Top Down Camaro: A New Star Rising

After the excitement of the Camaro coupe, General Motors is now ready to set forth a rising star in the form of the Camaro convertible. Earlier, the automaker has released images of the convertible concept to wow the automotive market. Last Saturday, the car kicked off at the North American International Auto Show.

Ed Peper, the Chevrolet general manager said, "For some of us, an emotional bond was formed when we introduced the Camaro coupe last year. It is magnificent. But now this year, if this Camaro convertible doesn't make your heart beat faster, you should see either your optometrist or your cardiologist, because you have a problem." Ed Welburn, GM vice president, global design, even added, "The best follow-up to last year's award-winning Camaro concept is a Camaro convertible. The Camaro convertible concept instantly evokes an emotional response - it's a vehicle that you want to make room for in your garage."

The automaker has already expressed its intent to produce the Camaro coupe and it is expected to go on sale in 2009.Though the convertible version of Camaro is not much different from the hardtop, Kevin Tynan, auto analyst of Argus Research said it is a smart addition to the automaker's show lineup because there is a market for it among the baby boomers and the vehicle also spices up some otherwise technical and practical offerings. Tynan added, "In a year of technology and fuel efficiency and environmentally friendly technology being more in the forefront, it's probably not a bad idea to have that wow factor. That's what it's for. To have people huddle around and look at it."

Camaro convertible concept is based on the original Camaro. In fact, it will be using some of the Chevrolet Camaro 2000 body parts but will entertain minor changes to make way for the convertible concept. The exterior dimensions of the original Camaro are retained. However, convertible will be powered by V-8 engine that sends power to the rear wheel through manual transmission. The rising new star of the automaker will also feature four-wheel independent suspension system and four-wheel disc brakes.

Dramatic new features of the convertible also include tonneau cover over the folded top, LED taillamps, "halo" headlamps, heritage-inspired rear fender "gills," racing-inspired fuel filler door, rear spoiler with LED-lit CHMSL, and hood scoop based from Corvette Z06.

The convertible rides on 21-inch front wheels and 22-inch rear wheels. The five-spoke wheels have charcoal center sections with orange outline. The choice of color complements the gunmetal gray stripes on the body of the vehicle. "The light-on-dark interior coloring makes a strong statement that conveys the spirit of freedom and fun that is embodied by a Camaro convertible," said Micah Jones, interior designer.

Camaro convertible is designed to tickle the fancies of young drivers. This is the very reason why the convertible is designed to exude energy, passion, and freedom. "Youthful buyers want a car that makes a statement in its design as much as its performance," said Brian Smith, exterior designer. "The new Camaro concepts bridge heritage with contemporary style, with a design that is simultaneously admired among import-influenced youth and traditional enthusiasts."

2008 FORD ESCAPE: Hitting Online Market Like A Storm

Like experts are saying, the best form of promotion is viral marketing. The latter employs effective marketing techniques using pre-existing social networks to generate exponential growth in brand awareness. And viral marketing is currently the latest ace of the 2008 Ford Escape.

What do online purchasers say about the new Escape? A winner all the way around! One enthusiast quipped: It is great to be sitting at a light with no engine noise or vibration, allowing you to listen to the great sound system. Another one uttered, The build quality is flawless. An aficionado noted, Do yourself a favor and give one a drive.

Doing the Ford Escape a great favor
Indeed, viral marketing is doing Ford a great favor. With an overwhelming response from online purchasers, and consumers spreading the positive news all over the Net, there is nothing more Ford could ask for but linger in euphoria.

Viral promotion may take different forms like interactive Flash games, hilarious video clips, advergames, images, or even SMS text messages. But Fords promotion form performs like an Airaid. auto part using word of mouth commendation from jubilant consumers.

In the eighth installment in a series highlighting online consumer reviews of Ford Motor Companys new products, verbatim comments on the 2008 Ford Escape were posted on Yahoo! Autos (www.autos.yahoo.com) and Edmunds (www.edmunds.com). Earlier, the Yahoo! homepage (www.yahoo.com) featured a 2008 Ford Escape advertising takeover resulting in more than 500,000 click-throughs to the Escape launch Web site - www.boredomhurts.com. This initiative has been one of Fords most successful ever in terms of winning over customers.

According to the J.D. Power and Associates 2006 New Autoshopper.com Study SM, 77 percent of new vehicle buyers consult independent online resources during their search for a new vehicle.

What they say
A feedback from Keith of Baton Rouge was posted at Yahoo! Autos. Keith has this to say about the vehicle: I just recently test drove the new Escape, and I think it is much better than the model it replaces. First, the styling is much improved. It has more definition, more character. The seating position is first rate, and all of the controls are easy to find and use. It rides firmly, yet comfortably, and the handling is much improved over the old model. The V-6 ought to be standard equipment on all models; the trade-off between power and economy is very good. Whats more, the price is right, and everything suggests that the Escape will be a great value for the money. The new Escape is now at the top of my new-car shopping list, and I hope Ford can improve all its models the way they improved this one.

Richard, also an online purchaser, said This is the first new Ford I purchased in 29 years. I traded in a 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee. In fact the last five new SUVs I purchased were Jeep Grand Cherokees. After two years of driving the 2005 Jeep I had enough of the poor service and lack of concern by Jeep.

He added, I was hesitant to purchase and did quite a bit of research before doing so and glad I did. The Escape Hybrid is fun to drive, has better visibility, and the gas mileage is twice that of the Jeep! We did drive the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and the bottom line was about the same but I am tall enough that when getting in and out of the Toyota I scraped my head. This is not the case with the Ford. Also, GM has nothing to offer in hybrids. The testimony was posted at Edmunds.com.

How impressive could Escape get?
Clay from Vallejo, Calif. said, Hats off to the 08 Escape Hybrid! I had an 06 Escape Hybrid 4WD (not loaded) and for $1,500 more I now have a loaded 08 Escape Hybrid 4WD. The reason is starting with the 07 hybrids, Ford lowered the price. The exterior has a new aggressive look and even makes it appear larger. The new interior design is a plus. I noticed that the cabin is quieter and feels more solid on the road than my 06. The new EPA sticker shows a more real world estimate because right off I was doing 29 mpg and over on the first tank. It comes standard with dual climate, which is great because my wife is always colder, and an auxiliary jack for the iPod/MP3 addicts, two 12V power points for front and rear users, auto on/off headlamps and tire pressure sensors. The center stack has totally improved: larger touch screen GPS, six CD/MP3 in-dash instead of the changer under the passenger seat, and a high mount info screen (time, date, exterior and interior temperature, bearing).

The console is VERY sly! It can hide a 14-inch laptop and power it as well, thanks to the 110V plug right there in the front of the shifter. The center console attachments can be configured in a number of ways for convenience. Its one of those things you have to see for yourself! This hybrid is one to consider over the pricier Toyota and Lexus, Clay stressed.

Dramatic changes
We have a XLT 4WD and what a dramatic difference from the older versions...especially the interior...thank goodness. This new version is so much better in my opinion. Dramatically quieter and more comfortable and the prices are actually lower than last years model. We have some very steep hills in our area with gravel roads. The all wheel drive handles them with ease without any loss of traction. The transmission does all the braking on the way downhill with little effort, saving my brakes the wear and tear. Love this CUV! said Rob to Edmunds.com.

Yahoo! Autos posted Yogidogs comment. He said, I first test drove the Limited V-6 today and plan to buy one. Initial impression is that the overall look is well sculpted and smartly organized, with a sexy black leather interior. Ride is quiet, although a little rough on bad roads. I dont particularly like a mushy ride, so the feel of the road appeals to me. Seats are comfortable and will serve well on a long ride, as will the Audiophile speaker sound system, tuned to SIRIUS. Quality of interior is immediately noticeable. The only down side is the pebble grain dashboard and need to remove headrests from back seats in order to lay seats flat, although a compartment for storing headrests is provided. Chrome front grille looks a little cheesy. My preference is for a solid color grille. Clean and simple. List of safety features and new extended 60,000 mile warranty is impressive and should coax many buyers that its time to come back to Ford. Bottom line ... it looks good and is fun to drive. Sold.

What about the taxes?
Frank from San Diego said, After buying this SUV, I got all the money back I paid in federal taxes for the entire year. It is the best hybrid on the road and is great for off-roading. I have the four wheel drive model and I use it every weekend. I have 20,000 very trouble free miles on it in only 4 months. This is the best SUV Ford has ever made and there is NO comparison to the Toyota Highlander. This wins hands down! His comment was posted at Yahoo! Autos.

Let There Be Light And There Was LED

Fun, awesome, startling all that and more - those are the things that describe this years North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). Celebrities move car fanatics crazy. But the lights are more glaring than these celebrities. Why? Because of the sophistication of LEDs.

LED, otherwise known as a light-emitting diode, is a unique type of semiconductor diode. It emits incoherent narrow-spectrum light when electrically biased in the forward direction. The light emitted is in a form of electroluminescence. Nowadays, most automakers including the Big 3 are using LED for their automotive lights. Volvo tail lights, for one, are now featuring this fresh innovation.

Aside from LED lights, other amazing things relating to vehicle manufacture have been unfolded in Detroit auto show. The show was indeed a big success. It was fabulous and captivating; thanks to the stars, concept cars and hot vehicles.

One of the significant obvious things in the said auto show is the more upbeat competition. The Big 3 in the auto show has to manage to stress its dominance in the global market to their mounting competition. As such, they stress relevance, reliability and responsibility. The emphasis is triggered by the rising customer loyalty in favor of Japanese automakers.

General Motors (GM)

GM surpassed enthusiasts expectations by rolling out the red carpet for a host of famous celebrities to escort its equally-wonderful lineup. The GMC Yukon was escorted by the well-known hip hop artist Jay Z who assisted in developing the elating color on the vehicle known as the "Jay-Z blue." GM coupled Mario Lopez with the Chevrolet competitor for the World Touring Car Championship, Jennifer Hudson with the Cadillac Escalade and added Nick Cannon from MTV and Vivica A. Fox to the impressive lineup.

GM emphasized stylish curves and styling to match powerful engines. One of the intriguing concept cars introduced was the Volt. Said vehicle has the technological capabilities to travel 40 miles on electricity alone. In its totality the car delivers a bold and quality statement. The automaker wants to prove that beauty and efficiency could be blended to produce a great car.

The automaker also set forth the Camaro concept car that features he retracted hard top, LED tail lights, a 21-inch front and 22-inch rear wheels are certainly bound to distinguish the topless beauty. Another GM pride is the Cadillac CTS that entertained a classy revamp of its forerunner.

Ford Motor Company

Ford intends to wow the young generation market. To materialize the goal, it has established a partnership with Microsoft, the software giant, to deliver Sync. The Sync features Bluetooth connectivity, voice activation, and MP3 player hookups, and will be fully upgradeable. Said technology is exclusive to Ford for only one year.

Toyota

Toyota, the fast-rising Japanese auto giant, introduced its improved version of the Tundra. The latter is equipped with 18-inch steel wheels and bigger brakes to cater to the needs of true truckers. The work truck is capable of towing up to 10,800 lbs with standard STAR safety systems. The Toyota Tundra Double Cab, Regular Cab and Crewmax models will be available in March this year.

Fords Momentum Intensifies in China

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader, is expected to exceed its sales by 100.8 percent this year. This anticipated figure is estimated on a year on year basis. The 2006 lineup of Ford is dominated by S-Max and Focus.

S-Max, a large MPV from Ford, was introduced this year for the European auto market at Geneva Motor Show. The vehicle became an instant hit in said territory. In fact, it was later on awarded the Car of the Year title in Europe. S-Max is the very first vehicle of Ford to feature the "kinetic design" styling.

Ford's kinetic design conveys energy in motion. Moreover, said feature can be found in the new S-Max. Another major pull of S-Max is its "FoldFlatSystem." Said feature allows the second and third-row seats to fold flat into the floor. These features make all-new S-Max one of the most stunning and exciting vehicles to hit China roads.

You only have to look at Ford S-MAX. Its bold kinetic design offers function, space and flexibility alongside head turning wow factor and dynamic drivability. This winning formula is whats made Ford S-MAX such a success in Europe, said Martin Smith, Executive Design Director for Ford of Europe and the man behind

Ford Focus is also a stunner in China. Said car has established a star performer reputation in its own right. Ford Focus auto parts boast their quality, performance and style. Now in the new model, the automaker added 5-door hatchback and station wagon variations. These new variations are designed to move ahead of auto market demand.

Ford also announced a new investment in China. This investment is all about the launching of Ford Research and Engineering Center, which will be situated in Nanjing, China. The establishment will support product development of Ford's worldwide operations. Said establishment will also contribute significantly to the development of the China auto market.

"The Ford Research and Engineering Center represents another major milestone for Ford as it strengthens its manufacturing blueprint in China. It will offer a winning combination that leverages Ford's global expertise in research and engineering in addition to building Chinas leading local talent. It will also work with Technical Development Centers at Ford Motor's joint ventures in China to support product development and procurement," said Mei Wei Cheng, Chairman and CEO of Ford Motor (China) Ltd.

Volkswagen To Produce New Compact Car

Volkswagen AG's new chief executive said the automaker plans a new compact model and does not foresee impending job cuts. Martin Winterkorn, former head of Audi division, became Volkswagens CEO this year, and has since taken over the company's core VW brand.

According to Winterkorn, shortly after taking office, he proposed the "design and development of a new, very small, model below the Fox. Winterkorn described the compact as "an economical, everyday small car that looks attractive and is affordable." The said new compact will be engineered to cater to a diverse market around the globe. Winterkorn added that unlike DaimlerChrysler AG's ultracompact Smart, it would have "space for four people plus luggage."

DaimlerChrysler AG's Smart is a compact car that boasts a bunch of advantages like easy to park built that allows nose-in parking. Smart Fortwo idea was supported by Swatch, a Swiss watch manufacturer hence the code Swatchmobile. Later, the name was altered to SMART, short for Swatch Mercedes ART. The function of the car is to transport two people and few luggages.

The production of the final Smart car was costly; the primary cause is the engine technology used aside from the distinct cold air intake. As a fact, it was more expensive than other four and five seater cars sold in Europe. This is the very reason why the joint venture experienced heavy losses. Eventually, Swatch pulled out from the business venture.

In 2005, DaimlerChrysler decided against purchasing a 50 percent share in the NedCar plant that produces Forfour supermini. The automaker ceased development on the Formore and discontinued Roadster. Last year, after experiencing slow sales, the company announced the cancellation of Forfour and the redesign of Fortwo, set to be unveiled in Europe this year.

Volkswagen, a German Wolfsburg-based automaker, is in the process of enforcing its own restructuring plan that includes the cutting of up to 20,000 jobs, trimming production expenses and implementing extended working hours at its German plants. The restructure program was introduced by Bernd Pischetsrieder, previous CEO of the company. The said introduction was made in a bid to compete with Asian automakers which have been making steady success in the global market. This automaker resorted to this strategy in an effort to have a bigger piece of the American auto market.

According to the Sueddeutsche Zeitung, a German newspaper, Winterkorn indicated that the company did not plan further cuts beyond that. "We need the team in its current strength in order to realize additional projects that we are getting started now," Winterkorn said. Among those projects, "there will definitely be a hybrid propulsion for cars in the compact class such as the Polo and Golf -- as quickly as possible," he added. Winterkorn, chief of VW AG, confirmed that the extra production of the new compact model could avoid further job cuts.

Volkswagen, one of the biggest automakers around the world, has popular brands like Audi, Bentley, koda, Lamborghini, SEAT and the brand Volkswagen itself, which was founded in 1937. Volkswagen compact cars use the A platform, which was originally based on Golfs architecture and is adjustable to either front- or all wheel drive configurations.

Lutz To Speed Up GMs Turn

Bob Lutz, General Motors vice chairman, is set to change the plight of the automaker in a short duration. The 75-year-old exec knows exactly that every second counts. This is the reason why he intends to use his precious time to heal the deeply embedded perceptions of GM auto purchasers.

No use crying over spilled milk; all that GM could do is to recuperate and learn from its mistakes. Recuperation is not as easy as producing quality vehicles - it is building up a real strong reputation. The worlds largest automaker has already established an excellent standing in the auto industry no wonder why it sits on the automotive throne. However, critics and analysts are saying that the Toyota Motor Corp. is a serious threat to the throne. Any time this year, as predicted, a new auto giant could rule the industry.

GM showcased remarkable cars and trucks however its sales declined by 8 percent last month. The man behind the plan said it may take years before the companys reputation is repaired. "An image transformation such as ours is really a five-year process," Lutz said in an interview. "We're two or 2 1/2 years into it."

Lutz radiates with urgency in the past few months. He is pushing his team to the limit to release the most-awaited vehicles in the industry. The exec also dashed off rants on his weblog to announce the latest plans of his company. Lutz could not manage to make grave errors this time around - he has to make every second count.

Lutz exudes confidence in the automakers comeback plans but he remains realistic about the forthcoming events. Critics said GM took decades to create overwhelming problems and no one could remedy them overnight.

"A change in course cannot be done purely through advertising or something like that. There's not enough money in the world because a lot of these perceptions about brands or corporations are deeply embedded in people's belief system," Lutz said. He added that GM can change that belief system.

In the past six years, Lutz has shepherded GMs assembly line and some of its products are now released in showrooms. The Saturn Aura and the Chevrolet Silverado were tagged as the North American Car and Truck of the Year. "His imprint on GM has been huge," said Jim Sanfilippo, executive vice president for AMCI, an automotive consultancy in Bloomfield Hills. "What Lutz has done is nothing short of a transformation. What he has loosed in GM's product development system is just the tip of the iceberg. I buy his credibility. I don't think any of the fire in his belly is gone. He is still pushing the organization to raise the bar."

The Saturn Aura, Astra, Chevy Malibu, Silverado, GMC Sierra and the redesigned Cadillac CTS are well-crafted vehicles that are going to contribute building GMs ailing standing. They feature the typical GM vehicles with Active Brakes Direct, powerful engines, superb capabilities and added features to wow more customers.

But it is going to take time to win back customers who feel jilted or mistreated decades ago. It's going to take something special that makes people say, Whoa, wait, that's a GM, Lutz said. "It requires friends looking at a neighbor's new Saturn Aura and saying, 'Hey what's that?' Then driving it, and saying, 'Hey this is way better than my, insert name here, what did you pay for it?' Then you get one after another. That's the way Honda and Toyota grew here in the United States. But the problem is we don't have 20 years to do it."

GM has wasted too much time and Lutz does not want to aggravate the loss. "There is hope at the end of the tunnel with people who are currently under 25, there's a much greater acceptance of GM and American cars in general.