Sri Lanka has raised import duties on several categories of petrol-engine cars and three wheelers with steeper increases seen in larger hybrid vehicles, which had exceptionally low taxes earlier, officials said.

A senior Treasury official said there were revisions on several categories of vehicles.

On petrol cars with standard engines with capacities below 1,000 cubic centimeters the effective total tax rate will go up from the current 95 percent to 120 percent.

Between 1000 to 1,600 cc the effective rate will go up from 119 to 128 percent. On three wheelers the effective rate will go up from 38 percent to 50 percent.

On hybrid cars with engines below 2,000 cubic centimeters total duties will go up from 38 percent close to 50 percent.

Deputy director general of customs Ajantha Dias said an excise duty was raised by 8.0 percent on small hybrids but it will take up the total duties by a larger amount when added together.

Source: http://www.ramadbk.com/news/?p=633

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The 25 customized Mazda2 Sport models feature stunning electric green body graphics and matching green 17 inch alloy wheels against a Metropolitan Grey base colour.

“After taking the title of World Car of the Year in 2008, the Mazda2 became known as our ‘Super Little Model’ with its dynamic yet compact styling providing an ideal blend of form and function. The Evil Twin Special Edition brings a mischievous character to the Mazda2 and we believe it will prove popular with Kiwi motorists looking to stand out from the crowd,” says Andrew Clearwater, Managing Director of Mazda New Zealand.

The Special Edition also boasts green painted driving light inserts, Bridgestone low profile tyres and lowered springs, tinted glass, a chrome exhaust extension and special “SP” badging on the boot and car mats.

Every Mazda2 Special Edition comes standard with mazdacare to ensure the vehicle continues to perform in optimum condition. mazdacare comprises a Mazda Genuine Factory Warranty and Mazda On Call Roadside Assistance for a 3 year, unlimited kilometre period and Genuine Mazda Servicing for 3 years/100,000 km (whichever occurs first).

The first of four Mazda2 Special Editions will be released over the next year. The Evil Twin is available for order from Mazda dealers nationwide now in both manual and automatic transmission priced from $26,495 plus on-road costs.

Source: http://www.mazda.co.nz/inside-mazda/news–events/mazda%E2%80%99s-mischievous-evil-twin.aspx?page=1

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The first CX-9 was launched in 2006, and has become immensely popular with its combination of Mazda’s signature styling, responsive handling and dynamic performance. In a few short years, the vehicle has won over 20 global motoring awards and posted worldwide sales of more than 70,000 units.
Andrew Clearwater, Managing Director of Mazda New Zealand says the CX-9 has been in high demand from Kiwi motorists for some time.
“We’ve had steady enquiry for the CX-9 over the past few years and we’re pleased to be able to meet that demand as we enter the large SUV category in New Zealand. Mazda’s design team has worked hard to deliver an SUV which not only offers the power expected from a vehicle of its size but insightful packaging which is unmistakably Mazda,” says Clearwater.

The latest CX-9’s distinctive styling starts on the outside with Mazda’s signature family face – the bold five point grille with chrome surround. Sleek curves communicating Mazda’s Nagare design theme flow along the sides of the vehicle and are complemented by 20-inch alloy wheels with 245/50R20 tyres – the largest ever for a Mazda. The vehicle’s optimised shape means the SUV offers outstanding aerodynamic performance with a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.35. Other exterior design features include auto on/off halogen headlights and front fog lamps; rain-sensing wipers, power slide/tilt sunroof; rear spoiler and chrome finishing on the door handles.

Drivers will be able to select from six stunning exterior colours including Stormy Blue Mica, Copper Red Mica, Sparkling Black Mica, Crystal White Pearl, Aluminium Metallic and the new Dolphin Grey. Front and rear bumpers are matched to the body colour as are the newly designed door mirrors which feature side indicators, heater and reverse tilt-down functions for added safety when reversing.

Those on long road trips will appreciate the generous cabin space of 1,911 litres, ample leg room and seven full sized seats the CX-9 provides with its long wheel base of 2,875mm. At 5,099mm long and 1,936mm wide with a height of 1,728mm there is plenty of cabin space and easy access to the third row of seats thanks to the 60/40 split across the second row of passenger seats with slide and rake adjustment. The third row of seating is easy to pull up and collapse when required with a 50/50 split and flat fold function. There is also plenty of storage capability with ten cup holders, door map pockets, glasses compartment and a lockable and illuminated glove box to accommodate those with an active lifestyle. The CX-9 has a ground clearance of 147mm and a kerb weight of 2,080kg and excellent towing capacity of 2,000kg braked and 750kg unbraked.

Source: http://www.mazda.co.nz/inside-mazda/news–events/mazda-offers-zoom-zoom-with-plenty-of-room.aspx?page=1

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The first CX-9 was launched in 2006, and has become immensely popular with its combination of Mazda’s signature styling, responsive handling and dynamic performance. In a few short years, the vehicle has won over 20 global motoring awards and posted worldwide sales of more than 70,000 units.
Andrew Clearwater, Managing Director of Mazda New Zealand says the latest CX-9 offers the ultimate SUV package at an affordable price.
“We are thrilled to be entering the large SUV category in New Zealand. Mazda’s design team have worked hard to package an SUV which not only offers the power expected from a vehicle of its size but insightful styling and premium safety features all at an excellent price which we believe is going to appeal to Kiwi motorists,” says Clearwater.

Class-leading safety has been top of mind for the CX-9 design team. The U.S. government’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the CX-9 with its highest possible ratings in frontal and side impact crashes – five stars. In addition, the CX-9 has received four-star rollover resistance ratings.

The CX-9 comes standard with 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Brake Assistance (EBA). It also offers Dynamic Stability Control System (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS) as well as Roll Stability Control (RSC).

The vehicle is further supported by Mazda’s “Triple-H” safety construction and the Mazda Advanced Impact Distribution and Absorption System (MAIDAS) to prevent the cabin deforming in the event if an accident by absorbing the impact in accidents to the entire vehicle body.

The CX-9 also boasts front, side and full-length curtain SRS airbags and active headrests to protect the occupants in the event of an accident. Passengers are further protected with an engine immobiliser, day/night rear vision mirror, collapsible brake pedal, remote central locking with dual-stage door unlock function and side impact door beams.

Source: http://www.mazda.co.nz/inside-mazda/news–events/mazda-cx-9-offers-motorists-the-ultimate-in-suv-safety.aspx?page=1

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While the BT-50 Dual Cab has always been capable of comfortably carrying five occupants, the all-new model offers increased interior space and comfort ensuring that any trip is a breeze.

By virtue of its new design and a wheelbase 220mm longer than the current BT-50 4×4 Dual Cab, the new model provides increased space across all interior seating positions.

Front occupants benefit from 16mm more head room and 30mm more shoulder room. Rear-seat passengers also feel the difference with 55mm more leg room while a wider cabin means more space between passengers.

With the overall length and width of the new model increasing by 204mm and 43mm respectively over the current equivalent 4×4 model, cargo space is the other big winner.

The cargo tray now measures 1,549mm by 1,560mm and the amount that can be packed into the All-New BT-50 is even greater than ever before.
The all-new design incorporates higher sides to the cargo tray which not only add to the striking looks of the All-New BT-50 but vastly increase the maximum cargo volume to 1,214 litres, an increase of 178 litres over the current dual cab model.

When combined with an impressive maximum towing capacity of up to 3,350kg, it’s easy to see why the All-New BT-50 is the perfect partner for any job.
Mazda New Zealand National Marketing Manager, Glenn Harris explains how he expects Mazda’s newest utility to become a popular choice for both business-users and pleasure-seekers. “The All-New BT-50 will meet the needs of all different types of buyers. The new design offers a more refined utility than ever before but the increase in size over the current model also means that buyers will enjoy more interior space while being able to carry larger loads,” he said.

Source: http://www.mazda.co.nz/inside-mazda/news–events/all-new-mazda-bt-50-the-right-fit-for-business-or-pleasure.aspx?page=1

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Volvo Cars of North America (VCNA) was awarded the 2011 International Sedan of the Year at the New York International Auto Show by the International Car of the Year (ICOTY) jury on April 21. The all-new sports sedan was deemed best-in-class for the most superlative connection with consumer lifestyles. The selection was made by a jury of 12 nationally recognized automotive journalists.

“To receive the International Sedan of the Year award and be named ‘Most Dependable’ demonstrate first-hand that the Volvo S60 connects with consumers’ lifestyles on both an emotional and rational level,” said Doug Speck, president and CEO of VCNA, who accepted the award. “From our advanced technology safety features and masterful Scandinavian design, to its best-in-class fuel economy and award-winning engine, the S60 delivers something for everyone. It is without a doubt a game changer for us.”

In its 15th year, the ICOTY Awards remain a respected industry honor, measuring what no other automotive award does, the emotional connection between car and consumer.

“The ICOTY Awards are not based on camshafts and chrome but rather lifestyle compatibility and how well automakers achieve that goal,” said Courtney Caldwell, ICOTY executive producer.

Trophies were presented by Courtney Caldwell; Mike Martini, president, Consumer OE, Bridgestone Americas; James Bell, market analyst and president, Motor Press Guild; Joe Wiesenfelder, senior editor, Cars.com; Denise McCluggage, contributor, AutoWeek; and B.J. Killeen, road test editor, Drivers Talk Radio.

Source: https://www.media.volvocars.com/global/enhanced/en-gb/Media/Preview.aspx?mediaid=37813

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Following the detonation of European multi-functional commercial vehicle market by the listing displaying talent, JAC Sunray (VAN)brings with “intelligent and high technological” digital special vehicle group again, and the European multi-functional commercial vehicle market is expected to heat up again.

The theme of JAC Sunray for this exhibition is “beautiful city, intelligent transportation”, which is intended to demonstrate the strong potential of European multi-functional commercial vehicle as the best solution for urban transportation, complying with intelligent city development trend, extending and developing to high technological and informationized transportation platform. Therefore, JAC Sunray is well prepared: its digital logistics vehicle, digital school bus and digital passenger car will publicly appear in assembly for the first time. According to the introduction, the digital special vehicle is made by JAC Sunray on the European multi-functional commercial vehicle platform, integrating computer, communication, network and other technologies. It is an intelligent traffic special vehicle that combines data acquisition, intelligent monitoring and process control. Recently, 3 highly innovative digital special vehicles have appeared in Shanghai ahead of time. Among them, China’s first 3D logistics vehicle for Internet of Things is announced to the public for the first time, which draws much attention of logistics industry experts and practitioners.

Intelligent·Professional JAC Sunray Models Appear Gloriously in Shanghai
JAC Sunray dispatched 3 digital special vehicles under its brand this time: 1 set of 3D (Digital & Direct & Drive) logistics vehicle, 1 digital school bus and 1 digital passenger car. These 3 vehicles are modified based on JAC Sunray long axis product platform with typical European forward control wide-body design. This fashionable shape is designed by JAC Italian design center in Turin and reflects the currently most popular style design concept for the European commercial vehicle — simplicity, smoothness, fashion and generosity. The JAC Sunray school bus with appealing color and appearance and well-equipped & specialized 3D logistical vehicle attract the audience most with popularity no less than the cars.

Although their appearances are quite similar, these 3 JAC Sunray special cars in fact have their own distinguishing features. Take China’s first logistics vehicle for Internet of Things — JAC Sunray 3D logistics vehicle for example, besides being equipped with personalized settings such as folding shelf, concealed upper sweep and folding trolley in the cabin, more importantly, this one-piece van truck also adds a “digital control room” which utilizes the informationization console of the Internet of Things technology to make a real-time interconnection of the consigners, logistics enterprises and car owners and seamless communication so as to realize the Internet of things. For example, consigners can master the real-time position in transit of the goods at any time and monitor the quality and temperature for special goods to guarantee the security of goods in transit. Logistics enterprises then can dispatch and manage the vehicles properly and effectively. Individual car owners can grasp the information of roads and goods supply in real time and seek the most rational driving path to lower the transportation cost.

Source: http://jacen.jac.com.cn/article/20110420/75171903.html

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The Hyundai Tucson is bigger and better than ever, earning it the prestigious title of “Crossover of the Year” for drastic improvements made in overall quality and design, at the second annual Wheels awards held on the 7th of February at the Shangri-La Hotel.

A spokesperson from Wheels commented, “Hyundai is better, smoother, quieter, softer…but most of all, it’s exciting. This is a brand that has improved in two years as much as others have improved in two decades! ”

The new Hyundai Tucson is a major overhaul of the original 2005 model which had remained virtually unchanged till then. The new model boasts better overall agility, handling, and quite frankly quality. The Tucson has been completely revamped, from interior to exterior, representing even more value for money in an SUV packed with all the features you would find in the competition’s models for a better price. The new model comes with a panoramic sunroof, built-in Bluetooth, rear parking camera, just to name few.

It should also be noted that the new model tests highly on safety for its excellent protection of occupants from front, rear, and side impact. The Hyundai Tucson applies all-new life-saving technology, with Vehicle Dynamic Control, which improves stability and minimizes skids; Down Hill Brake Control, allowing the vehicle to maintain speed on steep declines; Hillstart Assist Control, that prevents the car from rolling backwards on an incline; and Emergency Stop Signal, that triggers hazard lights to alert drivers from behind in the event of a quick stop.

The Hyundai Tucson combines a 2.0 – liter 2.4 – cylinder engine that comes in either five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission for superior gas mileage.

Source: http://www.1stmotors.com/news/Apr11/tucson.htm

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Seoul, Korea - Hyundai Motor Company’s mid-size sedan, all-new Sonata, has won the first Middle East Motor Awards 2010 (MEMA) for best car-in-class. The award was presented on October 14th during the opening ceremony of the 10th International Motor Show Sharjah in UAE. The MEMA is administered by twelve automotive experts from nine Middle Eastern countries that together represent the Middle East automobile industry.

The judges evaluated models - launched at least in five Middle Eastern nations within the 12 month period - on ten criteria including superior performance, technology, practicality and value. In particular, the jury focused on whether the car satisfies regional customer requirements.

Each vehicle underwent thorough road and track tests as well as comprehensive competitor comparisons. Sonata bested other cars in its segment such as Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, and Ford Taurus, thanks to its superior performance, safety and comfort.

This marks the first car of the year awards given out by the Middle Eastern auto industry.

Sonata has been earning steady recognition in the Middle East since the beginning of this year. Sonata won the Car of the Year title from Sports Auto and Gulf Auto based in Saudi Arabia in May and June respectively. In July, Sonata and Tucson received the Car of the Year award from Syria–based publication Auto Sports.

Sonata sales from Jan to Sept 2010 in seventeen Middle Eastern countries are up 103 percent compared to the same period in 2009. Hyundai Motor will maintain the sales momentum by continuing to listen to customers and swiftly dispatching quality experts to the region.

Source: http://www.1stmotors.com/news/Apr11/sonata.htm

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In accordance with the relevant provisions in the Management Regulations on the Recall of Defective Vehicle Products, recently, Daimler AG submitted a recall report to State General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ) of the People’s Republic of China, in which it expressed that it will recall the imported Mercedes-Benz S-Class (Model 221), passenger car manufactured from July 8, 2010 to July 12, 2010. According to Daimler AG, 4 units sold by Mercedes-Benz (China) Ltd. in the People’s Republic of China are affected. The known customers will be effectively notified for the recall from April 25, 2011 by direct mail. This is a voluntary recall action Daimler AG executed in the China market.

On the affected vehicles, DAG has determined a possible inconsistency during the vulcanization process at the supplier for the vibration damper in the engine compartment. This can lead to insufficient adhesion between the vibration damper and its inner mass damper ring. The insufficient adhesion between the vibration damper and its inner mass damper ring may cause a sudden separation of the inner mass damper ring from the vibration damper without prior warning. As a result, the kinetic energy of a separated mass damper ring can create a potential for personal injury when working in the engine compartment during engine operation. No reports about related accidents and casualties have been received.

As a precautionary measure, the company will conduct a voluntary recall, and four potentially affected parts will be replaced by the workshop free of charge. The relevant known customers will be informed starting from April 25, 2011 to contact the authorized Mercedes-Benz service centre nearest to them for the corresponding free repair. At the same time, the concerned vehicle owners can also call service hotline: Beijing (010)84173067, Shanghai (021)61133810 or Guangzhou (020)28050207, available on 9:00 AM — 17:00 PM, from Monday to Friday. If the relevant customers have further questions or need further information about the vehicle recall, they can log on to AQSIQ Website , AQSIQ Defective Product Administrative Center Website , the China Auto Recall, or call the hotline of the Recall Management Centre 010-59799616 or 010-6553 7365.

Souce: http://www.mercedes-benz.com.cn/content/china/mpc/mpc_china_website/enng/home

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