Archive for October, 2011
GM to launch Spark electric minicar globally in 2013
General Motors is returning to the pure-electric market for the first time since the EV1’s demise 12 years ago, electrifying its tiniest car in an attempt to appeal to urban buyers. GM will launch an electric version of its global Chevrolet Spark minic…
Yen worse for Toyota than disaster
The earthquake that crippled Japan in March may cost Toyota less than the rising yen.
UAW says Ford will hire strike breakers if accord voted down
The UAW said in a Facebook message that it will seek a strike if members vote against a tentative agreement with Ford and that union leaders expect the automaker would seek replacement workers.
UAW posting sends a warning: Rejecting Ford contract could be risky
As workers continue voting on the UAW’s tentative agreement with Ford, leaders of a local union in Kansas City entered a raging Facebook debate on the risks of rejecting the four-year deal.
Chevy TrailBlazer returns, but maybe not to U.S.
GM is giving the Chevrolet TrailBlazer new life overseas — but the SUV may not get a U.S. encore.
Seven automakers agree to EV charging-system standard
Audi, BMW, Daimler, Ford, General Motors, Porsche and Volkswagen have agreed to support an international standardized approach to charge electric vehicles in Europe and the United States.
Motor City Today: Prank targets GM competitors with Web bug
When computers using a wireless network at GM’s headquarters accessed Web pages mentioning rivals such as Chrysler or Ford, an unauthorized program inserted the word “sucks” after any references to those companies.
Cadillac aims XTS at luxury import owners
It is a small niche, but an important one for Cadillac as it prepares to launch the XTS sedan. The industry calls it the ‘black car’ business.
IndyCar returns to Detroit for 2012
The Izod IndyCar Series is set to return to Detroit June 1-3, 2012, to race the 2.1-mile Belle Isle circuit, Chevrolet said today. The Motor City is back on the IndyCar schedule for the first time in four years.
Electric vehicles are here, but how do they deal with all the challenges?
The tickertape parades are over and it’s time for automakers, suppliers and industry groups to prove electric vehicles have a future.