to-use technology.
Strategic Vision survey
Strategic Vision asked car owners to rate all aspects of ownership, from the process of buying a vehicle to its performance. The 2011 survey included 37,069 buyers of 2011 model-year vehicles from September to December 2010.
Corporation Total quality score Percent reporting
Volkswagen of America 881 27
Ford Motor Co* 863 28
American Honda Motor* 862 19
Nissan Motor Corp* 862 21
INDUSTRY AVERAGE 861 24
General Motors Co** 860 27
Toyota Motor Sales 854 20
Chrysler Group 853 28
Hyundai Motor America 852 28
* Statistical tie
** Excludes Saab
The Strategic Vision survey asks car owners to rate all aspects of ownership, from the process of buying a vehicle to its performance. The 2011 survey included 37,069 buyers of 2011 vehicles from September to December 2010. This is the sixteenth year of the survey, which is paid for by manufacturers.
Surveys like the Strategic Vision survey and the J.D. Power survey that attempt to gauge consumer sentiment are key pieces of industry marketing materials and help shape consumer opinion. They also help set resale values and warranty costs.
The idea that a car owner's overall experience could trump minor problems with a vehicle rests on the premise that there are few serious problems, those problems are typically fixed immediately at the dealership, and styling details can have significant impact, according to the survey.
Besides Ford, Volkswagen of America and Hyundai Motor America have also benefited from an owner's overall experience, according to the survey.
On average, 30 percent of owners reported problems with Volkswagen's Jetta and Hyundai's Sonata, compared with 22 percent of owners reporting problems for all mid-size cars. Even so, the 2011 models of both vehicles had record sales, according to the survey. The higher incidence of problems didn't matter because Jetta and Sonata owners were happy with their overall purchase, according to the survey.
Hyundai ranked 8th -- last place -- because some of its non-Sonata models were poorly received and the period of the survey excluded some new models, Chaney said.
The second survey, released by Strategic Vision Inc. on Tuesday, said that customers' overall feeling about their vehicles is more important than particular problems.
Volkswagen was the top-ranked car company in the survey, helped by the Golf, Jetta and Tiguan models.
Ford owners reported more problems with their vehicles than the industry average, but rated the overall quality of the vehicles highly, according to the survey. They were particularly happy with the Ford Mustang coupe and convertible, the Flex, and the F-150 and 250/350 pickup trucks.
"People think of quality in a very different sense than just counting problems," said Christopher Chaney, a Strategic Vision vice president in charge of automotive research.
A company's use of new technology or styling can also play important roles, he said.
On a statistical basis, Ford tied with American Honda and Nissan Motor Corp. for the No. 2 ranking. Still, Ford fared better in the Strategic Vision study than it did in a survey by J.D. Power and Associates last month, where it fell to 23rd place, its lowest ranking in a decade. The J.D. Power survey records difficulties faced by new car owners in the first 90 days of ownership.
Ford has recently been criticized for a clunky control system for its radios and difficult-to-use technology.
Strategic Vision survey
Strategic Vision asked car owners to rate all aspects of ownership, from the process of buying a vehicle to its performance. The 2011 survey included 37,069 buyers of 2011 model-year vehicles from September to December 2010.
Corporation Total quality score Percent reporting
Volkswagen of America 881 27
Ford Motor Co* 863 28
American Honda Motor* 862 19
Nissan Motor Corp* 862 21
INDUSTRY AVERAGE 861 24
General Motors Co** 860 27
Toyota Motor Sales 854 20
Chrysler Group 853 28
Hyundai Motor America 852 28
* Statistical tie
** Excludes Saab
The Strategic Vision survey asks car owners to rate all aspects of ownership, from the process of buying a vehicle to its performance. The 2011 survey included 37,069 buyers of 2011 vehicles from September to December 2010. This is the sixteenth year of the survey, which is paid for by manufacturers.
Surveys like the Strategic Vision survey and the J.D. Power survey that attempt to gauge consumer sentiment are key pieces of industry marketing materials and help shape consumer opinion. They also help set resale values and warranty costs.
The idea that a car owner's overall experience could trump minor problems with a vehicle rests on the premise that there are few serious problems, those problems are typically fixed immediately at the dealership, and styling details can have significant impact, according to the survey.
Besides Ford, Volkswagen of America and Hyundai Motor America have also benefited from an owner's overall experience, according to the survey.
On average, 30 percent of owners reported problems with Volkswagen's Jetta and Hyundai's Sonata, compared with 22 percent of owners reporting problems for all mid-size cars. Even so, the 2011 models of both vehicles had record sales, according to the survey. The higher incidence of problems didn't matter because Jetta and Sonata owners were happy with their overall purchase, according to the survey.
Hyundai ranked 8th -- last place -- because some of its non-Sonata models were poorly received and the period of the survey excluded some new models, Chaney said.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Toyota sees Prius beating 2010 U.S. sales as supply grows
Toyota Motor Corp., with as little as one day's worth of Prius cars on dealers' lots after the March earthquake, says sales of the hybrid will still beat 2010.
Asia's largest automaker is racing to replenish supply after the lack of inventory led to a 61 percent drop in Prius deliveries in the U.S. in June, to the lowest level since September 2004. Almost half of Prius models are sold in the U.S., where the car accounts for more than 60 percent of hybrids sold since 1999, according to data supplied by automakers.
Prius, the company's No. 3 selling car after the Corolla and Camry, is the fastest-growing Toyota nameplate this year, even with the quake-depleted inventories. Demand for efficient cars has increased this year with higher fuel prices.
General Motors Co.'s Chevrolet Cruze was June's top-selling car in the U.S., while deliveries of Ford Motor Co.'s Focus rose 41 percent.
"Dealers simply cannot get their hands on them quick enough," said Ivan Drury, an analyst for Edmunds.com, an industry pricing and data Web site. The model "is easily the poster child for inventory issues."
Prior to the quake, Toyota targeted Prius sales in 2011 that would top the car's 2007 peak of 181,221. While that level may be out of reach for now, Toyota can still exceed 2010's deliveries of 140,928, said Donald Esmond, Toyota's senior vice president for U.S. sales.
Output increasing
Production of Prius and two Lexus hybrids is rebounding faster than Toyota first estimated after the 9-magnitude quake in March. The company expects to be back at full output by September, rather than its earlier target of late 2011.
The lack of available hybrids from Toyota has held the segment to 2.1 percent of industrywide U.S. sales so far this year. Even though Prius isn't among the automaker's most profitable lines, Toyota sees it as the best opportunity to win new customers in the next few years, said Jim Lentz, president of Toyota's U.S. sales unit.
The nameplate will be expanded to include the Prius v wagon, Prius c subcompact and plug-in Prius.
"By the end of this decade, the Prius nameplate will be the No. 1 passenger car nameplate in the industry," Lentz said in a July 6 phone interview. Boosting Prius supply, along with the introduction of the wagon version and a revamped Camry sedan later this year, gives the automaker a shot at making up for some sales lost in May and June.
Toyota also wants to ease a backlog for Prius that's pushed the wait time for consumers to as long as three months in some parts of the U.S. from none at the start of the year, said Jesse Toprak, an industry analyst.
'Least-available'
"At the moment, it's the least available of any mass- produced vehicle," said Toprak, with Truecar.com, an industry pricing and data company.
U.S. demand for fuel economy is up this year as gasoline prices approach 2008's record of $4.114 a gallon. While the fuel cost an average of $3.569 per gallon on July 5, down from $3.985 on May 4, the price is up 30 percent from a year ago, according to AAA's Daily Fuel Gauge Web site.
Higher prices at the pump buoyed sales of subcompacts and small cars, with such vehicles rising 21 percent this year through June, according to Autodata Corp. That compares with an 11 percent gain for midsize cars and a 4.7 percent drop for the large sedans, Autodata said.
High appeal
Prius' fuel-economy appeal has never been higher, said Bob Carter, Toyota's group vice president for U.S. sales. Interest in the car was up 36 percent in June from a year ago, based on consumer visits to Toyota's Prius Web site, according to Edmunds.com.
"I have extremely high demand, and the outlook is continuing to improve," Carter said in a June 22 interview. Failure to ramp up supply quick enough may blunt Toyota's goal to notch its first U.S. annual sales gain since 2007.
It also risks driving some buyers to models such as Ford's hybrid Fusion sedan and Hyundai Motor Co.'s new Sonata Hybrid, said Toprak. The growing selection of highly fuel-efficient, gasoline- engine small cars also threatens to lure away potential Prius buyers, said Edmunds.com's Drury.
"Some consumers might be willing to wait, but as time goes on and awareness of the many redesigned compact cars becomes higher, Toyota could suffer," Drury said.
Sales of the Prius in the first half were 66,520, little changed from 66,039 a year ago, when recalls of Toyota and Lexus models temporarily damped demand. Prius accounted for 8.2 percent of the company's U.S. sales during the period, while Camry deliveries were 18 percent and Corolla sales were 16.8 percent.
Prius inventory
Toyota's U.S. sales in the second quarter "slowed as inventories dropped and as a result, we find ourselves at virtually the same position we were a year ago on July 1," Esmond said on a July 1 conference call.
"We won't finish the year that way." While Toyota's Tsutsumi, Japan, plant that makes Prius and its Kyushu factory that builds hybrid Lexus CT200 hatchbacks and HS250 sedans weren't damaged by the March 11 disaster, parts needed for the cars grew scarce because of damages to suppliers' operation.
The automaker prioritized production of the three gasoline- electric cars after determining they were in the highest demand, said Shiori Hashimoto, a spokeswoman for the company.
"We worked hard to find out which components were critical, conditions of the supply chain, and how the limited car parts should be delivered to which assembly lines," said Hashimoto.
Speeding production
To restore Prius production as fast as possible after the quake, Toyota began sending about 150 workers from other factories in Japan to the Tsutsumi plant in late March, said Tomotaka Yagai, a spokesman at Toyota Motor Workers' Union in Toyota City.
Hashimoto declined to confirm the figure. So far, Toyota has only confirmed the U.S. will get a shipment of 36,000 Priuses that will arrive this month, with more on the way, Carter said.
"I can't give you a specific number, but it will improve significantly," he said, without elaborating.
Billy Rinker, general sales manager at Toyota Santa Monica, said a fresh supply of the cars has been arriving since late June. The Los Angeles-area dealership claims to be the largest seller of Prius in the U.S., with average monthly sales of 100 to 150 of the hybrids, he said.
Waiting list
"We only had 30 to sell last month, but July looks like we'll be back to about 80 percent of normal," Rinker said.
He estimates the dealership will sell about 100 this month. That won't eliminate the dealership's backlog. "We're still keeping a list and taking deposits for the car," Rinker said.
With the Prius v wagon, followed in 2012 by the subcompact Prius c and plug-in Prius, Toyota expects its "Prius family" to become its top-selling line within the decade, Carter said.
"A lot of our future plans are centered around the Prius and that goes into vehicle launches next fall," he said. Toyota said July 1 a new Camry and Camry Hybrid, Scion iQ minicar and revamped Yaris subcompact will arrive this year along with the v wagon.
The company is counting on those models, together with the jump in Prius supply and rebounding inventory of all its Toyota, Lexus and Scion products, to reverse a 4 percent slide in U.S. sales through June.
"It's coming back quicker than any of us expected," said Atkinson, who spoke by phone after attending Toyota's annual dealer meeting in Las Vegas last week. "Now it's time to go out and sell like hell."
Asia's largest automaker is racing to replenish supply after the lack of inventory led to a 61 percent drop in Prius deliveries in the U.S. in June, to the lowest level since September 2004. Almost half of Prius models are sold in the U.S., where the car accounts for more than 60 percent of hybrids sold since 1999, according to data supplied by automakers.
Prius, the company's No. 3 selling car after the Corolla and Camry, is the fastest-growing Toyota nameplate this year, even with the quake-depleted inventories. Demand for efficient cars has increased this year with higher fuel prices.
General Motors Co.'s Chevrolet Cruze was June's top-selling car in the U.S., while deliveries of Ford Motor Co.'s Focus rose 41 percent.
"Dealers simply cannot get their hands on them quick enough," said Ivan Drury, an analyst for Edmunds.com, an industry pricing and data Web site. The model "is easily the poster child for inventory issues."
Prior to the quake, Toyota targeted Prius sales in 2011 that would top the car's 2007 peak of 181,221. While that level may be out of reach for now, Toyota can still exceed 2010's deliveries of 140,928, said Donald Esmond, Toyota's senior vice president for U.S. sales.
Output increasing
Production of Prius and two Lexus hybrids is rebounding faster than Toyota first estimated after the 9-magnitude quake in March. The company expects to be back at full output by September, rather than its earlier target of late 2011.
The lack of available hybrids from Toyota has held the segment to 2.1 percent of industrywide U.S. sales so far this year. Even though Prius isn't among the automaker's most profitable lines, Toyota sees it as the best opportunity to win new customers in the next few years, said Jim Lentz, president of Toyota's U.S. sales unit.
The nameplate will be expanded to include the Prius v wagon, Prius c subcompact and plug-in Prius.
"By the end of this decade, the Prius nameplate will be the No. 1 passenger car nameplate in the industry," Lentz said in a July 6 phone interview. Boosting Prius supply, along with the introduction of the wagon version and a revamped Camry sedan later this year, gives the automaker a shot at making up for some sales lost in May and June.
Toyota also wants to ease a backlog for Prius that's pushed the wait time for consumers to as long as three months in some parts of the U.S. from none at the start of the year, said Jesse Toprak, an industry analyst.
'Least-available'
"At the moment, it's the least available of any mass- produced vehicle," said Toprak, with Truecar.com, an industry pricing and data company.
U.S. demand for fuel economy is up this year as gasoline prices approach 2008's record of $4.114 a gallon. While the fuel cost an average of $3.569 per gallon on July 5, down from $3.985 on May 4, the price is up 30 percent from a year ago, according to AAA's Daily Fuel Gauge Web site.
Higher prices at the pump buoyed sales of subcompacts and small cars, with such vehicles rising 21 percent this year through June, according to Autodata Corp. That compares with an 11 percent gain for midsize cars and a 4.7 percent drop for the large sedans, Autodata said.
High appeal
Prius' fuel-economy appeal has never been higher, said Bob Carter, Toyota's group vice president for U.S. sales. Interest in the car was up 36 percent in June from a year ago, based on consumer visits to Toyota's Prius Web site, according to Edmunds.com.
"I have extremely high demand, and the outlook is continuing to improve," Carter said in a June 22 interview. Failure to ramp up supply quick enough may blunt Toyota's goal to notch its first U.S. annual sales gain since 2007.
It also risks driving some buyers to models such as Ford's hybrid Fusion sedan and Hyundai Motor Co.'s new Sonata Hybrid, said Toprak. The growing selection of highly fuel-efficient, gasoline- engine small cars also threatens to lure away potential Prius buyers, said Edmunds.com's Drury.
"Some consumers might be willing to wait, but as time goes on and awareness of the many redesigned compact cars becomes higher, Toyota could suffer," Drury said.
Sales of the Prius in the first half were 66,520, little changed from 66,039 a year ago, when recalls of Toyota and Lexus models temporarily damped demand. Prius accounted for 8.2 percent of the company's U.S. sales during the period, while Camry deliveries were 18 percent and Corolla sales were 16.8 percent.
Prius inventory
Toyota's U.S. sales in the second quarter "slowed as inventories dropped and as a result, we find ourselves at virtually the same position we were a year ago on July 1," Esmond said on a July 1 conference call.
"We won't finish the year that way." While Toyota's Tsutsumi, Japan, plant that makes Prius and its Kyushu factory that builds hybrid Lexus CT200 hatchbacks and HS250 sedans weren't damaged by the March 11 disaster, parts needed for the cars grew scarce because of damages to suppliers' operation.
The automaker prioritized production of the three gasoline- electric cars after determining they were in the highest demand, said Shiori Hashimoto, a spokeswoman for the company.
"We worked hard to find out which components were critical, conditions of the supply chain, and how the limited car parts should be delivered to which assembly lines," said Hashimoto.
Speeding production
To restore Prius production as fast as possible after the quake, Toyota began sending about 150 workers from other factories in Japan to the Tsutsumi plant in late March, said Tomotaka Yagai, a spokesman at Toyota Motor Workers' Union in Toyota City.
Hashimoto declined to confirm the figure. So far, Toyota has only confirmed the U.S. will get a shipment of 36,000 Priuses that will arrive this month, with more on the way, Carter said.
"I can't give you a specific number, but it will improve significantly," he said, without elaborating.
Billy Rinker, general sales manager at Toyota Santa Monica, said a fresh supply of the cars has been arriving since late June. The Los Angeles-area dealership claims to be the largest seller of Prius in the U.S., with average monthly sales of 100 to 150 of the hybrids, he said.
Waiting list
"We only had 30 to sell last month, but July looks like we'll be back to about 80 percent of normal," Rinker said.
He estimates the dealership will sell about 100 this month. That won't eliminate the dealership's backlog. "We're still keeping a list and taking deposits for the car," Rinker said.
With the Prius v wagon, followed in 2012 by the subcompact Prius c and plug-in Prius, Toyota expects its "Prius family" to become its top-selling line within the decade, Carter said.
"A lot of our future plans are centered around the Prius and that goes into vehicle launches next fall," he said. Toyota said July 1 a new Camry and Camry Hybrid, Scion iQ minicar and revamped Yaris subcompact will arrive this year along with the v wagon.
The company is counting on those models, together with the jump in Prius supply and rebounding inventory of all its Toyota, Lexus and Scion products, to reverse a 4 percent slide in U.S. sales through June.
"It's coming back quicker than any of us expected," said Atkinson, who spoke by phone after attending Toyota's annual dealer meeting in Las Vegas last week. "Now it's time to go out and sell like hell."
Friday, July 8, 2011
GM to test offering insurance for 1 year to buyers in Northwest
General Motors -- testing a new sales promotion -- is offering Oregonians and Washingtonians a new incentive to buy or lease a GM vehicle.
Any driver from the two states who buys or leases a new vehicle through Sept. 6 and titles the vehicle in either state will receive a free one-year automobile insurance policy from MetLife Auto & Home.
The offer is part of a GM pilot program to see if offering a year’s worth of free insurance boosts sales.
GM chose Oregon and Washington to launch the program because the automaker has had traditionally weak sales there, GM spokesman Tom Henderson said.
The offer includes 2010, 2011 and 2012 models, GM said.
GM's U.S. sales are up 17 percent this year in a market that has advanced 13 percent.
If the pilot is successful, GM would consider expanding the program to other markets, Henderson said.
The policy covers the vehicle and any driver as long as the initial customer owns or leases the vehicle. Drivers aren’t required to accept the MetLife insurance.
Any driver with a valid operator's license is eligible for the offer, Henderson said. Commercial and fleet customers are not eligible.
The insurance incorporates liability and physical damage coverage, exceeding the legally required amount of coverage in both states, GM said.
Liability coverage is capped at $100,000 per person, and up to $300,000 per occurrence. Collision coverage is limited to the value of the vehicle.
MetLife’s policy stipulates that if a vehicle is totaled within a year of purchase or before 15,000 miles, the insurer will repair or replace the vehicle without deducting for depreciation, GM said.
“This offer enhances the vehicle’s value proposition because our policy is considered one of the most comprehensive in the industry,” Bill Moore, president of MetLife Auto & Home, said in a statement. “Our new car replacement feature is a benefit not found in most auto policies.”
Any driver from the two states who buys or leases a new vehicle through Sept. 6 and titles the vehicle in either state will receive a free one-year automobile insurance policy from MetLife Auto & Home.
The offer is part of a GM pilot program to see if offering a year’s worth of free insurance boosts sales.
GM chose Oregon and Washington to launch the program because the automaker has had traditionally weak sales there, GM spokesman Tom Henderson said.
The offer includes 2010, 2011 and 2012 models, GM said.
GM's U.S. sales are up 17 percent this year in a market that has advanced 13 percent.
If the pilot is successful, GM would consider expanding the program to other markets, Henderson said.
The policy covers the vehicle and any driver as long as the initial customer owns or leases the vehicle. Drivers aren’t required to accept the MetLife insurance.
Any driver with a valid operator's license is eligible for the offer, Henderson said. Commercial and fleet customers are not eligible.
The insurance incorporates liability and physical damage coverage, exceeding the legally required amount of coverage in both states, GM said.
Liability coverage is capped at $100,000 per person, and up to $300,000 per occurrence. Collision coverage is limited to the value of the vehicle.
MetLife’s policy stipulates that if a vehicle is totaled within a year of purchase or before 15,000 miles, the insurer will repair or replace the vehicle without deducting for depreciation, GM said.
“This offer enhances the vehicle’s value proposition because our policy is considered one of the most comprehensive in the industry,” Bill Moore, president of MetLife Auto & Home, said in a statement. “Our new car replacement feature is a benefit not found in most auto policies.”
Thursday, July 7, 2011
the motor is very hot, but isn't, chugging, no power. Hard to start
I would like to thank all that have responded in regards to the catalytic converter.
Last year, with the same symptoms, we punched holes in the converter. Alot of stuff blew out and was fine~after fixing the broken spark plug and cracked coil pack. The muffler shop plugged the holes when had the tailpipe fixed. We thought maybe it was just plugging up again, so we put the holes back in it. But alas, we still have the same problems.
I checked for broken plugs~none. I did find a bad vac line and taped it up for the time being. Now, I would like to see if the second coil is cracked, but cannot figure how to get it off. I took the one bolt out that I could see and it won't come off. I took the bolt out for the other pack, figuring it was holding second one on. Nothing. How to I get that thing off? We replaced the one marked 2 & 3. Now I would like to get 1 & 4 off to check it.
I incorrectly stated the year of my truck in my first message. It is a 1994, 4 cyl, automatic, S-10. My mechanic brother passed away, so I now have no one that can do the back yard stuff. Frustrating.
It acts like a vac line has come off, but they are all on now. Acts like the motor is very hot, but isn't, chugging, no power. Hard to start. We can be driving fine, then starts the no power and chugging. Last year, we would just pull over and shut it off for a few minutes and it would be fine to get home. I drove it two blocks this morning after fixing the one vac line. Was fine until I got half way around. I just came straight back home. It is fine at idle.
How do I get the coil pack off?
Last year, with the same symptoms, we punched holes in the converter. Alot of stuff blew out and was fine~after fixing the broken spark plug and cracked coil pack. The muffler shop plugged the holes when had the tailpipe fixed. We thought maybe it was just plugging up again, so we put the holes back in it. But alas, we still have the same problems.
I checked for broken plugs~none. I did find a bad vac line and taped it up for the time being. Now, I would like to see if the second coil is cracked, but cannot figure how to get it off. I took the one bolt out that I could see and it won't come off. I took the bolt out for the other pack, figuring it was holding second one on. Nothing. How to I get that thing off? We replaced the one marked 2 & 3. Now I would like to get 1 & 4 off to check it.
I incorrectly stated the year of my truck in my first message. It is a 1994, 4 cyl, automatic, S-10. My mechanic brother passed away, so I now have no one that can do the back yard stuff. Frustrating.
It acts like a vac line has come off, but they are all on now. Acts like the motor is very hot, but isn't, chugging, no power. Hard to start. We can be driving fine, then starts the no power and chugging. Last year, we would just pull over and shut it off for a few minutes and it would be fine to get home. I drove it two blocks this morning after fixing the one vac line. Was fine until I got half way around. I just came straight back home. It is fine at idle.
How do I get the coil pack off?
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
56-mpg plan isn't written in stone
Automakers say feds seem open to changes
Automakers say the Obama administration appears not to be wedded to the 56.2-mpg target for 2025 it floated last week and may be open to other refinements.
The manufacturers are pushing for a single national program while expressing concern in private talks with the White House that the standard may be too tough.
They are arguing that no decisions should be made until new forecasts of manufacturers' technology, costs and sales become available.
Environmental advocates who had been calling for a 62-mpg standard expressed support last week for a target of 56.2 mpg, or annual increases of 5 percent after the 2016 model year.
An administration study last fall found that the technology required to meet 5 percent yearly mpg increases would increase the cost of the average 2025-model vehicle by up to $2,600 and produce fuel savings of up to $7,000 over the life of the vehicle.
The Detroit 3 also are proposing that annual mpg increases be low in the early part of the nine-year period until advanced technology can be developed, and that periodic reviews be held.
This snapshot of the ongoing multiparty negotiations comes from industry officials who asked not to be identified. A rule for the 2017-25 model years is scheduled to be proposed in September and made final next July.
Automakers that met with California Gov. Jerry Brown said they got the impression that the state -- which has been an adversary in the past -- would not pose major obstacles to an agreement.
Some manufacturers' public comments also convey cautious optimism that their goal of a single nationwide program can be met.
"Ford believes that the meetings have been productive," a spokeswoman said. "We support increasing fuel economy requirements with one national program that is data-driven."
Automakers have been meeting with the administration and California regulators to build on the 2016-model standard of 35.5 mpg. They have considered 2025 standards of 47 to 62 mpg.
Automakers say the Obama administration appears not to be wedded to the 56.2-mpg target for 2025 it floated last week and may be open to other refinements.
The manufacturers are pushing for a single national program while expressing concern in private talks with the White House that the standard may be too tough.
They are arguing that no decisions should be made until new forecasts of manufacturers' technology, costs and sales become available.
Environmental advocates who had been calling for a 62-mpg standard expressed support last week for a target of 56.2 mpg, or annual increases of 5 percent after the 2016 model year.
An administration study last fall found that the technology required to meet 5 percent yearly mpg increases would increase the cost of the average 2025-model vehicle by up to $2,600 and produce fuel savings of up to $7,000 over the life of the vehicle.
The Detroit 3 also are proposing that annual mpg increases be low in the early part of the nine-year period until advanced technology can be developed, and that periodic reviews be held.
This snapshot of the ongoing multiparty negotiations comes from industry officials who asked not to be identified. A rule for the 2017-25 model years is scheduled to be proposed in September and made final next July.
Automakers that met with California Gov. Jerry Brown said they got the impression that the state -- which has been an adversary in the past -- would not pose major obstacles to an agreement.
Some manufacturers' public comments also convey cautious optimism that their goal of a single nationwide program can be met.
"Ford believes that the meetings have been productive," a spokeswoman said. "We support increasing fuel economy requirements with one national program that is data-driven."
Automakers have been meeting with the administration and California regulators to build on the 2016-model standard of 35.5 mpg. They have considered 2025 standards of 47 to 62 mpg.
Friday, July 1, 2011
GM takes low-key approach to mild-hybrid technology
Stroll around the soon-to-launch 2012 Buick LaCrosse and look for the shiny logo that touts General Motors' latest gas-saving technology, eAssist.
You won't find one.
There's no badge. No attempt to brand eAssist as a breakthrough green technology -- even though the hybrid seems worthy of at least its own little green decal.
eAssist combines an electric motor-generator, brake regeneration and a menu of other little tricks to boost fuel economy by 25 percent, to 25 mpg in city driving and 36 mpg on the highway.
But Buick executives want to keep the focus on the car and let the technology sit quietly in the background.
"The focus isn't 'Come in and buy this new technology,'" Roger McCormack, Buick's product marketing director, said during a media event here. "It's 'Come in and experience all the same great things about the LaCrosse. And oh, by the way, here's a big boost in fuel economy."
It seems GM has learned from its mistakes.
Five years ago, GM rolled out "Hybrid" versions of the Chevrolet Malibu and Saturn Aura, based on an earlier, weaker version of the eAssist technology. Shoppers thought "Toyota Prius" -- until they found that the technology only eked out a few extra mpg.
Sales flopped.
This time, the term "hybrid" won't appear on the vehicle or in any of the upcoming LaCrosse advertising.
The 2012 LaCrosse goes on sale this summer with eAssist as the standard powertrain, along with a 2.4-liter, direct-injected 4-cylinder engine and six-speed transmission. Buyers can get a new, more powerful version of the LaCrosse's 3.6-liter V-6 (17 city, 27 highway) for the same price ($30,820, including freight).
Noticing the mpg
Sure, eAssist will get plenty of play when national ads roll out this fall. And GM will use dealer tutorial videos and live demos so sales folks can negotiate those "It's-not-exactly-a-hybrid" discussions with customers.
But I'll bet most buyers will pay only passing heed to how the technology works -- and will stare long and hard at that difference in mpg.
eAssist uses regenerative braking to charge a small lithium-ion battery stored in the trunk. The battery provides extra power to an electric motor-generator that takes the place of an alternator. It assists the engine with up to 15 hp when the car is accelerating onto the highway, for example.
The electric motor in the so-called mild-hybrid system never powers the car all on its own, unlike the electric motor in a full hybrid such as the Prius. In the LaCrosse, the motor only assists the gasoline engine.
That's why the LaCrosse's city mpg rating trails that of luxury competitors like the Lincoln MKZ hybrid (41 city, 36 highway) or the Lexus HS hybrid (35 city, 34 highway).
But the LaCrosse with eAssist also costs $4,000 to $6,000 less than those vehicles. Buick is betting that buyers will like their return on investment.
Evolving industry
There's one more reason why GM isn't making a "hybrid" fuss.
With the Obama administration mulling a 56.2 mpg requirement by 2025, these sorts of fuel-economy advances simply are becoming the cost of doing business.
Sheri Hickok, GM's vehicle chief engineer for mid-sized and full-size vehicles, puts it this way: "The industry is evolving to where fuel economy itself is becoming the message, not some special technology."
You won't find one.
There's no badge. No attempt to brand eAssist as a breakthrough green technology -- even though the hybrid seems worthy of at least its own little green decal.
eAssist combines an electric motor-generator, brake regeneration and a menu of other little tricks to boost fuel economy by 25 percent, to 25 mpg in city driving and 36 mpg on the highway.
But Buick executives want to keep the focus on the car and let the technology sit quietly in the background.
"The focus isn't 'Come in and buy this new technology,'" Roger McCormack, Buick's product marketing director, said during a media event here. "It's 'Come in and experience all the same great things about the LaCrosse. And oh, by the way, here's a big boost in fuel economy."
It seems GM has learned from its mistakes.
Five years ago, GM rolled out "Hybrid" versions of the Chevrolet Malibu and Saturn Aura, based on an earlier, weaker version of the eAssist technology. Shoppers thought "Toyota Prius" -- until they found that the technology only eked out a few extra mpg.
Sales flopped.
This time, the term "hybrid" won't appear on the vehicle or in any of the upcoming LaCrosse advertising.
The 2012 LaCrosse goes on sale this summer with eAssist as the standard powertrain, along with a 2.4-liter, direct-injected 4-cylinder engine and six-speed transmission. Buyers can get a new, more powerful version of the LaCrosse's 3.6-liter V-6 (17 city, 27 highway) for the same price ($30,820, including freight).
Noticing the mpg
Sure, eAssist will get plenty of play when national ads roll out this fall. And GM will use dealer tutorial videos and live demos so sales folks can negotiate those "It's-not-exactly-a-hybrid" discussions with customers.
But I'll bet most buyers will pay only passing heed to how the technology works -- and will stare long and hard at that difference in mpg.
eAssist uses regenerative braking to charge a small lithium-ion battery stored in the trunk. The battery provides extra power to an electric motor-generator that takes the place of an alternator. It assists the engine with up to 15 hp when the car is accelerating onto the highway, for example.
The electric motor in the so-called mild-hybrid system never powers the car all on its own, unlike the electric motor in a full hybrid such as the Prius. In the LaCrosse, the motor only assists the gasoline engine.
That's why the LaCrosse's city mpg rating trails that of luxury competitors like the Lincoln MKZ hybrid (41 city, 36 highway) or the Lexus HS hybrid (35 city, 34 highway).
But the LaCrosse with eAssist also costs $4,000 to $6,000 less than those vehicles. Buick is betting that buyers will like their return on investment.
Evolving industry
There's one more reason why GM isn't making a "hybrid" fuss.
With the Obama administration mulling a 56.2 mpg requirement by 2025, these sorts of fuel-economy advances simply are becoming the cost of doing business.
Sheri Hickok, GM's vehicle chief engineer for mid-sized and full-size vehicles, puts it this way: "The industry is evolving to where fuel economy itself is becoming the message, not some special technology."
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Toyota Camry tops Cars.com American-made index for 3rd straight year
For the third straight year, the Toyota Camry mid-sized sedan tops the 10 vehicles in Cars.com's annual American-Made Index.
The index ranks U.S.-assembled vehicles based on the percentage of their parts made in the United States and the number of vehicles sold to domestic consumers. At least 75 percent of the parts in every vehicle on the list were made in the United States.
"The Camry remains an incredibly popular vehicle, and higher total sales require a higher number of U.S. factory workers and a larger number of U.S. suppliers -- all of which contribute to Toyota's ranking," Cars.com's editor-in-chief, Patrick Olsen, said in a statement.
Most Camrys are assembled at Toyota's Georgetown, Ky., plant, which employs 6,429 people.
About 25 percent of Camrys are made at Subaru's plant in Lafayette, Ind., Toyota spokesman Jim Wiseman said. Toyota contracts with Subaru to make the vehicles, Wiseman said.
Through May 31, Toyota sold 125,218 domestically made Camrys in the United States and about 80 percent of the parts in the Camry are made domestically, Olsen said.
Wiseman said today that the company was committed to using locally made parts.
"Part of Toyota's guiding principles is to support the communities where we're based," Wiseman said. "The best way we can do that is by using locally made parts."
While it's advantageous for foreign automakers to use U.S.-made parts, Olsen said the Detroit 3 use fewer locally made parts to cut costs and better compete globally.
"They've lessened their domestic parts content but strengthened their bottom line," Olsen said in a telephone interview.
Two other Toyota vehicles cracked the top 10: the Sienna minivan at No. 6 and the Tundra full-sized pickup at No. 9 . With three vehicles in the rankings, Toyota tied General Motors for the most vehicles in the top 10.
GM's Chevrolet Malibu mid-sized sedan ranked third, up from fifth last year. The Chevrolet Traverse crossover was No. 8 and the GMC Acadia crossover rounded out the list at No. 10. Neither the Traverse nor the Acadia was on the list last year.
For the second straight year, the Honda Accord claimed the second spot in the rankings. The Accord is built at the automaker's Marysville, Ohio, plant and 120,035 American made units were sold in the first five months of 2011.
Honda's Odyssey minivan also made the list, coming in at No. 5.
The Chicago-made Ford Explorer made its debut on this year's list at No. 4 and is the only Ford Motor Co. vehicle to make the rankings. According to Olsen, 85 percent of the Explorer's parts are made in the United States.
The Jeep Wrangler, ranked No. 7, is the only Chrysler vehicle on the list.
The index ranks U.S.-assembled vehicles based on the percentage of their parts made in the United States and the number of vehicles sold to domestic consumers. At least 75 percent of the parts in every vehicle on the list were made in the United States.
"The Camry remains an incredibly popular vehicle, and higher total sales require a higher number of U.S. factory workers and a larger number of U.S. suppliers -- all of which contribute to Toyota's ranking," Cars.com's editor-in-chief, Patrick Olsen, said in a statement.
Most Camrys are assembled at Toyota's Georgetown, Ky., plant, which employs 6,429 people.
About 25 percent of Camrys are made at Subaru's plant in Lafayette, Ind., Toyota spokesman Jim Wiseman said. Toyota contracts with Subaru to make the vehicles, Wiseman said.
Through May 31, Toyota sold 125,218 domestically made Camrys in the United States and about 80 percent of the parts in the Camry are made domestically, Olsen said.
Wiseman said today that the company was committed to using locally made parts.
"Part of Toyota's guiding principles is to support the communities where we're based," Wiseman said. "The best way we can do that is by using locally made parts."
While it's advantageous for foreign automakers to use U.S.-made parts, Olsen said the Detroit 3 use fewer locally made parts to cut costs and better compete globally.
"They've lessened their domestic parts content but strengthened their bottom line," Olsen said in a telephone interview.
Two other Toyota vehicles cracked the top 10: the Sienna minivan at No. 6 and the Tundra full-sized pickup at No. 9 . With three vehicles in the rankings, Toyota tied General Motors for the most vehicles in the top 10.
GM's Chevrolet Malibu mid-sized sedan ranked third, up from fifth last year. The Chevrolet Traverse crossover was No. 8 and the GMC Acadia crossover rounded out the list at No. 10. Neither the Traverse nor the Acadia was on the list last year.
For the second straight year, the Honda Accord claimed the second spot in the rankings. The Accord is built at the automaker's Marysville, Ohio, plant and 120,035 American made units were sold in the first five months of 2011.
Honda's Odyssey minivan also made the list, coming in at No. 5.
The Chicago-made Ford Explorer made its debut on this year's list at No. 4 and is the only Ford Motor Co. vehicle to make the rankings. According to Olsen, 85 percent of the Explorer's parts are made in the United States.
The Jeep Wrangler, ranked No. 7, is the only Chrysler vehicle on the list.
Monday, June 27, 2011
The scramble for scarce tires
Automakers pay more as supply tightens
North American automakers are struggling with a nagging shortage of tires, caused in part by tire plant closings and rising demand for low-volume specialty tires.
Automakers are paying much higher prices -- double-digit percentage increases from a year ago -- as tire makers gain pricing power.
"We have been bombarded from every side for additional tires, and we can't keep up," said David O'Donnell, Continental Tire's vice president of original equipment in the Americas. "We are at maximum capacity, and all shifts are maxed out."
The shortage doesn't appear to have significantly crimped production plans, though automakers are scrambling to secure supplies. Earlier this year, Dan Knott, Chrysler Group's senior vice president of purchasing and supplier quality, said the company was short of premium tires for some nameplates.
"The tire shortage will not clear up over the next year," Knott predicted. "It's going to take awhile."
Automakers pay as little as $75 per tire for low-end models to as much as $300 or more for high-performance tires.
To meet demand, Continental will expand plants in Illinois and Brazil and will build a factory somewhere in North America. But this will take time. The new lines in Illinois and Brazil won't hit full production until 2013, O'Donnell said.
Continental is investing $224 million to expand its plant in Mount Vernon, Ill., plus $210 million to expand its plant in Camacari, Brazil.
Other tire makers also are maxed out. Michelin is running its North American plants at full capacity, although it has met some requests for more tires, Vice President Rob Murray said in a recent interview.
The shortages come at a time when demand is rising. According to a forecast by consulting firm IHS Automotive, automakers in the United States and Canada will buy 62 million tires for new vehicles this year.
That's up from 55 million tires in 2010. By 2016, North American demand for original equipment tires will rise to 79 million units, IHS estimates.
Fewer tire factories
Bruce Harrison, IHS Automotive's director of North American consulting, says the shortage won't be solved any time soon.
"There are a lot more tire sizes in the marketplace now, and it doesn't look like that trend is slowing," Harrison said. Producing extra tire sizes and low-volume specialty lines reduce a standard tire plant's capacity.
To make things worse, tire makers had been cutting back on North American production capacity before the recession. In 2006 and 2007 alone, four U.S. tire plants were closed, according to The New York Times.
Plant closures eliminated about 71 million units of U.S. capacity, John Baratta, president of replacement tire sales for the United States and Canada at Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations, said in a June article in Automotive News' sister publication Tire Business.
Meanwhile, tire manufacturers were opening factories in China that flooded the U.S. market with cheap tires. But in September 2009 the Obama administration slapped a three-year tariff on imported Chinese tires.
The tax started at 35 percent of a tire's value declining to 30 percent and 25 percent in the second and third years. The import tax expires in September 2012.
Tire prices have "moved up very sharply" since 2009, said Saul Ludwig, an auto analyst at Northcoast Research, an equity research firm in Cleveland. Increases in the cost of rubber and other materials used in tire manufacturing, including steel, have tightened supplies and driven costs higher.
Soaring costs
Since 2005, the combined prices of natural and synthetic rubber, carbon black, steel cord, fabric and other materials have risen nearly every year, with jumps of 56 percent in 2010, and 47 percent in 2009, Bridgestone's Baratta said.
Continental, Michelin North America Inc., Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. and other major tire makers have raised prices several times in the past few years to offset rising raw-materials costs.
Automakers and tire companies don't disclose original-equipment prices. But rising prices for replacement tires suggest what's going on in the original-equipment market.
For example, Michelin said the company has raised prices three times over the past year on car and light-truck replacement tires: an 8.5 percent increase on May 1; a November 2010 increase that the company wouldn't quantify; and a 6 percent increase last June.
Despite the headaches, automakers appear to be muddling through. During an interview last week, Tony Brown, Ford's group vice president of global purchasing, said Ford's vehicle production plans this year will not be affected by tight supplies of tires or other components.
"We have enough tires," Brown said. "We will deliver the production plan, with the tires to support those plans."
North American automakers are struggling with a nagging shortage of tires, caused in part by tire plant closings and rising demand for low-volume specialty tires.
Automakers are paying much higher prices -- double-digit percentage increases from a year ago -- as tire makers gain pricing power.
"We have been bombarded from every side for additional tires, and we can't keep up," said David O'Donnell, Continental Tire's vice president of original equipment in the Americas. "We are at maximum capacity, and all shifts are maxed out."
The shortage doesn't appear to have significantly crimped production plans, though automakers are scrambling to secure supplies. Earlier this year, Dan Knott, Chrysler Group's senior vice president of purchasing and supplier quality, said the company was short of premium tires for some nameplates.
"The tire shortage will not clear up over the next year," Knott predicted. "It's going to take awhile."
Automakers pay as little as $75 per tire for low-end models to as much as $300 or more for high-performance tires.
To meet demand, Continental will expand plants in Illinois and Brazil and will build a factory somewhere in North America. But this will take time. The new lines in Illinois and Brazil won't hit full production until 2013, O'Donnell said.
Continental is investing $224 million to expand its plant in Mount Vernon, Ill., plus $210 million to expand its plant in Camacari, Brazil.
Other tire makers also are maxed out. Michelin is running its North American plants at full capacity, although it has met some requests for more tires, Vice President Rob Murray said in a recent interview.
The shortages come at a time when demand is rising. According to a forecast by consulting firm IHS Automotive, automakers in the United States and Canada will buy 62 million tires for new vehicles this year.
That's up from 55 million tires in 2010. By 2016, North American demand for original equipment tires will rise to 79 million units, IHS estimates.
Fewer tire factories
Bruce Harrison, IHS Automotive's director of North American consulting, says the shortage won't be solved any time soon.
"There are a lot more tire sizes in the marketplace now, and it doesn't look like that trend is slowing," Harrison said. Producing extra tire sizes and low-volume specialty lines reduce a standard tire plant's capacity.
To make things worse, tire makers had been cutting back on North American production capacity before the recession. In 2006 and 2007 alone, four U.S. tire plants were closed, according to The New York Times.
Plant closures eliminated about 71 million units of U.S. capacity, John Baratta, president of replacement tire sales for the United States and Canada at Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations, said in a June article in Automotive News' sister publication Tire Business.
Meanwhile, tire manufacturers were opening factories in China that flooded the U.S. market with cheap tires. But in September 2009 the Obama administration slapped a three-year tariff on imported Chinese tires.
The tax started at 35 percent of a tire's value declining to 30 percent and 25 percent in the second and third years. The import tax expires in September 2012.
Tire prices have "moved up very sharply" since 2009, said Saul Ludwig, an auto analyst at Northcoast Research, an equity research firm in Cleveland. Increases in the cost of rubber and other materials used in tire manufacturing, including steel, have tightened supplies and driven costs higher.
Soaring costs
Since 2005, the combined prices of natural and synthetic rubber, carbon black, steel cord, fabric and other materials have risen nearly every year, with jumps of 56 percent in 2010, and 47 percent in 2009, Bridgestone's Baratta said.
Continental, Michelin North America Inc., Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. and other major tire makers have raised prices several times in the past few years to offset rising raw-materials costs.
Automakers and tire companies don't disclose original-equipment prices. But rising prices for replacement tires suggest what's going on in the original-equipment market.
For example, Michelin said the company has raised prices three times over the past year on car and light-truck replacement tires: an 8.5 percent increase on May 1; a November 2010 increase that the company wouldn't quantify; and a 6 percent increase last June.
Despite the headaches, automakers appear to be muddling through. During an interview last week, Tony Brown, Ford's group vice president of global purchasing, said Ford's vehicle production plans this year will not be affected by tight supplies of tires or other components.
"We have enough tires," Brown said. "We will deliver the production plan, with the tires to support those plans."
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Chrysler prepares to build Dodge small car
Chrysler Group LLC said it plans to begin test production in the second half of this year of the small car that will trigger U.S. government requirements to increase Fiat S.p.A.'s ownership stake.
Tooling for the small Dodge brand car will be installed at Chrysler's Belvidere, Ill., assembly plant in August, said Fred Goedtel, head of Chrysler's vehicle assembly operations.
"We'll start pilots in the fall" and official production begins "sometime" in the first quarter, he said.
Design work on the car, which is the vehicle Chrysler expects will trigger the final government ownership milestone, is done, said Ralph Gilles, head of Chrysler design.
"The company is really focused on it," he said of the vehicle.
Fiat is moving fast to consolidate control over Chrysler.
The Italian automaker is buying the U.S. Treasury Department's final stake in the U.S. automaker that was acquired as part of Chrysler's 2009 bankruptcy reorganization.
That purchase will raise Fiat's stake to 52 percent. Chrysler must test and commit to building a vehicle in the U.S. that achieves 40 mpg for Fiat to gain another 5 percent stake.
Its deal with the U.S. and Canada allowed Fiat to gain as much as 35 percent in Chrysler without paying cash in exchange for giving management experience and technology to Chrysler.
Fiat was also required to achieve various performance milestones.
The 40 mpg vehicle is the final such milestone. Fiat also exercised an option to purchase 16 percent of the company after Chrysler repaid the U.S. and Canadian government loans in May.
Sergio Marchionne, chief executive officer of both automakers, has said he expects Fiat will get its final 5 percent tied to the 40 mpg car by year's end.
The small Dodge car is based on Fiat's Alfa Romeo Giulietta, Marchionne has said. Gilles said the new Dodge model's name was decided earlier this week.
But he declined to provide the name.
Tooling for the small Dodge brand car will be installed at Chrysler's Belvidere, Ill., assembly plant in August, said Fred Goedtel, head of Chrysler's vehicle assembly operations.
"We'll start pilots in the fall" and official production begins "sometime" in the first quarter, he said.
Design work on the car, which is the vehicle Chrysler expects will trigger the final government ownership milestone, is done, said Ralph Gilles, head of Chrysler design.
"The company is really focused on it," he said of the vehicle.
Fiat is moving fast to consolidate control over Chrysler.
The Italian automaker is buying the U.S. Treasury Department's final stake in the U.S. automaker that was acquired as part of Chrysler's 2009 bankruptcy reorganization.
That purchase will raise Fiat's stake to 52 percent. Chrysler must test and commit to building a vehicle in the U.S. that achieves 40 mpg for Fiat to gain another 5 percent stake.
Its deal with the U.S. and Canada allowed Fiat to gain as much as 35 percent in Chrysler without paying cash in exchange for giving management experience and technology to Chrysler.
Fiat was also required to achieve various performance milestones.
The 40 mpg vehicle is the final such milestone. Fiat also exercised an option to purchase 16 percent of the company after Chrysler repaid the U.S. and Canadian government loans in May.
Sergio Marchionne, chief executive officer of both automakers, has said he expects Fiat will get its final 5 percent tied to the 40 mpg car by year's end.
The small Dodge car is based on Fiat's Alfa Romeo Giulietta, Marchionne has said. Gilles said the new Dodge model's name was decided earlier this week.
But he declined to provide the name.
Car, truck demand rebounding in June after May dip
U.S. sales of cars and light trucks are rebounding in June after falling for the first time in nine months in May, analysts said.
June increases projected by three research firms range from 8 percent to 14 percent. May's sales dropped 4 percent from a year earlier as consumers confronted rising gasoline prices, reduced incentives, and vehicle shortages caused by the March earthquake in Japan.
June's seasonally adjusted annual sales rate will be in the 12 million range when automakers' results are announced on July 1, according to the forecasts.
The SAAR had been above that mark for seven straight months before consumers scaled back purchases in May.
"There has been some easing of negative variables in June, as the inventory shortage has not been as severe as expected, and gas prices have dropped noticeably from higher levels in April and May," Jeff Schuster, executive director of global forecasting at J.D. Power and Associates, said in a statement today.
"Provided that the economy decides to cooperate, the automotive summer slowdown will only be a speed bump, and a return of a measurable recovery pace is still expected in the second half of 2011."
Overall, light vehicle demand is forecast to rise 8 percent this month from June 2010 to 1.1 million units, or at an annualized rate of 12 million, J.D. Power said.
Trucks, small cars pace gains
Retail sales of new vehicles are projected to come in at 884,800 units in June, which represents a seasonally adjusted annualized rate of 9.9 million units, J.D. Power said.
That's an improvement from May's 9.3-million-unit rate.
Large pickup and compact car demand are driving the increase in June sales.
J.D. Power said big pickup trucks represent 10.6 percent of retail sales month-to-date — the highest level since February.
Compact cars comprise 17.6 percent of retail sales this month, up from 17.2 percent in May.
May sales dropped to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 11.78 million units - the lowest level since August 2010 – after topping 13 million units for three straight months.
U.S. light vehicle sales are up 14 percent through May, to 5.28 million units.
May dip
On Thursday, TrueCar.com estimated June new light vehicle sales, including fleet, will climb 13.5 percent to 1.12 million units from a year ago.
June retail sales are forecast to rise 2.1 percent from a year earlier, TrueCar said.
"Uncertainty in the economy as well as high gas prices and shortages in small car inventory contributed to the limited gains in sales in June." TrueCar analyst Jesse Toprak said in a statement. "May appeared to be the low point in vehicle sales this year and we don't expect sales to go below 11.9 million SAAR level."
Edmunds.com estimates June sales of 1.09 million new vehicles, up 11.2 percent.
Low supplies of small, fuel-efficient models and price increases have prompted consumers to delay purchases, Edmunds said.
"As prices and inventory return closer to normal levels by September, many of those lost sales can be made up by the end of this year when consumers return to the market," Edmunds.com chief economist Lacey Plache said in a statement.
Lower outlook
While some of the external pressures on new car and truck demand have lessened in recent weeks, some analysts and automakers have grown more cautious about the industry's outlook.
The Federal Reserve, citing slow job growth, fuel prices and the weak housing market, this week lowered its forecast for U.S. economic growth for the remainder of the year.
J.D. Power has reduced its forecast for 2011 retail sales to 10.5 million units from 10.6 million units. And the company's forecast for total sales, including fleets, has been revised to 12.9 million units from 13 million units.
"Conditions for light-vehicle sales are improving, but the automotive market remains fluid and susceptible to a slower economic recovery or external shock," John Humphrey, senior vice president of automotive operations at J.D. Power, said in a statement. "This risk is driving a more cautious approach to the market outlook for the remainder of 2011 and into 2012."
June increases projected by three research firms range from 8 percent to 14 percent. May's sales dropped 4 percent from a year earlier as consumers confronted rising gasoline prices, reduced incentives, and vehicle shortages caused by the March earthquake in Japan.
June's seasonally adjusted annual sales rate will be in the 12 million range when automakers' results are announced on July 1, according to the forecasts.
The SAAR had been above that mark for seven straight months before consumers scaled back purchases in May.
"There has been some easing of negative variables in June, as the inventory shortage has not been as severe as expected, and gas prices have dropped noticeably from higher levels in April and May," Jeff Schuster, executive director of global forecasting at J.D. Power and Associates, said in a statement today.
"Provided that the economy decides to cooperate, the automotive summer slowdown will only be a speed bump, and a return of a measurable recovery pace is still expected in the second half of 2011."
Overall, light vehicle demand is forecast to rise 8 percent this month from June 2010 to 1.1 million units, or at an annualized rate of 12 million, J.D. Power said.
Trucks, small cars pace gains
Retail sales of new vehicles are projected to come in at 884,800 units in June, which represents a seasonally adjusted annualized rate of 9.9 million units, J.D. Power said.
That's an improvement from May's 9.3-million-unit rate.
Large pickup and compact car demand are driving the increase in June sales.
J.D. Power said big pickup trucks represent 10.6 percent of retail sales month-to-date — the highest level since February.
Compact cars comprise 17.6 percent of retail sales this month, up from 17.2 percent in May.
May sales dropped to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 11.78 million units - the lowest level since August 2010 – after topping 13 million units for three straight months.
U.S. light vehicle sales are up 14 percent through May, to 5.28 million units.
May dip
On Thursday, TrueCar.com estimated June new light vehicle sales, including fleet, will climb 13.5 percent to 1.12 million units from a year ago.
June retail sales are forecast to rise 2.1 percent from a year earlier, TrueCar said.
"Uncertainty in the economy as well as high gas prices and shortages in small car inventory contributed to the limited gains in sales in June." TrueCar analyst Jesse Toprak said in a statement. "May appeared to be the low point in vehicle sales this year and we don't expect sales to go below 11.9 million SAAR level."
Edmunds.com estimates June sales of 1.09 million new vehicles, up 11.2 percent.
Low supplies of small, fuel-efficient models and price increases have prompted consumers to delay purchases, Edmunds said.
"As prices and inventory return closer to normal levels by September, many of those lost sales can be made up by the end of this year when consumers return to the market," Edmunds.com chief economist Lacey Plache said in a statement.
Lower outlook
While some of the external pressures on new car and truck demand have lessened in recent weeks, some analysts and automakers have grown more cautious about the industry's outlook.
The Federal Reserve, citing slow job growth, fuel prices and the weak housing market, this week lowered its forecast for U.S. economic growth for the remainder of the year.
J.D. Power has reduced its forecast for 2011 retail sales to 10.5 million units from 10.6 million units. And the company's forecast for total sales, including fleets, has been revised to 12.9 million units from 13 million units.
"Conditions for light-vehicle sales are improving, but the automotive market remains fluid and susceptible to a slower economic recovery or external shock," John Humphrey, senior vice president of automotive operations at J.D. Power, said in a statement. "This risk is driving a more cautious approach to the market outlook for the remainder of 2011 and into 2012."
Friday, June 24, 2011
04 Explorer a/c burnt?
I have a good one for you! I knew sooner or later this would happen.It could have easily burned and totalled the vehicle.
My son's 04 Explorer which was having earlier problems with the a/c compressor not powering on, now it is a bigger problem. Previously he was jumpering directly from the a/c clutch wire connector to the battery, to engage the a/c compressor clutch.
Well,he decided to hook up a toggle switch to the suv interior. After doing that, it wasn't long before the a/c clutch two wire connector shorted together and caused melted black electrical tape and the toggle switch to burn up, taking out the battery in the process.
He had to replace the battery and now when he tries jumpering directly to the battery again,it just causes sparking.
My question is the a/c compressor clutch coil
possibly shorted out or could it be the old original wire connector itself causing the arcing? How can you test the a/c clutch coil?
I am presently trying to locate and buy a new a/c clutch wiring connector pigtail. It is a two spade/two wire connector. I called A/Z and Oreilly's and they either don't have it or unsure which connector is the proper one.
I may have to call a local Ford dealership.
I do understand all of this is a bone head way of powering the a/c compressor and shouldn't have been done.
Does anyone know a part or oem # that would help to find the correct replacement wire connector.
That is the first priority right now and then get it repaired properly at a mechanic shop.
This 2004 Ford Explorer is a 4 wd, 4.0L V-6, with Vin K
I just need to replace the wiring pigtail to eliminate a possibly burnt out/grounded out connector and hope that he didn't burn out the a/c clutch coil. I would appreciate your help with this very stupid problem.
Response:
1).. reminds me of putting the penny behind the fuse... or in modern times, tin foil around the fuse;-)
2)The A/C clutch coil is an electro magnet. Knowing that I suspect that the Compressor itself is probably bad causing excessive heat by dragging on the clutch surfaces. And I have seen the compressors start fires.
UPDATE
The 04 Explorer meltdown was when the vehicle wasn't running. It shorted out with the a/c clutch wire connector (where hot wired)the two wires touched. So I don't really think it was the compressor itself involved. It was operating well when jumpered due to inability to energize thru the OEM control system via the clutch cycling switch.
Can I check the a/c clutch coil with a multimeter for continuity and/or Ohms? I read that continuity would confirm a good complete circuit. I just want to get the car back to the point of a/c compressor able to engage properly and then get it repaired properly at a local mechanic shop.
I did call a Ford dealership and found a new a/c clutch wire connector pigtail.
Thanks guys for your assistance, will update you later.
My son's 04 Explorer which was having earlier problems with the a/c compressor not powering on, now it is a bigger problem. Previously he was jumpering directly from the a/c clutch wire connector to the battery, to engage the a/c compressor clutch.
Well,he decided to hook up a toggle switch to the suv interior. After doing that, it wasn't long before the a/c clutch two wire connector shorted together and caused melted black electrical tape and the toggle switch to burn up, taking out the battery in the process.
He had to replace the battery and now when he tries jumpering directly to the battery again,it just causes sparking.
My question is the a/c compressor clutch coil
possibly shorted out or could it be the old original wire connector itself causing the arcing? How can you test the a/c clutch coil?
I am presently trying to locate and buy a new a/c clutch wiring connector pigtail. It is a two spade/two wire connector. I called A/Z and Oreilly's and they either don't have it or unsure which connector is the proper one.
I may have to call a local Ford dealership.
I do understand all of this is a bone head way of powering the a/c compressor and shouldn't have been done.
Does anyone know a part or oem # that would help to find the correct replacement wire connector.
That is the first priority right now and then get it repaired properly at a mechanic shop.
This 2004 Ford Explorer is a 4 wd, 4.0L V-6, with Vin K
I just need to replace the wiring pigtail to eliminate a possibly burnt out/grounded out connector and hope that he didn't burn out the a/c clutch coil. I would appreciate your help with this very stupid problem.
Response:
1).. reminds me of putting the penny behind the fuse... or in modern times, tin foil around the fuse;-)
2)The A/C clutch coil is an electro magnet. Knowing that I suspect that the Compressor itself is probably bad causing excessive heat by dragging on the clutch surfaces. And I have seen the compressors start fires.
UPDATE
The 04 Explorer meltdown was when the vehicle wasn't running. It shorted out with the a/c clutch wire connector (where hot wired)the two wires touched. So I don't really think it was the compressor itself involved. It was operating well when jumpered due to inability to energize thru the OEM control system via the clutch cycling switch.
Can I check the a/c clutch coil with a multimeter for continuity and/or Ohms? I read that continuity would confirm a good complete circuit. I just want to get the car back to the point of a/c compressor able to engage properly and then get it repaired properly at a local mechanic shop.
I did call a Ford dealership and found a new a/c clutch wire connector pigtail.
Thanks guys for your assistance, will update you later.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Ford plans hybrid-only models
Ford, like Toyota, aims to create a family of hybrid-only vehicles. But Ford and its dealers have to decide who will sell them.
Ford Motor Co. plans to offer the C-Max vehicles in hybrid-only versions, with no gasoline-powered version. The two vehicles -- the C-Max hybrid five-seat hatchback and the C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid -- will join the Transit Connect Electric commercial van, Focus electric and an unidentified fifth vehicle that will arrive in 2012.
Ford now sells hybrid versions of the Ford Fusion and Escape and the Lincoln MKZ.
Speaking last week about the C-Max models, Jim Farley, Ford's global marketing chief, said, "I am convinced that customers will appreciate that Ford now offers a dedicated body style for electric vehicle choices."
He announced that Ford had cancelled plans to sell the European-engineered seven-seat gasoline-powered C-Max in the United States.
The C-Max plan appears to mimic Toyota Motor Corp.'s plan for a family of Prius hybrid vehicles. The Toyota Prius and Honda Insight are the only hybrids that are not derivatives of gasoline-powered models.
Ford plans to triple North American production of electric vehicles and hybrids to more than 100,000 units by 2013.
While all Ford brand dealers are expected to sell the C-Max hatchback hybrid, dealers can choose not to sell the C-Max Energi. They will have to decide by the end of this summer whether to commit to investing in service-department training and meeting other requirements to get the Energi.
Both vehicles will go on sale in 2012, but Farley would not say whether they will go on sale nationwide or whether Ford will launch them in a few markets, as was true for the Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid and the Nissan Leaf electric car.
"Dealers will have to do different things, in terms of financing, arranging for the installation of the plug-in at the customer's house" and handling service, Farley said.
Best Buy will install the charging stations, he said.
Ford Motor Co. plans to offer the C-Max vehicles in hybrid-only versions, with no gasoline-powered version. The two vehicles -- the C-Max hybrid five-seat hatchback and the C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid -- will join the Transit Connect Electric commercial van, Focus electric and an unidentified fifth vehicle that will arrive in 2012.
Ford now sells hybrid versions of the Ford Fusion and Escape and the Lincoln MKZ.
Speaking last week about the C-Max models, Jim Farley, Ford's global marketing chief, said, "I am convinced that customers will appreciate that Ford now offers a dedicated body style for electric vehicle choices."
He announced that Ford had cancelled plans to sell the European-engineered seven-seat gasoline-powered C-Max in the United States.
The C-Max plan appears to mimic Toyota Motor Corp.'s plan for a family of Prius hybrid vehicles. The Toyota Prius and Honda Insight are the only hybrids that are not derivatives of gasoline-powered models.
Ford plans to triple North American production of electric vehicles and hybrids to more than 100,000 units by 2013.
While all Ford brand dealers are expected to sell the C-Max hatchback hybrid, dealers can choose not to sell the C-Max Energi. They will have to decide by the end of this summer whether to commit to investing in service-department training and meeting other requirements to get the Energi.
Both vehicles will go on sale in 2012, but Farley would not say whether they will go on sale nationwide or whether Ford will launch them in a few markets, as was true for the Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid and the Nissan Leaf electric car.
"Dealers will have to do different things, in terms of financing, arranging for the installation of the plug-in at the customer's house" and handling service, Farley said.
Best Buy will install the charging stations, he said.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Motorists need better information on recalls, U.S. report says
The U.S. auto-safety regulator should better inform drivers of defects because only 70 percent of recall repairs on cars and trucks are completed within 18 months, the Government Accountability Office said in a report issued Wednesday.
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration should change what consumers must be told in recall notification letters, improve and publicize its auto-recall website and seek authority to notify used-car buyers, the GAO said in a report.
In 2010, automakers recalled a record 14.9 million vehicles.
"Many recalled vehicles are never fixed, posing a risk to vehicle operators, other drivers, and pedestrians," the GAO said in the report, which was requested by Representatives Elijah Cummings, a Maryland Democrat, and Edolphus Towns, a New York Democrat.
Toyota Motor Corp.'s record recalls last year for defects related to unintended acceleration were investigated by U.S. lawmakers.
"NHTSA is committed to ensuring consumers have the information they need to keep their families safe on the road and in their communities," NHTSA Administrator David Strickland said. "We look forward to working with policymakers to continue to strengthen our efforts on these and other safety issues."
Consumers can sign up for e-mailed alerts about vehicle recalls from NHTSA at www.safercar.gov.
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration should change what consumers must be told in recall notification letters, improve and publicize its auto-recall website and seek authority to notify used-car buyers, the GAO said in a report.
In 2010, automakers recalled a record 14.9 million vehicles.
"Many recalled vehicles are never fixed, posing a risk to vehicle operators, other drivers, and pedestrians," the GAO said in the report, which was requested by Representatives Elijah Cummings, a Maryland Democrat, and Edolphus Towns, a New York Democrat.
Toyota Motor Corp.'s record recalls last year for defects related to unintended acceleration were investigated by U.S. lawmakers.
"NHTSA is committed to ensuring consumers have the information they need to keep their families safe on the road and in their communities," NHTSA Administrator David Strickland said. "We look forward to working with policymakers to continue to strengthen our efforts on these and other safety issues."
Consumers can sign up for e-mailed alerts about vehicle recalls from NHTSA at www.safercar.gov.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
2002 Toyota Camry Check Engine Light On Code P0136
My Toyota camry has had the check engine light on for some time. I finally took it and had the codes pulled and was told it was code p0136 and that I needed a new Oxygen Senser. Which one do I need to replace?
Code P0136 - o2 Sensor circuit malfunction B1 S1.
This means the downstream o2 sensor has an issue and is not sending a signal to the computer. The Downstream o2 sensor is located after the catalytic converter assembly in the exhaust pipe.
The Fix: Replace the failed o2 Sensor
Code P0136 - o2 Sensor circuit malfunction B1 S1.
This means the downstream o2 sensor has an issue and is not sending a signal to the computer. The Downstream o2 sensor is located after the catalytic converter assembly in the exhaust pipe.
The Fix: Replace the failed o2 Sensor
Sunday, June 12, 2011
2005 Chevy Trail Blazer blows cold out top and bottom but not the dash
I have a 2005 Chevy TrailBlazer and ever since I replaced the battery The Air Conditioning Will not blow out the dash. The A/C blows out the top and floor but not the dash no matter what I set it on. I have checked all the fuses and don't have a clue what is going on here? Any help would be appreciated.
Response:
This is a common issue with the Trailblazer. You can disconnect the battery for two minutes and then reconnect it. Turn the key to "ON" and without touching the control knobs for 2 minutes the Mode Actuator should recalibrate itself. If you can not achieve dash function after that, you are looking at replacing the "Mode Door Actuator". Part is around $70.00 at the dealer. Should take any shop about an hour to hour and a half at the most.
Response:
This is a common issue with the Trailblazer. You can disconnect the battery for two minutes and then reconnect it. Turn the key to "ON" and without touching the control knobs for 2 minutes the Mode Actuator should recalibrate itself. If you can not achieve dash function after that, you are looking at replacing the "Mode Door Actuator". Part is around $70.00 at the dealer. Should take any shop about an hour to hour and a half at the most.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Ford C-Max minivan to be offered only as a hybrid
Automaker will triple electrified vehicle production to 100,000 a year
Ford says the upcoming C-Max compact minivan will be a dedicated hybrid when U.S. sales begin next year.
Ford Motor Co., in a move to compete with hybrid and electric vehicles produced by Toyota, GM, and Nissan, said today that its upcoming C-Max compact minivan will be a dedicated hybrid when U.S. sales begin next year.
And Ford has cancelled plans to offer a version of the C-Max with a four-cylinder gasoline engine.
Ford said it has been able to reduce the cost of hybrid technology, which will make the vehicle more attractive to buyers. Ford announced this year that a plug-in hybrid C-Max Energi also is planned.
Today's move will put the C-Max in competition with Toyota Motor Corp.'s Prius hybrid, General Motors' Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid and Nissan Motor Co.'s all-electric Leaf.
The C-Max is a five-passenger minivan based on the Ford Focus platform.
Ford executives, during an event today in Sterling Heights, Mich., said they plan to triple North American production of electric vehicles and hybrids to more than 100,000 models by 2013 as they work to make a quarter of their vehicles run at least partly on electricity.
Ford is investing $135 million and adding 220 jobs at three Michigan plants to produce five "electrified" models. Besides the C-Max and C-Max Energi, the automaker is building an electric version of its Transit Connect van and will start making a battery-powered Focus compact this year. Ford has not yet announced the fifth vehicle.
Automakers are developing models powered at least partly by electricity as U.S. fuel-economy standards rise. The company said it currently sells about 35,000 electrified vehicles a year, which includes the Fusion Hybrid and Escape Hybrid.
Jim Farley, Ford's group vice president of marketing, sales and service, said in a statement: "Whether people want a hybrid, a plug-in hybrid or full battery electric vehicle, we have a family of vehicles for them to consider, providing a range of options to best meet their needs and support their driving habits and lifestyles."
Cost down
Ford said this year that it expects the cost of hybrid systems it begins offering next year will be 30 percent less expensive than the system that was introduced on the 2010 Ford Fusion.
Ford said it will be able to keep C-Max prices down because much of the hybrid system has been designed and engineered by Ford. The company also will assemble the system.
For example, an upcoming hybrid transmission was designed and engineered by Ford and will be assembled beginning in the first quarter of 2012 in a suburban Detroit Ford plant.
The hybrid transmission in its 2011 Ford Fusion and 2011 Escape and the 2011 Lincoln MKZ are supplied by Japan's Aisin Seiki Co.
The new Ford transmission will be used globally and sourced from Michigan.
Hybrid loyalty rates 'very high'
In an April nterview, Sherif Marakby, Ford's director of electrification programs and engineering, said, "When we first launched a hybrid six years ago, many customers were concerned" about the battery. Customers asked: "'How long would the battery last?' 'How much does it cost to replace it?'" he said.
But batteries have proven to be long-lasting, Marakby said. It's now imperative to lower the cost of its hybrid system, he said, so Ford can cut hybrid prices and boost sales.
"We're seeing that the loyalty rate on hybrids is very high," he said in April. "We just need people to get used to the technology, bring the cost down and the price down for consumers, and we believe it's only going to go up in terms of sales volume."
Ford has been cutting costs by bringing many technologies in-house, such as the hybrid transmission, Marakby said in April.
"By developing the hybrid system's design in-house and sourcing individual components to suppliers, Ford can use less people and less time to get the job done in an efficient manner," he said.
Additionally, Ford has developed in-house a battery system that will be manufactured at a suburban Detroit Ford plant next year.
Marakby's goal is to cut the cost of the next-generation Ford hybrid system another 30 percent.
Ford says the upcoming C-Max compact minivan will be a dedicated hybrid when U.S. sales begin next year.
Ford Motor Co., in a move to compete with hybrid and electric vehicles produced by Toyota, GM, and Nissan, said today that its upcoming C-Max compact minivan will be a dedicated hybrid when U.S. sales begin next year.
And Ford has cancelled plans to offer a version of the C-Max with a four-cylinder gasoline engine.
Ford said it has been able to reduce the cost of hybrid technology, which will make the vehicle more attractive to buyers. Ford announced this year that a plug-in hybrid C-Max Energi also is planned.
Today's move will put the C-Max in competition with Toyota Motor Corp.'s Prius hybrid, General Motors' Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid and Nissan Motor Co.'s all-electric Leaf.
The C-Max is a five-passenger minivan based on the Ford Focus platform.
Ford executives, during an event today in Sterling Heights, Mich., said they plan to triple North American production of electric vehicles and hybrids to more than 100,000 models by 2013 as they work to make a quarter of their vehicles run at least partly on electricity.
Ford is investing $135 million and adding 220 jobs at three Michigan plants to produce five "electrified" models. Besides the C-Max and C-Max Energi, the automaker is building an electric version of its Transit Connect van and will start making a battery-powered Focus compact this year. Ford has not yet announced the fifth vehicle.
Automakers are developing models powered at least partly by electricity as U.S. fuel-economy standards rise. The company said it currently sells about 35,000 electrified vehicles a year, which includes the Fusion Hybrid and Escape Hybrid.
Jim Farley, Ford's group vice president of marketing, sales and service, said in a statement: "Whether people want a hybrid, a plug-in hybrid or full battery electric vehicle, we have a family of vehicles for them to consider, providing a range of options to best meet their needs and support their driving habits and lifestyles."
Cost down
Ford said this year that it expects the cost of hybrid systems it begins offering next year will be 30 percent less expensive than the system that was introduced on the 2010 Ford Fusion.
Ford said it will be able to keep C-Max prices down because much of the hybrid system has been designed and engineered by Ford. The company also will assemble the system.
For example, an upcoming hybrid transmission was designed and engineered by Ford and will be assembled beginning in the first quarter of 2012 in a suburban Detroit Ford plant.
The hybrid transmission in its 2011 Ford Fusion and 2011 Escape and the 2011 Lincoln MKZ are supplied by Japan's Aisin Seiki Co.
The new Ford transmission will be used globally and sourced from Michigan.
Hybrid loyalty rates 'very high'
In an April nterview, Sherif Marakby, Ford's director of electrification programs and engineering, said, "When we first launched a hybrid six years ago, many customers were concerned" about the battery. Customers asked: "'How long would the battery last?' 'How much does it cost to replace it?'" he said.
But batteries have proven to be long-lasting, Marakby said. It's now imperative to lower the cost of its hybrid system, he said, so Ford can cut hybrid prices and boost sales.
"We're seeing that the loyalty rate on hybrids is very high," he said in April. "We just need people to get used to the technology, bring the cost down and the price down for consumers, and we believe it's only going to go up in terms of sales volume."
Ford has been cutting costs by bringing many technologies in-house, such as the hybrid transmission, Marakby said in April.
"By developing the hybrid system's design in-house and sourcing individual components to suppliers, Ford can use less people and less time to get the job done in an efficient manner," he said.
Additionally, Ford has developed in-house a battery system that will be manufactured at a suburban Detroit Ford plant next year.
Marakby's goal is to cut the cost of the next-generation Ford hybrid system another 30 percent.
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