Car Blog

New campaign to feature full line of Nissan vehicles, innovations that drive them -

Nissan North America announced a significant new marketing initiative to showcase the strength of Nissan’s innovative product portfolio and build on 10 straight months of sales growth for the Nissan brand in the U.S. market. The campaign, to be headlined under the theme “Innovation for All,” will launch on Aug. 28 and permeate a variety of medium and targets over the next several months.

“Innovation for All” will begin with a series of five television spots that capture Nissan’s history, track record and process of innovation. The campaign features the full line of Nissan products – from the 100-percent electric Nissan LEAF and Altima mid-size sedan to the Z sports car, Titan full-size pickup truck and cube ® activity vehicle. The versatile campaign also will appear in print and online with a consistent look and feel.

“Innovation has been the heart and soul of the Nissan brand for nearly 100 years,” said Jon Brancheau, vice president, Marketing, NNA. “‘Innovation for All’ isn’t simply a new marketing idea. It’s the very foundation of Nissan worldwide. This campaign captures Nissan’s spirit and continued drive towards innovation – not just for the elite, but for everyone.” Read the rest of this entry »

The popular Ford SYNC voice-controlled communications and infotainment system has been winning over buyers at its fastest pace ever, with Ford announcing SYNC has now been installed on more than 2 million Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles.

“The success of SYNC proves that customers want to be connected,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president of U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “The speed with which we’ve hit the 2 million mark, the premium SYNC adds at auction, and the improvements in purchase consideration show that it is a true differentiator for us, adding real value for the customer.”

SYNC, built on the Microsoft Windows Embedded Automotive software platform, hit 2 million units only 10 months after Ford delivered its 1-millionth SYNC-equipped vehicle, a 2010 Fusion Hybrid, to Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer. The first SYNC systems were delivered in fall 2007.

“Microsoft and Ford share a common vision when it comes to connecting drivers and passengers to their digital lifestyles,” said Kevin Dallas, general manager of Microsoft’s Windows Embedded Business. “The beauty of building on the Windows Embedded Automotive software platform is that its flexibility has enabled Ford to create new, engaging in-vehicle experiences over the past three years for their consumers to enjoy behind the wheel. We’re excited to see what new roads SYNC explores in the future.”

SYNC boosts resale values

In addition to providing customers with voice control of most entertainment and communications systems in the vehicle, SYNC also pays dividends at resale time.

Ford data analysis shows that SYNC-equipped models of the 2008 Focus are worth more than those without SYNC. After one year in service, the SYNC-equipped models sell for a $240 premium on average. With another year in service added, the SYNC premium is still a significant $200. Ford’s ability to isolate SYNC and attach a resale value to the optional system is based on a company-exclusive statistical VIN-decoding vehicle option residual impact modeling strategy.

The increased transaction price for pre-owned vehicles equipped with SYNC reflects market demand for the feature. In a recent study of Ford SYNC-equipped vehicle owners, one-third of respondents indicated that SYNC played an important role in their purchase decision.

Another reason for the added value is likely due to Ford continuously improving SYNC, year after year, without raising the option price of $395. First launched on 2008 models, including the Focus, Ford has added valuable new capabilities each model year since. For 2009 models, Ford added the 911 Assist(TM) and Vehicle Health Report applications, at no added cost for the life of the vehicle.

• 911 Assist can place a call directly to a local 911 emergency operator in the event of an accident involving the activation of an air bag or, on certain vehicles, the emergency fuel pump shutoff. If an occupant cannot respond, SYNC can deliver a recorded message to the 911 service to alert an operator that a crash has occurred.
• Vehicle Health Report gives customers the ability to monitor and manage their vehicle’s health in a single, easy-to-read report and receive important notifications. The report includes diagnostic systems’ statuses, scheduled maintenance, needed repairs from the last dealership visit, and will even alert owners of any open recalls.

In fact, those first 2008 models can be upgraded with these applications with a quick visit to their local dealers, thus adding unexpected value to the vehicle.

For 2010 models, Ford improved SYNC even further with the addition of a GPS receiver integrated into the vehicle, thus creating the opportunity to offer location-based services through the Traffic, Directions & Information (TDI) app. TDI can deliver personalized traffic reports, precise turn-by-turn driving directions and up-to-date information including business listings, news, sports and weather – without the need for a built-in or aftermarket navigation system.

SYNC Traffic, Directions & Information services are free for the first three years of vehicle ownership, and only $60 per year after that, delivering capabilities, features and affordability that rival competitors’ embedded telematics and navigation systems.

SYNC satisfaction remains high

Among Ford customers who have SYNC on their vehicles – and use its voice command features – 87 percent are satisfied with how the system operates, and 88 percent would recommend the purchase of a vehicle with SYNC to others.

So what do SYNC users take advantage of most? Hands-free calling is used daily by two-thirds of study respondents, with 89 percent using the feature at least once a week. More than half use the voice-activated dialing features available through SYNC, helping drivers keep their eyes on the road and hands on the steering wheel.

Use of the Traffic, Directions & Information application is also on the increase. Among users aware of the feature, up to 39 percent are taking advantage of the turn-by-turn directions, local business search and real-time traffic services.

Source: Ford Motor Company

Officials with Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG), Inc. were joined by dignitaries from the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group, the State of Georgia, and local city and county officials to celebrate the official grand opening of Kia’s first-ever U.S. automobile manufacturing plant in West Point, Georgia, capable of producing 300,000 cars annually for the North American and global markets.

The ceremony was attended by approximately 500 VIPs from Korea and the U.S., including Chairman of the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group Mong-Koo Chung; Group President and CEO of KMMG and Kia Motors America (KMA) Byung-Mo Ahn; Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue; and a number of other high-ranking Korean government and State of Georgia officials.

“Kia is proud to call West Point, Georgia home and we look forward to many years of growing together,” said Ahn. “Continued diligent work has helped elevate Kia to one of the fastest growing automobile brands around the globe. With the successful launch of the 2011 Kia Sorento CUV and establishment of our first manufacturing plant in the United States, the Kia brand is well positioned for further growth and to become a worldwide leader in quality and innovation.”

Representing a $1 billion investment by Kia Motors Corporation, the sprawling, new 2.2 million-square-foot automobile manufacturing plant is situated on more than 2,200 acres of land between Exit 2 and Exit 6 along Interstate 85 in West Point. KMMG consists of four main shops: stamping, welding, paint and assembly. The site also includes a transmission shop, module shop and a two-mile test track where every vehicle produced by KMMG will be thoroughly tested. KMMG’s general assembly area is outfitted with more than a half mile of height-adjustable conveyors to achieve the most favorable installation position for each team member and reduce physical fatigue. It is outfitted with wood flooring, which provides a more comfortable and forgiving work environment for team members.

Governor Perdue noted today’s event meant the continuation of a mutually beneficial partnership between the State of Georgia and Kia that will mean many great things for the State in years to come.

“This is a momentous day for Georgia as Kia Motors has brought thousands of new jobs to this area, and is truly delivering as a tremendous corporate citizen,” said Governor Perdue. “We value our relationship with Kia and pledge to continue providing specialized training through the Kia Georgia Training Center that will guarantee a quality workforce and the future success of this plant in Georgia.”

The massive Kia automobile manufacturing plant and its supplier companies have already provided thousands of jobs. KMMG currently employs more than 1,200 team members and is expected to nearly double that number by the end of the year, while onsite and nearby suppliers will create up to 7,500 additional jobs in the region.

Randy Jackson, director of human resources and administration, said he was glad that KMMG could help give back to the local community through job creation, community development and tourism.

“The Grand Opening marks a new milestone for Kia,” Jackson said. “Beginning this spring, we are pleased to open our doors to the community and have them see firsthand the quality and craftsmanship that is built into every Kia vehicle. We hope every Kia owner, and anyone thinking about purchasing a Kia, will visit us.”

Mass production of the all-new 2011 Kia Sorento CUV began on Nov. 16, 2009 with the product officially going on sale in the U.S. in January of this year. Selling 7,398 units in its first month, the 2011 Sorento was Kia’s best-selling vehicle in January.

“The outstanding early performance of the first vehicle produced from our West Point, Georgia plant is a significant achievement for KMMG, KMA and the Kia brand as a whole,” said Ahn. “As we grow we will continue to expand our line of vehicles here and abroad while staying true to the Kia brand tenets of value, quality, safety and technology; and KMMG will play a prominent role in achieving our goals.”

Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia, Inc. (KMMG) is the first manufacturing site in North America for Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, Korea. KMMG is located on 2,200 acres in West Point, Georgia, and began mass production of the 2011 Kia Sorento on November 16, 2009. At full capacity, the plant will have the ability to build 300,000 vehicles annually from U.S. and globally sourced parts.

Greatly Enhanced Content, Special Introductory Lease Programs and Early Order Availability Expected to Build Momentum Toward March On-Sale -

In response to strong consumer interest, Infiniti released pricing for the all-new 2011 Infiniti M performance luxury sedan more than a month ahead of its scheduled March 18th launch. Along with the next-generation M’s greatly enhanced style, performance, luxury, craftsmanship and technology, the newly designated M37 and M56 models will debut with special lease offers designed to reward early buyers of popularly equipped Infiniti M models.

“We want to take advantage of the high levels of customer interest in this completely redesigned Infiniti M, kick-starting the launch with select lease offers and high-value content-to-price MSRPs,” said Ben Poore, vice president, Infiniti Business Unit. “In addition, we’ll bring attention to the story behind the new M’s inspired design and performance with a comprehensive men’s college basketball marketing campaign.”

Prices for the 2011 Infiniti M37 start at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)* of $46,250 USD for the M37 rear-wheel drive and $48,400 USD for the M37x all-wheel drive. These prices are just $450 more the 2010 M35 and M35x, despite added content and features including:

• All new exterior design providing sportier, more aggressive overall proportions
• 330-horsepower 3.7L V6 with VVEL technology which generates more power with better fuel economy than the 3.5L V6 it replaces
• Infiniti Drive Mode Selector
• Power-folding side view mirrors
• Front door handle courtesy lights
• Active Noise Control
• RearView Monitor
• Enhanced Intelligent Key memory (now includes audio, navigation and climate control settings)

The MSRPs for the 2011 Infiniti M56 start at $57,550 USD for the M56 rear-wheel drive and $60,050 USD for the M56x with Infiniti Intelligent All-Wheel Drive. Like the M37, the new M56 includes extensive additional content, starting with the $3,350 MSRP Premium Package’s advanced technology features as standard equipment:

• Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation with 8-inch VGA color touch screen,
• Bose® 2-channel 10-speaker premium audio system
• 9.3GB Music Box® hard drive
• Streaming Audio via Bluetooth®
• Climate controlled front seats
• Heated steering wheel

Other added content for the 2011 Infiniti M56 and M56x includes:

• All new exterior design providing sportier, more aggressive overall proportions
• All-new 420-horsepower 5.6L V8 with VVEL and DIG (Direct Injection Gasoline(TM)) technology – generating 95 more HP than previous model as well as better fuel economy
• Infiniti Drive Mode Selector
• Power-folding side view mirrors
• Front door handle courtesy lights
• Active Noise Control
• Rearview monitor now standard
• Enhanced Intelligent Key memory (now includes audio, navigation and climate control settings)

New Technologies

The 2011 M also offers a wide array of impressive new available features and technology. These include:

Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and the industry’s first Blind Spot Intervention(TM) (BSI) System (available as part of the Technology package)
Forest Air(TM) system – the most advanced climate control system ever developed by Infiniti (available as part of the Deluxe Touring and Sport Touring packages)
Active Noise Control (standard) generates sound waves which help to reduce undesirable low-frequency engine sounds in the cabin
Infiniti Drive Mode Selector (standard) – four selectable modes (Eco, Standard, Sport Snow) adjust throttle sensitivity and transmission shift points to optimize performance
Enhanced Intelligent Key Memory (standard) – now includes memory function for audio, navigation and climate control settings, in addition to seat, steering wheel and side view mirror
Enhanced Navigation System – now includes XM NavWeather(TM) with Real-Time weather and 3-day forecast and Zagat® Restaurant Guide (available as part of the Premium package)

Source: Infiniti

Dodge Caliber is a five-door C-segment hatchback that combines a sporty coupe-like profile with the strength, stance and functionality of an SUV. It features an all-new refined interior and Common-rail Diesel (CRD) engine to satisfy the needs of discerning international customers.

This all-new Euro V capable engine is paired to a six-speed manual transmission and produces 120 kW (163 hp DIN) and 320 N*m (236 lb.-ft.), delivering 16 percent more power, 3 percent more torque and 25 percent more towing capability (1500 kg) compared with the previous diesel engine. Forged steel connecting rods, aluminum head and pistons, and fourth-generation direct-injection system provide durability, weight reduction and performance. Passenger refinement also improves as dual balance shafts and sound-deadening materials reduce the diesel engine’s vibration and harshness by 25 percent compared with the previous Dodge Caliber CRD.

Two World Engine offerings (2.0- and 2.4-liter) deliver power and refinement thanks to dual Variable-valve Timing (VVT) and an intake manifold design with flow control valves. Combined, these features produce more power, better fuel economy and a smoother, quieter operation than engines without them. The 2.0-liter World Engine replaces the 1.8-liter engine, delivering 4 percent more power (115 kW /156 hp DIN) and 13 percent more torque (190 N*m / 140 lb.-ft.). For even greater performance, the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 125 kW (170 hp DIN) and 220 N*m (162 lb.-ft.) of torque.

The new Dodge Caliber debuts at the 2009 International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, featuring an all-new refined interior with a more harmonious design aesthetic executed with premium materials and craftsmanship. An all-new designed instrument panel features a more integrated look and includes additional cubby space, center storage bin and larger climate controls. Bright satin silver accents add contrast to Dodge Caliber’s interior design, while chromed accents brighten heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) vents, shift bezel, door handles and cluster rings. New door-trim panels and center console with armrest split-lid feature padded soft-touch materials for improved passenger comfort.

In addition, the Dodge Caliber offers an array of unique interior features in its segment, including Chill Zone(TM) cooled-beverage storage bin, Uconnect(TM) Navigation with voice commands, iPod Control, rechargeable LED flashlight and an available MusicGate Power(TM) Sound Group, which includes two articulating speakers packaged in the liftgate that swing down for tailgating and other activities.

“The Dodge Caliber is not your typical C-segment car. When we launched the Dodge Caliber only a few years ago, its bold style made a clear statement on the European roads, allowing owners to be active, stand out and do more,” said Mike Accavitti, President and Chief Executive Officer – Dodge Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “Now paired with an all-new turbo-diesel engine that offers better fuel consumption and performance and an improved interior full of value and customer-friendly features, the Dodge Caliber continues to offer our European clients unique Dodge attitude combined with one of the best value proposition in the segment.”

The Dodge Caliber was the top-selling Chrysler Group LLC vehicle outside North America in 2008.

DODGE CALIBER AT A GLANCE

High value, bold styling in an efficient two-box design

• Dodge Caliber delivers high value, bold styling, comfort and the storage flexibility needed for active lifestyles
• All-new interior design offers versatility, comfort and convenience
• New organically-shaped instrument panel, door-trim panels and center console features chromed accents on HVAC vents, shift bezel, instrument panel, door spears and cluster rings
• Soft-touch padded door armrest and center console with split lid provide added storage space
• New automatic climate control system
• MusicGate Power(TM) Sound System includes a nine-speaker Boston Acoustics premium sound system with rear articulating speakers
• Chill Zone storage bin provides ability to chill beverages on a long trip
• LED illumination includes cup holder rings and removable and rechargeable LED cargo light
• Versatile seating provides quick and convenient cargo space with fold-flat, front-passenger seat and 60/40 split, fold-flat rear seats
• Reclining seatbacks provide additional rear seat comfort

All-new 2.2-liter Common-rail Diesel (CRD) engine offers greater refinement, more power and capability

• New 2.2-liter CRD engine features 16 percent more power (120 kW / 163 hp DIN) and 5 percent improvement in fuel consumption (5.8 L/100 km
• compared to 6.1 L/100 km)
• Improvement in CO2 emissions by 3 percent (154 g/km compared to 159 g/km)
• Towing increased by 25 percent allows for trailer mass as great as 1500kg (braked)
• Torque improvement by 3 percent (320 N*m / 236 lb.-ft.) compared to the previous generation Dodge Caliber diesel
• Dual balance shafts, optimized diesel calibration and sound-deadening materials reduce diesel vibration and improve refinement by 25 percent
• Forged steel connecting rods, aluminum head and pistons provide durability and reduction in weight
• Euro 5 emission compliance through advanced diesel technology:
• Cooled Exhaust-gas Recirculation (EGR) with switchable bypass
• Fourth-generation direct injection with common-rail pressurized at 1800 bar
• Intake module with integrated swirl control valves
• Water pump and piston cooling are switchable for improved thermal management
• Diesel-particulate Filter (DPF)

Innovative technology

• Uconnect(TM) Navigation
• Uconnect Multimedia
• Uconnect Phone
• iPod Control
• MusicGate Power(TM) with nine Boston Acoustics speakers includes subwoofer and two articulating speakers
• Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)

C-segment size, versatility and flexibility of larger vehicles

• Dodge Caliber appeals to buyers looking for a C-segment hatchback that stands out from the crowd and gives them the flexibility to do more in terms of seating friends and storing gear
• Dodge Caliber is a five-door vehicle that combines a sporty coupe-like profile with the strength, stance and functionality of an SUV
• The Dodge Caliber’s unconventional two-box design provides space-efficient packaging with great proportions, while offering high value
• Dodge Caliber’s high H-point gives drivers a command-of-the-road seating position

Safety and security features include:

• Seat-mounted (thorax) side air bags
• First- and second-row side-curtain air bags
• Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Brake Assist and all-speed traction control
• Driver and front-passenger active head restraints
• Uconnect Phone
• Uconnect Navigation with voice commands
• Tire-pressure Monitoring (TPM)

Source: Chrysler Group LLC

Automaker explores its adventurous side in the launch of the 2010 IS Convertible integrated marketing campaign

Lexus unleashes its mischievous side with the debut of the all-new 2010 Lexus IS C retractable hardtop convertible, an entirely new dimension to the IS Line. To launch the highly anticipated convertible, Lexus is debuting an integrated marketing campaign designed to emphasize the vehicle’s adventurous, playful personality and reach consumers looking for a thrill.

“The IS C gives Lexus the opportunity to reveal its more dynamic and playful side,” states Dave Nordstrom, vice president of marketing for Lexus. “For the launch of the long-awaited IS C, we created a new advertising campaign that allows us to showcase the vehicle’s unique personality and give consumers a glimpse of the adrenaline rush the IS C delivers.”

The launch campaign features three IS C broadcast spots and one IS full-line spot, as well as print, interactive, out-of-home and support at key Lexus-sponsored events. The TV spots titled, “Hop In”, “Running” and “Look Out”, feature the tag line, “Live a little, a lot.” Each highlights the thrill of driving the IS C, as the car hugs every curve on the road and the drivers experience the thrill of driving top-down in a Lexus.

The IS full-line spot titled, “Scream,” features all of the vehicles in the IS line-up — the IS, IS F and IS C — as they speed through the streets at heart-pounding speeds. The drivers scream with excitement as the vehicles effortlessly take every turn that come their way. The spots will begin airing May 18 on prime network and cable stations and will also run on the websites for ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX, Hulu, ESPN, Comedy Central, Vogue.TV, AskMen.com, Car and Driver, Road and Track, Facebook and YouTube.

Beyond TV, Lexus has entered into three notable interactive partnerships, along with banner ads on select lifestyle and enthusiast sites. The interactive partnership elements include:

• ABC.com and YouTube
• Lexus is the first and sole sponsor of the ABC short-form video channel on YouTube; content includes clips, recaps and webisodes. Also sponsoring ABC News’ YouTube channel.
• IS C spots on the ABC.com’s Full Episode Player.
• Lexus will be the first advertiser to work with ABC to test pre-roll in front of short form content on YouTube.
• UrbanDaddy.com
• Lexus IS C will be the exclusive sponsor of the Urban Daddy digital lifestyle concierge and microsite, which will also offer consumers the first iPhone app from both brands. The application provides a taste of cities’ of-the-moment hot spots and trends with a real-time entertainment concierge and itinerary building service.
• Additionally, as part of the Lexus IS C campaign, readers can visit the “Randomize Your Night” site on Urban Daddy’s home page, created specifically for Lexus. Hit the “Randomizer” button, and be provided with a real-time itinerary based on specific inputted criteria and Urban Daddy’s archived library of hot happening city experiences.
• Cities include New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Miami and Las Vegas.
• Brash Media
• Lexus partners with Brash Media to sponsor Brash’s Road Trip “Guys Getaway” editorial feature.
• The IS C is highlighted as the ultimate vehicle for guys looking to get away in this unique editorial feature.

In addition to the interactive and broadcast elements, Lexus will run a national print campaign in enthusiast and general interest magazines as well as regional newspaper ads in key markets, beginning with June issues.

Mobile will also play a prominent role in the launch campaign with ESPN and UrbanDaddy’s first-ever iPhone applications. Additional mobile partnerships include presence on Wired.com’s and Style.com’s iPhone applications, The Wall Street Journal Blackberry application and the Fast Company and Askmen.com mobile WAP sites. Traffic will be driven to Lexus’ WAP site: m.lexus.com.

The 2010 IS C has a base MSRP of $38,490 for the IS 250 C and $43,940 for the IS 350 C. MSRP does not include the destination fee of $875. For additional information, visit Lexus.com.

Source: Lexus