William Maley

Mitsubishi Motors has admitted today to manipulating fuel economy tests for 625,000 vehicles sold in Japan. The manipulation involves four kei (small-capacity engines and compact dimensions) cars; Mitsubishi eK Wagon, Mitsubishi eK Space, Nissan Dayz, and Nissan Dayz Roox. Out of the total 625,000 vehicles, the majority of the vehicles are the Nissan models. "The wrongdoing was intentional. It is clear the falsification was done to make the mileage look better. But why they would resort to fraud to do this is still unclear," said Mitsubishi Motors President Tetsuro Aikawa at a press conference. According to BBC News, the manipulation was done by adjusting the tire pressures when testing fuel economy on a rolling road. Nissan uncovered the manipulation as they were unable to replicate the fuel economy figures that Mitsubishi got. "This discovery was made during Nissan’s assessment of data from the current model as part of our development of the next-generation vehicle. We immediately brought the discrepancy to the attention of Mitsubishi, as they are responsible for the development and homologation of the current vehicles. In response to Nissan’s request, Mitsubishi admitted that data had been intentionally manipulated in its fuel economy testing process for certification," Nissan said in a statement. Both Mitsubishi and Nissan have stopped selling the models and are currently figuring out a compensation for affected owners. Mitsubishi has also announced they will be conducting an investigation into overseas models as their internal investigation showed the manipulation was used on other Mitsubishi products. "We will investigate why this happened and prevent a recurrence. We will inform our customers. I feel horrible they were given the wrong numbers," Aikawa said. After the announcement was made, shares in Mitsubishi dropped 15 percent, knocking off about $1.2 billion of the company's market value. This is another black mark for the Japanese company. For more than a decade, Mitsubishi has been trying to regain confidence from the market after it was revealed the company covered up a number of defects involving axles that could cause the wheels to detach. “It’s again bad for the company’s image. It’s not the first time for Mitsubishi to have this kind of issue, and this definitely won’t help them rebuild their reputation,” said Seiji Sugiura, an analyst at Tokai Tokyo Research Center to Automotive News. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), Autocar, Associated Press, BBC News, Mitsubishi Statement from Mitsubishi is on Page 2 Improper conduct in fuel consumption testing on products manufactured by Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) In connection with the certification process for the mini-cars manufactured by MMC, we found that with respect to the fuel consumption testing data submitted to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), MMC conducted testing improperly to present better fuel consumption rates than the actual rates; and that the testing method was also different from the one required by Japanese law. We express deep apologies to all of our customers and stakeholders for this issue. The applicable cars are four mini-car models, two of which are the "eK Wagon" and "eK Space" which have been manufactured by MMC; and the other two are the "Dayz" and "Dayz Roox" which have been manufactured by MMC and supplied to Nissan Motors Corporation (NM) since June 2013. Up until the end of March 2016, MMC has sold 157 thousand units of the eK Wagon and eK Space and supplied 468 thousand units of the Dayz and Dayz Roox to NM. Since MMC developed the applicable cars and was responsible for obtaining the relevant certifications, MMC conducted fuel consumption testing. In the process of the development for the next generation of mini-car products, NM examined the fuel consumption rates of the applicable cars for NM's reference and found deviations in the figures. NM requested MMC to review the running resistance(*) value set by MMC during tests by MMC. In the course of our internal investigation upon this request, MMC learned of the improper conduct that MMC used the running resistance value for testing which provided more advantageous fuel consumption rates than the actual rates. MMC will sincerely respond to our customers who own and use the applicable cars. (*) running resistance: rolling resistance (mainly generated by tires) and air resistance while vehicles are moving We have decided to stop production and sales of the applicable cars. NM also has stopped sales of the applicable cars, and MMC and NM will discuss compensation regarding this issue. During our internal investigation, we have found that the testing method which was different from the one required by Japanese law has been applied to other models manufactured by MMC for the Japanese domestic market. Taking into account the seriousness of these issues, we will also conduct an investigation into products manufactured for overseas markets. In order to conduct an investigation into these issues objectively and thoroughly, we plan to set up a committee consisting of only external experts. We will publish the results of our investigation as soon as it is complete.

China will be getting a fuel-sipping version of the new LaCrosse in the near future. The automaker revealed the LaCrosse Hybrid at an event yesterday in Shanghai. The hybrid system is comprised of a 1.8L SIDI four-cylinder, electric variable transmission, and a 1.5 KwH lithium-ion battery. Buick is keeping quiet on performance specs, but does say the model will reach 62 miles per hour in 8.9 seconds and return 4.7 liters per 100 kilometers (about 50 MPG). Compared to the last-generation LaCrosse eAssist, the new LaCrosse Hybrid is 35 percent more efficient. Other fuel saving tricks include grille shutters, electronic climate control compressor, and a thermal energy recycling system that is tied into the exhaust. The LaCrosse Hybrid marks the beginning of a five-year rollout of ten eco-friendly vehicles that will be launched in China. “GM’s leadership in electrification technologies, now and in the future, are coming to Buick in China. In fact, over the next five years, we will roll out more than 10 new energy vehicles in China, including several models for Buick. That includes full hybrids, plug-in hybrids and extended-range electric vehicles,” said Larry Nitz, GM executive director of Global Propulsion Systems. Source: Buick Press Release is on Page 2 Buick LaCrosse Hybrid Electric Vehicle Makes Global Debut in Shanghai SHANGHAI – The all-new Buick LaCrosse Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) made its global debut today at the 2016 Buick Day event in Shanghai, where the award-winning Buick Avista concept was also shown for the first time in China. Both models will be appearing on the Buick stand at Auto China 2016 in Beijing, which begins on April 25. “GM’s leadership in electrification technologies, now and in the future, are coming to Buick in China,” said Larry Nitz, GM executive director of Global Propulsion Systems, at the event. “In fact, over the next five years, we will roll out more than 10 new energy vehicles in China, including several models for Buick. That includes full hybrids, plug-in hybrids and extended-range electric vehicles.” Buick LaCrosse HEV supports Drive to Green strategy A major component of SAIC-GM's Drive to Green strategy, the LaCrosse HEV adopts the same design language and technological advances as the recently introduced all-new LaCrosse, along with segment-leading hybrid powertrain technologies. The LaCrosse HEV is powered by a 1.8L SIDI engine that is paired with an electric variable transmission and a 1.5-kWh high-performance lithium battery unit. Its green pedigree is supported by numerous advanced technologies such as an electronic climate control compressor, electronic power steering, exhaust thermal energy recycling, and active grille open and close that maximize its efficiency. The LaCrosse HEV offers comprehensive fuel economy of 4.7 L/100 km. This represents a 35 percent decrease in fuel consumption from the LaCrosse with eAssist that is powered by a smart hybrid powertrain, yet the LaCrosse HEV sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds. SAIC-GM also released the all-new “Buick Blue” logo for the brand’s green product lineup at Buick Brand Day. The introduction of the LaCrosse HEV and “Buick Blue” logo represents Buick’s focus on upgrading its conventional powertrains and promoting green technologies. Buick earlier introduced eco-friendly models in China that include the LaCrosse with eAssist and LaCrosse Eco-Hybrid. Buick Avista concept highlights brand’s future sporty styling Developed by GM's global design team, the Avista concept embodies Buick's new design language, sophisticated performance and advanced technologies. Shown for the first time at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January, it points to the future direction of the brand’s sporty styling. The Avista has an arresting appearance, with flowing, uninterrupted body lines and a 2+2 modern cockpit that is clean, simple and elegant. It is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0L V-6 engine that produces 298 kW of maximum power. The engine is supported by an eight-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle has adopted a great deal of carbon fiber and aluminum materials along with 3D-printed door and seat trims. It includes trendsetting technologies such as Buick’s next-generation QuietTuning, the advanced Air Quality System and the Buick IntelliLink infotainment system. Its Magnetic Ride Control suspension delivers more precise body motion control than ever.

Ram has some competition with offering a pickup truck for law enforcement duties. Ford revealed today the F-150 Special Service Vehicle (SSV). “Many officers need the extra space F-150 Special Service Vehicle offers. They can load the cargo box with equipment and still fit five people inside. Its utility is unmatched,” said Stephen Tyler, Ford police marketing manager. The SSV comes in the base XL trim and is available in the SuperCab or SuperCrew cab configurations. Power can either come from a 5.0L V8 with 385 horsepower or a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 with 365 horsepower, along with the choice of two-wheel or four-wheel drive. Ford has also fitted 240-amp alternator to provide extra juice for lights and various equipment. Inside, there is no middle seat or console. Just a gap that will allow for radios, computer, and other various equipment to be fitted. Ford hasn't announced when police departments can place their orders for the F-150 SSV. But don't be shocked if you see an F-150 dressed up in a police uniform in the near future. Source: Ford Press Release is on Page 2 FORD F-150 SPECIAL SERVICE VEHICLE REPORTING FOR DUTY 2016 Ford F-150 Special Service Vehicle package – available for both SuperCrew and SuperCab configurations – tailors the toughest, smartest, most capable F-150 ever to meet the unique needs of government and fleet customers Package adds high-output alternator to meet power needs, plus easy-clean rear vinyl bench seating and flooring; a removed center console allows for custom equipment placement Along with the Special Service Vehicle package for both F-150 as well as Expedition, Ford offers a Transit Prisoner Transport Vehicle and a Special Service Police Sedan to help fulfill the unique needs of law enforcement agencies nationwide DEARBORN, Mich., April 19, 2016 – Government and fleet customers – including law enforcement and roadside assistance providers – require the toughest, smartest, most capable vehicles for their work, so Ford offers a Special Service Vehicle package for the 2016 F-150 to meet their rigorous needs. F-150 Special Service Vehicle gives fleets a selection of configurations so customers can pick what best suits their needs. Available in XL trim for either F-150 SuperCrew or SuperCab configuration, customers can opt for the package in a 4x4 or 4x2 drivetrain, along with the 5.0-liter V8 or high-torque 3.5-liter EcoBoost® engine to ensure there is never a lack of power. Law enforcement and fleet work can get messy, so trucks equipped with the package replace carpeting with easy-to-clean vinyl flooring. The rear seat is swapped out for a vinyl bench for quick cleanup. A high-output 240-amp alternator replaces the stock unit to accommodate for extended idle times. Standard 40/20/40 seats are replaced with 40/blank/40 seats, with the center section deleted to create more space for customization. “Many officers need the extra space F-150 Special Service Vehicle offers,” said Stephen Tyler, Ford police marketing manager. “They can load the cargo box with equipment and still fit five people inside. Its utility is unmatched.” Law enforcement makes up a large portion of Special Service Vehicle purchases, so Ford added F-150 to satisfy a complete range of police needs. “We offer a whole family of police vehicles,” said Arie Groeneveld, Ford chief program engineer for police vehicles. “Our lineup aims to fulfill the unique needs of law enforcement officers, and our F-150 Special Service Vehicle is an extension of that offering. This vehicle definitely lives up to its Built Ford Tough reputation.”

When the Buick Envision hits dealers in June, you'll only be able to get it in the two highest trims, along with a turbo engine and all-wheel drive. We first learned about this back at the Detroit Auto Show when speaking with a Buick representative and now we have more details. According to Automotive News, the 2016 Envision will start at $42,995 for the Premium I trim and $45,635 for the Premium II trim. Both prices include destination. These models will feature a 2.0 turbocharged four-cylinder with 252 horsepower and all-wheel drive. Now if those prices scare you, don't fret. The 2016 Envision will only be sold between June and October. After that, the 2017 Envision will arrive at dealers with an expanded lineup with three other trims. Prices for the 2017 model will begin at $34,990 for the base model. The base and other two trims - Preferred and Essence - will get a 2.5L four-cylinder with 197 horsepower. Expect a choice of front or all-wheel drive for these models. We'll have more details when Buick officially announces Envision pricing hopefully in the near future. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

Another one bites the dust in terms of the wagon marketplace. According to Automotive News Europe, Jaguar's design chief Ian Callum said the company would not being doing any wagons. "The [wagon] market is massively shrinking. I'm very sad about it but it's a very difficult market to justify," said Callum told a group of journalists at an event for the F-Pace crossover. Europe is the only market in the world where automakers can make inroads with wagons. During the launch of the XF Sportbrake back in 2012, Jaguar said wagons made up about 30 percent of the large luxury car market. Germany is the top market followed by the United Kingdom. "The world's biggest wagon market is Germany. And what do Germans buy? They buy German cars," said Callum. Meanwhile, the UK isn't as interested as wagons as they once were. Not helping matters is the growing demand for crossovers not only in Europe, but around the world. Jaguar is putting more effort in this market with the launch of the F-Pace. There is also rumors flying around that a smaller model called the E-Pace will join later. "We will do things that will surprise you but it won't be wagons," said Callum. Source: Automotive News Europe (Subscription Required)

One of the key problems with most electric vehicles is the limited range on offer with many offering a max range of around 100 to 120 miles. Many believe that for electric vehicles to be in the mainstream, they need to offer a minimum of 200 Miles. But not Ford. Speaking with Automotive News, Ford's director of electrification programs and engineering Kevin Layden says the updated 2017 Focus EV with a range of 100 miles will cover the average commute for a driver. "I think right now with the launch of the Focus Electric at 100 miles, it is going to satisfy a big chunk of the population. It's going to be really affordable and a step up from where we are now," said Layden. The primary issue is the cost and weight of the batteries to achieve a 200 mile range. Ford doesn't see how an increase of possibly $6,000 and added weight would help. Layden says the lower range allows the blue oval to use a lighter and less expensive battery pack. But there is another factor possibly in play as to why Ford isn't going with a 200 mile range with the Focus EV, sales. The Focus EV is very slow seller for the brand, with only 1,717 models sold in 2015. Through March, Ford only has moved 257 Focus EVs (average of about 86 vehicles per month). Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

Jaguar's SVR lineup is only comprised of one model, the F-Type SVR. But Jaguar is planning to remedy this with two new models. Car and Driver reports that Jaguar's Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) is testing F-Pace prototypes with a supercharged V8 under the hood producing over 500 horsepower. This model is expected to arrive in 2017. The other model in question is an XE SVR. Car and Driver says there are a few prototypes running around with a supercharged V8. No mention of how much power the V8s are producing, but we think it's safe to assume around 500 horsepower. This model might not see the light of day as this model could contradict the company's ambition of building out a range of electric vehicles. Source: Car and Driver

Fiat Chrysler Automobile's CEO Sergio Marchionne is someone who speaks his mind - for better or worse. Speaking with Automotive News Europe, Marchionne expressed his skepticism on the recently unveiled Tesla Model 3, specifically on how they can make a profit. "I'm am not surprised by the high number of reservations but you have then to build and deliver them and also be profitable," Marchionne said. The Model 3 is Tesla entry into the mass-market EV segment with a $35,000 pricetag. At the moment, reservations for the new model are nearing 400,000. Marchionne doesn't see how Tesla could make money on it. But Marchionne went on to say if Tesla's Elon Musk "can show me that the car will be profitable at that price, I will copy the formula, add the Italian design flair and get it to the market within 12 months." Considering this is the same person who railed against EVs for years, it is a bit of a shock. Asked if he thinks the company is arriving late to the EV party, Marchionne said: “better late than sorry.” Source: Automotive News Europe (Subscription Required)

The MINI sedan has been floating around the rumor universe since 2012 with various outlets saying it's coming with the prime markets being the China and the U.S. - sedans are more popular than hatchbacks in these markets. Autocar is the latest one to report this and says it's could be coming with the third-generation MINI lineup. According to sources, the sedan is in the cards as the fifth model in the updated MINI lineup. It will use the new Clubman as a base and feature a range of three and four-cylinder engines. A possible name is Riley - a name used for a MINI sedan back in the sixties. Helping substantiate this rumor is a comment made by Ralph Mahler, MINI's vice-president product management. “For example, in Asia and the US, the sedan [saloon] segment is very big. This is very interesting to us, of course," Mahler explained as the automaker has undertaken various analysis on different market trends and segments. If the MINI sedan is given the green light, expect sometime after the launch of the new Countryman - expected to show up later this year. Source: Autocar