GM Daewoo Launches 2009 Matiz and Matiz SX Star

2009 Daewoo Matiz

SEOUL, Korea - GM Daewoo Auto & Technology (GM Daewoo) has launched the 2009 model-year Matiz, which comes equipped with an array of new comfort and convenience features as standard and a new trim level, the SX Star.The latest version of GM Daewoo's popular mini-car goes on sale on September 1.

2009 Daewoo Matiz

The exterior and interior styling of the new Matiz SX Star are enhanced by chrome tail lamps, chrome body-side molding, alloy wheels and stylish faux leather seats, which all come standard. Selective features that younger customers tend to favor such as a heated driver's seat and rear park assist sensors also come standard.

The SX Orange edition, which is tailored especially for female customers, also features chrome tail lamps, chrome body-side molding and rear park assist sensors, as well as an orange color instrument panel cluster, seats and door trim.Among the other standard features are a sunglass holder, beauty mirror and under-the-seat tray for keeping high heels.

"With the 2009 Matiz and SX Star, GM Daewoo offers more to choose from in the fast-growing mini segment," said Rick LaBelle, GM Daewoo Vice President of Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing."The SX Star is packed with the features that are most in demand at an attractive price, adding greater value to what is already the most economical vehicle family on the market."

The 2009 Matiz with a manual transmission is priced at KRW 6,390,000 for the City, KRW 7,390,000 for the Joy, KRW 7,780,000 for the Super, KRW 7,260,000 for the SX Orange and KRW 7,610,000 for the new SX Star.

To promote the arrival of the 2009 Matiz, GM Daewoo will offer buyers KRW 400,000 worth of fuel cost savings through the end of September.

[Source : GM-DAEWOO]

Breaking News : Volkswagen overtakes Ford

Volkswagen Group in the fast lane : Wolfsburg automaker now holds third place in global vehicle sales ranking

WOLFSBURG : August 28, 2008 - The Volkswagen Group has taken its place among the world’s top three automakers thanks to the Wolfsburg-based company’s outstanding delivery figures in the first half of 2008. Rival Ford had to settle for fourth position.


"We are delighted that the Volkswagen Group has made it to the global automobile industry’s top three for the first time. This shows that we are on the right track with our ever-stronger international presence and, above all, our product program. We will systematically push ahead with our growth course even in the present difficult market environment," Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft, commented.

With 3.31 million vehicles delivered in the first half of 2008, the Volkswagen Group increased deliveries in the first six months of this year by 7.2 percent, moving up to third place in the global vehicle sales ranking and overtaking its rival Ford, which announced vehicle sales of 3.22 million for this period.

[Source : Volkswagen AG]

Breaking News : Guangzhou Autos own brand car to use Camry platform

GUANGZHOU : August 28, 2008 - Guangzhou Automotive and Toyota have been in partnership for several years now, producing a range of Toyota cars (Camry, Yaris etc) but now Guangzhou Auto wants to use its automotive muscle, and massive profits to invest in a self branded vehicle.


Guangzhou Automotive's first foray into joint venture partnerships ended in disaster when they signed up with Peugeot to make the 504 in China. By the time it was launched in China, the 505 was old news. The 505 was launched in 1979, but Chinese production began in 1985 and ran until 1997, the 505 was not a massive success. Peugeot and Guangzhou parted company, with Peugeot going to Dongfeng, and Guangzhou landing the big prize, Toyota.

Since their partnership with Toyota, Guangzhou have gone from strength, and now it comes as no surpise that Guangzhou wish to break free and go down the self development road. Guangzhou and Toyota have come to an arrangement where Guangzhou will use the Camry platform for their own midsize sedan. Guangzhou Auto are currently working on building a new factory which will produce their own range of vehicles, and engines, this factory is expected to be fully completed by 2010, and will make around 100,000 cars per year.

[Source : China Car Times]

Thailand : Car production up but pickups stall

BANGKOK - Local automobile production rose 19% to 841,156 units in the seven months to July due to growth in both exports and domestic sales, according to Surapong Phaisitpattanapong, spokesman for the Federation of Thai Industries' automobile industry club.


Vehicle sales in July fell 12.5% year-on-year to 44,772 units after pickup truck sales plunged 32.8% to 21,290 units as consumers switched to cars to escape diesel's record-breaking price. And with E20 fuel priced cheaper than fossil gasoline, car sales jumped 27.5% year-on-year in July to 19,280 units.

However, Mr Surapong said local sales in the first seven months still exceeded those in the same period last year, up 6.6% to 366,247 units. Sales of cars were up 31.7% to 129,699 units, while pickup truck sales fell 5.5% to 203,178 units.

Despite the dip in domestic sales, automobile exports continued growing. In July, exports were up 27.10% to 71,232 units. Exports in the seven months to July rose 25.81% to 841,156 units.

The motorcycle market grew with gains in farm product prices, the government's wealth distribution policies and accelerating state budget disbursement.

Motorcycle sales in July increased 16.3% to 160,357 units, the highest monthly figure this year, resulting in total sales in the seven months up 4.75%to 1,033,000 units.

Exports of motorcycles in July jumped 40.5% to 11,914 units as a result of Kawasaki's surging exports to the United States and Europe after it relocated its production base to Thailand.

However, motorcycle assembly kit exports fell due to Thailand's trading partners raising their kit production. As a result, total kit exports in July totalled only 114,205 units, down 29.4%, while the export of motorcycle parts in July soared 47.7% to 1.7 billion baht.

In seven months, motorcycle exports were down 12.4% to 915,307 units, of which 87,150 units were fully built and 828,157 units were assembly kits.

Mr Surapong said total automotive product sales _ built vehicles, engines, motorcycles, kits and parts in seven months rose 32% to 331.36 billion baht.

[Source : Bangkok Post]

Honda announces the new S2000 spec., details and pricing

2009 Honda S2000 Defines Racing-Inspired Performance

2008 Honda S2000 CR

TORRANCE, Calif. : August 27, 2008 - Widely considered the quintessential roadster-style sports car, the S2000 is the performance icon for the Honda brand and combines uncompromising racetrack-ready performance with everyday usability. As a true sports car that can serve as a practical and fun daily driver and also feel equally at home on a racetrack, this concept is further evolved with a club racer-inspired S2000 CR trim, first offered in the 2008 model year.



The S2000 rewards driving enthusiasts with a potent 237 horsepower, 2.2-liter, 16-valve DOHC VTEC? 4-cylinder engine and a precise, short throw 6-speed manual transmission, along with tenacious handling and a perfect 50/50 weight balance. The S2000 includes an electronic Drive-by-Wire (DBW) Throttle System^(TM), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA?), Maintenance Minder^(TM) system, standard headrest speakers, an outside temperature gauge and an engine start button. Air conditioning and an AM/FM/CD audio system are standard equipment on the S2000, optional on the S2000 CR for weight savings.

"The Honda S2000 is a true performance vehicle that provides customers with an exciting experience behind the wheel," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "Because the S2000 is a car designed by enthusiasts for enthusiasts, it can easily satisfy daily driving needs without sacrificing track-worthy performance."

The S2000's renowned high-revving, 2.2-liter, 16-valve DOHC VTEC 4-cylinder engine remains the pinnacle of naturally aspirated performance technology, delivering 237 horsepower at 7,800 rpm and 162 lb-ft. of torque at 6,800 rpm. Perfectly complimenting the engine's output characteristics is a compact, longitudinally-mounted, close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission that features a direct linkage for precise shifting and quick throws.

The S2000 comes equipped with a Drive-by-Wire throttle control system eliminating the need for a mechanical connection between the throttle pedal and the engine. This enables continuous electronic monitoring and adjustment of throttle pedal sensitivity to create an ideal match between throttle response and driving conditions. The system also manages the S2000's cruise control function for greater precision.

Honda's VSA makes the S2000 more stable and forgiving during street driving or in inclement weather conditions. Working in concert with the Drive-by-Wire system, VSA continuously monitors yaw rate, steering input, throttle input, and braking pressure to determine if the car is following the driver's intended path, and can independently coordinate each of the disc brakes through the 4-channel anti-lock brake system, along with the throttle, to enhance vehicle stability. While this serves to effectively enhance driver control during acceleration, braking, and cornering, the system can be disabled with the touch of a button when conditions warrant it. To help provide optimum stopping power, the braking system also features Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist.

The S2000's rear-wheel-drive chassis and powertrain layout results in a 50/50 front/rear weight distribution for perfect balance when cornering, while its hybrid monocoque body and "high X-bone frame" results in exceptional structural rigidity. Combined with a front and rear double wishbone suspension, precise electric power steering, and a torque-sensing limited slip differential, the end result is a complete, no compromise performance package for the enthusiast driver.

The S2000 has dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags (SRS) for the driver and passenger, three-point seat belts with load limiters and automatic tensioning system, roll bar hoops and reinforced windshield posts. For pedestrian safety, the hood hinges and windshield-wiper pivots are designed to collapse and help minimize the severity of a head injury to a pedestrian.

Standard features for the S2000 include a power retractable convertible top, 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, leather trimmed seats and High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with daytime running lights. An aluminum hardtop and XM? Satellite Radio are available as dealer installed options.

S2000 CR

The lighter, stiffer and more aggressive overall design of the S2000 CR is engineered to maximize the S2000's potential on a racetrack with the goal of substantially-improving track times, chassis balance and feel. Compared to the S2000, the factory-tuned suspension on the S2000 CR provides more aggressive track-oriented settings, increased body and chassis rigidity, overall weight reduction, and aerodynamic spoilers tuned for reduced lift and enhanced chassis balance at high speeds. A removable aluminum hardtop replaces the convertible soft top.

The aerodynamic package reduces lift through large and specially-tuned front and rear spoilers. Exclusive chassis features include a quicker steering ratio, more aggressive Bridgestone Potenza RE070 tires (in place of RE050 tires), a larger rear tire size, firmer springs and dampers, larger stabilizer bars and a darker shade of gray on the wheel design. A rear body brace occupies the area previously occupied by the soft top on the S2000, resulting in additional rigidity on the S2000 CR. Relative to the base S2000, cumulative weight savings total 51 pounds (hardtop installed) and 99 pounds (hardtop removed). A sport-tuned muffler adds to the vehicles heightened performance feel. To save weight, air conditioning and an AM/FM/CD audio system are only available as factory-installed optional equipment.

The S2000 CR interior follows traditional racecar themes. Fabric seating surfaces with yellow stitching help create a sporty appearance while synthetic suede bolsters enhance lateral grip. An exclusive spherical aluminum shift knob on the S2000 CR resides 12.6 mm lower for a 6 percent reduction in shift stroke compared to the conventional S2000 cylindrical shift knob (aluminum/leather wrapped). Additionally, shift load effort increases by 10 percent for even more direct feedback when engaging a gear. The S2000 CR instrument panel meters include a "peak-power indicator." When the engine is operating at peak power, a round, green light illuminates to the right of the digital speedometer.

The design and engineering concept for the S2000 is to deliver race-car-like performance and handling-something an enthusiast driver could use and enjoy, even in everyday driving situations. In addition, the S2000 is intended to be a modern, socially-responsible automobile with low emissions. The S2000's roadster layout also captures the spirit of the legendary high-performance sports cars of the past, as well as Honda's very first sports car, the S500 roadster. However, the S2000 makes no attempt to be a retro sports car. It is a unique, Honda interpretation of a modern sports car - with high performance, state-of-the-art technology, style, and Honda durability, quality and refinement.

For 2009, the S2000 is available in six colors, including, Laguna Blue Pearl, Silverstone Metallic, New Formula Red, Rio Yellow Pearl, Berlina Black and Grand Prix White. The S2000 CR is available in four colors: Rio Yellow Pearl; Grand Prix White; Berlina Black; and the CR exclusive, Apex Blue Pearl.

ENGINEERING	S2000	S2000 CR
Engine Type	In-Line 4-Cylinder	In-Line 4-Cylinder
Engine Block/Cylinder Head	Aluminum-Alloy	Aluminum-Alloy
Fiber-Reinforced Metal (FRM) Cylinder Walls	yes	yes
Displacement (L / cc)	2.2 / 2157	2.2 / 2157
Horsepower @rpm	237 @ 7800	237 @ 7800
Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm)	162 @ 6800	162 @ 6800
Redline (rpm)	8000	8000
Bore and Stroke (mm)	87.0 x 90.7	87.0 x 90.7
Compression Ratio	11.1:1	11.1:1
Valvetrain	16-Valve DOHC VTEC®	16-Valve DOHC VTEC®
Multi-Point Fuel Injection	yes	yes
Drive-by-Wire™ Throttle System	yes	yes
Rear-Wheel Drive	yes	yes
CARB Emissions Rating	LEV-2	LEV-2
EPA Emissions Rating	Tier 2, Bin 5	Tier 2, Bin 5
Direct Ignition System with Immobilizer	yes	yes
100K+/- Miles No Scheduled Tune-ups*	yes	yes
*May vary with driving conditions. Does not apply to fluid and filter changes. Exact mileage is determined by actual driving conditions. Please see your owner's manual for more details.
TRANSMISSION	S2000	S2000 CR
6-Speed Manual Transmission	yes	yes
Gear Ratios: 1st: 3.133, 2nd: 2.045, 3rd: 1.481, 4th: 1.161, 5th: 0.942, 6th: 0.763, Reverse: 2.800, Final Drive: 4.100, Secondary Gear Reduction: 1.208
Torque-Sensing Torsen Limited-Slip Differential	yes	yes
BODY/SUSPENSION/CHASSIS	S2000	S2000 CR
High X-Bone Monocoque Frame	yes	yes
Independent In-Wheel Double Wishbone Suspension with Coil Springs	yes	yes
Stabilizer Bar (mm, front/rear)	27.2xt5.3 / 25.4xt5.4	28.6xt4.5 / 26.5xt4.5
Rear Body Brace		yes
Electric Power-Assisted Rack-and-Pinion Steering (EPS)	yes	yes
Steering Wheel Turns, Lock-to-Lock	2.6	2.4
Steering Ratio	14.9	13.8
Turning Diameter, Curb-to-Curb (ft.)	35.4	35.4
Power-Assisted Ventilated Front Disc/Solid Rear Disc Brakes (in., front/rear)	11.8 / 11.1	11.8 / 11.1
Alloy Wheels (in., front/rear)	17x7.0 / 17x8.5	17x7.0 / 17x8.5
Bridgestone Potenza RE050 Tires (front/rear)	215/45R17 87W / 245/40R17 91W
Bridgestone Potenza RE070 Tires (front/rear)		215/45R17 87W / 255/40R17 94W
EXTERIOR MEASUREMENTS	S2000	S2000 CR
Wheelbase (in.)	94.5	94.5
Length (in.)	162.2	162.2
Height (in.)	50.0	50.0
Width (in.)	68.9	68.9
Track (in., front/rear)	57.9 / 59.4	57.9 / 59.4
Curb Weight (lbs.)	2864	2813 (2765 without hardtop) (+42 with audio and AC)
Weight Distribution (%, front/rear)	50 / 50	50 / 50
INTERIOR MEASUREMENTS	S2000	S2000 CR
Headroom (in.)	34.6	34.6
Legroom (in.)	44.3	44.3
Shoulder Room (in.)	50.7	50.7
Hip Room (in.)	49.8	49.8
Cargo Volume (cu. ft.)	5.0	5.0
Passenger Volume (cu. ft.)	44.8	44.8
Seating Capacity	2	2
EPA MILEAGE ESTIMATES*/CAPACITIES	S2000	S2000 CR
City/Highway	18/25	18/25
Crankcase (qt.)	5.9	5.9
Coolant System (qt.)	8.0	8.0
Fuel (gal.)	13.2	13.2
Required Fuel	Premium Unleaded	Premium Unleaded
*Based on 2009 EPA mileage estimates. Use for comparison purposes only. Actual mileage will vary.
SAFETY	S2000	S2000 CR
Front 3-Point Seat Belts with Automatic Tensioning System	yes	yes
Driver's and Passenger's Seat Belt Reminder	yes	yes
Dual-Stage, Dual-Threshold Front Airbags (SRS)	yes	yes
Daytime Running Lights (DRL)	yes	yes
Side-Impact Door Beams	yes	yes
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)	yes	yes
Vehicle Stability Assist? (VSA?) with Traction Control	yes	yes
Brake Assist	yes	yes
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)	yes	yes
Immobilizer Theft-Deterrent System	yes	yes
Emergency Trunk Opener	yes	yes
EXTERIOR FEATURES	S2000	S2000 CR
Remote Entry System with Trunk Release	yes	yes
Electrically Powered Soft Top	yes
Glass Rear Window with Defroster	yes	yes
Dual-Outlet Exhaust	yes	yes
Body-Colored Power Side Mirrors	yes	yes
High-Intensity Discharge (HID) Headlights	yes	yes
Combination LED Brakelights	yes	yes
Lightweight Alloy Wheels	Silver	Dark Silver
Aluminum Hood	yes	yes
Front Underbody Spoiler		yes
Rear Wing Spoiler		yes
Body-Colored Roll Bar Cowlings		yes
Removable Hardtop		yes
Impact-Absorbing Body-Colored Bumpers	yes	yes
Molded Convertible Top Cover	yes
2-Speed/Intermittent Windshield Wipers	yes	yes
Dual Spiral Horn	yes	yes
COMFORT & CONVENIENCE	S2000	S2000 CR
Engine Start Button	yes	yes
Air Conditioning with Air-Filtration System	yes	available w/ Audio
Power Windows	yes	yes
Power Door Locks	yes	yes
Cruise Control	yes	yes
Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel	yes	yes
Short-Throw Direct Shift Linkage		yes
Aluminum Shift Knob	w/ Leather	yes
Textured Aluminum Pedals	yes	yes
Integrated Roll Bars	yes	yes
Aero Wind Screen (Rear Wind Deflector)	yes	yes
Remote-Operated Audio Controls	yes	available w/ Audio
Center Console Storage Compartment with Lock	yes	yes
Beverage Holders (2)	yes	yes
Center-Floor Tunnel Net-Pocket	yes	yes
12-Volt Power Outlet	yes	yes
Map Lights	yes	yes
Floor Mats	yes	yes
SEATING	S2000	S2000 CR
Driver's Seat with 4-Way Manual Adjustment	yes	yes
Leather-Trimmed Seats	yes
Fabric Seats with Synthetic Suede Trim		yes
AUDIO SYSTEM	S2000	S2000 CR
AM/FM/CD Audio System with 8 Speakers including 4 Integrated Roll Bar Speakers	yes	available w/ AC
INSTRUMENTATION	S2000	S2000 CR
Maintenance Minder™ System	yes	yes
Digital Instrument Panel with Clock	yes	yes
Tachometer	yes	w/ Peak-Power Indicator
Digital Odometer and Digital Trip Meters (2)	yes	yes
Exterior Temperature Indicator	yes	yes
Fuel and Coolant Temperature Indicators	yes	yes
Low-Oil Pressure and Low-Fuel Indicators	yes	yes

Pricing

Model	Transmission	MSRP*	EPA** City/Hwy/Combined
S2000	6-Speed Manual	$34,795	18/25/21
S2000 CR (air conditioning and audio system deleted)	6-Speed Manual	$36,795	18/25/21
S2000 CR (air conditioning and audio system included)	6-Speed Manual	$37,795	18/25/21
*MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $670.00 destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.
**Based on 2009 EPA mileage estimates, reflecting new EPA fuel economy methods beginning with 2008 models. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

[Source : HONDA}

New badge for more muscular Ford Mustang

Pony gets new look for 2010 Ford Mustang, hints at more chiseled look of upcoming model

Side by side Mustang badge

• More-muscular, faster-looking Mustang pony emblem enhances grilles on new 2010 models.
  
• New Mustang pony badge highlights attention to detail in design of new Mustang, which will be revealed later this year.
  

DEARBORN, Mich. : August 27, 2008 - Curious about what the 2010 Ford Mustang looks like? Its new pony badge offers a clue. Like the upcoming restyled Mustang, the new pony is more defined, more muscular and sure to catch the eye of Mustang enthusiasts.

2010 Mustang Badge

"It's just a faster-looking steed," said George Saridakis, Design manager for the 2010 Mustang.

A stronger, more dynamic pony badge with defined edges and crisper forms in a subtly toned tinted-chrome finish will charge across the grilles of the V-6 and GT versions of the 2010 Mustang. For the first time, a black-chrome version of the Mustang pony badge will accent the new GT grille.

"We wanted to give the Mustang pony a more realistic feel," said Douglas Gaffka, chief designer for the 2010 Mustang. "We lifted the head to make the pony more proud, tipped the neck into the wind to give it a feeling of greater speed and better balance.

"It's more chiseled and more defined and looks more like a wild horse," Gaffka added. "It's more realistic in terms of proportion to an actual Mustang."

Senior Designer Rick Howard spent hours researching images of horses and understanding their appearance in natural, wild settings. That effort, along with his personal riding experience, helped bring forward the design of the Mustang pony badge.

2009 Mustang Badge

Like the Mustang itself, which was revealed at the 1964 New York World's Fair, the Mustang emblem has a proud heritage. The original Mustang logo was drawn by Phil Clark for the Mustang I. The Mustang logo then was refined for the Mustang II in 1974 by Charles Keresztes, a former member of Hungary's Olympic equestrian team. The pony continued on the front grille through 1978 when it was replaced by "FORD" in block letters through 1982. The iconic Ford Blue Oval graced the front of Mustangs through 1993. The pony emblem returned in 1994 with some refinements. The logo was updated again in 2005.

For Howard and the team, creating the new badge was a labor of love.

"We're very much concerned with detail and precision in our cars at Ford, and that includes the art we do," Howard said. "We want our Mustang pony badge to be as good as the rest of the car."

[Source : FORD]

Chrysler to Explore Strategic Options for Viper Business

Dodge Viper

• Move part of Company's focus on core business
  
• Goal is ensuring strong future for Viper
  
• Stand-alone strategic review unique to Viper

AUBURN HILL, Mich. : August 27, 2008 - Chrysler LLC announced today that it is preparing to explore strategic options for the Dodge Viper business. This strategic review comes as the Company focuses on enhancing its core business and leveraging its assets.


"We have been approached by third parties who are interested in exploring future possibilities for Viper," said Bob Nardelli, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer -- Chrysler LLC. "As the Company evaluates strategic options to maximize core operations and leverage its assets, we have agreed to listen to these parties. We will do so keeping in mind the best interests of those who have shown tremendous support for the vehicle -- including employees, suppliers, dealers and a worldwide group of loyal Viper owners and enthusiasts. Viper is an integral part of this Company's heritage. While this is a strategic review, our intent would be to offer strong operational and financial support during any potential transaction, in order to ensure a future for the Viper business and perpetuate the legacy of this great vehicle."

This review -- unique to the Viper specialty vehicle -- comes as the Company strengthens the Dodge brand's core portfolio with four all-new Dodge-branded offerings introduced for 2009 -- Dodge Journey, Dodge Challenger, Dodge Durango Hybrid and Dodge Ram -- and prepares to bring even more exciting vehicles to its customers in the near future.

The Viper is hand-built in a low-volume, modular process at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit, which operates largely independent of Chrysler's other production facilities. The vehicle was introduced as a concept vehicle at the 1989 Detroit auto show. It was first available as a production vehicle in the 1992 model year.

With today's announcement, the Company emphasizes that it has not set a definitive timetable for completion of the review of its strategic options, no final decision has been made with regard to the Viper business, and there can be no assurance that any transaction will take place as a result of this process. Chrysler has retained Lazard as its financial advisor in connection with this review.

[Source : Chrysler LLC]

Born to race : Audi R8 GT3

Audi develops race version of the R8

• Customer sport programme with the mid-engine sportscar
  
• First races planned for 2009 season
  
• Factory driver Frank Biela completes roll-out

INGOLSTADT : August 28, 2008 – For the first time, Audi Sport will offer a racing sports car specifically developed for customer use in the form of the powerful 500 hp plus GT3 version of the Audi R8 which will be available from autumn 2009. The logistics and factory space required for the AUDI AG customer programme will be created over the next few months in Ingolstadt, Neckarsulm and Györ



"The R8 is the first production Audi bearing the name and genes of a successful racing sportscar and is therefore an excellent base from which to build up our first big customer sport programme," explains Head of Audi Motorsport Dr Wolfgang Ullrich. "Ever since the R8 was unveiled we've been inundated with enquiries about a race version. With the Audi R8 we will offer customers a racing sportscar equipped with high-calibre technology and the typical Audi qualities, but which is nevertheless easy to handle."

The Audi R8 conforms to the production-based GT3 regulations allowing the car to be fielded in numerous national and international race series.


Because the GT3 regulations prohibit the use of four-wheel drive the Audi R8 comes with the typical GT rear-wheel drive. The power is transmitted via a newly developed six-speed sequential sports gearbox. The suspension uses almost exclusively components from the production line. A comprehensive list of safety equipment guarantees the highest-level of passive safety. A modified front end and a large rear-wing generate the required downforce for the race track.

The Audi R8, which bears the project name "R16" within Audi Sport, was developed under the direction of Audi Sport. Mid August, the first prototype successfully completed a roll-out in the hands of Audi factory driver Frank Biela.


The first test races in various European racing series are scheduled for the 2009 season. Delivery to the customers is planned from the autumn of this coming year.

The customer cars are manufactured together by Audi Sport and the quattro GmbH, which is also responsible for production of the Audi R8 street version, and Audi Hungaria Motor Kft. (Györ).


[Source : AUDI]

Honda Sets All-Time Record for Auto Production in the Month of July for Regions Outside Japan and Worldwide

TOKYO : August 27, 2008 - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced a summary of automobile production, Japan domestic sales, and export results for the month of July 2008, including all-time records for production in regions outside Japan and worldwide for the month of July.

Production
Production in Japan for the month of July 2008 experienced a year-on-year increase for the first time in 11 months (since August 2007). Production in regions outside of Japan experienced a year-on-year increase for the first time in two months (since May 2008), setting an all-time record for the month of July. This includes record production in North America, the U.S., Asia, and China for the month of July.

Worldwide production experienced a year-on-year increase for the first time in three months (since April 2008), setting an all-time record for the month of July.

Japan Domestic Market Sales
Total Japan domestic market auto sales for the month of July 2008 experienced a year-on-year increase for the first time in five months (since February 2008) due to strong sales of Fit and Freed.

New vehicle registrations experienced a year-on-year increase for the ninth consecutive month (since November 2007).

Sales of mini-vehicles experienced a year-on-year decrease for the fifth consecutive month (since March 2008).

Vehicle registrations - excluding mini-vehicles Fit was the industry's best-selling car among new vehicle registrations for the month of July 2008, and for the ninth consecutive month (since November 2007) with sales of 16,293 units. Freed was the industry's fourth best-selling car with sales of 8,948 units.

Mini-vehicles - under 660cc Life was the industry's sixth best-selling car in the mini-vehicle category for the month of July 2008, with sales of 6,567 units.

Exports from Japan
Total exports from Japan in July 2008 experienced a year-on-year decrease for the third consecutive month (since May 2008).

Production, Sales and Exports

Worldwide Production

		July		Year-to-Date Total (Jan. - Jul. 2008)
		Units	vs.07	Units	vs.07
	Japan	112,156	+14.5%	710,673	-8.2%
	Outside of Japan	229,996	+19.3%	1,618,969	+9.9%
Worldwide Total		342,152	+17.7%	2,329,642	+3.7%

Production Outside of Japan

		July		Year-to-Date Total (Jan. - Jul. 2008)
		Units	vs.07	Units	vs.07
	North America	112,819	+14.7%	856,335	+1.9%
	(USA)	77,987	+12.7%	596,716	0.0%
	Europe	18,269	-9.1%	143,148	+5.6%
	Asia	85,802	+28.1%	512,058	+18.8%
	(China)	54,900	+42.3%	308,477	+25.5%
	Others	13,106	+77.7%	107,428	+61.9%
Overseas Total		229,996	+19.3%	1,618,969	+9.9%

Japan Domestic Market Sales

Vehicle type		July		Year-to-Date Total (Jan. - Jul. 2008)
		Units	vs.07	Units	vs.07
	Registrations	40,441	+29.1%	263,845	+13.5%
	Mini Vehicles	13,547	-10.1%	121,833	-10.2%
Honda Brand Total		53,988	+16.4%	385,678	+4.8%

Export from Japan

		July		Year-to-Date Total (Jan. - Jul. 2008)
		Units	vs.07	Units	vs.07
	North America	22,390	-31.1%	215,344	-5.5%
	(USA)	21,870	-29.6%	205,909	-4.5%
	Europe	16,811	+47.5%	64,266	-9.0%
	Asia	3,879	+53.0%	24,567	+60.6%
	Others	13,335	-5.8%	73,288	-15.1%
Total		56,415	-6.9%	377,465	-5.6%

[Source : Honda]

Lotus Clark Type 25 Elise SC - Limited Edition ready to mainland

NORFOLK : August 27, 2008 - Jim Clark is considered by many as the finest and most naturally gifted racing driver of all time. He won the F1 World Championship twice for Team Lotus in 1963 and in 1965. In total, he won 25 Grand Prix races and was the first Briton to win the Indianapolis 500. Clark won a third of all the F1 races he entered, as well as racing in other formulae such as F2, F3 and Touring Cars. Typically he would race in as many as three different categories per race meeting! How many of the current crop of F1 drivers would do that?


In tribute to Jim Clark's achievements, Lotus, in association with Classic Team Lotus, is producing the Clark Type 25 Elise SC, with a donation for each of these special cars sold going to the Jim Clark memorial fund. This Elise, initially limited to just 25 cars in the UK is now also available for a further 25 cars in the mainland European market. The decision to produce another 25 cars for the mainland European Market was driven by the high demand from dealers and customers from all over Europe.

The 25 has been the Type number of his 1963 Lotus F1 car and his number of F1 wins and has been authorised by the Clark family and coincides with the 40th anniversary of Jim Clark's death at Hockenheim in 1968.

Mike Kimberley, CEO of Group Lotus Plc comments, "It is fitting that the latest version of our award winning Elise, the Clark Type 25 Elise SC, should celebrate the life of Jim Clark. Each owner of the Clark Type 25 Elise SC will be joining an unrivalled heritage that recognises motorsport's greatest partnership, that of Lotus and Jim Clark."


The Clark Type 25 Elise SC draws upon many styling cues from the Type 25 Formula 1 car that Jim Clark raced to win the World Championship in 1963. The car, with a removable hard top as standard, is finished in British Racing Green with a yellow stripe along the centre and features high performance Lotus Sport wheels, finished in an historic black and silver design. The interior is inspired by the Team Lotus Formula 1 cars of the era, with black leather sports seats, trimmed with red leather and all finished off with a retro wooden gear knob.

The Elise SC is the most powerful production Elise ever produced and offers stunning performance. Power comes from a 1.8 litre non-intercooled, supercharged engine and uses intelligent cam switching technology, enabling the engine to switch to the high performance cam anywhere between 4000 and 6200 rpm. This clever feature gives the engine two characters, allowing the car to be driven economically or giving maximum performance for spirited driving.

The Elise's light weight gives low CO2 emissions (202 g/km), great handling and affords phenomenal braking. Another benefit of the low weight is incredible acceleration, with the sprint to 100 km/h in only 4.6 seconds. The Elise SC accelerates on to a top speed of 238 km/h. Combined fuel consumption is 8.5 l/100 km.


All Lotus cars offer exceptional handling and the Elise is no exception. The chassis has a seriously light, stiff structure. Combining this technology with the fantastic Lotus ride and handling gives an inspiring driving experience and the mid-engined layout of the Lotus Elise offers fantastic balance and agility.
The Elise SC offers a few technological advances that Jim Clark may have found helpful in his Type 25. Coming as standard on the Elise is traction control, ABS and sequential shift lights, however all the driver aids are included to improve the driving experience and do not intervene unless really called upon.
The Clark Type 25 Elise SC is available for all countries in Europe and is on sale now. The car is priced very competitively at EUR 44.100,-- (+ local taxes). This price is representing a customer saving of EUR 3.596,-- (before tax). Please note: prices include transport, delivery, local taxes, and first service.

Pricing for some mainland European Markets :

• Germany EUR 53.375,--
  
• France EUR 53.650,--
  
• Italy EUR 54.300,--
  
• Belgium EUR 54.175,--
  
• Holland EUR 72.210,--
  
• Switzerland CHF 78.950,--

Specification Summary :

• Elise SC
  
• Sports Pack
  
• Hard Top
  
• Unique Leather Interior
  
• Unique exterior in British Racing Green, with Painted Yellow Stripe.
  
• Unique Lotus Sport Forged Wheels 6 J x 16 Front, 71/2 J x 17 Rear with YokohamaAO48 tyres
  
• Build Plate numbered 1 -- 25 for Europe

Optional Equipment: (Pricing as per standard MY08 Elise options)

• Limited Slip Differential
  
• Air Conditioning

[Source : Lotus]