Wednesday, April 30, 2008
New York County Joins Chevrolet's "Project Driveway" Program to Market Test Fuel Cell Vehicles
ROCHESTER, NY - Monroe County, New York, announced today that they will use a Chevrolet Equinox Fuel Cell Electric vehicle as part of their efforts to promote a cleaner and greener environment in the Western New York area. Monroe County becomes the latest member of Chevy's Project Driveway--the largest-ever market test of fuel cell and hydrogen technology.
The announcement was made by Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks during her annual State of the County Address in Rochester, NY.
County executive Maggie Brooks said that Project Driveway is placing more than 100 zero emissions Chevy Equinox fuel cell electric vehicles on the road. These vehicles are powered by hydrogen. They are currently on the streets of key markets in the U.S. and around the world.
The partnership between GM and Monroe County is leading the way toward a more sustainable future. This collaboration will provide valuable information to GM about the automobile's performance and at the same time, prepare Monroe County for the next generation of alternative fuel vehicles.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
The Malibu Quality
Efficient performance and a long list of safety features fulfill important consideration points that customers place on all new cars, but the Malibu also delivers with a package of details and qualities that are difficult to quantify. From an exceptionally quiet driving experience to upscale interior lighting, the Malibu conveys the feeling of a more expensive car. Additionally, details such as standard XM Satellite Radio, remote vehicle starting and even a household-style rear-seat power center are features uncommon in the segment.
Ed Peper, Chevrolet's general manager said, “We couldn't’t be happier with the Malibu’s enthusiastic reception in the market so far, but we’re hardly resting on our laurels because the competition is fierce”.
Chevy has pledged to continue to improve the Malibu in order to strengthen its leadership position in the market, thereby,helping to make Chevrolet the best car brand in the automotive business.
# # #
When it comes to safety, the Malibu is an impressive performer. It earned the government’s highest possible NCAP crash safety rating: 5 stars. That means the Malibu scored 5-star ratings for driver and front passenger in frontal crash testing; and 5-star ratings for front and rear seating positions in the side-impact crash test.
The following is a list of standard safety features on the 2008 Chevy Malibu:
- Dual-stage frontal air bags with GM Passenger Sensing System
- Head curtain side-impact air bags (front and rear outboard seats)
- Front seat-mounted driver and front thorax air bags for side impact protection
- Front safety belt pretensioners LATCH child safety seat anchors
- Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS Traction control
- StabiliTrak stability control system with panic brake assistance (LT and LTZ)
- Tire pressure monitoring system
- All Malibu models come standard with OnStar 8.0, which features advanced automatic crash notification.
Performance of the 2008 Malibu
A variety of efficient powertrain combinations gives Malibu customers choices that all return excellent fuel economy, including a new four-cylinder/six-speed automatic transmission combination that was recently added to the lineup.
It is powered by a high-tech l 2.4L Ecotec engine which is paired with a specially calibrated six-speed automatic transmission that deliver EPA-estimated mileage of 22 miles per gallon in the city and 32 miles per gallon on the highway. That is said to be better highway mileage than Honda Accord or Toyota Camry. There is also a Malibu Hybrid available. It is the most affordable hybrid version of a mid size sedan in the market. It delivers 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on highways, without being the most expensive.
DETROIT – It’s been approximately six months since Chevrolet’s redesigned Malibu was launched. In that time, it has received critical acclaim – including being named 2008 North American Car of the Year – and numerous recommendations by consumer groups.
As it relates to Brand loyalty, it appears that Chevy Malibu has reached the level of Brand Insistence in reasonably short time. It is important to observe that it is very popular with customers. In only the first quarter of this year and market share is up 1.3 points over the same period in 200707. Much of that growth is due to retail sales, which increased 110 percent during the first three months .
Thursday, April 24, 2008
HUMMER Doing Well
HUMMER Scores a Hat Trick AT TERRIBLE's 250
Team HUMMER sweeps production classes with 2008 H2 SUT, H3 Alpha and H3 Emily Miller earns second place in Safari Class in debut race
DETROIT - Team HUMMER earned first place in every production class in Saturday’s Best in the Desert Racing Series Terrible’s 250 at Primm, marking the first time the team has earned three victories in a race. In addition to the stock class wins, Emily Miller earned a Safari Pre-Runner class second place finish in her inaugural race, driving the Team HUMMER H2 SUV.
Team HUMMER owner and 40-year Baja 1000 veteran, Rod Hall, and his sons Josh and Chad entered their stock-class H3, H2 SUT and H3 Alpha in this year’s race, which consisted of three 84.2 mile laps .
Given that this vehicle is built initially designed to perform in rigorous conditions in military environs, one need not be surprised when such performances are achieved.
All this class of vehicle need are competent drivers and enough fuel for their insatiable thirst.
Public Invited to Put Pedal to the Metal
Consumers Invited To Test Drive '08 GM Vehicles, including the Chevy Tahoe Hybrid
ATLANTA, GA – Consumers attending the Atlanta-Journal Constitution International Auto Show Thursday-Sunday, April 24 - 27 will have a unique opportunity to truly ‘experience’ the GM display by getting behind the wheel and test driving many of General Motors’ hottest new vehicles.
This event is a strategic marketing activity which will most definitely increase GM'S popularity. Customers or potential buyers always like to try out new stuff before they put their money down. some of the vehicles available for test drives are:
The all-new, luxury crossover Buick Enclave and comfortable yet luxurious Buick Lucerne CXS
The newly redesigned Cadillac CTS, spacious Cadillac SRX crossover, luxury SUV segment leader Cadillac Escalade, and the Cadillac DTS full-size sedan
GMC’s professional grade Yukon Denali, Sierra Denali and the GMC Acadia crossover SUV
The iconic and powerful HUMMER H2 and highly versatile HUMMER H3 Alpha
The sporty Pontiac G6 convertible GT, high performance G6 GXP Street Edition and the all-new G8 GT
The dramatically restyled Saab 9-3 convertible and the new Saab 9-7X mid-size SUV with a 6.0L V-8
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Buick Evolves Global Design Inspiration into Invicta Show Car
This new car has evolved from Buick concepts such as the 2004 Velite convertible and 2007 Riviera coupe. Both of those vehicles had r received accolades for their modern adaptation of classic Buick themes. It’ name is Latin for invincible.
Some of its features are;
1. 2.0L dual overhead cam direct injection turbo engine.
2. 250/186 horse power. Six speed transmission.
3. Four wheel antilock disc brakes.
4. Polished aluminum, 20 in. x 8.5 inches with milled Buick emblem rims.
5. P245/40R20 tires.
Cadillac's First Sale Of All-New 2009 CTS-V Benefits Charity
The event was called, “A Night to Remember,” and the auction was the main event. It was held at The Manhattan’s Four Seasons Restaurant and was hosted by Cigar Aficionado magazine. Part sponsor was sponsored in part by Cadillac. $1.3 million was raised for the Prostate Cancer Foundation. The winning bid was submitted by Cano Ozgener, founder of CAO International.
The CTS-V, based on Cadillac’s critically acclaimed CTS sports sedan, expresses the full extent of the brand’s dramatic design and technology. This car is designed to represent Cadillac in the world’s fastest and most exclusive luxury sedans. Its features include: Advanced performance technology such as a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine and Magnetic Ride Control
Thursday, April 17, 2008
GM SAAB 9-5 Sedan
Atlanta - Saab Automobile USA continues its successful "Born From Jets" campaign with new advertising that features its redesigned flagship, the 2006 Saab 9-5 Sedan. The new ads represent the reaffirmation and continuation of Saab's aircraft-inspired marketing strategy.
Saab's latest television commercial, called "Head-to-Head," shows a face-off between the 9-5 and a Saab Gripen jet fighter aircraft.
This car is said to be one of GM's best production. It has:
A bold exterior design, updated interior materials, horsepower increased to 260 hp, chassis enhancements and new instrumentation. It has a 2.3T engine.
There is also the 9-7X, Saab's SUV, the new 9-3 SportCombi five-door and a new 250-hp turbo V-6 engine in all 9-3 Aero models.
Environmental Benefits Of Using E85 Fuel
E85fuel is comprised of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline. This fuel is said to be better for the environment and is rightly so because for every gallon used, only 15% is petroleum. It seems however that it is mostly small vehicles that are been produced to utilize this new commodity. What about the HUMMERS, the ESCALADES etc.
7 million vehicles today can use E85 (ethanol)
E85 ethanol (a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline), is a cleaner-burning alternative fuel that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 23 percent compared with gasoline.
GM is really on the ball about this E85 fuel crisis solution. .With this product available, and 7 million vehicles in existence that can utilize it, the government and private sector giants are missing an opportunity to revolutionise the way we power engines.
Buick Lucerne Joins GM FlexFuel Lineup for 2009
ALEXANDRIA, Va. - The 2009 Buick Lucerne sedan will join General Motors' industry-leading lineup of flex-fuel vehicles that can run on either ordinary gasoline or E85, or any combination of the two, GM Vice President of Environment, Energy and Safety Policy Beth Lowery said Thursday.
Brazil has allot of fuel-flex cars, American made and others. The idea to make the Lucerne the first flex-fuel capable Buick passenger car is a good one. GM intend to make more than 15 other of their models with flex-fuel capability in 2009, an increase from the 11 offerings this year.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Changes In GM Marketing Strategy
DETROIT – General Motors announced today that its U.S. marketing and field operations will be more strongly aligned into four retail channels: Chevrolet; Premium (Cadillac, Hummer, Saab); Buick-Pontiac-GMC; and Saturn. Each channel will be focused on continuing to deliver world-class products for their customer and build value for GM and their respective dealers.
GM announced the appointment of four new leadership positions to direct activities within this organization, effective June 1:
Change is good but will this change make a big difference? Americans are sold on foreign imports such as Toyota , Honda, BMW, Benz and Nissan. I sincerely hope that they will in fact achieve their objective of "delivering world-class products for their customers. GM has the resources to establish ethanol producing plants that produces the fuel on a grand scale. They Should start rebuilding their reputation by doing something grand.
GM Hummer Enters Dakar Rally
Team Dakar USA to enter two HUMMER H3 race trucks in Central Europe Rally Team HUMMER to enter four stock class HUMMER race trucks in Terrible’s 250
DETROIT - HUMMER off-road racing teams are making final preparations to demonstrate their off-road prowess on opposite sides of the globe this weekend. The competition begins with Team HUMMER’s entry in Best in the Desert Racing Series Terrible’s 250 at Primm, April 19, and concludes with Robby Gordon Motorsport’s Team Dakar USA’s HUMMER H3 race trucks competing in the inaugural Dakar Series Central Europe Rally, April 20-26.
Personally, I think all auto racing using vehicles that consume petroleum products should be banned. These super charged vehicles used in auto competitions are not like the average vehicle on the road. They are super fast use allot more fuel per gallon.
Isn't General Motors' interest in these events hypocritical?
Doesn't this contradict their new GREEN IMAGE which they are claiming to promote by making electric and other environmentally friendly vehicles available?
Why don't they enter auto racing events, using their environmentally friendly vehicles and set an example?
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
GM Latin America, Africa and Middle East Quarterly Sales up 20%
Record 323,400 units in Q1 2008
Sales up 19.6% or 52,900 units from Q1 2007
Q1 2008 market share improves 1.2 points to 17.9%
Miramar, FL - General Motors Latin America, Africa and Middle East (GM LAAM) region
posted an all-time Q1 record in 2008, selling 323,400 vehicles, up 52,900 units over the same quarterly period in 2007. GM’s volume increase of 19.6 percent for the quarter outpaced the 11.7 percent industry growth rate for the region. In addition, LAAM’s market share increased to 17.9 percent for the quarter, up 1.2 share points year-over-year.
In achieving the Q1 record sales level, GM LAAM sold an all-time March monthly high of 111,300 units. This equates to a 7.2 percent improvement year-over-year.
This is good for GM. Americans seem to prefer non American cars though. It will be a good economic strategy if America would significantly improve its political image globally because its products (cars) seem to enjoy huge appeal to the international consumers. Allot of people in the Middle East like American cars but many probably wont buy them because they probably don't want to support the economy of a nation that seem to be oppressive towards them.
GM REWARD CARDS
GM Card and the GM Flexible Earnings Card now offer customers even more choices when redeeming Earnings
DETROIT - Consumers who want to use their GM Card or GM Flexible Earnings Card toward the purchase of an eligible, new GM vehicle now have the option to purchase or lease a new Saturn under expanded program guidelines.
The GM Card and the GM Flexible Earnings Card allows Card members to earn toward an eligible new GM vehicle with every credit card purchase. In the past, these Earnings could be applied toward eligible new vehicle purchases or leases offered by Chevrolet, Pontiac, Buick, GM, Cadillac and Hummer. Effective April 15, 2008 Saturn vehicles will be added to the expanded program.
I DID NOT KNOW THAT THERE WAS A GM CREDIT CARD.
SHOULD I GET ONE?
I DON'T KNOW.
I AM GOING TO SHOP AROUND .
MADE TOYOTA HAS A MORE EFFICIENT ONE.
GM Brazil Announces New Engine Plant
Joinville City, Brazil - General Motors Brazil, along with officials from the Santa Catarina State and Joinville City, announced today the company's decision to build a new engine and automotive components plant in that city.
The new plant will require investments of approximately US$ 200 million and is scheduled to begin production in the 4th quarter of 2009 -- only 19 months from the announcement. The plant will employ 500 people and is expected to generate 1,300 indirect jobs.
This new venture is a good investment for Brazil. A total of approximately 1,800 jobs will be available within a short period of time. No doubt, these jobs would go a long way to benefit residents if the homeland (America) ,but this type of international business expansion will do allot for General Motors.
Monday, April 14, 2008
125 Accessories for the H3T.
"The strategy for the H3T was to develop an extensive line of vehicle accessories that allows buyers to personalize the truck to meet their active lifestyle, from water sports to field and stream hobbies; extreme sports to sport-vehicle recreation," said Walsh.
Many people customize their vehicles. It is expected that Hummer customers will do the same. GM research revealed that "The current HUMMER customer adds three-to-four accessories to their vehicle at time of purchase and the average truck buyer will add accessories up to a year after they purchase the vehicle".
Some of the accessories available for Hummer H3T are:
Snug Top, Defender - worx, Truck Vault, Mile Marker, Bushwhacker, Boomerang and Diamondback Truck Covers.
Martin Walsh, HUMMER general manager said that the range of accessories available for the H3T will make it one of the most customizable trucks available.
TEXAS- Hummer's # 1 Market.
The Hummer H3T is said to be perfect for for the rough outdoors people who work and play hard. Martin Walsh, HUMMER general manager said, " it offers truck versatility and the consistent "HUMMER off-road prowess that delivers customers to the trail in style".
Some features are:
A full crew cab.
A separate five-foot-long (1.5 meters) bed.
It is larger than a midsized truck and smaller than a full-size truck.
It has the attributes expected of a HUMMER, including exceptional off-road capability.
A premium interior that is as functional as it is comfortable.
HUMMER H3T To Make Texas Debut
DALLAS - Truck-savvy Texans received a firsthand look at the 2009 HUMMER H3T as HUMMER debuted the brand's first pick-up truck to media attending the Dallas Auto Show.
Historically,Texas is known as a rugged out door state. Hummer is a vehicle originally intended for military use but many versions have been made available for civilian use. Its four wheel drive capability is very suitable for traversing the Texas outdoors. Many other cities use 4WD vehicles but the potential of the HUMMER is wasted on well paved streets.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Statement From Rick Wagoner, Chairman and CEO, General Motors Regarding The Energy Bill
GM commends the Congress and President for passage of an energy bill. The new fuel economy standards within the bill set a tough, national target that GM will strive to meet. We will focus our engineering and technical resources to attain these standards and we remain hard at work applying the innovation and developing the advanced technologies that will power tomorrow's cars and trucks. Addressing the nation's energy security challenges, however, will require all of us working together and we hope to see continued progress on infrastructure and market-driven mechanisms that can augment the auto industry's efforts.
General Motors is committed to improving the fuel economy of its vehicles.It is innovative, and over the years has invested billions of dollars in research to improve its vehicles. It currently offers allot of vehicles that gives up to 30 mpg on the highway. It has some flex fuel vehicles that can run on E85, and has a dual-mode hybrid system that is found in light trucks.
GM Direct Deposit
Registered GM stockholders can choose to directly deposit their dividends into their financial institution accounts and avoid having checks delayed, lost, or stolen in the mail. Contact GM's stock transfer agent, Computer share, at 800-331-9922. Outside the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico, use 781-575-3990.
Direct deposit is the way to go . it takes the hassle out of your day somewhat. imagine having to rush to the bank on your lunch break. making this service available to its stock holders is good for GM's image. It is also an environmental contribution as they minimize their paper usage , thus saving a few more trees. This fits their new GREEN image.
What The Future Holds For GM
At GM, we're delivering the best cars and trucks in the nearly 100−year history of our company. We have an unshakable commitment to product excellence and design purity, expressed through beautiful interiors and compelling bodylines. Our common goal is clear: To provide the finest vehicles possible to every customer in every market around the globe.
Amidst fierce competition, General Motors realizes that if it is to remain as available entity in the automotive industry, it must bring better quality to the market. Between March 2007 and corresponding period of March 2008, sales has fallen by 13%. this is a big wake up call for this automotive GIANT. General Motors seem to have improved its quality, and while its prices are generally more attractive than competitors such as BMW, Toyota and Nissan allot more needs to be done.
G + M = Gas - Friendly
Business Customers Can Use Less Gas, Go Green and Still Get the Job Done
CHICAGO - General Motors, committed to developing the industry's widest range of gas-friendly to gas-free vehicles, will showcase several gas-saving commercial vehicles at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show .
At the show customers will get to seeGeneral Motor's Fleet and Commercial Operations that will display vehicles with record breaking fuel economy.
These vehicles use;
(1) E85 ethanol and biodiesel capability.
(2) gas-electric hybrid vehicles designed to help General Motors customers go green without going broke.
Marketing director John Gaydash said, "More and more of our business and commercial customers are concerned about the environmental impact of their vehicle fleets and how that influences the reputation of their company."
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
GM - Buick Lucern CXL Special Edition
Buick’s Lucerne CXL Special Edition offers either a V-6 or V-8 engine – making it the only Lucerne model to offer this choice.
The 3.8L V-6 equipped Lucerne CXL Special Edition is amazing. Some of its features are;
(1) 197 horsepower (147 kW) @ 5200 rpm and 227 lb.-ft. of torque (308 Nm) @ 3800 rpm.
(2) For more performance, Buick offers an uplevel Northstar 4.6L V-8 which gives 275 horsepower (205 kW) @ 6000 rpm and 295 lb.-ft. of torque (400 Nm) @ 4400 rpm.
(3) This premium, aluminum 32-valve dual overhead cam V-8 engine is specifically tuned for Lucerne.
(4) It is recognized for its technological refinement, precision and quick launch capability.
(5) Outside, Lucerne CXL Special Edition models are equipped with a chrome grille, unique 17-inch chrome-clad wheels, new rear fascia and model-specific badge on the decklid.
(6) Inside, CXL Special Edition has perforated leather seat inserts, and contrasting stitching on the seats, console armrest and door trim.
GM Expands 2008 Buick Lacern Lineup
DETROIT – Buick will increase its 2008 Lucerne lineup with two new models available at dealerships beginning in April. The Lucerne Super and Lucerne CXL Special Edition reflect Buick’s commitment to bringing a greater variety of premium products into its portfolio.
According to Jim Bunnell, Buick - Pontiac - GMC general manager “Lucerne Super and Lucerne CXL Special Edition epitomize Buick’s new level of refinement and our effort to deliver the vehicles that today’s customers demand,”
These are some of the features on the Lucerne Super :
1. Refined power and performance.
2. It is powered by the 4.6L North star V-8 engine that delivers 292 horsepower .New premium steering components for more precise steering and a higher level of responsiveness
3. Higher-rate front and rear coil springs for improved stability .
4.Larger front stabilizer bar for improved roll control.
5. Magnetic Ride Control technology which is re calibrated for even more driver control and performance, while further reducing body roll in cornering and lane changes.
6. Eighteen-inch aluminum wheels shod with P245/50R18 all-season radials.
7. New grille and front fascia, new rocker panels, new rear fascia, and new exhaust tips.
Monday, April 7, 2008
Great % APR Offers for GM Certified Used Vehicles
GM Certified Used Vehicles Offers Special Rate Incentive Financing on Select Vehicles
- GMAC 2.9% APR or 3.9% APR Available for Well-Qualified Buyers on 2003-2008 Chevrolet Cobalt, HHR, Tahoe, Suburban and Silverado; Pontiac G6; GMC Sierra, Yukon and Yukon XL Models
DETROIT – GM Certified Used Vehicles, the industry’s top-selling manufacturer-certified used vehicle brand*, today announced a nationwide GMAC rate incentive program on select GM Certified Used Vehicles, including Chevrolet Cobalt, HHR, Tahoe, Suburban and Silverado; Pontiac G6; and GMC Sierra, Yukon and Yukon XL models.
In a recent release from GM Certified Used Vehicles department ,Paul Pejza, manager, GM Certified Used Vehicles said that General Motors customers can now receive great deals on purchases when they shop between early April and late June 2008. The vehicles in question are said to be high-quality, low-mileage, fully inspected and reconditioned used cars or trucks that are backed by the dealers and General Motors. the APR breakdown are as follows;
2.9% APR financing for terms up to 48 months.
3.9% APR financing for terms up to 60 months.
4.9% APR financing for terms up to 60 months for well-qualified customers.
The vehicles being offered are;
2003-2008 models of Chevrolet Impala, Malibu and Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, Pontiac Grand Prix, and Buick Lacrosse vehicles at participating GM Certified Used Vehicles dealers.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Chevrolet Volt Development Charges On
FOR RELEASE: 2008-04-03
- Battery engineers develop new computer testing procedure, leverage global resources to accelerate development of extended-range electric vehicles (E-REV)
- Engineers integrate T-shaped battery into vehicle structure
- Designers improve aerodynamics to lower energy consumption
WARREN, Mich. – Engineers at GM’s battery test facilities have developed a new computer algorithm to accelerate durability testing of the advanced lithium-ion batteries needed to power the Chevrolet Volt for up to 40 miles (64 km) of electric-only driving.
According to Mr. Mich, the new battery is not as conventional batteries used in automobiles. this battery is very powerful and replaces fuels in motor vehicles. Americas economy is heavily dependent on petroleum so if technologies exist that can reduce the dependence on it. the world will benefit.
GM Urges More Hydrogen Stations
FOR RELEASE: 2008-04-02
Rapid Progress on Fuel Cell Vehicles Needs to Be Matched With Rapid Progress on Hydrogen Fueling
SACRAMENTO, CA – General Motors today called on the energy industry and governments to step up and help automakers make volume production of fuel cell-electric vehicles a reality by opening more hydrogen fueling stations.
While speaking at the National Hydrogen Association’s annual conference in Sacramento, California, Mr. Larry Burns, General Motors vice president, research & development and strategic planning emphasized that fuel cell vehicles are fun to drive and are practical and efficient. He also made it clear that it is the responsibility of this generation to start taking steps towards widely distributing these new vehicles and not wait to pass the responsibility to the next generation. He said that hydrogen fuel- cells can be made from a broad range of renewable and sustainable energy products and making the fueling stations widespread and available is something that the government needs to get involved in.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
GM delivered 282,732 vehicles in March.
This is a bad for GM. Keeping this up (or down) should put Toyota and others on the edge of their seats. Toyota and other manufacturers such as Honda, BMW, Mercedes Benz and Nissan are doing well but this kind of decline from General Motors does non readily translates to better markets for them. This kind of downward trend could mean that the economy is weak and could affect all players in the game.
Company Change
As of this date I have changed the company I am blogging about. I will now be blogging about General Motors.