Archives for May 2016

Oft-Dismissed Minivans Propel Fiat Chrysler Sales

May 31, 2016 by admin 2 Comments

FCA’s sales streak should continue with minivans providing an unlikely contribution.

Car manufacturers track sales carefully, using monthly statistics to measure progress. Any month-over-month change falling outside of expected parameters can result in a change in strategy, including short-term production output, what incentives are offered to consumers, and a host of behind-the-scenes adjustments.

Yes, automakers often place outsized importance on sales changes, especially in the ultra-competitive and highly profitable US consumer market. Manufacturers aren’t always patient when it comes to short-range developments.

Jeep, Ram Propel FCA

Fiat Chrysler is riding a 73-month streak of year-over-year sales increases, the longest in the industry. After sales bottomed out during the last recession and just as Fiat gained control of Chrysler, the automaker has been nearly unstoppable. Credit the Jeep brand and Ram trucks with much of that continued good fortune, but when sales are tallied this month, a trio of oft-dismissed minivans may hold the key to FCA’s continued expansion.

The Chrysler Corporation launched the modern minivan movement in 1983 with the introduction of the Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager. From the onset, Chrysler has dominated the segment, typically accounting for at least 50 percent of the industry’s sales. But minivans have long since peaked as customers flocked to more versatile crossover utility vehicles.

Since last fall, FCA has been in transition concerning its minivan products. The automaker invested upwards of $2.6 billion to develop a new model, the Chrysler Pacifica, while also continuing production of the Dodge Grand Caravan. The Chrysler Town & Country is officially canceled, but before shutting down production FCA pushed out thousands of models, flooding dealer inventories with the same.

Chrysler Pacifica Production Begins

Chrysler Pacifica production began on Feb. 29 and just 487 copies were sold in April. May will be this model’s first full month and sales should prove robust.

At the same time, Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan sales continue with year-to-date sales up 64 and 104 percent respectively through April 2016.

Strong Incentive on Three Minivan Models

Propelling sales for both models are strong incentives. As of publication, Town & Country incentives include a $3,500 cash allowance or 1.9 percent financing for up to 84 months plus an additional $500 back. Grand Caravan incentives also come in at $3,500 along with 0 percent financing for 60 months plus a $1,500 cash allowance. Additional incentives should bring in deeper cuts, especially for remaining 2015 inventory.

Lease deals are also available, depending on the trim level selected. Typically, you’ll pay $289 to $299 per month for 36 months, with $2,999 down. However, CarsDirect.com explains that the Dodge lease on Grand Caravan SE isn’t especially attractive, considering its low MSRP.

Despite being a new model, financing and lease deals on the Chrysler Pacifica are in place. Right now, Chrysler is offering a $2,000 cash credit on the Pacifica. Or, buyers can choose 0 percent financing for 36 months and receive $1,500 cash back. If leasing is your preference, a Pacifica LX can be had for $269 per month with $1,999 due at signing.

Well-Stocked Inventory and May 2016 Sales

Last week, Automotive News noted that as of the beginning of May, 22,170 Town & Countrys and 29,247 Grand Caravans were unsold, representing a two-month inventory. Add in thousands of Pacificas and FCA’s dominance in the minivan segment will continue.

The timing of the Pacifica’s release coincides with curtailing Chrysler 200 and Dodge Dart sedan sales. Jeep and Ram sales should continue to bolster the automaker for May; together FCA is looking at a 74th consecutive month of year-over-year sales increases and should do so despite two fewer selling days this year.

The Full-Bodied 2016 Toyota Tundra Pickup Truck

May 30, 2016 by admin 16 Comments

Behind the wheel of Toyota’s largest pickup truck.

How do you like your pickup truck — small, medium or large? Small pickup trucks are no longer sold in the US, having morphed into midsize trucks beginning about two decades ago. With the Ford Ranger’s retirement in 2011, consumers were left with a bevy of large models and then just two midsize trucks after the temporary discontinuation of the Chevrolet and GMC duo.

Although the midsize truck segment has rebounded — thanks in large part to the reintroduction of the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon — most consumers are still buying large. For Toyota, the full-size Tundra and the even better selling midsize Tacoma are offered, accounting for at least 300,000 sales annually in the US for the brand.

The Pickup Truck Market

This writer has had ample behind-the-wheel time with both Toyota models and I must confess my personal preference is with the smaller truck. That’s no slight to the Tundra, but my pickup truck needs come in smaller and lighter.

Oh, for the return of the days when tiny trucks once defined the lower end of the market — compact 4x2s providing room for two and just enough payload capacity to carry a stove or to haul yard waste to the dump. You haven’t “trucked” until you have worked a 4-speed manual gearbox with a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder carbureted engine — what also presents an ideal way to learn how to row your own!

Meanwhile, in the large pickup truck arena the product choices include a generous selection of models for your consideration, including the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Ram 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, an all-new Nissan Titan, and the Toyota Tundra.

The Tundra name has been around since 2000 when it replaced the earlier T-100. The original Tundra is nearly the same size as the current Tacoma before it transmuted in 2007 to its current footprint, to match what the Detroit manufacturers were offering.

The current-generation Toyota Tundra was released in 2014, offering an evolutionary update to the previous model. As before, customers have 4×2 and 4×4 options; three bed sizes; two V-8 engine choices; as well as regular, double, and CrewMax cabins.

2016 Toyota Tundra CrewMax 4×4 1794 Edition

With the current-generation model, Toyota also expanded the Tundra’s trim levels to include SR, SR5, Limited, TRD Pro, Platinum, and 1794 editions. A 2016 Toyota Tundra CrewMax 4×4 1794 Edition was a recent weekly driver, a western-themed conveyance and style also popular among the competing manufacturers. Both the Platinum and 1794 Edition share top billing and prices, and are offered with the CrewMax only.

The Platinum has a more conventional luxury presence with it, while the 1794 showcases its take on luxury with distinct badging, a massive 38-gallon fuel tank (up from the standard 26.4 gallons), a western-themed interior with brown premium perforated leather-trimmed seats, unique floor mats, and still more badging.

So, how did Toyota settle on the 1794 name and what does it mean? Well, 1794 marks the year when one Juan Ignacio de Casanova left the Canary Islands (Spain) and settled in what is now the state of Texas. Señor de Casanova acquired rolling pasture land south of San Antonio, built the JLR Ranch, with that property remaining in his family for more than two centuries before Toyota acquired 2,600 of the 4,000 acres still owned by his descendants.

Sprawling, Well-Equipped Interior

Regardless of which CrewMax model you choose, you’ll find a cavernous interior with room for five adults. Up front are two of the plushest bucket seats you’ll find in this segment — the driver gets a 12-way power operated recliner. In the rear is a 60-40 split-folding bench seat with the seats folding up instead of flat. Just imagine the interior storage possibilities available with this arrangement.

As for the trim level, call it premium — while there is leather everywhere, there are soft touch materials across the top of the dashboard, surrounding the center console, and on the doors — standard Toyota fare with the soft leather expression paralleling what you might find in a Lexus.

Another luxury touch is the steering wheel — wood with leather grips. Behind that is the instrument panel with two large and two small analog displays, with a digital driver information center hemmed in.

Just above the center stack is an open storage compartment, more than sufficiently sized to hold your smart phone or other small device. The center stack is dominated by a 6.1- or available 7-inch color touchscreen display where the automaker’s Entune telematics system is accessed. It is easy to read and is enhanced with a premium JBL audio system with integrated navigation and an app suite. Buttons and switches are at the ready too.

Toyota outfits the 1794 with a boatload of standard features, including power accessories, dual-zone climate control, a rear view monitor, a blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert, a 12-speaker JBL audio system, Bluetooth, HD radio and traffic, hands-free phone connectivity, and satellite radio. All models come equipped with two 12-volt power outlets; a third outlet is in the rear. You’ll also find a USB port with iPod connectivity and an auxiliary audio port. Siri Eyes Free is included; neither Apple CarPlay or Android Auto is available.

This model also has a power tilt/slide moonroof with a sliding sunshade. Got thirst? The Tundra makes quenching that easy as it comes with four cup holders (three in the 1794 edition) and four drink holders up front and two cup holders and four drink holders in the rear passenger compartment.

Two V-8 Engine Choices

Unlike competing manufacturers, Toyota doesn’t offer a V-6 engine in the Tundra. That’s not a bad decision because no V-6 can handle what is required of it unless performance boosting is offered, such as turbocharging. The fuel economy advantage of the smaller engines is negligible — expect to average 15 mpg at best regardless of your engine choice. I averaged 14.9 mpg for the week I had the Tundra.

As for the Tundra, you have a choice of a standard 4.6-liter, V-8 making 310 horsepower and 327 foot-pounds of torque and a 5.7-liter, V-8 making 381 horsepower and 401 foot-pounds of torque. Both the 1794 and Platinum editions get the larger engine only. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The larger V-8 delivers ample power throughout the band curve, especially noticeable when picking up speed on a highway entrance ramp. A standard 4.10 differential ratio gives way to a 4.30 ratio with the available tow package, enabling this truck to pull up to 9,800 pounds.

This truck comes outfitted with an independent high-mounted double-wishbone front suspension with a stabilizer bar and a live axle rear suspension with trapezoid multi-leaf springs. Nitrogen gas shock absorbers are at the corners. Opt for the TRD Pro upgrade available with the 1794 and this model gains an independent TRD coil-spring high-mounted double wishbone front suspension with a thicker stabilizer bar and more robust TRD Bilstein shocks.

As for the tires, standard 18-inch wheels elsewhere give way to 20-inch wheels set within Bridgestone or Dunlap tires. A pair of 6-spoke wheel choices are available. Front and rear mudguards are standard across the model line. An engine skid plate, gas tank skid plate, and running boards are available.

The Off-Road Less Traveled

My off-road time was limited to covering a winding, hilly three-quarter mile dirt road coming and going. It was enough to demonstrate to me that the Tundra 4×4 tackles the toughest terrain with authority, pushing through the washed out areas with ease. Bumpy ride yes, uncomfortable no. Today’s trucks can take a beating while delivering a reasonable level of cabin comfort along the way.

You’ll find the off-road and trailer controls to the lower right of the steering wheel. Switching from 4×2 to 4×4 high takes just a few seconds for the adjustment to kick in. And if you’re stuck in a muck, 4×4 low is at the ready. Sorry, no “crawl control” feature along the lines of the Tacoma is available in any Tundra model.

Payload comes in around 1,500 pounds, therefore if your human cargo collectively adds 1,000 pounds you still have 500 pounds of truck bed capacity to carry wood, bricks, concrete, and the like. This truck comes with a deck rail system with four adjustable tie-down cleats. An easy drop lift gate is present. The only thing I would like to see changed is the inclusion of step bumpers along the lines of the Chevrolet Silverado for ease of access to the bed.

Toyota Tundra Considerations

Toyota’s Tundra sizes up well against the competition. It doesn’t have the seemingly infinite number of build considerations of the F-150 and the other Detroit models, but it offers enough choices to satisfy most pickup truck buyers. On the other hand, no heavy-duty version is available.

Perhaps the most significant challenge to the Tundra comes from within — the Tacoma is such a strong and capable player that the Tundra is likely overlooked by some Toyota shoppers. But that’s still a win for Toyota and its effort to support a healthy slice of the pickup truck market.

IHS: Utility Vehicle Owners Drive Up Loyalty Rates

May 27, 2016 by admin 1 Comment

IHS Automotive analyzes 32 vehicle segments for auto trends loyalty.

2016 Honda HR-V

Subcompact CUV: Honda HR-V.

Keeping vehicle owners in the fold is a big deal for car manufacturers. With owner loyalty rates hovering just above 50 percent, that means there is nearly a 50-50 chance that consumers will move on to a competing brand the next time they buy new.

Losing customers can mean lost customers for life, especially if the replacement brand proves more appealing in the long run. GM, Ford, and Chrysler experienced this loss for much of the last century from the 1970s on as customers fled the Detroit 3 for products from Japan mostly.

Crossover Utility Vehicle Loyalty

But there is a bright spot manufacturers should take note of, one the IHS Automotive research firm recently noted. That bright spot has to do with sport utility vehicles — traditional SUVs and crossover utility vehicles (CUVs) alike. The IHS found loyalty rates among SUV and CUV owners in the United States has climbed to record levels.

Indeed, with a combined loyalty rate of 63 percent, CUV and SUV owners were much more likely to stay brand loyal than sedan owners, the latter coming in at a 53 percent loyalty rate for the same time. That timeframe covered the first quarter of 2016 (January-March). For all vehicle types, owner loyalty rates came in at 52.1 percent for the same period.

2016 GMC Yukon XL Denali.

Big SUV: 2016 GMC Yukon XL Denali.

Utility vehicles are more popular than ever before. The IHS noted that the increased interest in the segment means manufacturers are responding in kind. As a result, showroom traffic is up as customers flock to the latest models.

In particular, manufacturers are rolling out more models, especially in the subcompact category. New arrivals in the past year include the Honda HR-V, Jeep Renegade, Fiat 500X, Mazda CX-3, and the Chevrolet Trax. These models joined the Nissan Juke, Subaru Crosstrek, and the Buick Encore already serving the segment. Models from Ford and Toyota are planned and will tip the balance further to all things utility vehicle.

Meeting Changing Consumer Demand

Manufacturers are also providing some overlap, to ensure that both off-road and leisure drivers are served. For example, Toyota remains the only manufacturer offering a midsize SUV (4Runner) and a midsize CUV (Highlander). Ford offers two midsize CUVs — the two-row Edge and the three-row Explorer. Other differences extend to convenience features, technologies, connectivity, and powertrain choices.

Of course, some of this may never have happened if gas prices remained high. Where fuel economy were once a big concern for car owners when gas prices were high, it is much less so today, thus consumers continue to shift away from cars to crossovers.

2015 Audi Q5

Luxury Crossover: Audi Q5

Vehicle Segment Trends

The IHS surveyed 32 vehicle segments, finding that the top three loyalty segments were for CUVs. Notably, utility vehicles comprised 35.2 percent of all new vehicle registrations in the first quarter of 2011, surging to 41.8 percent five years later. At the same time, new car registrations dipped from 48.7 percent in 2011 to 40.9 percent five years later.

“The high loyalty rates for SUVs and CUVs lend credence to the current shift from passenger cars to utility vehicles,” said Christopher Hopson, manager, North America light vehicle sales forecast at IHS Automotive. “We expect this shift to be sustained, even when fuel prices are expected to rise back above USD $3.00/gallon by 2020.”

Lighter and More Efficient

Another point of good news for consumers is that even as fuel prices eventually reach higher levels, utility vehicles are becoming more efficient. Manufacturers are employing various lightweighting strategies, including utilizing aluminum and certain grades of steel in an effort to shed weight. Smaller engines paired with more efficient transmissions are helping matters too.

See Also — Polk, Owner of Carfax, Acquired by IHS

Personal Finance Disaster: Car Title Loans

May 26, 2016 by admin Leave a Comment

How to lose your transportation the auto title loan way.

You own your car outright and have possession of the title. At the same time you’re pinched financially and could use some cash. You’ve heard about car title loans and find yourself lured by promises of quick cash.

What could go wrong here? A little emergency money can tide you over, giving you the opportunity to handle other pressing financial matters.

Seized Vehicles and Other Matters

Unfortunately, car title loans — also known as auto title loans — are not the solution to a financial problem. In fact, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) found that one-in-five auto title loan borrowers have their vehicle seized. And without wheels, you may find yourself facing worse problems — no way to get around, including to your job.

On the surface, a car title loan may not sound like a big deal as it provides you with a small amount of money for a short period of time, usually 30 days. In exchange for cash, you hand over the title of the car to the lender and pay a fee for the loan. Loan rates are extremely high — as much as 300 percent annually or 25 percent for the month. Thus, if you borrow $1,000 you may need to pay back $1,250 in one month.

“Our study delivers clear evidence of the dangers auto title loans pose for consumers,” said CFPB Director Richard Cordray. “Instead of repaying their loan with a single payment when it is due, most borrowers wind up mired in debt for most of the year. The collateral damage can be especially severe for borrowers who have their car or truck seized, costing them ready access to their job or the doctor’s office.”

Reborrowed Loans and a Debt Pit

Besides the high rate of repossessions, there are other problems the CFPB found with such loans:

1. More than four-in-five auto title loans are reborrowed on the very day they are due. That’s because borrowers cannot afford to pay them off with a single payment.

2. Auto title loans become long-term debt. Because borrowers experience difficulty paying off their loans, the CFPB found that more than half of auto title loans become long-term debt burdens. In this case, borrowers take out four or more consecutive loans in an effort to pay off their debt and avoid repossession. Besides the outstanding loan amount, borrowers are hit with additional fees, worsening their debt.

3. The borrowing doesn’t stop. More than two-thirds of car title loans are obtained by consumers who take out at least seven consecutive loans and remain in debt for the better part of the year.

Small Loans, Big Burdens

The CFPB report examined approximately 3.5 millon, single-payment car title loan records from 2010 to 2013. The bureau focused only on non-bank lenders; consumer’s personal details were redacted.

The average amount borrowed for such loan is $700 and the typical interest rate charged is 300 percent annualized. Such loans are allowed in only 25 states — 20 of the states permit lenders to collect a single, full payment at the end of the loan term. Five other states require installment payments.

The CFPB study noted that car title loans and payday loans are similar as both charge exorbitant interest rates and include high incidences of reborrowing. In effect, consumers are ensnared in a long-term debt trap, and are at great risk of losing their cars.

Explore Other Options

So, how do you avoid the car title loan trap? By not agreeing to one in the first place. If you are that pinched for money, consider other sources — just don’t put your ride in jeopardy. Can you afford to do without a car? Probably not. Losing your car can change your life and in ways you may never imagine.

See Also — Car Repossession and How to Avoid It

Public domain photo supplied by Jelson25.

Rolled Aluminum Producer Novelis Expands NY Plant

May 25, 2016 by admin Leave a Comment

Ford Super Duty benefits from Novelis aluminum.

2015 Ford F-150. — This aluminum Ford F-150 will soon be joined by an all-new Super Duty.

“Vehicle lightweighting” is one of those industry buzzwords that doesn’t easily roll off the tongue. Outside of the auto industry, few people are familiar with the term. But if you mention “Ford F-150” then the recognition is instantaneous — nearly everyone knows the current generation model has a weight-saving aluminum body.

Well, like all other manufacturers the Ford Motor Company relies on suppliers to provide them with the materials to form vehicle bodies. Most manufacturers use steel body panels and plastic front and rear fascias. Carbon fiber is also used, but in very limited quantities, while aluminum is now in greater use than ever before.

Automotive Market Served Well

Novelis is the leader in all things rolled aluminum products and also has the distinction of being the largest recycler of aluminum in the world. On the automotive front, the company supplies aluminum to Audi, BMW, Cadillac, Jaguar, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, as well as to Ford. Coca-Cola, LG, and Samsung are among other companies making use of Novelis aluminum.

Increased demand for aluminum is part of automakers’ overall sustainability strategy, an effort to reduce vehicle weight and lessen the impact on the environment. To that end, Novelis has opened a third cutting edge automotive finishing line at its plant in Oswego, New York.

The latest line was installed to assist the production of durable, lighter and safer vehicles, representing a $120 million investment to expand the high-strength aluminum alloy supply for Ford F-Series trucks. As a result of this expansion, the company has extended its stand as the preeminent automotive aluminum sheet supplier in North America.

“As a result of our investments across the globe, Novelis is able to offer our automotive customers unique advantages and benefits through automotive lines such as this one in Oswego,” said Steve Fisher, President and CEO, Novelis. “Automakers are seeking alternative materials to cut vehicle weight while maintaining strength and safety requirements. With investments in Asia, Europe and North America, Novelis has the global footprint, assets and expertise to meet the needs of automakers in every major auto-producing region.”

Benefitting the 2017 Ford F-Series

Novelis says the third and newest automotive finishing line will produce aluminum sheet for the body and cargo box of the all-new 2017 F-Series Super Duty lineup, enabling Ford to reduce the overall vehicle weight by up to 350 pounds. As a result, the new truck is expected to deliver improved hauling and towing capabilities.

“Novelis works closely alongside our automotive customers to meet their precise and exact demands,” said Marco Palmieri, SVP and President, Novelis North America. “The passion for excellence among our employees in Oswego and throughout North America has made possible this latest automotive expansion. It is a testament to our commitment to help our automotive customers bring to market the lightweight vehicles of the future.”

Expanded Footprint, More Jobs

Over the past five years, Novelis has expanded its ability to serve the North American automotive industry by installing and commissioning three automotive finishing lines in Oswego, adding at least 460 jobs. The current $400 million investment also includes the world’s largest closed-loop recycling program, which processes roughly 25 million pounds of automotive aluminum scrap per month.

Besides its plant in New York, Novelis has a strong presence in Ontario, Switzerland, Germany, and China, and claims to be the only manufacturer of high-strength, military-grade aluminum with a presence in all three major auto-producing continents. Lastly, Novelis says its automotive aluminum can now be found in more than 180 vehicle models currently produced by automakers.

Valvoline at 150: America’s Oldest Branded Motor Oil

May 24, 2016 by admin Leave a Comment

The world’s oldest engine oil brand reaches an important milestone.

One year after the final battle of the American Civil War was fought at Palmito Ranch in Texas, Dr. John Ellis completed his study of crude oil, determining it had no medicinal value. Although disappointed by the results, Dr. Ellis discovered potential lubricating properties, thus redirecting his research to develop a petroleum lubricant for steam engines running at high temperatures.

In 1866, Ellis left medicine and founded the Continuous Oil Refining Company, later renamed Valvoline. Although Valvoline isn’t the first motor oil developed, it was the first one made under a brand name.

Valvoline at 150

This year, innovative Valvoline is marking its 150th anniversary. Beginning this fall, it will begin transitioning to an independent business following the completion of an initial public offering (IPO) separating Valvoline from parent Ashland Inc.

Real growth for Valvoline coincided with mass vehicle production. In 1920, the Ford Motor Company named Valvoline the only oil recommended for its much-heralded Model T. In fact, beginning in 1920 each Ford Model T was outfitted with a dash-mounted plaque reading:

“This car is filled with Valvoline light motor oil. We recommend its use. No other oils should be used in this car.”

Keeping up With the Times

Other accomplishments realized by the company came in 1939 when it released a single grade X-18 motor oil, eliminating the need for 18 other car-specific lubricants. During the Second World War, Valvoline became a major supplier of oil for Allied vehicles and in 1954 the company released its first all-climate motor oil, eliminating the need for motorists to switch oil types by season.

Specialty oils followed, including VR1 in 1965, designed with race cars in mind. By the late 1970s, the company began targeting “do it yourself” customers, printing oil change instructions right on the can. Less than a decade later, Valvoline noted that many consumers preferred to have someone else change their oil and do it fast too. Thus, the company entered the quick oil change business by purchasing the Rapid Oil Change chain.

In more recent years, Valvoline has introduced its first synthetic motor oil and developed high-mileage oil for cars with at least 75,000 miles on the odometer. The company also expanded into recycled oils and updated its racing oils as it became the oil of choice for Hendrick Motorsports.

Team Valvoline Participation

For Valvoline, 2016 isn’t simply about marking an important anniversary. This year, the company is stepping up its outreach efforts through its Team Valvoline website.

Team Valvoline is where the company interacts with its current and potential customers through the team.valvoline.com subdomain. A community of car owners, gear heads, and weekend mechanics are active and are awarded for their participation.

Essentially, Valvoline provides the venue, while also awarding users with participation points who sign up (100 points), answer brief surveys (25 points), watch and rate videos (25 points), read articles (25 points), and share content via Twitter or Facebook (100 points each). It is a novel strategy for the Valvoline, but a smart one at that — the company mines data about its users in exchange for merchandise (merch) once certain point thresholds have been reached and the points redeemed.

Indeed, users at the 5,000-point level can obtain a “Never Idle” cap or t-shirt. For 20,000 points, a Victory Lane hat autographed by NASCAR drivers Kasey Kahne or Jimmy Johnson can be had. Additional points may be earned by purchasing products at the online Valvoline Speed Shop — five points for every $1 spent.

Four Content Categories

Valvoline accepts and shares content based on four categories: do-it-yourself (DIY), Racing, Legacy, and Culture.

In the DIY category, readers will find articles such as, “Synthetic Vs. Conventional Oil” — What’s Right for My Ride? and videos such as “Valvoline Full Synthetic Motor Oils” with a voice over that sounds a lot like George Clooney. But its not — you’re hearing Josh Goodman.

Heading over to the Racing category, you’ll find stories about the Hendrick Motorsports drivers — Jimmy Johnson, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Kasey Kahne, and Chase Elliott (who replaced Jeff Gordon this year). The site hosts a unique video series — Drift Garage — where Ryan Tuerck and Chris Forsberg share tips on how to increase performance (think Magnaflow slip-on exhaust); discuss subframes, suspension, and bike racks; and even presents an exterior breakdown of a 410 winged Sprint car with Kasey Kahne. The duo come together again to present a second series, Garage Tours.

The Legacy and Culture sections weave in both the history of the company as well as Valvoline culture, the latter exploring such topics as “Cars We Wish Were Sold in the States,” and “10 Service Stations Turned Restaurants That Are Worth the Trip.” Interesting and easy to digest stories that make no mention of the engine oil pioneer.

Valvolina: The Collector’s Cup

Yet another Team Valvoline feature is Valvolina, the Collector’s Cup with Frank Fritz. Launched in conjunction with the company’s 150th anniversary celebration, this effort involves a company-backed search for Valvoline memorabilia with the help of people who may own such pieces. Such as you.

Specifically, expert picker Fritz will spotlight the top Valvoline picks in a multi-episode series or through the company’s social media channels. Fritz himself is an antique oil can collector and has put out the challenge for people to search their attics, garages, and basements for gas station signs, oil cans, merchandise, product advertisements, and apparel.

From now through July 27, individuals are invited to upload pictures of their finds to the Team Valvoline website for consideration. Those items chosen by Valvoline will be featured in upcoming segments — yes, there is a chance you might be paid a personal visit from picker Fritz himself.

Disclaimer: This article was gleaned from information provided by Valvoline to the writer at a “Clutch Crew” media event. Valvoline paid for the event, providing the airfare, hotel stay, food, and delicious samples of Kentucky bourbon to participants.

See Also — Decoding Motor Oil Weights

The Hits Keep Coming for Volvo

May 23, 2016 by admin 1 Comment

With fresh product in and more on the way, Volvo is enjoying record sales on a global scale.

It wasn’t too long ago some analysts had suggested the Volvo Car Corporation might exit the US market, if not give up on the business of building passenger vehicles entirely. In 2014 the automaker sold just 56,366 units in the US, continuing on a downward spiral while its competitors emerged from the last recession stronger and with robust sales to go with it.

From Ford to Geely

Purchased by the Ford Motor Company in 1999 before it went to China’s Zhejiang Geely Holdings in 2010, Volvo is not as dependent on the US market as it once was.

Volvo’s US sales staged a strong rebound in 2015, rising by 24.3 percent to 70,047 units. But that was only part of the story: worldwide, Volvo sold 503,127 vehicles, setting an all-time record. Clearly, Volvo was making a name for itself elsewhere, especially in China.

This year, Volvo’s US sales are up 22.7 percent through April on 22,530 units sold. April also helped Volvo claim 10 consecutive months of double-digit growth, enabling the Swedish automaker to continue to outpace the industry.

New product is helping Volvo’s rebound, particularly its big XC90 SUV, introduced last year. Indeed, nearly half of Volvo’s sales so far this year has come from the XC90 as consumers snapped up 10,856 copies. That’s also more than double the 5,102 units sold for the XC60, its next best-selling model. Without the XC90, Volvo might be posting losses as each of its other models are experiencing year-over-year declines.

Expanding Model Line

As of right now, Volvo offers 10 models covering SUVs (crossovers), wagons, sedans, and elevated (Cross Country) body styles. But that number includes some overlapping — when sedans, wagons and Cross Country models are combined, there are three distinct car lines plus three crossovers present for a total of six product lines.

Volvo has served up a number of concept vehicles in recent years, including Concept 26, an autonomous vehicle. The “26” appellation represents the average daily commute time to work — 26 minutes. Another concept is the Concept Estate, incorporating many of the design cues found in the latest Volvo models such as the t-shaped daytime running light guides.

What Volvo really needs to elevate the brand is a higher-volume entry-level model to serve as an affordable gateway. Previously, it served up the compact C30, a three-door hatchback, and before that it had the compact S40 sedan. Neither model moved the needle much for Volvo, and that is why the current V40 wagon hasn’t been sold in the US.

New Range of Volvo 40 Models

Well, keep that “40” in mind because it will soon represent a new range of small vehicles. Two concepts, dubbed Concept 40.1 and 40.2 were showcased earlier this week, with both models based on Volvo’s new Compact Modular Architecture (CMA), engineered specifically to underpin future small cars.

In a video accompanying the release of the concepts, Thomas Ingenlath, Volvo Senior Vice President Design, explained that the automaker wanted to build high cars as well as low cars, featuring hybrid and electric powertrains.

Said Ingenlath, “Each member of our product family has its own distinct character, just like the members of a real family. CMA has helped us to capture something special, something youthful in our new concept cars. They have an energy, a disruptive and engaging urban character that makes them stand out amongst the crowd. This is the flavour of small Volvos to come.”

Strong financial backing from Geely is enabling Volvo to push well beyond its previous constraints. Thus, the automaker may soon find itself better positioned to battle the premium players.

In a press statement released at the beginning of the year CEO Hakan Samuelsson explained, “Volvo is about to enter the second phase of its global transformation. Once completed, Volvo will have ceased being a minor automotive player and taken its position as a truly global premium car company.”

Looking Ahead

What does the future hold for Volvo? The automaker has an ambitious goal of reaching 800,000 units annually by 2020 with most of that gain realized through its line of all-new small models. Volvo will share that vehicle platform with Geely Motors leveraging scale to spread out its costs.

Before then, the automaker plans to open its first US manufacturing plant, with the new facility coming online in Berkeley County, South Carolina, in 2018. Other Volvo developments underway include electrification across the entire model line, continued advancements in safety innovation, and autonomous vehicles.

Recent News — New Twin Turbo Engines Power 2017 BMW 2-Series

LA Auto Show Now Includes AutoMobility LA

May 20, 2016 by admin Leave a Comment

New Technology Pavilion launches this year.

The 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show adds a new component, AutoMobility LA, a four-day trade show in advance of the usual 10-day consumer auto show. In effect, the LA Auto Show is combining the show’s press and trade days with its previous Connected Car Expo (CCE) to launch AutoMobility LA.

Four-Day AutoMobility LA

The inaugural AutoMobility LA event will be held from November 14-17, then followed immediately by the LA Auto Show from November 18-27.

Automobility Los Angeles Auto Show

Designed exclusively for the auto industry, the trade show will pull together what show officials say is the “entire ‘new mobility ecosystem’ comprised of automakers, tech companies, designers, developers, startups, investors, dealers, government officials, analysts, etc. – to redefine and unveil the future of transportation.”

Held at the Los Angeles Convention Center along with the LA Auto Show, AutoMobility LA will include a new 50,000-square-foot Technology Pavilion building currently under construction, effectively doubling the number of auto-tech exhibits over 2015’s CCE.

Keynote Speaker: Ford’s Mark Fields

The show’s organizers say that leading car manufacturers and technology kingpins both have already signed on to make major announcements during AutoMobility LA. Mark Fields, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ford Motor Company, will deliver the opening AutoMobility LA keynote address on the second day of the trade event.

Previously, a number of CCE exhibitors received important financial backing following the show. Notably, a $500 million investment from General Motors in the ride-share company Lyft was announced, representing the largest investment by a car manufacturer in such a venture to date.

“For years, we’ve been at the epicenter of the changing automotive industry, creating a setting for some of the largest partnerships such as that between General Motors and Lyft,” said AutoMobility LA and LA Auto Show President and Chief Executive Officer, Lisa Kaz. “We’re excited to continue to connect brands, whether established or start-up, with influential people and provide engaging experiences with the world’s leading companies.”

Networking, Press Conferences, and Learning Opportunities

The schedule for AutoMobility LA includes four days of networking, three days of press conferences and two days of learning opportunities such as presentations by a diverse range of experts. A complete list of panel topics and speakers will be announced in the near future. Meanwhile, a draft schedule can be found at http://www.laautoshow.com/automobility.

Companies already committed to this year’s show include ATMO Auto Power, Continental International, Garmin International, Mocana, QNX and whiteCryption. Returning sponsors include Global Automakers, KPMG, Mojio, State Farm and Pirelli.

AutoMobility LA will feature more than 50 world and North American product debuts over the course of the show. In addition, the show will feature panels, noteworthy presentations by executives, technology exhibits, car manufacturer displays, networking events and news breaking conferences that will investigate all facets of the swiftly changing automotive and new mobility industry.

Hackathon and GO

Other events related to the show include a 36-hour hackathon immediately preceding AutoMobility LA whereby developers, designers and entrepreneurs will deliberate, concoct and market connected car apps and services that mobilize Mojio’s open platform and partner APIs.

Further, during the LA Auto Shows’ consumer days, will be GO, described as an all-new destination featuring car manufacturers’ and newcomers’ latest smart mobility devices and apps that are redefining personal mobility. Located with the L.A. Convention Center, GO will feature e-kick bikes, hover-boards, wearables and much more.

Auto Trends will share additional information about this year’s show as it becomes known. Please check out our electric vehicles section for related stories and information.

To register for AutoMobility LA, please visit: http://laautoshow.com/join (starting July 2016).

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Logo copyright the Los Angeles Auto Show.

New Twin Turbo Engines Power 2017 BMW 2-Series

May 19, 2016 by admin 2 Comments

BMW supplies the 2-Series with a pair of more powerful, yet efficient engines.
For 2017, BMW is providing its entry-level 2-series line of coupes and convertibles with more power thanks to a pair of new twin turbo engines. As a result, new sub-models will debut with the M240i replacing the current M235i, while a new 230i line steps in to succeed the 228i.

More Power, Improved Speed

The 2017 BMW 230i Coupe and BMW 230i Convertible models are powered by the latest generation four-cylinder, 2.0-liter engine making 248 horsepower and 258 foot-pounds of torque.

On the M front, the BMW M240i Coupe and BMW M240i Convertible gain a new six-cylinder, 3.0-liter engine making 335 horsepower and 369 foot-pounds of torque, up from the current 320 horsepower and 330 foot-pounds of torque. BMW claims the M line’s 0-to-60 mph performance times have narrowed to 4.2 seconds for the all-wheel drive model, effectively shaving 0.2 seconds off the current time.

The six-cylinder produces more power over a wide rev band. Maximum horsepower is reached at 5,500 rpm, while peak torque is maintained from 1,520 to 4,500 rpm. Both models offer standard rear-wheel drive with xDrive all-wheel drive available. Rear-wheel drive buyers can choose between an 8-speed manually shiftable automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual with rev matching. All xDrive models are outfitted with the automatic.

BMW Twin Turbo Engine.

Inline-6 Engine Changes

BMW’s inline-6 is outfitted with a new aluminum crankcase and cylinder head along with new acoustic shielding. The two turbos replace the previous single turbo and are integrated into the steel exhaust manifold and electric wastegate control. The new arrangement virtually eliminates turbo lag; it features a dense design and includes an indirect intercooler incorporated within the intake manifold.

Other changes include the latest variable valve control system, enhanced to improve load control, engine responsiveness, and efficiency. Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing is also present and located on both the intake and exhaust sides. An electric coolant pump for the intercooler operates only as needed, a map-controlled oil pump, electric power steering, and auto start stop function are present. This model also benefits from brake energy regeneration in an effort to improve overall efficiency.

BMW M Series

Additional changes to the M Series line include lowering the sport suspension by 10 millimeters or 0.393 inches. Further, all-new, 18-inch M light-alloy wheels come with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires, an M Sport braking system is outfitted with fixed multi piston calipers, the variable sports steering has a servotronic function, and a model-specific M aerodynamic package and exterior mirror caps is now offered in Ferric Grey metallic.

Manual gearbox fans will find a 6-speed with rev matching. Specifically, BMW says on downshifts “…the transmission management increases shift comfort by initiating a quick and precise rev matching function; as the driver shifts into a lower gear, this increases the engine’s revs to the ideal level for the target gear.”

As for prices and the new fuel economy numbers, that information will be released closer to the 2017 2-Series’ release date later this year.

Other BMW News

In other news, BMW reported that its ReachNow Car Sharing Service welcomed 13,000 new members in its first month. The service launched in April in Seattle and is composed of 370 vehicles, including BMW 3 Series and i3 as well as Mini vehicles. ReachNow offers a smartphone-based app to register and take trips.

Headquartered in Seattle, ReachNow will add more North American cities before the year comes to a close. Those cities will be announced in subsequent press releases.

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Photo copyright BMW of North America, LLC.

The 2017 GMC Acadia by the Numbers

May 18, 2016 by admin 2 Comments

The second-generation GMC Acadia is 700 pounds trimmer than its predecessor.

Ten years is a long time for a vehicle to remain on the market without a clean sheet redesign. Introduced in 2007 and continuing through 2016, the first-generation GMC Acadia managed to stay relevant throughout its 10-year run, benefitting from numerous styling and technology updates along the way.

For 2017, an all-new GMC Acadia arrives, a model coming in shorter, lighter, and more efficient than the previous generation. Downsizing in a market where gas prices are low and customers are clamoring for bigger and better seems like a risky move. Indeed, with its overall length shortened by seven inches and the width narrowed by three inches, this three-row SUV flies in the face of the current convention. To that end, we’ll examine the important “numbers” defining this model.

2.5 — For the first time the GMC Acadia offers a four-cylinder engine, this one displacing at 2.5 liters. Its joins the long-present 3.6-liter, V-6. The smaller engine makes 194 horsepower and 190 foot-pounds of torque and is EPA-rated at 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. That’s an improvement over the V6’s 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway rating, but it comes at some cost. Indeed, if performance and pulling power are your thing, then the 310 horsepower and 271 foot-pounds of torque from the larger engine means “2.5” is a number you’ll want to pass up.

7 — Depending on how your 2017 Acadia is configured, you can seat five, six, or seven people. Most models are equipped with a third-row seat, a 50-50 split bench that folds flat into the floor. Access to that seat is possible by sliding and tilting the second row seat forward, even with a car seat present. Fold both the second and third rows and you’re left with 79 cubic feet of cargo space. With a 2+3+2 layout, this SUV seats 7.

11 — Eleven is the number of new or improved active safety features available with this all-new SUV. Forward collision alert returns and is joined by the following new or improved features: front pedestrian braking, low-speed forward automatic braking, forward automatic braking, following distance indicator, and automatic headlamps. You also get a surround vision camera system, a safety alert seat, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, lane change alert with side blind zone alert, and front and rear parking assist.

3,956 — Not only is the 2017 GMC Acadia shorter, narrower, and sits lower to the ground, but it is also 700 pounds lighter than the previous model. Some of that light weighting has to do with the smaller, base engine. But an overall lighter structure was achieved by incorporating press-hardened, high-strength steels, making for a more rigid SUV with improved crashworthiness. Tipping the scales at 3,956 pounds, the 2017 Acadia is downright svelte.

4,000 — When outfitted with the V-6 and the trailering package, the 2017 Acadia can pull 4,000 pounds. This may be the most disconcerting number, especially when compared with the 5,200 pounds trailering capacity of the previous model. Further, other models in this class perform much better, including the Dodge Durango at 6,200 pounds. Even the Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota Highlander, and Honda Pilot each have a 5,000-pound maximum towing capacity. If you want better trailering capabilities and would like to stay with GMC, then the Yukon will have to do.

29,995 — With a starting price of $29,995, the 2017 Acadia comes in $1,905 lower than the base price for the 2016 Acadia. Add $925 to cover destination costs. The latest model comes with a longer list of standard features including the latest version of GMC IntelliLink, now compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In all, the 2017 Acadia offers eight trim levels, including an All Terrain model outfitted with an advanced all-wheel drive system with active twin clutch.

100,000 — In 2015, GMC sold 96,393 units of the Acadia, the most ever. What’s amazing about this number is that it came in the ninth year of the SUV’s product run. Typically, sales begin to fall after the fourth or fifth year. Acadia sales are down 12.2 percent through the first four months of 2016 on 25,575 units sold. Although 2016 doesn’t look like the year the Acadia will crack the 100,000-unit sold threshold, its entirely possible we’ll see that number breached next year.

GMC Acadia: Beyond the Numbers

GMC is well positioned to handle the consumer shift to pickup trucks and SUVs. These are the only two lines of vehicles this brand sells and it does so with a premium edge.

Given that most GMC and Buick showrooms are under one roof, a family of cars and other SUVs is available. Indeed, if customers want more SUV than what the Acadia offers, the similar Buick Enclave is still in its first generation. With the Buick you get the same V-6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, but you’ll also have the 5,200 pounds of pulling power found in the first-generation Acadia.

See Also — The 2017 Honda Ridgeline by the Numbers