It appears that there is a power partnership forming in California. Toyota, emerging from recent bad publicity and numerous recalls, recently purchased $50 million in Tesla common stock, a welcomed boost for the electric car company.
Tesla purchased the recently vacated NUMMI facility in Fremont, Calif. Tesla plans to use the facility to produce its upcoming Model S, and future models.
The NUMMI plant is home to Toyota's Production System, known for its heightened quality, efficiency, and cleanliness. The NUMMI plant was recently shut down after Toyota and GM vacated it.
With Toyota now invested in Tesla, one would hope to see a crossover of technology.
Toyota offers Tesla the avenue that Ford does to Mazda in being a competitor in the auto market.
Tesla's first car. the Tesla Roadster was designed to be an electric sports car, though has been plagued with reliability issues, something Toyota could help the company with.
Toyota may benefit from Tesla from Tesla's sports car mind set. Possibly a hybrid system that powers its FT-86 Concept?
-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: Toyota and Tesla]
Monday, May 24, 2010
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
GM in Talks With Google for Ford Sync Rival
GM is not going to let Ford and Microsoft gallop off into the automotive technology segment sunset without offering its own infotainment system.
GM is reportedly in talks with Google to incorporate the Android OS into future GM vehicles. Though the possible system may not be a direct rival to Ford's Sync and future MyFord system as it could allow users more interactive use through outside devices.
A third party OS would render most of GM's own OnStar features obsolete, yet its crash response is still something unique of OnStar.
Some have also considered a collaboration between GM and Apple, though software compatibility between the car and interface may pose problems. Also, with Apple being a smaller segment of the technology world amongst the mainstream car buying community, it could alienate some buyers.
Consumers should not expect to a hear any confirmation until sometime in 2011.
-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: Motor Trend]
GM is reportedly in talks with Google to incorporate the Android OS into future GM vehicles. Though the possible system may not be a direct rival to Ford's Sync and future MyFord system as it could allow users more interactive use through outside devices.
A third party OS would render most of GM's own OnStar features obsolete, yet its crash response is still something unique of OnStar.
Some have also considered a collaboration between GM and Apple, though software compatibility between the car and interface may pose problems. Also, with Apple being a smaller segment of the technology world amongst the mainstream car buying community, it could alienate some buyers.
Consumers should not expect to a hear any confirmation until sometime in 2011.
-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: Motor Trend]
Hummer Hit With Recall
The fix? Glue, of course.
-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: Car Gurus]
Ford and Mazda to Continue Partnership
It looks like Ford and Mazda won't be walking separate paths after Ford recently sold its controlling share in Mazda. Both automakers plan to continue working together on advanced technologies, and possible sharing of platforms again.
Masaharu Yamaki, a Mazda board member said, "Ford will remain an important partner for Mazda."
Both companies benefit from the partnership. Mazda is too small to directly compete with Ford, while Ford collaborates with Mazda on platforms and small engine technology.
-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: Left Lane News]
Masaharu Yamaki, a Mazda board member said, "Ford will remain an important partner for Mazda."
Both companies benefit from the partnership. Mazda is too small to directly compete with Ford, while Ford collaborates with Mazda on platforms and small engine technology.
-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: Left Lane News]
Toyota Investigated for Recall Delay
It looks like Toyota's recent recall woes are far from over. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration is investigating if Toyota is at fault for delaying a recall involving the steering linkage failures, which could result in loss of steering control.
The recall involved almost 1 million Toyota pickups, T100's, and 4Runners built from 1989 to 1998.
Toyota first issued a recall in Japan in 2004 for the linkage failures, but did not issue one in the U.S. until September of 2005.
Toyota commented saying that the U.S. and Japan had different driving standards and a similar failure was unlikely.
This type of delay islead to Toyota's fine of $16.4 million last month when it had issued a recall in Europe regarding sticky acceleration pedals but did not do so in the U.S. until January of this year.
Under Federal law, all automakers must notify the NHTSA within five days of learning of a defect. Not complying could lead to a $16.4 million fine; the maximum allowed.
-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: Consumer Reports]
The recall involved almost 1 million Toyota pickups, T100's, and 4Runners built from 1989 to 1998.
Toyota first issued a recall in Japan in 2004 for the linkage failures, but did not issue one in the U.S. until September of 2005.
Toyota commented saying that the U.S. and Japan had different driving standards and a similar failure was unlikely.
This type of delay islead to Toyota's fine of $16.4 million last month when it had issued a recall in Europe regarding sticky acceleration pedals but did not do so in the U.S. until January of this year.
Under Federal law, all automakers must notify the NHTSA within five days of learning of a defect. Not complying could lead to a $16.4 million fine; the maximum allowed.
-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: Consumer Reports]
Term of the Day
Hydraulic Pump - A device for raising, moving, or compressing fluids by mean of a piston, plunger, or rotating vanes. Examples are the oil pump, and the power steering pump.
-Anthony Alaniz
-Anthony Alaniz
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Column: Double Stuffed GM
I was walking to my car in the local Wal-Mart parking lot when I had a flash of déjà-vu. Sitting next to one another was a 2010 Chevy Traverse and a 2010 Buick Enclave. These two cars have the same sleek body panels, a wide, I-want-to-eat-you grille, and trademark haunch over the rear tires.Now, if anyone remembers what caused General Motor Corp’s much-needed bailout, it was their practice of selling the same car, to the same consumer, with different brands’ badges plastered on them, especially with their truck lines.
Back in the 1990s, GM was notorious for selling the same car under different brands. They had the GMC Sierra and the Chevy Silverado. It was the exact same truck, though sold under different brands and different prices (with varying options, of course). There were points when they would be the exact same vehicle. In all actuality, it is still the same truck
One would hope a company that technically went out of business, would understand, and learn from, its mistakes; it appears not.
GM’s flagship Buick is a rebadged Opel Insignia, which for the moment is not slated for release in the U.S., yet it is so similar, that the only difference is the grille insert.
The new Buick is, of course, treading on Cadillac’s feet, with a complete revamp of their product lineup coming soon. Both are considered luxury cars that appeal to the same market; and both are offered from GM.
One could accuse Ford Motor Corp. of practicing the same corporate suicidal moves, but unlike GM, each brand they rebadged, has its own market.
No Ford is as nice as Mercury, and no Mercury is as nice as Lincoln. Ford is the working man’s car, while Mercury is almost exclusively marketed to women. Lincoln fills in Ford’s product lineup by offering an exclusive luxury car, with numerous amenities, something Ford and Mercury do not offer.
What does the General need to do to pull itself into profitability? Some saw GM’s restructuring as obscure and reckless, dropping popular brand like Pontiac and Saturn in favor of GMC and Buick.
GM needs to drop Buick, as much as I have a soft spot for them from owning one, and push their sleek new Cadillac offering. GMC should be put out to pasture like Hummer was, while reviving Saturn as their fuel efficient line.
Chevrolet should be an equivalent to Ford: a working man’s car. Pontiac should be revived as a sports car brand, working off Australian’s Holden brand supply of fast, powerful car lineup.
GM was restructured by the government, which demanded a profitable, sustainable company. I trust them; they are professionals in the automotive business. Wait? You didn’t know that? Don’t worry, neither did I.
-Anthony Alaniz
GM Facilities Go Green
GM announced in 2008 it would convert half of its major manufacturing facilities worldwide to landfill free operation by the end of this year.
Currently, 62 GM plants operate at a "zero landfill" status, with 97 percent of materials recycled or reused, and about three percent converted into energy at waste-to-energy facilities.
The company recycles many materials like steel, alloy, paper, and cardboard, that are used again, or are manufactured into a secondary product.
GM is the only automotive company to be inducted into the U.S. EPA WasteWise Hall of Fame
-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: GM]
Currently, 62 GM plants operate at a "zero landfill" status, with 97 percent of materials recycled or reused, and about three percent converted into energy at waste-to-energy facilities.
The company recycles many materials like steel, alloy, paper, and cardboard, that are used again, or are manufactured into a secondary product.
GM is the only automotive company to be inducted into the U.S. EPA WasteWise Hall of Fame
-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: GM]
Toyota Expands Tundra Rust Recall
In October of 2009, Toyota recalled 110,000 2000 to 2003 Toyota Tundras due to extensively rusty frames. Now, Toyota has expanded that recall through April 2012, as it has also expanded the covered parts.
Toyota has expanded the original, minimal, coverage that focused on three main cross members in the rear of the truck that would rust to the point of failure. Now the recall encompasses most of the frame.
In order to be covered by the recall, the rust must create holes at least ten-millimeters in diameter. Also, the truck must be in good quality and if it meets the remaining requirements (basically if the truck isn't complete junk), Toyota will replace the frame replacement on the Tundra.
Expected completion time is four to five days, as the entire cab and bed, brake lines, wiring, and suspension will have to be removed. This is after the one to two week waiting period for the frame to arrive after the dealer places the order.
-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: Left Lane News]
Toyota has expanded the original, minimal, coverage that focused on three main cross members in the rear of the truck that would rust to the point of failure. Now the recall encompasses most of the frame.
In order to be covered by the recall, the rust must create holes at least ten-millimeters in diameter. Also, the truck must be in good quality and if it meets the remaining requirements (basically if the truck isn't complete junk), Toyota will replace the frame replacement on the Tundra.
Expected completion time is four to five days, as the entire cab and bed, brake lines, wiring, and suspension will have to be removed. This is after the one to two week waiting period for the frame to arrive after the dealer places the order.
-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: Left Lane News]
Car Fact of the Day
Aston Martin derives its name from one of the company's founder, Lionel Martin, and the Aston Hill speed hillclimb nearby in Aston Clinton in Buckinghamshire.
-Anthony Alaniz
-Anthony Alaniz
Aston Martin V12 Vantage Coming State Side
What is more enticing that a 6.0L V12 producing 512 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of twist, while displaying the pinnacle of European luxury performance, and styling?
How about parking it in your driveway?
Aston Martin has officially announced the sale of the V12 Vantage in the U.S. later this year with the launch of the Carbon Black special edition.
Why the change in Aston Martin's offering? Money, of course. After some market research Aston Martin had solid grounds, and a demand, to bring the V12 here.
Of course there will be some minor changes to the car before it can, "satisfy the specific requirements of the American Market" (fifteen cup-holders?). There could be some engine tuning, the addition of catalytic converter units, and some structural modifications to meet U.S. crash and safety standards. Yet, there has been no official release on all the changes that may occur.
So if you have the cash, Aston Martin is taking orders; hurry up.
-Anthony Alaniz
(Photo: 2010 Aston Martin V12 Vantage)
[Source: Aston Martin]
Monday, May 10, 2010
Mercedes-Benz Unveils New V8 and V6 Engine
Mercedes is offering two newly designed engines, a 3.5L V6 and 4.7L V8; engines that whisper green, while still screaming performance.
The V6 puts out 306 horsepower and 272 lb-ft of torque while getting a decent 30.9 mpg.
The 4.7L V8 hammers out a whopping 435 horsepwer and 516 lb-ft of torque while still managing almost 25 mpg; though it will be far from slow, with 442 lb-ft of torque available at 1,600 rpm, and all 516 lb-ft pumping at just 1,800 rpm.
Direct injection, which has become a favorite amongst auto companies, helps boost fuel economy without sarcaficing power. The 4.7L recieves a twin-turbo set up, to help the V8 be a little more green. Also, the V6 goes to a 60-degree V-layout, dumping the old 90-degree setup. Added on both engines is a start-stop function.
These two new engines join Mercedes' new AMG 5.5L twin-turbo V8 that produces 571 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque while achieveing a respectable 22 mpg.
-Anthony Alaniz
(Photo: AMG 5.5L V8 Engine0
[Source: Mercedes-Benz]
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