2011 Ford Shelby GT500 Goes Lightweight With Aluminum Engine

on February 9, 2010 in Ford

2011 Ford Shelby GT500 e1270128952498 550x365 2011 Ford Shelby GT500 Goes Lightweight With Aluminum Engine

Ford’s Special Vehicle Team (SVT) engineers are taking high performance to a new level with the 2011 Ford Shelby GT500, resulting in a car that has an all-new aluminum-block engine, even better driving dynamics and handling, improved fuel economy and more horsepower than ever.

“The SVT team continues to push the performance standards of the Shelby to even higher levels and better refinement,” said Jost Capito, director of global performance vehicles and motorsports business development. “All the changes we made reflect a desire for even better handling and outstanding driving dynamics – from weight savings to improved balance.” Continue Reading →

GM Announces B20 Biofuel Capability for 2011 Duramax 6.6l Turbo Diesel

on February 8, 2010 in GM

2011 Duramax 6.6l Turbo Diesel 550x436 GM Announces B20 Biofuel Capability for 2011 Duramax 6.6l Turbo Diesel

GM announced today that its new lineup of heavy-duty diesel pickups will have B20 biodiesel capability. B20 fuel is a blend of 20-percent biodiesel and 80-percent conventional diesel, which helps lower carbon dioxide emissions and lessens dependence on petroleum. The announcement was made at the National Biodiesel Conference.

GM’s new Duramax 6.6L turbo diesel engine has been substantially revised to include B20 capability, as well as meet strict new emissions standards effective this year. The new Duramax will power the redesigned 2011 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra heavy-duty pickups, as well as the Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana full-size vans. Chevrolet will unveil the 2011 Silverado heavy-duty trucks at the Chicago Auto Show on Feb. 10.

“B20 capability in our new heavy-duty trucks is the latest addition to a growing number of alternate fuel options offered by General Motors,” said Mike Robinson, vice president, Environment, Energy and Safety Policy. “We are seeking different paths to fuel solutions in order to maximize efficiency, reduce emissions and minimize the dependence on petroleum.” Continue Reading →

Nissan and Infiniti to Display at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show

on February 7, 2010 in Car Shows, Infiniti, Nissan

2010 Chicago Auto Show 550x177 Nissan and Infiniti to Display at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show

With just a week to go before the nation’s biggest automotive exposition opens to the public, Nissan and Infiniti officially opted to display their popular brands at the Feb. 12-21 Chicago Auto Show.

The news was met warmly by show organizers. John Phelan, 2010 Chicago Auto Show chairman said, “We’re very pleased Nissan and Infiniti have made the decision to showcase their vehicles at the nation’s most influential consumer auto event.”

“The incredible labor force at McCormick Place will be able to help coordinate and execute the additional construction, and will have it standing tall in time for our two-day media preview and 10-day public run,” added Phelan. “Both prospective and existing Nissan and Infiniti customers will be able to view the latest rolling style and technology that has made them significant forces in the automotive world.” Continue Reading →

NAIAS Announces 2011 Dates

on February 3, 2010 in Car Shows

naias logo 550x189 NAIAS Announces 2011 Dates

After a successful and impressive 2010 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), show organizers are focused on taking the show to new heights in 2011. The NAIAS has announced its 2011 events dates will be:

  • Media Preview – Jan. 10-11
  • Industry Preview – Jan. 12-13
  • Charity Preview – Jan. 14
  • Public Days – Jan. 15-23

“This year at NAIAS, we took on the global economic challenges to do what Detroiters have always done: endure, excel and exceed expectation,” said Doug Fox, chairman, 2010 NAIAS. “The NAIAS committee was proud to once again host this world-class event for thousands of media and industry executives who are attracted by newsworthy and exciting production and concept vehicle debuts. Additionally, by evolving each year to incorporate more signature events, celebrity appearances and amenities, the NAIAS will continue to attract top media, industry executives and enthusiasts.”

2010 NAIAS organizers reported nearly 40 total vehicles were unveiled before nearly 5,000 international media from more than 60 countries, along with a host of government officials such as Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, who attended the globally-recognized event. In addition, more than $2 million was raised for children’s charities at the annual black-tie Charity Preview, which was sponsored by RBS/Charter One. Other supporting sponsors for the event were Art Van Furniture, Delta Air Lines and MGM Grand Detroit. The gala featured entertainment by Detroit’s own band, The Romantics, and four impromptu flash dance performances, as an added surprise. The NAIAS also welcomed nearly 715,000 attendees, up from 650,000 estimated attendees at the 2009 show. Continue Reading →