Rüsselsheim - Opel is expanding and enhancing its Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) offer. The Astra 5-door hatchback, the Astra Sports Tourer and the Meriva can now be ordered with the new, powerful yet economical 1.4 liter LPG Turbo ecoFLEX engine.

The engine that can operate in LPG and gasoline mode packs a punch and is available in two power versions: 103 kW/140 hp with 200 Nm of torque in the Astra 5-door and Sports Tourer and with 88 kW/120 hp (175 Nm) in the Meriva. CO2 emissions of the Euro 5 certified engine in LPG mode are as low as 124 g/km for the Meriva, 129 g/km for the Astra 5-door and 132 g/km for the Astra Sports Tourer in the combined cycle.

The entry price for the Astra 5-door 1.4 Turbo LPG ecoFLEX is 22.670 euro, for the Astra Sports Tourer LPG 23.770 and for the Meriva LPG version prices start at 22.240 euro (all recommended retail prices in Germany, including VAT).Their debut comes after the Corsa LPG 1.2 ecoFLEX 3- and 5-door models had their launch in June 2011, marking the start of the new generation of Opel LPG vehicles. The Corsa 1.2 LPG three door version delivers 61kW/83 hp in LPG mode yet only emits 110 g/km CO2.

LPG is part of Opel’s portfolio of alternative propulsion systems that also includes CNG models (Compressed Natural Gas: Zafira 1.6 Turbo, Zafira Tourer 1.6 CNG Turbo and Combo 1.4 CNG Turbo) as well as electric vehicles such as the revolutionary Opel Ampera with range extender. The Ampera is the first electric vehicle that can go anywhere anytime and was just nominated as a finalist for the “Car of the Year 2012” award. With its new LPG ecoFLEX models Opel underscores its mission to be a leader in alternative propulsion systems and is responding to the increasing popularity of autogas throughout Europe which is driven by cost conscious and environmentally aware customers.

LPG owners can make fuel cost savings of up to 40%. In certain countries, such as Germany, there are significant tax incentives for LPG vehicle owners. LPG customers can expect up to 15% lower CO2 emissions in LPG mode than their gasoline counterparts. In addition, the new Euro 5 standard models, Opel offers a complete LPG solution ex works, ensuring that the LPG ecoFLEX models are delivered in high Opel quality and with the full manufacturer warranty. Since 2009, Opel has been producing LPG vehicles. Around 61,000 vehicles have been sold across Europe with around 80% in Italy alone.

Source: http://media.opel.com/content/media/intl/en/opel/news.detail.html/content/Pages/news

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Rüsselsheim/London - Opel/Vauxhall has joined forces with the UK H2 Mobility initiative to promote the manufacturing and use of hydrogen vehicles in Britain. UK H2 Mobility will prepare an action plan aimed at turning the UK into a leading global hydrogen vehicle player. The initiative which is backed by the British government and local industry is in addition to Opel’s successful fuel cell vehicle market test in Germany as part of the Clean Energy Partnership (CEP).

The industrial partners taking part in the UK project include utilities and infrastructure companies as well as car manufacturers. The long term goal is to make hydrogen transport feasible with a view to cutting carbon emissions while providing economic benefits. The UK H2 Mobility group is expected to produce a roadmap by the end of the year to support the commercial roll out from 2014 onwards.

At the signing of the memorandum of understanding between the UK Government and 13 representatives from industry, Vauxhall’s Director for Government Affairs and Public Policy, Bill Parfitt, said: “Following our company’s unrelenting focus on hydrogen fuel cell technology development, the launch and successful roll-out of these vehicles will now depend on the availability of hydrogen to the consumer in a real life environment. We therefore greatly appreciate this very timely initiative, gathering various stakeholders, under government leadership, to establish an adequate strategy for the future development of hydrogen technology in the UK.

Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles combine all the advantages of conventional electric vehicles, with the additional benefits of fast fuelling and long range. Opel/Vauxhall has been investing in research and development of hydrogen fuel cell technologies for over a decade.

Opel/Vauxhall’s European hydrogen vehicle test fleet now includes 30 cars in Germany. Since 2008, more than 100 fuel cell vehicles have clocked up around three million kilometers worldwide. Opel/Vauxhall will share insights gained during the test and expects the technology to be ready for its market launch by 2016.

Source: http://media.opel.com/content/media/intl/en/opel/news.detail.html/content/Pages/news

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HIROSHIMA, Japan — Mazda Motor Corporation announced the launch of the special edition of its mid-sized tall ‘high-roof’ Mazda Biante minivan. The special edition Mazda Biante GRANZ goes on sale from at all Mazda, Mazda Anfini and Mazda Autozam dealers throughout Japan.

Based on the high model grade Mazda Biante 20S that comes with Mazda’s unique idling stop system, i-stop, the front design of the Biante GRANZ features Mazda’s signature wing, one of the design motifs of the company’s new design theme, KODO - Soul of Motion.

Its exterior also includes an exclusive front bumper as well as a large chrome grille. For the interior, the decoration panel for the instrument panel that is used for Biante’s top-of-the-range 23S model grade is featured in the special edition for a refined and distinctive design, for both exterior and interior.

A new special body color, Aluminum Metallic, has been added to the popular body color lineup that includes Brilliant Black and Chrystal White Pearl Mica.The Mazda Biante 20S model grade front-wheel-drive (FWD) version now comes with the popular Clean Air Package as standard equipment, and is now set at a more affordable price.

Special equipment for the GRANZ

215/50R17 91V tires and 17-inch alloy wheels

Special equipment for the GRANZ-C*1

Halogen headlights (with low beam manual leveling function)
205/60R16 92H tires and 16-inch steel wheels with full-wheel cap
Keyless entry system (with answer-back function and automatic rear liftgate) and one Mazda retractable key (and normal key)

Source: http://www.mazda.com/publicity/release/2012/201201/120126b.html

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There is always a moment after an automaker lifts up the sheet (or raises the curtain or drives on to the stage) when everyone holds their breath. The thought “Do they like it?” races through the minds of all of the men and women who invested countless hours on the new product.

I think it is an improvement over the previous Sprint Cup car and is an indication that stock cars may be making a comeback,” Bandoim wrote. “Considering the focus on sponsorships, it is not surprising that NASCAR has finally brought back the spotlight on ‘brand identity’ to the cars.

Autoweek noted that the ’13 Fusion Sprint Cup car mirrors the styling cues of the 2013 production vehicle that was introduced earlier in January at the North American International Auto Show.

Ford designers addressed three main issues to make the Sprint Cup Fusion mirror the production Fusion. First was making the overall proportions of the race car reflect those of the production Fusion. Also included are brand and design cues in the side of the vehicle and an identifiable grille with the distinctive look of a Ford.

Size matters, and the present-generation NASCAR racecar is bigger than the production Fusion. Still, the new Fusion racecar is much more brand-distinctive than the ones Carl Edwards, Trevor Bayne and others drove last year.

Fans chimed in on message boards around the Internet. The Ford Racing page on Facebook hummed with happy Blue Oval fans excited about seeing the new model in less than 13 months at Daytona. A small sampling of their comments (we withheld their names in case any of them work for other manufacturers):

Source: http://racing.ford.com/nascar/news/articles/fans-media-react-to-13-fusion-nascar-reveal-1293054233488/

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DETROIT – The on-road performance of the 2013 Cadillac ATS compact luxury sedan will be the focus of a new advertising spot this Sunday during the U.S. television broadcast of Super Bowl XLVI.The 30-second spot is available today on Cadillac’s official YouTube channel and Facebook page.The ad showcases what will make ATS a serious new challenger against the world’s best compact luxury cars,” said General Motors Global Chief Marketing Officer Joel Ewanick. “It’s an opportunity to reach a big audience with the message that Cadillac is expanding into new territory.

The all-new ATS is Cadillac’s entry into the world’s most significant luxury car category. The straight pitch is a contrast to many Super Bowl ads, which use humor and other devices unrelated to the product being pitched.

The car is the total focus of the ad, with actual testing footage of the ATS,” Ewanick said. “Competing head-to-head in an elite class requires authentic performance.The all-new 2013 ATS begins production this summer at the Lansing (Mich.) Grand River plant.

Source: http://media.gm.com/content/media/us/en/gm/news.detail.html/content/Pages/news

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Meridian Enterprises, importers and distributors of Hyundai in Malta are launching the first three new models of 2012, the Hyundai Veloster winner of ‘The Good Design Award 2011’ Award, the Hyundai Elantra, which has just been awarded the ‘Autobest 2012’ Award as the best choice in 15 European countries and the Hyundai i40 which represents Hyundai’s vision in Europe.

The launch of the three new models at Hyundai’s showroom in Valley Road B’Kara was addressed by Francesca Mamo, Managing Director of Meridian Enterprises who explained how these three new models represent Hyundai’s brand slogan New Thinking, New Possibilities, a slogan that encompasses Hyundai’s new brand positioning. “This slogan,” explained Ms Mamo, “conveys Hyundai’s objective and new business mission, which seeks to offer customers ‘modern premium’ and experiences beyond expectations. The new brand direction also captures the spirit of change that Hyundai is undergoing, Hyundai’s evolution as well as the dramatic growth in all areas of Hyundai business at an international level.

Referring to Hyundai’s growth in terms of sales figures, Ms Mamo announced how “in 2011, Hyundai Europe sold 375,000 units which translates into an increase of 11% over 2010. This is truly a remarkable achievement in an industry which posted a significant decline and few auto companies have achieved what Hyundai has managed to achieve last year. Such results are only possible by a company that has consistently shown dynamism, drive and commitment that is admirable. Hyundai substantiates its brand promise with one model after another that surpasses its predecessors’ standards in terms of quality, technology, design and value. Hyundai offers at least one model in every segment. Models that are highly successful both in terms of sales achievement but also in terms of setting the bar.

Ms Mamo added “while traditional premium is usually linked with high prices for the privileged few, Hyundai has revolutionized this in order to introduce a ‘modern premium’, based on the idea that high quality does not necessarily require a high price. Hyundai is committed to offering high end, high quality and emotional values that customers never experienced or expected. This is not limited to just the product but throughout the entire business, operations and services.”

Source: http://www.hyundai.com.mt/News.aspx?dnmparams=/ZPzmU3TuyP_ZwG4We446DTn0Iw1UWVdZvRT427ZByItmi1ZheT9KoufEgq5aTsGR

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TORRANCE, Calif. – Lexus announced the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2013 LX 570 luxury utility vehicle, which will arrive at dealerships in early February with bold new styling, interior enhancements, cutting-edge technology and remarkable off-road capabilities. The LX will carry an MSRP of $80,930, an increase of 1.9 percent or $1,475. The MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $875.

With all of the enhanced features, the LX 570 offers perhaps the most exciting combination of luxury, on-road smoothness and off-road performance of any vehicle in its segment,” said Mark Templin, group vice president and general manager, Lexus Division.

The 2013 LX 570 gets a new look at both the front and rear. The fresh look is highlighted by the Lexus spindle grille. New LED daytime running lights complement an updated headlamp design with new larger fog lamp bezels. Taillamps are also updated, while the rear license plate surround gets a revised look and the tow hitch cover is more integrated. Both front and rear bumpers are refreshed, with the rear bumper protector enhanced by a chrome accent. Turn signals have been integrated into the side mirrors, and wider bodyside moldings sport a new appearance.

The LX 570 is powered by an advanced 5.7-liter V8, four cams, and four valves per cylinder engine with dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). At 383 horsepower and 403 lb.-ft. of torque it is built to handle demanding tasks with remarkable smoothness.

The LX receives an updated Crawl Control feature which provides optimum throttle and brake modulation when maneuvering over rough, uneven or difficult surfaces. The new Turn Assist feature tightens turning circles by adding more brake force to the inside rear wheel. The new Multi-terrain Select also allows the driver to optimize performance by choosing from five types of terrain settings.

The LX interior receives a new multimedia system (with available next-generation Lexus Enform®), a color TFT multi-information display, improved front seat cooling, easy access for the driver’s seat, a power outlet for the middle row and unique trims and accents.

The LX offers an optional Luxury Package priced at $1,510 that includes a cool box for beverages, semi-aniline leather-trimmed upholstery with new contrast stitching, a heated steering wheel, new mahogany wood-trimmed door switch plates, a rear-center armrest cover, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats (outboard position only) and Smart Access card key.

In addition to the Luxury Package, the new LX 570 features an available dual screen rear-seat entertainment system with wireless headphones and three-prong electrical outlet, priced at $2,005. This system allows two video sources to be viewed at the same time – for instance, one can be used as a DVD player while the other as a game console or audio player.

Source: http://pressroom.toyota.com/releases/lexus+announces+pricing+2013+lx+570.htm

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Premiere coincides with anniversary: The Audi R8 GRAND-AM will make its debut on the 50th running of the Daytona 24 Hours from January 26 to 29. Teams APR Motorsport and Oryx Racing are each fielding one of the newly developed customer sport race cars in the GT class of the endurance classic.

The “Rolex 24 at Daytona” ranks among the finest classics in international motorsport. The event has been thrilling the sports car fan community since 1962. Some of the greatest racers in history have entered their names on the winners’ list – from Jacky Ickx and Hans Herrmann through to Hurley Haywood, A. J. Foyt or Derek Bell. Reinhold Joest, the founder of Audi Sport Team Joest has personally won this classic race in Florida too. Current Audi factory driver Mike Rockenfeller decided the competition in his favor with an American team two years ago.

On the event’s 50th anniversary the organizer is treating the audience to an unusual and spectacular experience. A champions party with numerous racing legends, an exhibition of historic overall-winning cars, a carnival complete with a Ferris Wheel, a 5-kilometer run on the track for all sports enthusiasts on Saturday before the race, autograph sessions and pit walks are just some of the attractions featured on the last weekend in January.

We are proud to be part of the action for the first time at the event’s special anniversary,” stresses Werner Frowein, Managing Director of quattro GmbH, which has developed the Audi R8 GRAND-AM. “Two customer teams have already opted for our new race car and we are currently in negotiations with other buyers. Following its appearance at Daytona, the Audi R8 GRAND-AM will also be seen at the other twelve rounds of the GRAND-AM series. In the future, our customers will be directly supported by Audi of America.

This presence in America is another important element of developing Audi Sport customer racing.” At the season opener, the Audi R8 GRAND-AM is competing against about 30 other vehicles in the extremely large field of the GT class while so-called Daytona prototypes are driving for overall victories. The Daytona 24 Hours marks the beginning of the 2012 GRAND-AM Road Racing season. In 2008, Audi was last represented in the United States for a whole season with a factory commitment featuring the Audi R10 TDI LMP1 sports car and won the title in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS).

Source: http://www.audiusanews.com/pressrelease/2771//premiere-audi-daytona-24-hours

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CONCORD, N.C. – Manufacturer brand identity is back in NASCAR.The 2013 Ford Fusion NASCAR Sprint Cup car, unveiled as part of the Charlotte Motor Speedway Media Tour, was worked on by Ford designers in an effort to bring brand identity back to the sport. The result is undeniable with the 2013 Sprint Cup car mirroring the recently unveiled 2013 Ford Fusion production car.

We wanted Fusion to be the car that helped return ‘stock car’ to NASCAR.” stated Jamie Allison, director, Ford Racing. “I think fans, when they see the car, are just going to smile and cheer. It is going to reengage them with the sport and make the sport better because there is just something natural about seeing race cars that look like cars in their driveways.

This marks the third time Ford simultaneously launched production and NASCAR versions of a new model. The first dual launch came in 1968, with the sleek fastback Ford Torino. Legendary NASCAR driver David Pearson drove the Torino to back-to-back NASCAR championships in 1968 and 1969. The second time came in 2006, when the then newly introduced Ford Fusion appeared in showrooms and on the track.

Ford took a different approach with the development of the 2013 Fusion racer. Ford Design Center staff, led by Garen Nicoghosian, and Ford aerodynamicist Bernie Marcus, spent the past year doing the early design development, freeing up the Ford race teams to concentrate on weekly NASCAR competition.

This is a seminal moment in the sport where we had a chance to get it right once again and make sure the race cars are race versions of street cars. And I am proud because I believe we have accomplished just that,” continued Allison. “The 2013 Fusion is a stunning car and the 2013 NASCAR Fusion is even more stunning and I can’t wait to see it perform on the track and connect with race fans.

It looks fun to drive and very much eager to go and tear up the track. It has a very aggressive stance from the outside and the inside. From all angles the vehicle exudes performance and I think it reflects our general attitude of how we go about setting up our cars very, very nicely,” said Nicoghosian. “It brings a certain level of nimbleness and lightness and agility to the NASCAR platform, much like we do in our production cars, because all of our production cars have that nimbleness and agility and eagerness about them.

Source: http://racing.ford.com/nascar/news/articles/new-2013-ford-fusion-nascar-sprint-cup-car-brings-the-stock-car-back-to-nascar-1293054210577/

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Since the introduction of the first generation Prius in 1997, the name itself has been known to be the pioneer in ECO (Hybrid) vehicle technology. Throughout the years, the development of the Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD) has changed the course of vehicle innovations around the world. This January 20, 2012, Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) unveils an all-new compact hybrid vehicle. “C” that stands for COMPACT, CLEAN, CLEVER and CITY, the Prius C is the latest addition to the Prius Hybrid line-up. It is an unprecedented vehicle that employs cutting-edge hybrid technology that pursues the best possible performance as a compact car while playing its role in contributing to the environment.

Integrating the “Eco Fun” design concept, the Prius C presents a compact body with active proportions. The face of the vehicle expresses a powerful impression of one bold mass. This creates a strong sense of dynamic motion from front to rear that is noticeable even from a distance. Based on the trapezoidal shape design, it is fashioned to create a fun and lively facade. Headlamp extensions have been shaped to accentuate the high beams. The car’s rear tapers with aerodynamic performance in mind, contrasting with an underbody form and is built with a sturdy stance that conveys an agile driving experience.

As every Prius is known for, the Prius C is also equipped with the same HSD technology that produces excellent drivability and unparalleled fuel economy. It is powered by a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder 1NZ-FXE VVT-i Atkinson cycle engine that complies with standard regulations of EURO V emissions. Engine efficiency is also enhanced through the adoption of EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system and electric power pump. The step-up converter increases the voltage from the HV battery from DC144 V to a maximum of DC520 V to compel the high voltage motor and generator thus, producing better engine response. The characteristics of the hybrid system include the ability to accurately use the gasoline engine and electric motor based on the current driving conditions which offers smooth and reactive driving while significantly minimizing fuel consumption and gas emissions.

Inside the Prius C cabin, unified geometric surfaces radiate a lucid and fun interior. Various features such as the multi-information display and frequently used controls have been integrated to improve user friendliness. The operating system and utility functions have been designed especially for the comfort of daily driving. Serene interior color schemes create a clean and energetic environment inside the car. Overall, the Prius C is an art form of engineering matched with an iconic design.

Source: http://www.toyota.com.ph/news_and_events/2012/240112_1.asp

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