– QX Becomes Second Infiniti to Feature Advanced Blind Spot Intervention™ System –
FRANKLIN, Tenn. –
Infiniti today announced U.S. pricing for the 2012 Infiniti QX full-size luxury SUV and 2012 Infiniti EX luxury crossover. Both are on sale now at Infiniti retailers nationwide.
2012 Infiniti QX
Following record sales for the totally redesigned 2011 Infiniti QX, pricing for the 2012 model year remains unchanged. It is once again offered in two fully equipped models – Infiniti QX56 2WD and Infiniti QX56 4WD. Several option packages have been modified to make some features more accessible in lower-level packages, and new features have been added to the Deluxe Touring and Technology Packages.
One of the major enhancements to the QX for 2012 is the addition of Blind Spot Intervention™ to the Technology Package. A world’s first system, Blind Spot Intervention™ helps alert the driver to vehicles in the blind spot area, then actively assists the QX back to the center of the travel lane if the driver begins to move over.
Other revisions for 2012 include:
• The Bose® Cabin Surround® sound system receives two additional speakers (15 speakers total) and is now part of the Deluxe Touring Package
• Heated 2nd row seats with remote tip-up function move to the Theater Package (from the Deluxe Touring Package)
• Headlight washers are added to the QX56 2WD Deluxe Touring Package
The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP)* are:
Model Infiniti QX56 2WD
Engine/Transmission 5.6-liter V8 / 7-speed automatic
MSRP $58,700 USD
Model Infiniti QX56 4WD
Engine/Transmission 5.6-liter V8 / 7-speed automatic
MSRP $61,800 USD
2012 Infiniti EX
The 2012 Infiniti EX is available in four models: EX35 RWD, EX35 AWD, EX35 RWD Journey and EX35 AWD Journey. Enhancements for 2012 include the addition of HomeLink® Universal Transceiver as standard equipment on the EX35 Journey (previously part of the Deluxe Touring Package).
The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP)* are:
Model EX35 RWD
Engine/Transmission 3.5-liter V6 / 7-speed automatic
MSRP $35,600 USD
Model EX35 Journey RWD
Engine/Transmission 3.5-liter V6 / 7-speed automatic
MSRP $37,900 USD
Model EX35 AWD
Engine/Transmission 3.5-liter V6 / 7-speed automatic
MSRP $37,000 USD
Model EX35 Journey AWD
Engine/Transmission 3.5-liter V6 / 7-speed automatic
MSRP $39,300 USD
About the 2012 Infiniti QX
Following its total redesign for 2011, the Infiniti QX has experienced record sales and strong media and consumer reviews. The Infiniti QX is designed to attract and hold viewers’ attention, conveying its underlying sense of power and strength. The styling is dynamic, its size capable of transporting up to eight adults and their belongings with spacious elegance, and its drivetrain rugged enough to handle tasks such as towing boats or trailers (8,500-pound towing capacity, when properly equipped), while also offering 14% better fuel economy (EPA Combined) than the previous generation QX.
The QX offers a high-stiffness frame structure that enhances ride comfort while reducing noise, vibration and harshness, a standard 5.6-liter V8 engine rated at 400 horsepower and 413 lbs-ft of torque that combines the responsive acceleration of Infiniti’s VVEL (Variable Valve Event & Lift) technology with the efficiency of Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG™), and 7-speed automatic transmission.
The QX interior remains long on luxury and comfort, including standard Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System, Around View™ Monitor, Bose® 13-speaker Premium Audio System, available perforated semi-aniline leather-appointed seating and an available Theater Package with dual 7-inch color monitors.
About the 2012 Infiniti EX
The 2012 Infiniti EX35 once again combines a sleek, sculpted, elegant skin, exhilarating driving performance and an engaging interior environment – along with a suite of technologies such as an available Blind Spot Warning (BSW) system and the Around View® Monitor, which utilizes four small cameras located front, sides and rear to give the driver a “top-down view” of the outside of the vehicle and help reduce blind spots when parking.
Key highlights of the Infiniti EX include a standard 297-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine matched with a responsive 7-speed automatic transmission, available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, standard 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and available 19-inch wheels and tires (Deluxe Touring Package), standard leather-appointed seating and available power up-folding 2nd row seat.
Other advanced technologies range from standard RearView Monitor to available Lane Departure Prevention system (LDP), Intelligent Cruise Control, Distance Control Assist (DCA) and Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Collision Warning.
About Infiniti
Infiniti offers a full-line of luxury performance automobiles that inspire at every turn, including the G Coupe, Sedan and Convertible, Infiniti M Sedan, EX and FX crossovers, and the QX full-size SUV. More information about Infiniti and its Total Ownership Experience can be found at www.InfinitiUSA.com.
[Source: Infiniti, Photo]
Post tags: Tags: blind spot intervention, car, features, Infiniti
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ROLLE, Switzerland – Infiniti released the first image of its upcoming concept car, which makes its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show on September 13th. It will be unveiled by reigning Formula One World Champion and Infiniti FX driver Sebastian Vettel, who helped design the concept vehicle.
About Infiniti
Infiniti offers a full-line of luxury performance automobiles that inspire at every turn, including the G Coupe, Sedan and Convertible, Infiniti M Sedan, EX and FX crossovers, and the QX full-size SUV. More information about Infiniti and its Total Ownership Experience can be found at www.InfinitiUSA.com.
Post tags: Tags: concept-car, frankfurt motor show, Infiniti, sebastian vettel
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Design updates and navigation radio complement proven capability and fuel efficiency
DETROIT – Chevrolet Silverado bolsters its position as the segment’s most capable and diverse lineup with enhancements for 2012 that improve appearance, comfort and connectivity.
New front-end designs, available heated/cooled seats (LTZ models) and a special White Diamond Edition enhance appearance and comfort, and a new navigation radio delivers on connectivity. It offers an updated screen and integrated hard drive that eliminates the need for discs with map data. Silverado also offers segment-exclusive OnStar and SiriusXM satellite radio, as well as Bluetooth and USB connectivity – and a dealer-installed Wi-Fi system.
With the exception of Hybrid models, all Silverado 1500s now feature Trailer Sway Control and Hill Start Assist as part of the StabiliTrak electronic stability control system, enhancing performance under a variety of driving and trailering conditions.
“Silverado’s dependable V-8 performance, highly competitive fuel economy, and broad range of models continue to have a strong appeal to truck customers, and Silverado sales were up 7 percent through July of this year,” said Maria Rohrer, Chevrolet Truck marketing director. “The changes for 2012 enhance the rugged and capable Silverado with a fresh, updated design and available navigation radio and Wi-Fi systems that can make driving more convenient and enjoyable.”
The new and revised design for 2012 includes a chrome mesh grille matched with either a chrome surround on LS and LT models or a body-color surround on LTZ. LS and LT models now feature a silver-painted lower bumper fascia that is more aerodynamic on 2WD models without tow hooks, and a new 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheel.
Four new exterior colors: Silver Ice Metallic, Mocha Steel Metallic, Carbon Flash Metallic, and Graystone have been added. Two new interior color combinations are available: Dark Titanium/Light Titanium and Dark Cashmere/Light Cashmere.
Cruise control and a spare tire lock are now standard on all Silverado 1500 models.
The White Diamond Edition is available in LT or LTZ trim. Content includes a unique White Diamond Tricoat exterior color, chrome mirror caps and door handles, and body side moldings with chrome accents on LT models. The LTZ version adds the Z60 high-performance suspension package, 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels, touring tires and a chrome tow hook and exhaust tip package.
Customers seeking a more rugged-looking Silverado can choose the Z71 Off-Road Appearance Package. It is available on LT and LTZ extended cab and crew cab models equipped with the Z71 suspension and includes Rancho front and rear shocks, body colored front end appearance, 18-inch aluminum wheels with on/off-road tires, fog lamps, bold Z71 graphics and more.
Purposeful technology
Silverado offers a number of technical features that enhance its capability for both work and recreation, including new navigation radio. It offers an enhanced display and now has a hard drive that eliminates the need for discs with map data. Silverado also is equipped with segment-exclusive OnStar Directions & Connections with Turn-by-Turn Navigation and Automatic Crash Response, SiriusXM satellite radio, Bluetooth for phone and USB connectivity.
Chevrolet WiFi powered by Autonet, available through Chevy dealers, turns the Silverado into a mobile internet hot spot and an office on wheels, providing multiple users with full internet access inside the vehicle or up to 150 feet from the exterior of the vehicle.
For work sites, Chevy WiFi offers instant access to online ordering sites, municipal sites with building permits and building code information and more. For families on the go, passengers can connect with friends on social media sites, stream videos, find maps, check weather or search for fishing and camping sites.
Silverado also offers comprehensive confidence and control features. Trailer sway control, which uses the truck and trailer brakes and the powertrain controls to keep the vehicle and trailer on the intended path, is now part of StabiliTrak, as is Hill Start Assist, which avoids roll-back before accelerating on inclines.
Silverado’s 6-speed transmission is enhanced so that in normal mode the transmission downshifts during deceleration to use engine compression to assist in braking to slow the vehicle more efficiently, reducing brake wear. This Cruise Grade Braking feature now works in and out of Tow/Haul mode and applies to 1500 models with the 5.3-liter and 6.2-liter V8 engines
Custom Sport Truck Package
Looking to provide full-size pickup owners with more amenities is nothing new for Chevrolet. In 1967, Chevrolet introduced the Custom Sport Truck package. That package included a chrome front bumper, bright trim and badging on the exterior and full carpeting, 40/20/40 bucket seats (a Chevy truck first) with underseat storage, and chrome interior details. It was a hit and sales increased each of its three years.
To celebrate the 45th Anniversary, Chevrolet is reintroducing the Custom Sport Truck package with updated content for today’s buyers. The package includes:
• Vortec 5.3L V8 engine
• 6-Speed automatic transmission
• Heavy-duty trailering package
• Automatic locking rear differential
• Heated power-adjustable, manual-folding outside mirrors with chrome caps
• 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels
• Bodyside moldings with chrome accents
• Chrome door handles
• EZ-Lift locking tailgate
• Power driver seat
• Steering wheel controls
• Bluetooth phone connectivity
• Audio system with USB port
• Dual zone automatic climate control
• Fog lamps
The Custom Sport Truck package is available nationwide on Silverado 1500 Extended Cab models and in California, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Florida and select counties in Arizona, New Mexico, Arkansas, Kansas, Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi on Silverado 1500 Crew Cab models.
Capability and efficiency
The Silverado 1500 lineup is built on GM’s full-size truck architecture, which supports a smooth ride and confident handling. A lineup of powerful small-block V-8 engines and six-speed automatic transmissions complement the strong chassis by enabling a maximum payload capacity of 1,937 pounds (879 kg) on the 2WD crew cab (with the Max Trailering Package).
When equipped with the available Max Trailering Package and the 6.2L V8, the Silverado 1500 can tow up to 10,700 pounds (4,853 kg).
Thanks to ongoing development and fuel-saving technologies such as Active Fuel Management and variable valve timing, Silverado’s mainstream 5.3-liter V8 is highly competitive in fuel economy.
For 4WD pickups, which make up approximately 70 percent of retail sales, Silverado V8 matches the EPA combined estimate for a competitor’s boosted V6, and provides better warranty coverage — a 100,000 mile/ 5-year powertrain limited warranty.
For those seeking even better economy, Silverado offers two V8 alternatives. The Silverado XFE incorporates improved aerodynamics, a 5.3L/six-speed automatic powertrain, and other enhancements to deliver an EPA-estimated 22 mpg on the highway. The segment-exclusive Silverado Hybrid returns for 2012, too, combining EPA estimates of 20 mpg city/23 mpg highway with Silverado’s traditional capabilities – including a 6,100-pound (2,767 kg) towing capacity.
Value
In addition to competitive fuel economy and the best coverage of any full-size pickup, Silverado offers a variety of popular packages and model discounts. The All-Star Edition continues to be available on 1500 Extended and Crew Cabs. New for 2012 is a $1,000 LTZ Value Discount on 1500 Crew Cabs making the highest trim level even more attractive to shoppers.
Founded in Detroit in 1911, Chevrolet celebrates its centennial as a global automotive brand with annual sales of about 4.25 million vehicles in more than 120 countries. Chevrolet provides consumers with fuel-efficient, safe and reliable vehicles that deliver high quality, expressive design, spirited performance and value. The Chevrolet portfolio includes iconic performance cars such as Corvette and Camaro; dependable, long-lasting pickups and SUVs such as Silverado and Suburban; and award-winning passenger cars and crossovers such as Spark, Cruze, Malibu, Equinox and Traverse. Chevrolet also offers “gas-friendly to gas-free” solutions including Cruze Eco and Volt. Cruze Eco offers 42 mpg highway while Volt offers 35 miles of electric, gasoline-free driving and an additional 344 miles of extended range. Most new Chevrolet models offer OnStar safety, security and convenience technologies including OnStar Hands-Free Calling, Automatic Crash Response and Stolen Vehicle Slowdown. More information regarding Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com
Post tags: Tags: chevy, truck
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Quick Response (QR) Code Window Sticker Added to All Vehicles, Providing Enhanced Interactive Customer Shopping Experience –
FRANKLIN, Tenn. -
Nissan today announced that it is the first Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) to offer Quick Response (QR) codes on individual vehicle window stickers across its entire lineup, beginning with 2012 models. Rolled out in June with the launch of the 2012 Nissan Altima and Sentra, the QR codes link consumers to additional vehicle information, providing a free, enhanced interactive shopping experience via the most popular web-enabled iPhone, Android and Blackberry devices.
“Nissan’s new QR code program puts important decision-making information at shoppers’ fingertips while on dealership lots, helping sales personnel make a more effective presentation, as well as providing customers with a ‘silent salesperson’ if they are shopping the lot after hours,” said Jon Brancheau, vice president, Marketing, Nissan North America, Inc. “It’s a true mass market effort across all products and all Nissan dealerships nationwide – part of our pledge to bring innovation to every aspect of the vehicle design, buying and ownership experience.”
The Nissan “On Vehicle Graphics” system utilizes QR code technology, which is easily accessed by a large group of customers through a wide array of QR code readers.
Key information available through the QR codes includes:
• Specific vehicle information, including grade walk, key features and available accessories
• Video based product overviews
• Image gallery
• Incentive offers
• Dealer inventory
• Request a quote capability
• Join mailing list request
• Dealer location support
“Initial consumer response, based on early 2012 Altima QR code availability, has been extremely encouraging, with consumers viewing multiple pages and requesting follow-up information regarding current offers and inventory,” said Brancheau. “It’s one more way Nissan helps the consumer by delivering content on their terms.”
About Nissan North America
In North America, Nissan’s operations include automotive styling, design, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program 2010 and has been recognized as a 2010 and 2011 ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency. More information about Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.NissanUSA.com and www.Infiniti.com.
About Nissan
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Japan’s second largest Japanese automotive company by volume, is headquartered in Yokohama, Japan and is an integral pillar of the Renault-Nissan Alliance. Operating with more than 150,000 employees globally, Nissan provided customers with more than 4 million vehicles in 2010.
With a strong commitment to developing exciting and innovative products for all, Nissan delivers a comprehensive range of fuel-efficient and low-emissions vehicles under the Nissan and Infiniti brands. A pioneer in zero emission mobility, Nissan made history with the introduction of the Nissan LEAF, the first affordable, mass-market, pure-electric vehicle and winner of numerous international accolades including the prestigious 2011 European Car of the Year award.
For more information on our products, services and commitment to Sustainable Mobility, visit our website at http://www.nissan-global.com/EN/.
[Source: Nissan]
Post tags: Tags: 2012 Nissan vehicles, campaign, Nissan, QR codes
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OnStar connectivity will help Chevy Volt Customers reduce driving costs
• Smart grid solutions enable utilities to manage electric vehicle energy demands
• OnStar will be the lone telematics provider able to create wireless bridge between electric vehicles and the grid
• Regional utility employees will drive Volts as every day vehicles in Q3
RALEIGH, N.C. – General Motors and OnStar will launch the first real-world pilot of smart grid solutions for electric vehicles this year, paving the way for utilities to increase energy efficiency and offer lower charging costs to customers.
Starting this quarter, hundreds of employees of regional utilities will drive leased Chevrolet Volts as their everyday vehicles and participate in the pilot.
“In contrast to other OEMs who are only talking about smart grid technology, we’re moving beyond research and development projects to a program in the real world,” said Nick Pudar, OnStar vice president of planning and business development. “Through this pilot we will see real-time results on how intelligent energy management can maximize EV charging efficiency and minimize the electric bill for EV drivers.”
Many utility companies throughout the United States have implemented programs where customers opt in to allow the utility to stop and start their home air conditioning units as needed when electricity demand is high. The customer benefit from this service is a lower electricity bill. OnStar’s smart grid solution builds on this concept, but to a much more advanced and sophisticated level.
Through the OnStar Advanced Telematics Operations Management System (ATOMS), a utility will be able to accurately monitor and manage the energy used by the vehicles. The data will give the utility deep insight into where and when EVs are charged and demand response, which allows the utility to reduce peak demand by shifting EV charging to non-peak hours.
“OnStar is the only telematics provider that can create a wireless bridge between electric vehicles and the grid, building on our learning from the Chevrolet Volts on the road today,” Pudar said.
Through OnStar’s ATOMS infrastructure and partners’ solutions, utilities will be able to implement two Smart Grid services:
• Data Gathering. With customer permission, OnStar will provide the utility with overall charge level as well as charging history – by time and location – for the Volt pilot fleet, without the vehicles having to connect to a charging station. This will give the utility better insight for forecasting demand, setting rates and determining the best location for charging infrastructure.
• Demand response. OnStar will allow the utility to actively manage EV charging for those who opt in to the service. The utility can then reduce peak loads by offering discounts or other incentives to encourage drivers to charge their EVs when overall electricity demand is lowest, typically in the early morning hours.
OnStar, the automotive industry leader in telematics, first demonstrated EV data gathering and demand response in February at the DistribuTECH conference in San Diego. The Chevrolet Volt is now available in select U.S. markets and will be available nationwide by the end of the year.
# # #
About General Motors
General Motors (NYSE: GM, TSX: GMM), one of the world’s largest automakers, traces its roots back to 1908. With its global headquarters in Detroit, GM employs 202,000 people in every major region of the world and does business in more than 120 countries. GM and its strategic partners produce cars and trucks in 30 countries, and sell and service these vehicles through the following brands: Baojun, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, Daewoo, Holden, Isuzu, Jiefang, Opel, Vauxhall, and Wuling. GM’s largest national market is China, followed by the United States, Brazil, the United Kingdom, Germany, Canada, and Italy. GM’s OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. More information on the new General Motors can be found at www.gm.com.
About OnStar
OnStar, a wholly owned subsidiary of General Motors, is the leading provider of connected safety and security solutions, value-added mobility services and advanced information technology. Currently available on more than 40 MY 2011 GM models, OnStar soon will be available for installation on most other vehicles already on the road through local electronics retailers, including Best Buy. The OnStar Mobile App is a recipient of the 2011 Edison Award for Best New Product in the Remote Driving Aids segment and OnStar Stolen Vehicle Slowdown is a recipient of the 2010 Edison Award for Best New Product in the Technology segment. OnStar safely connects its more than six million subscribers, in the U.S., Canada and China, in ways never thought possible. More information about OnStar can be found at www.onstar.com.
Post tags: Tags: chevrolet-volt, onstar, smart grid pilot
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- Renault recently fitted its one-millionth in-car Carminat TomTom navigation system in two years.
- Today, more than one in two Renaults sold worldwide is equipped with Carminat TomTom.
- LIVE services offer customers the full benefit of intelligent, connected navigation coupled with innovative services and real-time information.
- At €490, Carminat TomTom is the least expensive and best selling integrated and connected navigation system on the market.
Renault recently topped the one-million mark in vehicles equipped with a Carminat TomTom navigation system and is announcing an unprecedented fit rate of 38% on Clio, 77% on Scénic and 25% on Trafic.
Carminat TomTom is available today on all Renault passenger cars (apart from Modus, Twingo and Wind) and since early 2010 on all the brand’s light commercial vehicles.
Faithful to its tradition of ingenious innovations that are accessible to all, Renault started working on an integrated navigation system back in 1982. It launched its first road trials on the Carminat system in 1994, becoming the first carmaker to propose fully embedded navigation systems. The systems were upgraded in 2002 with dynamic route guidance and the recalculation of journey times, for example in the case of a drop in vehicle speed.
In partnership with the leader in personal navigation solutions, Renault is enhancing flexibility and time to market while bringing customers excellent ergonomics by fully integrating the navigation system in the vehicle.
Launched in spring 2009, Carminat TomTom is upgraded continuously for ever more efficiency. Carminat TomTom received two new functions in early 2010: IQ Routes™, proposing the best route plan according to real vehicle speed and journey times based on statistics calculated every moment every day of the week, and Advanced Lane Guidance, which visualizes intersections and traffic lanes.
Navigation took a big step forward in terms of driver support in late 2010 with the launch of the Carminat TomTom LIVE. The entire Renault range is now available with four innovative connected services as options:
- HD Traffic: for the best traffic information in real time.
- Road safety alerts: real-time alerts on incidents, dangerous areas and risk areas.
- Google local search: shows points of interest from nearly 20 million references.
- 5-day weather forecasts.
Commenting, Giles Shrimpton, CEO of TomTom Automotive, said: “We are extremely happy to announce that the one millionth Carminat TomTom has been fitted on board a Renault vehicle. This figure is tangible proof of the success of our product and our partnership with Renault. We plan to continue this partnership with Renault in the long term by bringing our customer the best of our expertise.”
Stephen Norman, Senior Vice President, Global Marketing at Renault, said: “One million Renault owners have since 2009 chosen an in-dash Carminat TomTom navigation system. Today, for just €490, this intelligent on-board system brings customers connected services that are highly appreciated and hard to go without once you have experienced their quality.
About TomTom
Founded in 1991, TomTom is the world’s leading supplier of location and navigation products and services focused on providing all drivers with the world’s best navigation experience. Headquartered in Amsterdam, TomTom has over 3,500 employees and sells its products in over 40 countries.
TomTom offers portable navigation devices, in-dash infotainment systems, fleet management solutions, maps and real-time services, including the award winning HD TrafficTM.
For the world’s most up-to-date route planner, including live traffic information please visit http://www.routes.tomtom.com/
For further information, please visit www.tomtom.com
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About Renault
Present on all continents with over 30 production sites and 18,000 business sites in 118 countries, Renault designs, produces and sells a broad range of innovative vehicles that with each new generation are increasingly safe and more respectful of the environment. The company is pursuing its strategy of profitable growth with associate brands Dacia and Renault Samsung Motors. Renault has a workforce of 121,000 worldwide. In 2010 it reported revenues of €38,971 million and sold over 2.6 million vehicles.
[Source: Photo]
Post tags: Tags: navigation system
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“Sustainable mobility accessible to all” is a core Renault strategy, and it is in this light that the company is taking part in the 20th anniversary of the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association, ACEA.
• As part of its 20th anniversary celebrations, ACEA is organizing a forum in Brussels from June 22 to 25.
• Young Europeans aged from 18 to 30 have been invited to the event to share their ideas and thoughts on the future of transport and mobility, under the banner “Our Future Mobility Now”.
• Renault is taking part in the event to raise the awareness of young people on mobility and enhance their image of the automotive industry.
Renault, a major player in future mobility, is participating in the “Our Future Mobility Now” forum organized by ACEA at Autoworld in Brussels from June 22 to 25. Some 46 young people from 15 European countries have been selected by the ACEA project to take part in debates on the future of mobility and transport with leaders from the auto industry and the European Union. The Renault delegation will be led by Claire Martin, Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility and the Renault Corporate Foundation, Rémi Bastien, Head of Research, Advanced Studies and Materials, and Patrick Hoffstetter, Head of the Digital Production Center. They will be accompanied by three students currently studying in one of the programs supported by the Renault Foundation.
Renault’s involvement in the event is consistent with its ambitious 2011 recruitment plan. The company is planning to hire 1,500 people this year on open-ended contracts in France across all business lines, including 400 recently graduated engineers to work in engineering and production.
This recruitment drive is also being accompanied by a proactive approach to taking on young people as part of work-study programs, before they look for their first jobs. These programs give these youngsters the opportunity to acquire real professional skills and find out about the wealth of trades at Renault. By end-2011 some 2,700 young people on work-study schemes will be present at the company. Renault aims to raise the share of this population to 5% of the total workforce by 2013.
In addition, the participation of Mr. Hoffstetter shows the brand’s ambition to establish a leading position on the web – the preferred communication channel of young people.
As part of the exhibition accompanying the ACEA forum, Renault will be presenting:
- a Carminat TomTom Live demonstrator (the least expensive in-car, connected navigation system on the market),
- a see-through Fluence Z.E. electric car (showing the interior of the vehicle),
- an Energy TCe Concept engine.
Renault is committed to developing a range of electric vehicles accessible to all – the spearhead of its environmental commitment. Since 1995 Renault has led an environmental policy that takes account of the impact of all its activities at each stage of the vehicle life cycle. The criteria for the company’s Renault eco2 signature, introduced in 2007, have been tightened this year. The most environmental and economical vehicles in the Renault range now comply with the following conditions: they are produced in an ISO 14001-certified plant, emit less than 120 g/km of CO2 or run on biofuel, and contain more than 7% recycled plastic.
In addition, Renault is preparing for the future through an ambitious objective on global warming set out in its “Renault 2016 – Drive the Change” strategic plan, namely to reduce its carbon footprint by 10% between now and 2013 and by a further 10% between 2013 and 2016.
Renault Corporate Foundation
The Renault Corporate Foundation, founded in 2001, embodies Renault’s hands-on commitment to further education. It is tasked with forming lasting ties between the company and French and international academic institutions. It designs and supports original training programs on multicultural management and sustainable development.
www.fondation.renault.com
[Source: Photo]
Post tags: Tags: ACEA
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Munich. 17th June, 2011. The largest motoring garden party in the world, set in the heart of the British countryside, will be the idyllic setting for an outing of the MINI John Cooper Works WRC. This will be at the Goodwood Festival of Speed on the 1st – 3rd July and here a member of the public will get the once in a life time chance to be a passenger in one of these iconic cars while it is being driven at speed.
The lucky person, who will sit beside works rally driver, Kris Meeke (GB), on Sunday morning while the car goes through the 1.67 mile loose-surface forest rally stage, will be the winner of a raffle to be held at the annual glittering ball on the Saturday night. Dr Kay Segler, Senior Vice President Brand Management MINI, commented: “When we were invited to be part of this event, which has a worldwide reputation for being one of the biggest on the motorsport calendar, we were delighted. The affection felt for MINI as a brand is amazing, and I am confident the fans at Goodwood will give it as enthusiastic a welcome as I watched it have on its World Rally Championship debut in Sardinia. We wanted to make it even more special, so we felt giving a prize that money could not buy would be a great start.”
Meeke will be driving the car on both the rally stage and up the 1.16 mile hillclimb on all three days. This event, which was founded in 1993 by the owner of Goodwood House, the Earl of March, has become a magnet for fans who come from far and wide to celebrate motorsport and all things automotive at their finest. The hillclimb, which is the main attraction, is very technical and challenging and rises over 300 feet from start to finish.
This year?s theme is „Racing Revolutions – Quantum leaps that shaped motorsport?. Priceless machinery from around the world representing two and four wheeled motorsport will be on display for the 150,000 sell-out crowd to see at close quarters.
The MINI WRC Team has been busy testing ahead of its next WRC outing on Rally Finland on 28th – 30th July. This is the second of six WRC events in 2011 that Meeke and co-driver Paul Nagle (IR) and Dani Sordo and co-driver Carlos del Barrio (ES) will take part in ahead of a full assault on the WRC in 2012.
[Source: MINI, Photo]
Post tags: Tags: MINI John Cooper Works
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The automotive group’s Mountain View facility will focus on vehicle IT, advanced engineering research, and technology recruitment.
MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. – The Renault-Nissan Alliance will open a research office later this month in the heart of Silicon Valley.
Directly across from the Google campus and minutes from leading hardware and software companies, the offices in Mountain View will allow one of the world’s largest automotive groups to capitalize on the region’s world-class engineering talent and stay ahead of trends that are reshaping the way people interact with their cars.
The office will build staff organically to focus on specific projects and business developments as they emerge. Small, highly efficient teams will initially work on vehicle IT development, advanced engineering research and technology recruitment.
“The Alliance is at the vanguard of the auto industry’s shift to sustainable transportation. Having a greater footprint in one of the world’s headquarters for clean tech research will extend our lead further,” said Carlos Ghosn, CEO and Chairman of the Renault-Nissan Alliance, who is giving a talk at the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research (SIEPR) today. Ghosn’s “Clean Cars” presentation at Stanford will focus on how and why zero-emission technologies is leading to unprecedented opportunities in the auto industry and economy.
Created in 1999, the Renault-Nissan Alliance is a unique partnership between two of the largest automakers in Europe and Japan. Renault and Nissan, which together employ more than 350,000 workers, sold 7.2 million cars in 2010 – about one in 10 cars worldwide. Paris-based Renault and Yokohama-based Nissan collaborate through joint purchasing, platform sharing and cross-shareholding. They maintain separate brands and cultural identities.
$5.4 Billion Commitment to Sustainable Mobility
The Nissan LEAF, which debuted last year, is the world’s first affordable, mass-marketed pure electric vehicle, and it’s the first product from the Alliance’s $5.4 billion investment in zero-emission cars. Upcoming debuts include an Infiniti premium electric sedan, the Renault Twizy urban commuter car for Europe, and utility vans for commercial fleets. All can be charged purely with renewable energy, for 100 percent zero emissions “well to wheel.”
Nissan will use the Silicon Valley office to focus on vehicle IT research, including graphical user-interface displays, in-car Internet connectivity and smart-grid research. Nissan’s “Carwings” telematics system, a standard in every Nissan LEAF, includes a seven-inch touchscreen with maps of recharging stations and real-time reports on energy consumption. Nissan has delivered more than 7,500 LEAFs worldwide.
Renault, one of the largest carmakers in Europe, will be launching a broad range of affordable, zero-emission cars for overseas markets. Renault Fluence ZE, which debuts later this year in Europe and the Middle East, has a folding floor that enables a battery swap in less time than it takes to fill a car with gasoline. The Renault Twizy ZE is a two-seat urban commuter car, and the Renault Kangoo ZE is a utility van that is convenient and cost-effective for deliveries and other fleet uses.
Renault’s Silicon Valley work will focus on research and advanced engineering, in particular electric vehicles and their supplier and infrastructure ecosystem, on-board services and business development.
Renault-Nissan Alliance is a strategic partnership between Paris-based Renault and Yokohama, Japan-based Nissan. The companies have 350,000 employees and account for one in 10 new cars sold annually around the world. The Alliance is committed to developing a wide range of cars and trucks for consumers in every major price and size segment — including low-cost cars, urban commuter cars, commercial vans, premium vehicles and SUVs. The Alliance is the global auto industry leader in sustainable transportation and the only car group mass-producing zero-emission vehicles. For more details, visit http://blog.alliance-renault-nissan.com/.
[Source: Photo 1, Photo2]
Post tags: Tags: Nissan, Renault, research office
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DETROIT – OnStar won the Best Telematics Safety Technology Award from Telematics Update on Tuesday evening, the ninth consecutive year OnStar has received an International Telematics Update Award.
OnStar has accumulated 21 Telematics Update Awards in the program’s nine-year history. The ceremony, which was kicked off by Clear Channel’s Ryan Secreast, recognizes the most prominent and up-and-coming players in the industry in 10 telematics categories.
The Best Telematics Safety Technology award highlights OnStar’s commitment to providing more than 6 million customers with unparalleled safety and security services. Since its inception, OnStar has deployed emergency services more than 1 million times, and receives nearly 2,500 Automatic Crash Response alerts monthly.
“We’re thrilled that the telematics community has again recognized OnStar’s unwavering commitment to providing drivers with a safety service they can rely on,” said Linda Marshall, OnStar President. “Our team makes a constant effort to not only enhance the safety of our customers, but also to help all drivers on the road and assist first responders in emergency situations. We thank the first responder community, who make the life-saving technology of OnStar a reality every day.”
Last year, OnStar, in coordination with the General Motors Foundation, provided a $500,000 grant to the International Center of Automotive Medicine at the University of Michigan Health System for research related to the prediction of injury severity after a crash. Research being lead by Dr. Stewart Wang, director of the University of Michigan Program for Injury Research and Education, uses OnStar crash data, hospital records as well as first responder and police information to help improve the outcome for severe crash victims.
The awards precede the Telematics Detroit Conference, the biggest telematics-focused conference and exhibition of the year. On Thursday, Greg Ross, OnStar vice president business extensions, will give a keynote speech where he will discuss OnStar FMV, the company’s new retail product that can be installed in 90 million vehicles already on the road.
Launching later this summer, OnStar FMV will deliver OnStar’s award-winning services to drivers of non-GM and older GM vehicles on the road. It can be installed on most top-selling vehicles manufactured in the past 10 years, including vehicles from Ford, Toyota and Chrysler. OnStar FM will be available at Best Buy and other consumer electronic retail locations. To check if your vehicle can support OnStar FMV use the vehicle compatibility tool, which is also available at OnStar Facebook page.
About OnStar
OnStar, a wholly owned subsidiary of General Motors, is the leading provider of connected safety and security solutions, value-added mobility services and advanced information technology. Currently available on more than 40 MY 2011 GM models, OnStar soon will be available for installation on most other vehicles already on the road through local electronics retailers, including Best Buy. The OnStar Mobile App is a recipient of the 2011 Edison Award for Best New Product in the Remote Driving Aids segment and OnStar Stolen Vehicle Slowdown is a recipient of the 2010 Edison Award for Best New Product in the Technology segment. OnStar safely connects its more than six million subscribers, in the U.S., Canada and China, in ways never thought possible. More information about OnStar can be found at www.onstar.com.
[Source: OnStar]
Post tags: Tags: award, onstar, telematics
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OnStar is the first company to introduce an automotive mobile app in China
SHANGHAI – Today at the 2011 Shanghai Auto Show, Shanghai OnStar announced the debut of the popular OnStar Mobile App for all drivers of OnStar-equipped vehicles in China.
The app is the first automotive mobile app available in China and is similar to the U.S. and Canadian versions. It will allow OnStar subscribers in China access to all of the functions of a traditional key fob – remote start, horn and lights and door lock/unlock – securely from their smart phones.
“Giving our customers control of their vehicles with smart phone application technology is a key advantage of OnStar’s in-vehicle connectivity,” said Jon Hyde, general manager of Shanghai OnStar Telematics Co., Ltd, “This technology empowers drivers to have control over important vehicle information from anywhere they happen to be.”
In addition, the app will provide subscribers with key diagnostic information, including fuel level and range, remaining oil life, current and recommended tire pressure and lifetime average kilometers per liter. The diagnostic information is current as of the last vehicle start, giving OnStar subscribers an up-to-date status report of their vehicle when they need it.
“OnStar is continuously raising the bar in telematics and safety leadership as well as applying the newest and best technology for our customers in China,” said Hyde. “It is our vision to be the single most-admired telematics player with a clear focus on providing subscribers safety, security and peace-of-mind services.”
OnStar mobile app services will be available to all OnStar-equipped vehicles, including existing subscribers as well as new subscribers. For more information about the OnStar mobile application, please visit www.onstar.com.cn.
The U.S. and Canadian versions of the app are available on most 2011 Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac models, and a select number of 2010 models. The complete list of compatible vehicles is available at www.onstar.com/mobile.
About Shanghai OnStar Telematics Co., Ltd.
Shanghai OnStar Telematics Service Co., Ltd. is a joint venture officially established by General Motors, SAIC Group and Shanghai GM on October, 2009. OnStar is the leading provider of in-vehicle safety, security and peace of mind for Shanghai GM models manufactured and sold in China.
OnStar, parent company of Shanghai OnStar Telematics Service Co., aims at improving vehicle safety. Up till now, OnStar has 6 million customers all over the world and 253 million customer interactions. OnStar receives high praise from its customers and is the telematics industry leader.
OnStar provides the following 14 services in China:
- Automatic crash response
- Emergency services
- Automatic air bag deployment response
- OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics
- On-demand diagnostics
- Good Samaritan
- Stolen vehicle location
- Remote door unlock
- Remote horn and lights
- Roadside assistance
- Hands-free calling
- Points of interest
- Turn-by-Turn Navigation
- Destination Download
About OnStar
OnStar, a wholly owned subsidiary of General Motors, is the leading provider of connected safety and security solutions, value-added mobility services and advanced information technology. Currently available on more than 40 MY 2011 GM models, OnStar soon will be available for installation on most other vehicles already on the road through local electronics retailers, including Best Buy. OnStar safely connects its more than six million subscribers, in the U.S., Canada and China, in ways never thought possible. OnStar Stolen Vehicle Slowdown is a recipient of the 2010 Edison Award for Best New Product in the technology category. More information about OnStar can be found at www.onstar.com.
[Source: Photo]
Post tags: Tags: mobile app
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Student developers will present final OnStar app ideas at O’Reilly conference
DETROIT – OnStar heads to the O’Reilly Where 2.0 Conference Tuesday through Thursday with an eye on the future of automotive and digital connectivity. OnStar will be represented at the conference with a keynote address, panel discussion, interactive exhibit and presentations of student-developed apps.
In his keynote speech Wednesday, Nick Pudar, OnStar vice president of Planning and Business Development, will talk about the future of automotive connectivity and destination management, and will announce additional services for the OnStar Mobile App.
“Where 2.0 presents us with a great opportunity to share our vision for the future of personal mobility and connectivity, both inside and outside the automobile,” said Pudar.
Wednesday afternoon, finalists in the OnStar Student Developer Challenge will present their voice-based app submissions to judges. The students’ mission was to develop the most original and compelling in-vehicle, voice-enabled application using OnStar’s unique data model and QuickFuse, a voice application development platform.
Students from five universities, Carnegie Mellon University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), University of Michigan, University of Texas and University of Toledo, participated in the challenge. Six apps were selected as finalists. Each team received an all-expenses-paid trip to the conference to present the apps.
Judges will review the apps and announce the grand prize winner at an evening reception. The winner may choose one of two Developer Dream Packages, each valued at $10,000.
“We’re thrilled to give these students a chance to attend and present at such a distinguished technology conference. It’s a fantastic opportunity to meet and network with some of the brightest minds in the business, while also gaining valuable insight into the world of app development,” said Pudar.
Judges are Robert Scoble, noted tech influencer and managing director of Rackspace; Daniel Jacobson, director of engineering for the API at Netflix; and OnStar chief technology officer Jeff Liedel. Scoble and Jacobson will also take part in a panel discussion – moderated by Pudar – on the convergence of technology, the social web and personal connectivity.
OnStar will also host an exhibit where media and conference participants can meet OnStar executives, see demonstrations of OnStar’s most recent technologies – such as the OnStar Mobile App in and around the Chevrolet Volt – recharge their mobile devices.
About OnStar
OnStar, a wholly owned subsidiary of General Motors, is the leading provider of connected safety and security solutions, value-added mobility services and advanced information technology. Currently available on more than 40 MY 2011 GM models, OnStar soon will be available for installation on most other vehicles already on the road through local electronics retailers, including Best Buy. OnStar safely connects its more than six million subscribers, in the U.S., Canada and China, in ways never thought possible. More information about OnStar can be found at www.onstar.com.
[Source: Photo]
Post tags: Tags: conference, mobile app
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