Dodge To Liven Up Special Edition Model Names

The term "Base model" resonates with consumers, reminding them of crank windows, no A/C, and AM radio. Chrysler feels that need to liven up its lineup and is creating a slew of new model names with its Dodge brand.

The new 2010 Dodge Journey will come in three different models called Heat, Uptown , and Hero. While the 2010 Dodge Caliber will new model names that give it more mainstream feel, like the Express, Mainstreet, Heat, Uptown, and Rush. The Nitro gets Heat, Detonator and Shock, while the Avenger receives Heat and Express edition model names.

Chrysler of course didn't forget the Viper, including two models, the Dodge Viper SRT10 and the Viper SRT10 ACR.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X from egmCarTech)

[Source: egmCarTech]

Mahindra Looks Toward Abandonde Navistar

Navistar, the former company that supplied Ford with its diesel engines, may use one of its factories to build Mahindra trucks in the U.S. Mahindra is Indian's largest producer of sport-utility vehicles. Mahindra has been in talks with Navistar about producing its TR series of trucks here in the U.S. to help avoid the large 25 percent tariff on imported trucks.

While Mahindra is in talks with Navistar, Mahindra should begin importing its Indian-built trucks in the next few months.

-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: Autoblog]

Peugeot SR1 Concept at Geneva Motor Show

Peugeot is unveiling its SR1 concept in March at the Geneva Motor Show. It has a long hood and short rear deck, unique to Peugeot's usual quirky styling. There is also a redesigned Peugeot logo on the front of the hood.

Power comes from Peugeot's Hybrid4 Technology. This combines a 1.6L turbodiesel four-cylinder engine that powers the front wheels, while a 95 horsepower electric motor powers the rear wheels. Power output is 313 horsepower and achieves 47 miles per gallon.

As interesting as this concept is in design and drivetrain innovation, it is still a concept and may never see production.

-Anthony Alaniz

(Photo: Peugeot SR1 Concept from Autoblog)

[Source: Autoblog]

GM Begins Saab "Wind-Down"

Even as GM is looking at final bids from both Genii Capital and Spyker Cars to buy its Saab brand, GM has asked AlixPartners to supervise the "orderly wind down" or the Saab marque.

The wind down is expected to take several months to be fully completed. GM is ensuring its customers that warranties will be honored, and parts will still be available.

-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: Autoblog]