Ford pulls million vehicles because of problems with fuel tank

The American company Ford withdraw 1.22 million Ford Lincoln pick up car because of the possibility Of corrosion can effect the System of links in the fuel tank.

The American agency said " the corrosion can effect one or two of the links which can lead to the separation of fuel pipelines from the reservoir and in some cases Can make the tank touches the ground and the those actions can lead to risk of fuel leakage and a fire " According to Agence France-Presse.

The models covered by the withdraw decision is Ford pick up F-150 , F-250 and Lincoln Blackwood which produced bewteen 1997 and 2004.

And sold or recorded about 1.1 million of these vans with back part is exposed in 22 American states especially in eastern and northern United States from Minnesota to Maine and from Illinois to Washington.

Chrysler reveals Mopar accessories for the 2012 Fiat 500

The Fiat brand re-enters North America by offering its latest generation Fiat 500 under Chrysler. Mopar, the automobile parts and service arm of Chrysler Group, is offering around 150 accessories for this model. Pietro Gorlier, the President and CEO of Mopar (Chrysler Group LLC's service, parts and customer-care brand), said that the FIAT 500 is one of the most accessorized vehicles in Europe. He said that this trend is expected to continue in North America, describing the all-new FIAT 500 as the �perfect canvas for customization.�

For instance, Mopar provides custom key covers for the all-new Fiat 500, which could be easily changed and are available in sets of two. Consumers can choose from several designs and colors, including: Blue solid/Black with graphic (MSRP: $48), Red solid/Red with graphic (MSRP: $48), and 500 logo/Checker (MSRP: $48).

It also comes with a wide variety of graphics and designs to cover the entire roof, including American, Canadian, Italian and Mexican flags. There�s also a range of race stripes and checkered and striped graphics to choose from. MSRP starts from $319 to $534. Fiat reassures buyers that body-side stripe graphics are built from the highest quality 3M material and come in a variety of colors, sizes and designs. They are priced from $409 to $439.[via - 4wheelsnews]

PHOTO : 2012 Fiat 500 Mopar Accessories

Mercedes-Benz CLC based on B-Class coming in 2013, report says

In late 2013, Mercedes-Benz will release the CLC, a CLS-inspired car based on the upcoming front-drive B-class. The CLC, which is the carmaker�s entry in the premium small saloon market, was recently seen testing in the U.S. for the first time. The new four-door is also expected to lead to an AMG model as an indirect successor to the classic 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II.

The CLC, which is codenamed C117, will make use of the long-wheelbase version of Mercedes� new compact MFA platform that will also underpin the new GLC off-roader (codenamed X156) and the new B-class (W426). The new A-class (W176) will use a short-wheelbase version of the platform. The CLC standard versions will come in front-wheel drive, according to Autocar. Meanwhile, selected models such as the AMG will get four-wheel drive. The turbocharged petrol engines are available in 1.6 in 121bhp and 154bhp versions.

Consumers may opt for a 207bhp 2.0, which enables the vehicle to accelerate from zero to 62mph in 7.0sec and reach a maximum speed of 145mph. The diesel variants include a 1.8, in 108bhp and 134bhp versions. There�s also a 2.1 with a choice of 168bhp or 201bhp. The CLC AMG, which rivals the Volkswagen Golf R, will be equipped with a twin-turbocharged 2.0-litre engine that delivers 296bhp. It will also feature a dual-clutch gearbox, while other models receive a six-speed manual gearbox as standard equipment.[via - 4wheelsnews]

Audi R8 Facelift coming in 2012

Audi is preparing to release a facelifted R8 supercar in summer 2012. In addition, it will be offered with an engine lineup that�s significantly stronger. Audi is expected to improve the 5.2-litre V10 from 518bhp to 533bhp. Sources from Munich said that for the first time, Audi will be coming out with a seven-speed dual clutch S-tronic gearbox. To date, just an old-school Ferrari open-gate manual 'box has been offered, or a robotized R-tronic auto.

The entry-level Audi R8 will get major revisions in 2012 too. Its 4.2-litre V8 will be upgraded to the same spec as the Audi RS5. It is expected to have a boosted output, from 424bhp to 444bhp. Insiders said that there will be GT and GT Spyder variants once more.

Even if the R8 will get a mild facelift, it�s likely to just be a slight model year change to the car�s physical design such as with its headlamp designs and LED spacing. However, there is no facelift planned for the Lambo Gallardo, the cousin of the R8. There will be more special editions to come but Lambo fans will need to wait three years more for the successor to the Gallardo.

Rumor: Lamborghini Estoque Convertible coming in 2014

The next Lamborghini supercar that will enter production is believed to be the Lamborghini Estoque, which was unveiled at the 2008 Paris Motor show. It�s expected to have a 2014 release. The new model appears to have evolved from an earlier version of the Lamborghini Espada, which is the company�s first four-door model ever in its history. A convertible version will be launched as a concept in 2015 model and it will start production in 2016.

The �Estoque� model name is taken from the spade used by matadors. The Estoque will target supercar enthusiasts and those who want a supersport four-door luxury sedan. This four-door supercar goes up against the Porsche Panamera and Aston Martin Rapide.

According to AutoGuide, Lamborghini has gotten access to a considerable number of technologies from the Audi A8. There�s even a chance that the Estoque would be offered with a hybrid drive-train designed for Audi A8 very soon. This four-door sport sedan is expected to be more luxurious than its rivals, which means that it will be more expensive. It is expected that this beautiful four door supercar is priced at about $230.000.

BMW, Audi announced more ambitious car sales and profit goals

The competition between Audi AG and BMW AG, the top two premium vehicle manufacturers in the world, has heated up with their announcements in the past week on achieving more ambitious vehicle sales and profit goals. Specifically, Audi is targeting double new-car sales and a profit margin of 8 percent to 10 percent by 2020. On the other hand, BMW expects to exceed its 2011 earnings and sales goals. Last Tuesday, BMW disclosed that it expects its annual earnings to be significantly better than the previous estimates due to an extra 100,000 in car sales and a soaring profitability at its core vehicle business.

According to the company�s statement, the automotive segment is now predicted to achieve an EBIT margin of more than 10 percent for the full year in view of the strong performance to date as well as a positive outlook for the coming months.

The luxury vehicle manufacturer estimates its 2011 sales to increase more than 10 percent to at least 1.6 million vehicle units compared to a prior forecast of more than 1.5 million, according to Autonews. During the first half of the year, the BMW Group sold 833,366 vehicle units, a yearly increase of 19.7 percent. On the other hand, Audi intends to increase its new-car sales by 100 percent under its Strategy 2020 plan, the company�s CEO Rupert Stadler informed Automotive News Europe last week. He added that the company intends to sell more than 2 million cars a year by 2020. Audi, which sold almost 1.1 million vehicle units last year, is hoping to sell 1.5 million vehicle units by 2014, a year ahead of schedule, Stadler revealed. [via - 4wheelsnews]

Photos : 2012 Audi S5 Facelift

2012 Land Rover Discovery 4 on sale in Australia in November

Land Rover has announced details for the facelifted 2012 Land Rover Discovery 4. The new vehicle will get similar revisions to the new Range Rover Sport, including changes to the in-car entertainment kit and also two new option packs.
The 2012 Land Rover Discovery 4 will come with new option packs: the Technology Pack and the Vision Assist Pack.
The Technology Pack includes a satellite navigation system with Land Rover�s 4x4i off-road guidance system. The pack also includes Parking Aid with front and rear cameras and �Say What You See� voice-activated navigation.

The Vision Pack includes Surround Camera System including Approach Lamps, Automatic Headlamps with High Beam Assist and Tow Assist/Tow Hitch Assist. It also comes with Xenon Adaptive Front Headlamps and Cornering Lamps.

Other noticeable revisions for the new model include changes to the exterior with new 19-inch alloy wheels for the HSE model, while the existing HSE wheel now comes standard on the SDV6 SE model. A new 20-inch wheel design is available as an option across the range. Some detail changes also make their way onto the body including the grille and front fascia design.

The interior will incorporate Land Rover�s new MOST Gen 2.1 electrical infrastructure. The in-car entertainment has also been updated across the board, with a new colour-screen display, eight-speaker USB/iPod compatible stereo system, and an optional premium 380-watt sound system with 11 speakers. A top line Premium Harman Kardon LOGIC 7 is also available, with 17 speakers.
The 2012 Land Rover Discovery 4 will go on sale in Australia in November. Pricing will be confirmed closer to its local launch.

2011 BMW X1 sDrive20d EfficientDynamics Edition: details, photos and specs

The market launch of the BMW X1 sDrive20d EfficientDynamics Edition is scheduled for this fall but already, it has announced details of the latest model from BMW X1 lineup. It is powered by a four-cylinder diesel engine that uses BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. On average, its fuel consumption rating is at 4.5 l/100 km while it has a CO2 emission level of 119 g/km on the European cycle. This makes it as undoubtedly, the most efficient BMW X model. The 2-liter unit can develop 163 hp between 3,250 and 4,200 rpm. Meanwhile, the maximum torque of 380 Nm is available between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm.

Furthermore, the gear-shift point indicator, which is offered as standard, was adapted to go well with the new engine features. In addition, its standard features include brake energy regeneration, Auto Start Stop function, electromechanical power steering, a disengageable air-conditioning compressor and tires with reduced rolling resistance. It also has a longer rear axle drive ratio and comes with specific light alloys in the Streamline design. Beginning this fall, there will be ten model variants in the BMW X1 lineup.

Of this number, five will have characteristic BMW power transmission to the rear wheels and five will have the electronically controlled four-wheel drive system xDrive. Buyers can choose from three petrol and four diesel power units with power outputs that range from 143 hp to 245 hp. The BMW X1 sDrive20i, BMW X1 sDrive28i, BMW X1 xDrive20i, BMW X1 xDrive28i and BMW X1 xDrive20d models are also fitted with the brake stand-by function and a hill-start assistant. In the future, buyers can opt for the BMW Individual roof rail system High Gloss Shadow Line as a separate feature and not just together with the M Sport Package for the BMW X1. In addition, the optional range of BMW ConnectedDrive features will be enhanced starting in the autumn of 2011 with the availability of the Real-Time Traffic Information function. [via 4wheelsnews]

Photos : 2011 BMW X1 sDrive20d EfficientDynamics Edition

2012 MINI Coupe: official details, specs and photos

After lots of spy shots, the all-new 2012 MINI Coupe is here ready to take the small car segment to another level. The first visual impact with the car shows the distinctive �helmet roof� design as well as the flat coupe silhouette. Comparing it to the standard MINI Cooper, the Coupe is with 52 millimetres and comes with an active rear spoiler designed to optimise airflow at higher speeds, which extends automatically at 80 km/h (50 mph). The car was designed strictly for two passengers and offers loading capacity behind the seats. The interior received sports seats as standard (MINI Cooper S Coupe, MINI Cooper SD Coupe, MINI John Cooper Works Coupe). Regarding the design, the roof in contrasting colour comes as standard while the Sport stripes are offered as an option and come in the same contrasting colour on the bonnet, boot lid and rear apron, and in body colour on the roof.

The 2012 MINI Coupe comes as standard with: speed-sensitive power steering, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, Park Distance Control, height-adjustable seats, air conditioning (MINI Cooper S Coup�, MINI Cooper SD Coup�, MINI John Cooper Works Coup�) and an audio system with MP3-compatible CD player and AUX IN connection as standard; optional equipment includes black headlight housing, xenon headlights, Adaptive Headlights, Comfort Access, automatic climate control, automatically dimming rear-view mirror and exterior mirrors, storage package, preparation for a rear luggage carrier rack, the John Cooper Works Pack and exclusive options from the MINI Yours range; a variety of entertainment and communications functions unparalleled in the segment: Harman Kardon Hi-Fi loudspeaker system, Bluetooth mobile phone preparation, USB audio interface; innovative MINI Connected functions � including web radio, Google local search and Google Send to Car services, reception of RSS news feeds, plus in-car use of Facebook and Twitter � available in conjunction with the MINI Visual Boost radio or MINI navigation system.

2012 MINI John Cooper Works Coup�: Four-cylinder petrol engine with twin-scroll turbocharger and direct injection, plus numerous technological details carried over directly from motor sport. Displacement: 1,598 cc, output: 155 kW/211 hp at 6,000 rpm, max. torque: 260 Nm/192 lb-ft at 2,000 � 5,100 rpm (280 Nm/207 lb-ft with overboost at 1,700 � 4,500 rpm). Acceleration: 0�100 km/h (62 mph): 6.4 seconds, top speed: 240 km/h (149 mph). Average fuel consumption according to EU standard: 7.1 litres per 100 kilometres (39.8 mpg imp), CO2 emissions: 165 g/km.

2012 MINI Cooper S Coup�: Four-cylinder petrol engine with twin-scroll turbocharger, direct injection and fully variable valve management based on the BMW Group�s VALVETRONIC technology. Displacement: 1,598 cc, output: 135 kW/184 hp at 5,500 rpm, max. torque: 240 Nm/177 lb-ft at 1,600 � 5,000 rpm (260 Nm/192 lb-ft with overboost at 1,700 � 4,500 rpm). Acceleration: 0�100 km/h (62 mph): 6.9 seconds, top speed: 230 km/h (143 mph). Average fuel consumption according to EU standard: 5.8 litres per 100 kilometres (48.7 mpg imp), CO2 emissions: 136 g/km.

2012 MINI Cooper Coup�: Four-cylinder petrol engine with fully variable valve management based on the BMW Group�s VALVETRONIC technology. Displacement: 1,598 cc, output: 90 kW/122 hp at 6,000 rpm, max. torque: 160 Nm/118 lb-ft at 4,250 rpm, Acceleration: 0�100 km/h (62 mph): 9.0 seconds, top speed: 204 km/h (127 mph), Average fuel consumption according to EU standard: 5.4 litres per 100 kilometres (52.3 mpg imp), CO2 emissions: 127 g/km.

2012 MINI Cooper SD Coup�: Four-cylinder turbodiesel with aluminium crankcase, common-rail injection and variable turbine geometry. Displacement: 1,995 cc, output: 105 kW/143 hp at 4,000 rpm, max. torque: 305 Nm/225 lb-ft at 1,750 � 2,700 rpm. Acceleration: 0�100 km/h (62 mph): 7.9 seconds, top speed: 216 km/h (134 mph). Average fuel consumption according to EU standard: 4.3 litres per 100 kilometres (65.7 mpg imp), CO2 emissions: 114 g/km. [via - 4wheelsnews]

Photos : 2012 MINI John Cooper Works Coup�

All-new Lotus Esprit will deliver an authentic driving experience

Lotus CEO Dany Bahar said that the driving experience on the new Esprit will be more �authentic� than that of the Ferrari 458 Italia and McLaren MP4-12C. The new V8 supercar is slated to be launched in the spring of 2013, which means that it is the first of a handful of new Lotus models displayed at the 2010 Paris motor show to reach production. Bahar asserts that the Esprit will �have the character and emotion� that�s lacking in the McLaren.

He disclosed that the rolling chassis has been completed and that fully running prototypes would be prepared by November., according to Autocar. The car will be developed at the N�rburging and Idiada (Spain) circuits. It will also have a portion of its development at Lotus�s Hethel headquarters, where a project for a new test track is nearly complete. The Esprit is the first Lotus to be powered by the company�s new V8 engine, which has an output of 570bhp. The Lotus V8 weighs 80kg lighter and is smaller by 40% than the Toyota-sourced V8 initially meant for the Esprit.

This model is also expected to be using Formula 1 KERS-style technology; however, Bahar said that these electronic systems would not be used to aid the driver but only for boosting the driving experience. Bahar explained that the track-orientated Exige and 2-Eleven in the new lineup, together with the Elise, will stay around to gratify Lotus�s current customer base. It�s not clear if the next-gen Exige and 2-Eleven will switch to Lotus�s all-new lightweight modular aluminum platform. Bahar is vague and would only say that as models evolve, their performance will improve too. [via - 4wheelsnews]


photos : 2013 Lotus Esprit Concept

2011 Saab 9-5 gets the Top Safety Pick Award from IIHS

The 2011 Saab 9-5 Sedan was named by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) as one of its latest group of vehicles that got the Top Safety Pick Award this year. In fact, this model also took the highest rating, five stars, in the crash tests done by the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP). What the IIHS determined was that the 9-5 Sedan meets its strict safety requirements. It earned the highest rating in all four test categories and it features ESP.

Tests for front impact (offset) and side impact crashes are included in the categories it was tested for. To evaluate protection against whiplash injuries and to test the roof structure in the event that it rolls over, IIHS checked the seat/head restraints by simulating rear impact.

Per Lenhoff, Head of Safety Development at Saab Automobile, said that he is �pleased� with how the 9-5 performed in the independent tests conducted by the IIHS. Per Lenhoff added that it doesn�t only want to do well in crash tests. He said that Saab�s main priority is to �protect real people in real accidents� � the company�s �Real-Life Safety philosophy." [via - 4wheelsnews]

2011 BMW Frozen Black Edition M3 Coupe sold out in just 22 minutes

The BMW stealth fighter, dubbed as the Frozen Black M3 Edition, was put on sale just days ago but already, it has sold out. BMW Blog said that the entire 20-unit run was sold in only 22 minutes. This is a stunning achievement since this edition is priced about $21,000 higher than the regular M3 Coupe. The 2011 BMW Frozen Black M3 Coupe costs $79,650 (excluding a $875 destination charge). Actually, one of the 20 units will be kept by BMW of North America but may be sold at a later date.

On the other hand, the 19 units will be delivered this month. Each unit features a 4.0-liter, 414hp M V8 engine that�s equipped with BMW�s M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT). As a result, the car will be able to accelerate from a standstill to 60mph in 4.5 seconds, faster than the regular M3�s acceleration time of 4.5 seconds.

The cars will be given an extraordinary BMW Individual matte paintwork and a unique metallic luster. BMW achieved this effect by applying a silk matte clear coat (which BMW developed) over the Black Metallic base coat. Other highlights in this car include a set of 19-inch GTS wheels that are finished in gloss black. The kidney grilles, fender vents and exhaust tips are in this paint color as well. At night and when the lights are turned off, this car will be virtually invisible. For this package, BMW is adding red-colored brake calipers, carbon fiber accents, and black leather interior that has contrasting red stitching. In addition, its suspension was lowered by 10 mm. [via 4 wheelsnews]

Chevrolet Cobalt Concept unveiled at the 2011 Buenos Aires Motor Show

General Motors has unveiled the Chevrolet Cobalt Sedan Concept at the Buenos Aires Motor Show in Argentina. It appears all the more that GM intends to capture the Americas market by offering affordable models. In the US, the Chevrolet Cobalt is being replaced with the more global Cruze sedan but the Cobalt is remaining in South America. What GM has presented is a pre-production concept. The four-door sedan Cobalt Concept was developed by General Motors Technical Center in South America and is set to enter production next year.

GM has yet to provide information about the chassis but it seems to have the appearance of the Chevrolet Sonic (Aveo on the European market) sedan if you look at the swept-back A pillar and the bonnet�s shape. It�s possible that the intricate lights at the back and the double exhaust fitted to the bumper won�t make it to production but it�s likely to still have the overall shape.

According to GM, the Cobalt is a global product and will be available with a range of four cylinder engines with displacements from 1.3 to 1.8 liters. Buyers can choose a car that runs on either ethanol, petrol or diesel, and it�s also offered with either an automatic or a manual transmission. GM gave the Cobalt concept an aero kit that consists of front and rear aprons, side skirts and a discreet boot lid spoiler. It was given a set of 17-inch wheels that are covered in 255/45 R17 rubber and twin exhaust outlets. [via - 4wheelsnews]


photo : 2011 Chevrolet Cobalt Concept

Steelmakers should use derivatives, says Renault-Nissan executive

Renault-Nissan deputy general manager, Nicolas Fourrier, of supplier account office, told Reuters that steelmakers should utilize derivatives to manage their input costs in order to give their customers, like the automakers, the long-term price stability they need. He added that those steel suppliers that successfully use hedging instruments and offer long-term price contracts are more likely to obtain customers. He also stated that the development of liquidity in the iron ore derivatives market could give opportunities to steel mills to give longer term prices to the customers.

BHP Billiton, Vale and Rio Tinto, which are the three iron ore producers, rejected a decades-old annual pricing scheme in favor of quarterly pricing last year, says Autonews. While pricing for iron ore, which is a core ingredient in steelmaking, becomes more flexible, steelmakers are pushing for shorter-term steel pricing mechanisms to transfer price volatility to customers. However, the customers are resisting frequent price reviews because higher volatility would make it more difficult for them to manage costs.

This year, Renault-Nissan agreed with steelmakers to review steel prices twice a year but states that more frequent price reviews would be unacceptable. Fourrier disclosed that any shorter period will cause accounting problems, and going more than six months is not possible. He added that Renault-Nissan is not going to hedge coking coal or iron ore because it is not directly involved in these markets. On the other hand, Volkswagen AG is studying the use of steel derivatives to lock in materials costs and protect margins, Michael Wagner, who is the company's head of treasury commodities trading, told Reuters in an interview last Tuesday. [via - 4wheelsnews]

Ford Fiesta ST - new pics

These are the latest spy pictures of the hot 180bhp Ford Fiesta ST. It will go on sale late next year to battle the Renaultsport Clio 200 and Seat Ibiza Cupra.
The hot Fiesta will give Ford a welcome road car spin-off from its S2000 rally car and WRC programme, which has switched from the Focus to the Fiesta this year.
The go-ahead will also come as a major relief for fans of fast Fords because the project has hung in the balance for several years while Ford has struggled to justify the investment.

At the heart of the new front-drive ST will be a 1.6-litre Ecoboost turbo engine, the same basic unit that powers the four-wheel-drive Fiesta WRC car.
The ST will use a 180bhp version of the Ecoboost, most likely mated to a six-speed manual transmission, although the ratios may be changed to produce a sportier drive.
There�s no word on performance yet, but the 197bhp Renaultsport Clio 200 achieves 0-62mph in 6.9sec and 141mph. In giving away nearly 20bhp, the Fiesta ST may struggle to match the Clio.

Prices are still to be decided, although there are indications that the ST may start from around �16,500, sufficient to undercut the stripped-out Clio Cup by �300 and the higher-spec Clio 200 by �1300.
The launch timing, at the end of 2012, will coincide with the Fiesta�s mid-life refresh, which will bring mild styling tweaks and readjusted specs and trim. [via - autocar]


Photos : Ford Fiesta ST

Drifter smashes world record

A drifter has smashed the Guiness world record for the longest powerslide at Mercedes-Benz World.
Mercedes demo driver Mauro Calo smashed the previous record by just under 400 metres with a total drift distance of 2308 metres (1.43 miles).

The Mercedes C63 AMG, which was used for the record, was driven 8.5 times around Mercedes-Benz World�s outer perimeter �until the rear tyre burst,� Calo said.
�The car was so balanced. I was relaxed and only had to make small corrections to the steering and throttle,� said Calo. �Then the tyres let go after lap seven, but I kept on going until I knew I�d beaten the record. I�m absolutely chuffed."

Calo, who has also driven for Autocar, said his next challenge would be "smashing the world blindfold speed record".
�I�m not 100 per cent sure how far it is, but I reckon I can get that one too,� added Calo.

The shredded C63 AMG tyre will be framed and on show at Mercedes-Benz World in Brooklands, Surrey. [via - autocar]

Mazda expects a 16 percent fall in operating profit this year

Mazda Motor Corp expects a 16 percent drop in operating profit in 2011 as it reels under the supply chain disruptions after the March 11 earthquake and a stronger yen. The company forecasted a net profit of 1 billion yen from a 60 billion yen loss last year. It also forecasted operating profit of 20 billion yen ($248 million) for the year ending March 2012. This is better than the 5.66 billion yen average estimate of 21 analysts compiled by Thomson Reuters I/B/E/S.

To seek growth in emerging markets, the company announced its plans on Friday to build a new plant in Mexico. This confirms a Thursday report of Reuters. Specifically, the company said that it will build a $500 million plant in the central Mexican state of Guanajuato under the trading company Sumitomo Corp. It will start production sometime between April 2013 and March 2014, and will mainly serve Central and South America. The company will build the Mazda2 subcompact and Mazda3 compact cars, and engines at this new site.

The plant's production capacity will be 140,000 units annually. It will employ around 3,000 at maximum capacity. Sumitomo will hold 30 percent of the joint venture plant while the company will own 70 percent. The partners will also set up a sales company in the fast-growing market of Brazil, which will start operations in the business year beginning in April 2012. This Brazilian unit will initially market and sell vehicles made in Japan and will eventually add units assembled at the new Mexico plant. [via - 4wheeslnews]

Toyota says that 30 types of components are still affected by the earthquake

Toyota Motor Corp. is cooperating with components manufacturers to restore inventories of 30 types of parts that are still feeling the impact of the Japan earthquake last March. After the disaster, 659 plants that mostly belong to second- and lower-tier suppliers were damaged, Senior Managing Director Yasumori Ihara disclosed during Toyota's annual shareholder meeting in Japan. He added that the company has a team of 150 investigators who are working to lessen the components shortage.

He also disclosed that Toyota has lowered the number of critical components in short supply, mostly rubber materials and semiconductor, from 500 at the end of March, according to Autonews. Last week, Toyota mentioned that it foresees profit to drop 31 percent to 280 billion yen ($3.5 billion) this fiscal year because damage to suppliers limits vehicle production and the strong yen erodes earnings from exports. With limited output, Toyota may be outperformed by General Motors Co. in overall sales for this 2011.

Worldwide car sales may decrease to 7.24 million this fiscal year from 7.308 million last year, the company disclosed last June 10. Operations will return to normal at its North American factories in September, Bob Carter, the group vice president for U.S. sales, stated last Thursday. Moreover, the Nikkei newspaper reported this week that normal levels for worldwide output may be restored this October. The vehicle manufacturer's plants are running at 70 percent of planned levels this month, compared to the 50 percent in April and May. [via - 4wheelsnews]

Merc 'CLS' SUV aims at X6

Mercedes-Benz is set to extend its line-up of dedicated SUVs with a new BMW X6-rivalling model called the GLS, according to highly placed sources at the German car maker.

Scheduled for launch in 2014, the new four-seater has been conceived around the same new unibody platform that underpins the third-generation M-class and the latest Jeep Grand Cherokee.

�After closely monitoring sales trends, we�ve concluded there is potential for an additional off-road model with a more sporting emphasis than the new M-class,� an insider revealed last week.

Part of a new wave of models due in the next five years, the GLS will forgo the practicality of the five-seat M-class for a more sporting four-seat interior, with a racier roofline and styling cues from the CLS saloon.

The obvious competitor is the BMW X6, which has been a surprise success with 120,000 sold worldwide since 2009, but it will also face competition in the shape of a new Audi Q6, planned for 2016. And a new Range Rover Sport will be on sale in 2013.

Further details are scarce, but powertrains should include turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 and 4.6 V8 petrols, plus a 3.0 V6 diesel.

Also planned is a diesel-electric hybrid that will share components with an E300 Hybrid that is due to be unveiled at the Frankfurt show in September.

Crowning the new line-up will be a BMW X6 M-rivalling model from AMG with a turbocharged 5.5-litre V8.

Assembly will be alongside the M-class at the company�s North American factory in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. [via - autocar]

2011 Lexus LS 460 Touring: details, photos, specs and price

Lexus announced today the 2011 LS 460 Touring Edition (rear wheel drive model), a new model that will hit the dealerships in late June/early July. The new model will be priced from $73,000 (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price; delivery, processing and handling fee of $875 not included). The 2011 LS 460 Touring Edition will be available on both the LS 460 Rear Wheel Drive and All-Wheel Drive models and according to the manufacturer the new edition will feature a Smoky Granite Mica exterior.

Moreover, the 2011 Lexus LS 460 Touring Edition will feature 19-inch five-spoke alloy wheels (18-inch on All-Wheel Drive model), sport kit and grille, sport seats, wood and leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob. Other features include matte brown wood trim, black and saddle leather-trimmed seats and premium floor mats.

"The Touring Edition adds excitement to our flagship sedan," said Mark Templin, Lexus Division group vice president and general manager." "The package on this car enhances styling and comfort, allowing us to attract younger buyers to the LS line-up." "The LS 460 Touring Edition is a unique package of sporty exterior styling and comfort. With limited units available nationwide they'll sell out fast to customers who want an all-inclusive luxury package," said Templin. [via - 4wheelsnews]


photo : 2011 Lexus LS 460 Touring