William Maley

General Motors' midsize trucks has become a bright spot for the company. Originally forecasted to sell around 80,000 this year, the company is now on track to selling near 120,000 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon trucks by the end of year. The two model are also the fastest-selling vehicles this year with the average time a Colorado sat on a dealer lot landing around 27 days. The Canyon was slightly longer with a 37 day average. But this has caused a supply problem for GM. The Wentzville, Missouri plant where both trucks are built has been pushed to the limits. Currently, the plant has three shifts and also builds models during the weekend. Even workers at the plant have agreed to plan to adjust break times to eliminate a six-minute lull between shifts. This appears to be not enough and GM is now looking into other measures. Automotive News has learned that GM is looking into outsourcing production of cutaway models of Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana, the other models built at Wentzville, to AM General. This was revealed to workers by a note sent out by GM earlier in the week. “The truck and van continue strong sales. This potential partnership would free up production capacity and allow the organization to capitalize on our ability to build midsize trucks to further satisfy customer demand,” said the note. According to a source, cutaway vans account for one-third of total production at Wentzville. AM General, the folks who brought you the Hummer, has been in the process of expanding its contract manufacturing business. Back in August, the company announced a deal with Mercedes-Benz to build the R-Class crossover that would then be sent over to China. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article

If there has been one complaint of the new Honda Civic, it is that you cannot get a manual transmission with the optional turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder. But there could be a change in the air. A member on the CivicX forum got their hands on a slide revealing that a six-speed manual transmission option would be available on the turbo-four starting in the 2017 model year. The slide also reveals that it was planned for 2016, but was pushed back a year. No reason as to why wasn't said. Source: CivicX.com, The Truth About Cars Image Source: CivicX.com View full article

It seems just a few weeks ago that we brought you spy shots of the upcoming Infiniti Q60 Coupe fully camouflaged and somehow being able to pull some key items. Well today, a fresh set of Q60 Coupe spy shots have come in and there's no camouflage to hide it. Judging from the pictures, it seems Infiniti was doing a promotional photo and/or video shoot out in the desert for the new model. The production model retains a number of items seen on the concept such as the large Infiniti grille, long front end, sculpted side profile, and similar rear end styling. As we surmised in our previous report, the F1 inspired front bumper on the concept is nowhere on the production Q60. We can also confirm the existence of a turbocharged 3.0L V6 via an emblem on the front fender. It is expected that the V6 will produce 400 horsepower. There will also be a turbocharged 2.0L four from Mercedes-Benz as the base engine. It's expected that Infiniti will unveil the Q60 Coupe at Detroit Auto Show in January. Source: Autoblog, Left Lane News View full article

The hot thing for luxury automakers aside from crossovers is building electric vehicles to take on the elephant in the room, the Tesla Model. But Cadillac will not be joining this craze, at least not in the near future. Speaking with Automotive News, Cadillac President Johan de Nysschen said the automaker will equip most of their lineup with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The decision comes down to tightening regulations, especially in China. "For us, the avenue to ensure that we are able to play in China is going to be through plug-in hybrids," said de Nysschen. There's also the benefit that plug-in hybrids are a bit more practical than EVs and the fear of running out of range is eliminated. That doesn't mean Cadillac will not produce any EVs. They will appear further down the line according to de Nysschen. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article

This is the Buick Verano Hatchback which debuted at the Guangzhou Motor Show in China a few days ago. Using the new the Opel/Vauxhall Astra hatchback as a base, Buick made some minor tweaks with a new grille, headlights, and wheels. Inside is a three-spoke steering wheel, eight-inch touchscreen with Buick's Intellink, and Apple CarPlay intergration. The base engine for the Verano Hatchback is a 1.5L inline-four with SIDI engine with 116 horsepower and 107 pound-feet of torque. The Verano GS Hatchback gets a turbocharged version of the 1.5 four that produces 166 horsepower and 184 pound-feet. A six-speed dual-clutch automatic comes standard on the Verano, while a seven-speed dual-clutch is standard on the GS. "The Buick Verano Hatchback and Verano GS, together with the new-generation Buick Verano sport sedan launched earlier this year and the all-new Buick Excelle GT, will strengthen Buick’s presence in China’s premium mid-range passenger car segment," the company said in a statement. Source: Buick Press Release is on Page 2 Buick Launches Verano Hatchback and Verano GS Priced from RMB 145,900 to RMB 205,900 Guangzhou – Buick launched the new Verano Hatchback and Verano GS this evening in Guangzhou, China. The five variants of the two newest members of the Verano family are priced from RMB 145,900 to RMB 205,900. Buick’s 740 dealerships across China have begun accepting pre-orders. The new Verano models have trendy, sporty styling along with European car-like handling, premium interiors and advanced technology. They are targeted at younger trend-setting consumers who are looking for a driving experience that is “born with sportiness.” Stylish and sporty exterior The Verano Hatchback and Verano GS have adopted Buick's latest design language for sport sedans. The brand’s signature waterfall grille has taken on a creative frameless design, with a newly added piano black finish. The bold, concise and contoured hood lowers the car's stance. The two models’ wedge-shaped silhouette and double-sweep beltline form a dashing profile, with B- and C-pillars in German-crafted gloss black creating a floating roofline. The models also feature Buick's wing-shaped LED daytime running lamps, which echo their wing-shaped tinted tail lamps. Together with an integrated rear wing that accentuates the sculptured rear end, they provide a stylish, vibrant and captivating feel. Contemporary and exquisite interior The cabins of the two new Veranos combine sportiness, premium materials and exquisite craftsmanship. They utilize Buick's iconic 360-degree wraparound layout that exemplifies its driver-oriented design philosophy. The brand's focus on a high-quality driving and riding experience is also demonstrated by a segment-leading 2,662-mm wheelbase, the generous use of eco-friendly supple materials throughout the interior, a standard three-spoke sporty multi-function steering wheel, considerately designed ambient lighting, rear-row USB charging ports and patented Quiet-Tuning® noise control technology. The Verano GS is fitted with an exclusive sporty black and red kit inside and out. Aerodynamic exterior accessories, bright red strips on the front and rear bumpers, bright red brake calipers and 17-inch dark-painted five-spoke aluminum alloy wheels look bold and impressive. Inside, a bright red carbon fiber-pattern strip across the center console and red stitching make a strong impression. Adding to the sportiness are a carbon fiber-pattern finish on the center console, a three-spoke sporty multi-function steering wheel with a paddle shifter, Alcantara® racing car-like seats and Flame Red ambient lighting. Trend-setting intelligent and safety technologies The Verano Hatchback and Verano GS come with a wide variety of trend-setting intelligent technologies. They are the first Buick models in China available with the Apple CarPlay system. Users can seamlessly connect their iPhones with iOS 7.1 and above through the new-generation Buick IntelliLink infotainment system. All iPhone features and built-in apps – including phone, messages, maps, music, podcasts and Siri – are easily accessible via the high-resolution 8-inch-diagonal display in the center console. The Verano GS is offered with segment-exclusive and Buick-first Matrix full-LED headlamps. Behind the headlamps' Big Dipper-like panels are 29 Matrix LED clusters connected to front cameras to intelligently perform a range of functions, including automatically turning on the high-beam headlights, activating the anti-glare high-beam headlights and automatically adjusting the height of the headlamps. They automatically switch between six lighting modes – City, Urban, Expressway, Curve, Parking and Fuel Economy – based on driving conditions. In addition, the Verano GS comes with Buick's new intelligent safety system, which incorporates features that include Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Collision Mitigation Braking and Automatic Parking Assist. While 75 percent of the two Veranos’ body structure is composed of high-strength steel, the models incorporate extensive lightweight design features, such as lighter and more rigid structures, all-aluminum engines, all-aluminum sub-frames, all-aluminum front and rear bumpers, and aluminum steering knuckles, as well as imported lightweight damping mats. The result is a 100-kilogram reduction in curb weight. The Verano Hatchback and Verano GS are built on the same architecture as the new Opel Astra. Their firm chassis has an optimized MacPherson front suspension and enhanced composite torsion bar, along with a new-generation Opel-patented Watt's link rear suspension and all-aluminum six-point full-length sub-frame. The result is a perfect balance between body dimensions, weight and overall efficiency. Handling and driving pleasure were assured through the adoption of the all-new belt-drive electric power-assisted steering system as well as more than a year's worth of testing and tuning at Germany's famed Nürburgring circuit. Exciting and fuel-efficient powertrains Both models incorporate GM's new Ecotec small gasoline engines, which combine powerful performance with exceptional fuel economy. The Verano Hatchback pairs a 1.5L SIDI engine with a six-speed DCG transmission. It delivers maximum output of 87 kW/6,600 rpm and peak torque of 146 Nm/4,000 rpm. The Verano GS is powered by a 1.5T SIDI engine that was named one of the “China Heart” 2015 Ten Best Engines. It is paired with a new-generation seven-speed DCG transmission. The powertrain combination produces maximum output of 124 kW/5,600 rpm and peak torque of 250 Nm/1,700-4,400 rpm. This gives the model the ability to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.8 seconds while enabling combined fuel consumption of 5.9 L/100 km – which sets a new benchmark for its class. The engine start/stop feature, which further helps improve fuel efficiency, comes standard across the full Verano lineup. All variants are eligible for China's new incentive plan that cuts the purchase tax in half for cars with engines smaller than 1.6 liters. The Buick Verano Hatchback and Verano GS, together with the new-generation Buick Verano sport sedan launched earlier this year and the all-new Buick Excelle GT, will strengthen Buick’s presence in China’s premium mid-range passenger car segment. View full article

Audi announced this afternoon that the 3.0L TDI V6 did have a defeat device that allowed the engine to circumvent U.S. clean air laws. In a statement, the German automaker said that it failed to disclose three emission control software functions, also known as auxiliary emissions control devices (AECD) to the various agencies as required by law. One of devices, a 'temperature conditioning of the exhaust‑gas cleaning system' was deemed to be illegal by the EPA as it could detect when it was being tested for emissions and turn on the pollution-control equipment to cut emission levels down. Audi also announced the plan to fix the vehicles that will involve a software update to 85,000+ vehicles with the V6 diesel. The company will submit new U.S. government emission certification paperwork for the software. If approved by the EPA and California Air Resources Board, Audi will release software to dealers to perform the fix, Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), Audi Press Release is on Page 2 Statement on Audi’s discussions with the US environmental authorities EPA and CARB Auxiliary emission control devices (AECD) for US version of V6 TDI 3 liter engine to be revised, documented and submitted for approval Technical solution for North America versions from 2009 model year onwards to be worked out in conjunction with the authorities Audi will revise, document in detail, and resubmit for US approval certain parameters of the engine-management software used in the V6 TDI 3 liter diesel engine. That is the result of the discussions held between a delegation from AUDI AG and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB). The updated software will be installed as soon as it is approved by the authorities. The three brands Audi, Porsche and Volkswagen are affected. Audi estimates that the related expense will be in the mid-double-digit millions of euros. The latest discussions focused on a notice of violation of November 2, in which Audi was informed that AECDs (Auxiliary Emission Control Devices) were not sufficiently described and declared in the application for US type approval. That will now be done with the updated software and the documentation. Audi has confirmed that three AECDs were not declared in the context of the US approval documentation. One of the AECDs relates to the temperature conditioning of the exhaust‑gas cleaning system. The other two AECDs are for the avoidance of deposits on the Ad-Blue metering valve and of HC poisoning of the SCR catalyst with unburnt hydrocarbons. One of them is regarded as a defeat device according to applicable US law. Specifically, this is the software for the temperature conditioning of the exhaust-gas cleaning system. Audi has agreed with the environmental authorities on further steps of cooperation in which the concrete measures to be taken will be specified. The company has committed to continue cooperating transparently and fully. The focus will be on finding quick, uncomplicated and customer-friendly solutions. The voluntary sales stop for models with the V6 TDI diesel engine, which the three affected Group brands had provisionally decided upon, has been extended until further notice. This engine was developed by Audi and is used in the Audi US models A6, A7, A8, Q5 and Q7 from model year 2009 onwards. Volkswagen uses the engine in the Touareg and Porsche has used it in the Cayenne since model year 2013. All affected models continue to be safe and roadworthy. View full article

That isn't for sure at the moment. There are conflicting rumors saying it could use next-gen full-size crossover platform, or the Omega platform for the CT6. I wouldn't be surprised if its the former.

With a updated MKZ and a new Continental readying for its debut, it seems Lincoln is on the right track. But what does the future hold for them? Those who were hoping for a return of Mark coupe series will be somewhat disappointed. "We've said we need to cover the core segments first. Luxury coupes and sports cars are not the first place we need to go," said Matt VanDyke, director of global Lincoln to Automotive News. That means focusing on their current lineup and making improvements. One of those improvements is updating its look. The 2017 MKZ is one of the first models to see this update with a new rectangular grille first shown on the Continental concept. Along with this, Lincoln is trying its best to separate itself from Ford. One of those is the MKZ not having the EcoBoost name on its turbocharged engines. "If it is critical to the customer experience, we would change it," said Lincoln President Kumar Galhotra. Lincoln is also readying two new products - not counting the Continental - that will be arriving by 2020. The luxury automaker is keeping quiet as to what those models will be. Sources tell Automotive News that one of new model will be a large crossover to slot between the midsize MKX and large Navigator SUV. But a key point many Lincoln executives are quick to point that the luxury brand still has a long way to go in relevance. While sales are on the increase and early signs are pointing to some sort of relevancy in the market, Lincoln is still an unknown player in the luxury marketplace. "The products are there," said Dave Sullivan, an analyst with AutoPacific. "But I don't think they're hitting the targets they need to hit in the competitive world. I don't think anyone was expecting that yet, though. It's a 10- to 15-year plan." Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article

The Cadillac XT5 will be the first model in a new crossover lineup for the brand. Next up is a compact crossover to take on the likes of the BMW X3 and Lexus NX according to Cadillac President Johan de Nysschen. But don't expect it anytime soon. de Nysschen said it would coming out in 2018. Following the compact crossover will be a large crossover that would take on the likes of the Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90. This model is expected in either the second half of 2018 or 2019. Wrapping up the crossover lineup could be a subcompact model that would compete with the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class. No word on when we could see that model. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article

On Friday, Volkswagen made an announcement that many of us were expecting, cutting its massive R&D budget. The company will cut 1 billion Euros (about $1.1 billion) from R&D to prepare itself for the massive fines that will be heading its way in the near future due to the emission scandal. Along with this, Volkwagen announced that it would be capping spending on property, plant and equipment at around 12 billion euros ($12.8 billion) for next year. This is about eight percent smaller than the previous plan put forth by the company. In a statement, Volkswagen CEO Matthias Mueller said a number of projects are being delayed or put on hold, including a new design center in Germany and a paint shop in Mexico. "We are operating in uncertain and volatile times and are responding to this. We will strictly prioritize all planned investments ... anything that is not absolutely necessary will be cancelled or postponed," said Muller. Now a report from German publication WirtschaftsWoche says Volkswagen is considering closing the Dresden, Germany plant to cut more costs. This plant known as the Transparent plant is where Volkswagen currently builds the Phaeton. Currently the plant employs 500 people, but only produces eight Phaetons a week. The Phaeton has never been a big seller for Volkswagen as it only sold 4,000 models last year. If Volkswagen goes forward with closing the Dresden plant, it would move production of the Phaeton to another factory. It would also move the 500 workers to another facility. When reached for comment by Automotive News, Volkswagen neither confirmed or denied the report, only saying the factory was being considered for 'various scenarios'. Source: New York Times, WirtschaftsWoche, Automotive News (Subscription Required), Volkswagen Press Release is on Page 2 Volkswagen Group reduces level of capex CEO Matthias Müller: "We will strictly prioritize all investments and expenditures" Even greater focus on alternative drive technologies and digitalization Wolfsburg, 20 November 2015 - The Volkswagen Group is aligning investment activity in its Automotive Division with the current situation. The aim is for planned investments in property, plant and equipment, investment property and intangible assets, excluding capitalized development costs (capex), to be capped at approximately EUR 12 billion next year. The average figure for the previous planning period was about EUR 13 billion per year. "We are operating in uncertain and volatile times and are responding to this", said Matthias Müller, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft, in Wolfsburg on Friday, after a regular meeting of the Company's Supervisory Board. "We will strictly prioritize all planned investments and expenditures. As announced, anything that is not absolutely necessary will be cancelled or postponed." In this context, Müller announced the intention to increase expenditure on alternative drive technologies by approximately EUR 100 million next year. "We are not going to make the mistake of economizing on our future. For this reason we are planning to further increase spending on the development of e-mobility and digitalization", he said. The core focus will be on rapidly developing electric drive systems for the Volkswagen Passenger Cars, Audi and Porsche brands. Most of the capex is earmarked for new products, the continuing rollout and enhancement of the modular toolkits, and the completion of ongoing investments to expand capacity. Examples include product start-ups such as the next-generation Golf, the Audi Q5, the new Crafter plant in Poland, as well as upfront expenditures for the modular electric toolkit (MEB). Approximately 50 percent of capex will be spent on the Group's 28 locations in Germany. Müller also outlined the first projects as examples where investments are being spread out to a greater extent or cut back. For example, construction of the planned new design center in Wolfsburg is being put on hold, saving approximately EUR 100 million. In addition, the construction of a paint shop in Mexico will be reviewed. In the model range, the successor to the Phaeton – a pure-play electric model – is being delayed. "We will review and potentially cancel further expenditures or spread them out to a greater extent in the next few weeks, but without putting our future viability at risk", explained Müller. He added: "Together with the works council representatives we will make every effort to keep our core workforce on board." The joint ventures in China are not consolidated and are therefore not included in the above figures. These companies will maintain their previously announced investment levels and are planning expenditures in the amount of approximately EUR 4.4 billion in 2016. These investments will be financed from the joint ventures' own funds. View full article