GM PARTNERING WITH TIRE RESEARCHERS FOR BETTER FUEL ECONOMY

By Zach Bowman, Autoblog.com - Starting next year, General Motors engineers will work with researchers at the National Tire Research Center in an effort to create safer and more efficient tires.  The automaker has invested US$5 million in the facility in Halifax, Virginia, which uses cutting-edge tire performance machinery to recreate real-world driving events.

The US$11.2 million test equipment can spin a tire to the equivalent of 200 mph (321 kilometres per hour) while monitoring data on handling, ride, torque and braking forces and replicating various road conditions.  GM says tire efficiency can theoretically be increased up to seven per cent by varying attributes like tread design, construction and manufacturing techniques.

GM hopes its work at the National Tire Research Center will help the company advance the arrival of next-generation tire technology, thereby increasing vehicle efficiency and reducing fuel consumption at the same time.  You can take a closer look at the full press release below for more information.

News Source:  General Motors

GM and Partners Burn Rubber to Improve Fuel Economy
National Tire Research Center to speed testing, development of fuel-efficient tires
DETROIT - General Motors' drive to improve vehicle fuel economy is expected to gain traction in January when GM engineers and scientists begin work with research partners to accelerate the development of tire technology at the new National Tire Research Center in Halifax County, Va.

The world-class facility, to which GM contributed $5 million, uses state-of-the-art tire performance machinery that will enable automakers and tire manufacturers to replicate real-world emergency events and improve vehicle highway safety.

By some estimates, tire design can help improve fuel efficiency by up to 7 percent.  A tire's rolling resistance is determined by variations in tread pattern, construction, material quality and processing techniques.  Ultimately, the lower the rolling resistance, the less fuel is needed to move the vehicle forward.

Low rolling resistance tires are expected to help customers save money at the gas pump, as will more efficient conventional engines and electric powertrains.

"The work we'll undertake at the National Tire Research Center will have a big impact on how quickly next-generation tire technologies will be developed and the accuracy of their design and engineering," said Ken Morris, GM's executive director of Global Vehicle Performance and Safety, and proving grounds and test labs.  Morris attended the center's ribbon-cutting ceremony in October.

The center's $11.2 million tire performance test equipment, known as Flat-Trac LTRe, is unique in its use of electric motor technology and can run a tire up to 200 mph.  It provides data on handling, ride, torque, and braking capabilities on various surfaces, including wet road conditions.  GM was instrumental in developing the machine's test specifications.

The Flat-Trac LTRe is capable of replicating all driving maneuvers of a passenger car or light truck on the road.  GM and other automotive engineers will be able to use the data collected by the equipment to predict vehicle performance and modify tire characteristics to improve performance for low rolling resistance, better road-holding capability and other criteria.

"This facility's test equipment is like going from a basic telescope to the Hubble -- it opens up a whole new world of possibilities," said Frank Della Pia, a former GM vehicle dynamics manager who is executive director for the tire research center.  "It can test tires in the full range of the performance spectrum.  This facility has no peer in the world.  It's going to enable a transformational leap in tire technology."

The center's facilities also include the Southern Virginia Vehicle Motion (SoVa Motion) Laboratory, strategically located in the heart of the Virginia Motorsports Alley at the Virginia International Raceway.  SoVa Motion offers shock and suspension testing, virtual prototyping of vehicle components, and a range of on-vehicle sensing such as wheel force transducers.  SovaMotion will take advantage of the Tire Center's test data to conduct drive and handling simulations that could help reduce time and cost of vehicle program development.

"The work GM will do with SovaMotion and the National Tire Research Center will further improve laboratory test methods and improve laboratory test methods and improve our overall vehicle development process," Morris said.  "Ultimately, that means better vehicles for our customers."

GENERAL MOTORS PLACES RISKY BET ON NEW IMPALA

By Jeff Bennett, The Wall Street Journal - In its heyday, the Chevrolet Impala inspired a song by the Beach Boys and held a starring role in the gritty 1970s detective show "Baretta".  But in recent years, the big sedan has become almost forgettable, drawing mostly rental-car company and government agency buyers.

Now General Motors Co. is betting it can make the 54-year-old Impala a head-turner again, all part of a broader plan to reinvigorate its offerings with 13 redesigned cars and trucks next year and regain the favor of American car shoppers.

The 2014 Impala, which hits showrooms in April, would be the first remake of the car in seven years, mixes technology -- such as an eight-inch movable infotainment screen and lane-departure control -- with a fashion knack that includes colored stitching on seats and chrome lettering.

Dealers and reviewers say reconnecting the faded nameplate with consumers won't be easy.  The Impala makeover comes much later than other aging models from the era of land cruisers that have already undergone overhauls -- such as the Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, and GM's own Buick LaCrosse.

"The redesign looks better than the old model," says auto-information website Edmunds.com reviewer Dan Frio.  "Is it good enough to compete against the Taurus and Chrysler 300?  I don't know."

Leo Bunnin, owner of Bunnin Chevrolet in Culver City, Calif., sells less than 100 Impalas a year.  But he says, the brand has staying power and the redesign could work.  "The Impala name was a magnet and I think it could be again."

GM needs some hits in its bread-and butter Chevy brand, which accounts for about 75% of its vehicle sales in the U.S.  Years ago, GM could credibly tout Chevrolet as American as baseball and apple pie.  But a string of poor quality cars and its government-backed bankruptcy have left GM with a tarnished image, and it is paying a price.  Through the end of the third-quarter, GM's market share stood at 17.6%, compared with 19.7% in the same period of 2011.

Next year, GM will redesign and upgrade 13 Chevrolet vehicles, including big sellers such as the Silverado pickup truck, its iconic Corvette sports car and the Suburban and Tahoe sport-utility vehicles.

The Impala likely faces the toughest battle.  First introduced in 1958, the Impala name grew to encompass a series of different cars.  In the '60s one featured a big block engine that inspired the Beach Boys' song "409."  In the '70s, actor Robert Blake drove a rusted 1966 Chevy Impala in "Beretta".

Today's lumbering sedan offers few modern features to tempt car-buyers.  In a cost-saving move a few years ago, GM stopped equipping the car with the chrome, leaping antelope that had symbolized the Impala for decades.

Last month, only about 7% of the shoppers who searched for large sedans on Edmunds.com bothered to check out the Impala, down from 15% in May 2007.  This year GM is on track to sell about 170,000 Impalas, down from the 311,000 it sold in 2007 and a fraction of the more than 1 million Impalas sold in 1965 and 1966.

GM AIMS TO BUILD 500,000 ELECTRIC-TECHNOLOGY VEHICLES A YEAR

By Ben Klayman, Reuters - GM has made rolling out cars with electrical technology -- including its eAssist system that boosts fuel efficiency in gasoline-powered cars -- a central part of its global strategy, global product development chief Mary Barra told reporters.

"Our plans call for producing up to 500,000 vehicles annually with some form of electrification globally by 2017," she said via satellite.

That would be slightly more than 5 percent of GM's global sales last year of about 9 million.

The forecast includes plug-in hybrids; pure electric vehicles like the Chevy Spark EV that will go on sale next summer; and eAssist system, which GM offers on several vehicles, she said.  GM introduced the Volt in the fall of 2010.

So far this year, GM has sold more than 50,000 vehicles that include electrification technologies in the United States, with eAssist accounting for slightly more than half that total.  Barra did not break down how much of GM's target would be cars that do not include a gasoline engine, but she said plug-in technology will remain central to GM's strategy.

"A major focus for GM's electrification strategy will center on the plug," she said.  "We have every intention of maintaining our leadership position in plug-in vehicles."  Barra said GM is not turning its back on traditional hybrid or hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles.

GM plans call for its eAssist system, which boosts fuel efficiency as much as 25 percent in some gasoline-powered vehicles, to be on "hundreds of thousands" of vehicles annually by 2017, she said.

Barra said the Spark EV minicar, which will take on Nissan Motor Co's Leaf, will be a global vehicle, launching first in select markets in the United States and South Korea before moving to other countries.  GM will sell the car, rather than limiting access to lease deals, she added.

"We're not building the Spark EV to check a regulatory box," Barra said.

The EV's battery will be made by A123 Systems Inc, which filed for bankruptcy last month.

The rollout of the Spark continues GM's push to seize the mantle of "greenest automaker in the world" from Toyota Motor Corp, which makes the popular Prius hybrid car.  Toyota also sells a plug-in version of the Prius as well.

Chief Executive Dan Akerson has driven GM more aggressively toward EVs.  Efforts have centered on rolling out the plug-in technology in a broader range of vehicles to recoup its investment in the money-losing Volt.

In August 2011, GM said it would build a Cadillac ELR luxury coupe based on the Volt's plug-in hybrid technology.  In October, the company said the ELR will begin in late 2013 at the same plant that makes the Volt.

GM, like other automakers, also needs more fuel-efficient cars as the industry pushes toward more stringent U.S. requirements that will be in place by 2025.

Ford expects hybrids, plug-in hybrids and EVs will account for as much as a quarter of its global sales by 2020.  GM's smaller rival said in August it was accelerating development of its hybrid and electric vehicles by bringing design and production of key parts in-house.

The No. 2 U.S. automaker, which has launched the Focus EV and C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid car this year, said it will spend $135 million to design parts for its next wave of EVs and double its battery testing capabilities by next year.

President Barack Obama's administration has been a strong proponent of electric vehicles like the Volt and set a goal of reaching 1 million battery-powered vehicles on the road by 2015.

Analysts are less optimistic as prices remain too high for EVs, and driving range and wide availability of public battery charging stations remain the chief concerns for consumers.  Lux Research estimates the number will actually be fewer than 200,000, and Boston Consulting Group has predicted EVs and plug-in hybrids will make up only 5 percent of the market within eight years.

However, Elon Musk, the CEO of electric carmaker Tesla Motors Inc., said on Monday that Obama's re-election would likely mean a continuation of the U.S. government's policy promoting EVs.  He said he would back any efforts to boost federal tax credits for electric cars to as much as $10,000 from $7,500 now and added Tesla would install fast-charging stations on major U.S. routes by the end of next year.

WIN A STEP2 CORVETTE BED AND DRESSER

By John Neff, Autoblog.com - If you're like us, you watched Silver Spoons with envy growing up.  Ricky Schroder lived in a mansion that was lined with toys, and the item we coveted most was his race car bed.  Don't say we never made your dreams come true, because this week we're giving away a Step2 Corvette Twin Bed with working lights and matching Corvette Dresser!

Step2 is a company that makes all manner of injection molded plastic products for the kid in your life: kitchens, jungle gyms, art easels and, yes, a complete bedroom suite of officially licensed Corvette furniture, are among their offered wares.  We're offering you the chance to win the Corvette Twin Bed and matching Corvette Dresser, but there's also a Corvette Storage Chest and Room Organizer to complete your set. 

Visit autoblog.com for contest details.

GM MARKS BUILDING 1.5 MILLION 6.6L DURAMAX ENGINES

GM is celebrating a milestone today: the
production of the 1.5 million Duramax
diesel engine at its DMAX facility.

By Stephen Elmer, Autoguide.com - The Duramax breathes life into the Chevy Silverado HD, GMC Sierra HD, Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana cargo vans.  It puts out 397 hp at 3,000 rpm and 765 lb-ft of torque at 1,600 rpm.  To achieve these numbers, the motor uses a four-valve high pressure common rail direct injection system.

The engine is a result of a joint venture between General Motors and Isuzu Motors Ltd.  "This is a significant achievement for our facility and our employees here at DMAX," said DMAX CEO Maho Mitsuya.  "We're committed to building quality into every engine -- whether it's our first or our 1,500,000."

2014 Chevrolet Corvette ... Every Line Matters

By GMblog.com - The 2014 Corvette exterior was sculpted for optimal aerodynamic performance.  Every line, every vent, every millimeter performs.

Precisely sculpted design and good looks meets unmatched performance in the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette.  Behind the scenes, engineers have used some of the most advanced computer-aided modeling programs to optimize every inch of the car.  Through aerodynamic optimization, the Corvette has the ability to generate stability-enhancing down force at high speeds.

Chevrolet engineers have also taken some lessons from the race track.  Similar to the cars in the Corvette Racing program, the 2014 Corvette will channel cooling air to cool the brakes, transmission and differential for enhanced performance and maximum efficiency.

"The aerodynamic performance of the new Corvette enables it to slice through the air with unprecedented efficiency while delivering excellent stability and confidence at high speeds," said Tadge Juechter, Corvette chief engineer.  "Down force helps maintain weight on the tires when the driver lifts off the throttle, for greater control during cornering on the track.  Off the track, the reduced lift at freeway speeds results in a more overall feel and more precise steering feedback."

The design of the all-new, 2014 Chevrolet Corvette leverages lessons learned from Corvette racing to reduce lift for a greater high-speed stability, in addition to directing cooling air to the brakes, transmission and differential for increased track capability.

Over the past sixty years, Corvette has been at the top of its game in design and performance, and the 2014 model will be sure to blend form and function to produce a sleek and sexy addition to the Corvette family.

The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette will be introduced on Sunday, January 13, 2013.  For more information and video content, please visit www.one13thirteen.com.  Enthusiasts can join the conversation about the next-generation Corvette, as well as keep track of new announcements on Facebook (facebook.com/corvette) and Twitter @Chevrolet(#Corvette).  Fans that follow the #one13thirteen hashtag on Twitter can look forward to exclusive updates.

PRODUCTION CHEVROLET SPARK EVE TO DEBUT IN LA

By Steven J. Ewing, Autoblog.com - It's been a little over a year since General Motors first told us that an all-electric version of the Chevrolet Spark would be heading to the United States.  Now, The General has confirmed that the little EV will debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show later this month.

Chevrolet isn't spilling any details on the Spark EV just yet, only stating that the vehicle "will offer consumers the same package that has made the gasoline-powered model so popular while delivering the technology and performance of pure electric power."  Not much to talk about there, and the only bits of information divulged previously are that the Spark EV will be sold in "limited quantities in select US and global markets" and that the nanophosphate lithium-ion battery packs will be supplied by A123 Systems.

In other LA Auto Show news, GM will be showing off an updated version of the Chevrolet MyLink system that will debut in the 2014 Impala.  The refreshed system offers higher levels of personalization and improved smartphone integration.

WHY A FLORIDA FIELD IS IMPORTANT TO YOUR CAR'S PAINT

By Zach Bowman, Autoblog.com - If you've ever wondered how automakers know their paints will stand up to the test of time, a field in Florida may have your answer.  Manufacturers routinely turn to Q-Lab, a facility situated on a 20-acre open field just outside of Homestead, Florida for duability testing.  There, the company's engineers apply automotive paint to twelve-inch by four inch metal panels and leave them to bake in the unforgiving sun.  The facility's location next to Everglades National Park is ideal for testing paint fade and durability due to the high humidity, heat and sunlight.

Owner Mike Crewdson says the samples may spend as long as seven to 10 years baking in the elements before they ever get sprayed on a production vehicle.  Technicians receive a staggering amount of data on weather and paint conditions every day-up to 40,000 readings.  Various manufacturers participate in these evaluations, but General Motors says it has been testing paint like this since the 1920s. 

NEW WHEELS FOR THE CARS

Bernie Car, with his wife Ann and their two daughters,
takes delivery of his brand new 2013 Chevrolet Volt at
Jim Tubman Chevrolet.  Car won the Volt in a contest
celebrating Shoppers Drug Mart's 50th Anniversary

By Chris Macknie, The Ottawa Citizen - With a name like his, it was only appropriate that Bernie Car would be the winner of a brand new 2012 Chevrolet Volt in a contest celebrating the 50th anniversary of Shoppers Drug Mart and sponsored in part by Jim Tubman Chevrolet.

Chevrolet partnered with Shoppers Drug Mart/Pharmaprix to provide 15 prize vehicles -- two of which were Volts -- to be won across Canada during Shoppers Drug Mart's 50th anniversary celebration.

At first, Car didn't believe he had won the vehice.  "On September 7 a company named called Launchfire called me at work.  I thought it was a gimmick, like winning a cruise and having to sit through an eight-hour presentation."

Once Car realized he had indeed won the Volt, he was extremely excited, and started making plans for driving his new vehicle.  "My main priority is to drive it to work every day, not only saving money on fuel, but contributing toward a cleaner environment.  It will also be a perfect weekend pleasure vehicle."

The Chevrolet Volt is a five-door, four-passenger car designed to provide the fuel-saving and emissions-reducing benefits of an electric vehicle without the range limitations associated with all-electric vehicles.  The heart of the Chevrolet Volt is its Voltec propulsion system, which combines pure electric drive and efficient, range-extending engine, giving the Volt a range up to 613 kilometres.  When the battery energy is depleted, the Volt seamlessly transitions to extended-range mode.  Power is inverted from a technically advanced gasoline-powered on-board engine to the electric drive unit to provide an additional range up to 553 kilometres.

This contest was Shoppers' largest and most exciting contest ever, with 50 grand prizes, reaching every corner of the country.  During the promotion period in September, Jim Tubman Chevrolet displayed the 2013 Chevrolet Spark at the winning location at Bank and Walkley.  Ted Smith, Sales Manager at Jim Tubman Chevrolet, delivered the winning vehicle to the Car family.

"We are extremely excited to have won this amazing electric vehicle," said Car.  "It allows our family to drive in a real cool car."

Because this is an electric vehicle, the license plates are "green".  Bernie's wife, Ann Car, is very excited that now she will be able to park in the "green" spots at Ikea.

Charging the Volt's battery is simple and intuitive, and can be done with a 120V conventional household electric outlet, or a dedicated 240V charging station.  The vehicle is completely rechargeable in about four hours using a 240V outlet and 10 to 16 hours in a 120V outlet (depending on charging level and outside temperature).

Jim Tubman Chevrolet, owned and operated by Anne Harcourt, has been serving the Ottawa area for over 49 years.  They are a premier retailer of new Chevrolets and pre-owned vehicles, as well as offering service, parts and accessories departments.

GM EXPANDS MILITARY DISCOUNT

By General Motors - To commemorate Veterans Day, General Motors is expanding its military discount and welcoming a retired member of the Tuskegee Airmen to Friday's joint UAW Local 160 Veterans Committee and GM Veterans Affinity Group ceremonies at the GM Technical Center in Warren, Mich.

Previously available only to active duty, reservists, retired service members and their spouses, GM has broadened the discount program -- effectie immediately - to include veterans within a year after discharge.

"We wanted to accommodate the large numbers of returning veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan and the impending draw down of service members from all branches," said Linda Stouffer, GM marketing manager for vehicle purchase programs.  "The GM Military Discount Program is just one way we thank the millions of servicemen and women struggling to balance the needs of their families and service to their country."

Most Chevrolet, Buick and GMC models are eligible for military preferred pricing, which can be combined with other incentives including GM Card points.  To participate, veterans show a copy of their DD214 (discharge papers) to a participating dealer.  All branches of the U.S. armed services are eligible: Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and National Guard.

Friday's ceremony, which is free and open to the public, runs from 11 a.m. to noon (doors open at 10 a.m.) at the Alternative Energy Center Auditorium, located on the Tech Center campus.  Guests are encouraged to enter the campus from Gate 9 on Van Dyke Road.

Retired Air Force Lt. Col. Washington D. Ross will attend the ceremony.  As a member of the Tuskegee Airmen, Ross flew 63 long-range bomber escort missions during WW II in P-47s and P-51s, and later taught aviation courses until his retirement from the Air Force.  Earlier this year, he was inducted in the Michigan Aviation Hall of Fame.  Members of the Tuskegee Airmen Association and Tuskegee Airmen Women's Auxiliary Association will attend with Ross.

Speakers include Ken Barrett, GM chief diversity officer and retired Navy captain; Larry Millben, retired Air Force lieutenant colonel and Tuskegee Airmen Liaison Officer; Mark Deppe, GM senior design engineer and retired Navy lieutenant; Bob Brinker, UAW Local 160 veteran's affairs president; and Harry Coyle, Navy veteran and junior vice commander, VFW Post 6756 in Center Line, Mich.

"The heroic service of pioneers like Lt. Col. Ross reminds us that diversity of all kinds strengthens and improves every entity, whether it's the military or a corporation," said Barrett.  "We hope the public will come, thank a veteran for his or her service, and go home with a history lesson that can't be found in a textbook or online."

The Tuskegee Airmen were an elite group of African-American pilots in the 1940s, and pioneers in pursuit of equality and integration of the Armed Forces.  The term "Tuskegee Airmen" comes from the Tuskegee Institute, where primary flight training took place, and encompasses pilots, navigators, bombardiers, maintenance and support staff, instructors, and all personnel who kept the planes in the air.

By the end of the World War II, 992 men graduated from pilot training at Tuskegee.  Of those, 450 were sent overseas for combat assignment, and 150 lost their lives while in training or on combat flights.  According to the U.S. Air Force, the Tuskegee Airmen destroyed or damaged more than 409 enemy airplanes, 950 ground units, and sank a battleship destroyer.  They ran more than 200 bomber escort missions.

With nearly 5,000 military veteran employees, General Motors' support for the United States armed forces spans generations.  Today, Chevrolet assists Cell Phones for Soldiers, Achilles Freedom Team of Wounded Veterans, the Fallen and Wounded Soldiers Fund, a variety of employment and grassroots initiatives, and is the Official Vehicle of the Army-Navy game.  The GM Military Discount program offers the industry's best discounts on most Chevrolet, Buick and GMC vehicles for active duty, reserves, veterans (within one year of discharge date) and retirees and spouses of the U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and National Guard.  GM also is a proud sponsor of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Hiring Our Heroes initiative aimed at finding meaningful employment for veterans transitioning to civilian life.  GM's military community can be found on Facebook.

GM BEGINS PRODUCTION OF BI-FUEL PICKUP TRUCKS

General Motors takes a major step towards making greener
pickup trucks, as production of the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado HD
and GMC Sierra 2500 HD bi-fuel pickup trucks gets underway at
Fort Wayne plant.  The Vortec 6.0L V8 engine in these trucks can run
on petrol and compressed natural gas (CNG), offering a combined range of 650 miles.

By Arman Barari, Motorward.com - CNG also produces less CO2 than petrol.  Just about the only drawback this system results in is a small compromise on cargo capacity, as the CNG tank is located in the bed area.  The pickups are available in standard and long-box and two-or-four wheel drive in the extended cab models.

Priced at $11,000 higher than normal models, these trucks are now available for order by fleet and retail customers.  They are both covered by GM's warranty, and have passed rigorous quality, durability and safety testing.

"Customers are choosing our bi-fuel trucks because they provide the same high level of GM truck performance and versatility but can also help businesses control their fuel costs and reduce their carbon footprint," said Ed Peper, General Motors U.S. vice president of Fleet and Commercial Sales.

MICHAEL BAY CASTS MARK WAHLBERG IN TRANSFORMERS 4

By George Kennedy, Autoblog.com - Despite the replacement of the entire human cast (including Tyrese Gibson and Josh Duhamel), we think the ladies might still find some eye candy in the upcoming installment of the Michael Bay Transformers franchise.  According to the director's website, Mark Wahlberg will join the cinematic battle between the Autobots and Decepticons.  Does this mean Marky Mark will drive everyone's favourite movie Camaro, Bumblebee, now?

Bay and Wahlberg first worked together for an upcoming movie called Pain & Gain (also starting Dwayne Johnson, Ed Harris and Ken Jeong), and Bay announced this week that Wahlberg will join the cast of Transformers 4.  Filming begins next spring, with an expected release date of June 29, 2014.

Not much else is known about T4, but Bay's website gives us our first look at the movie's logo (above), which shows half the Decepticon insignia.

GM, FORD SALES INCREASE SHARPLY IN CHINA AS COUNTRY TURNS AWAY FROM JAPANESE BRANDS

By George Kennedy, Autoblog.com - American automakers that conduct business in China have benefited from growing anti-Japanese sentiments among Chinese buyers, as most recent sales numbers indicate.  According to Automotive News, a territorial dispute over uninhabited islands have resulted in Chinese consumers rejecting vehicles from Toyota, Honda and Nissan in increasing numbers.

Meanwhile, sales of General Motors cars and minivans in its largest market grew 14 per cent in October, to 251,812.  Ford moved 60,518 units in China, representing a 48 per cent increase in sales compared to the same month a year ago.

Meanwhile, Toyota, Honda and Nissan sales have all taken nosedives.  Toyota reported that its sales fell 44 percent last month, following a 48-percent drop in September.  The latter two companies both announced their worst month-to-month decline in sales, dating back to 2007 for Honda and 2008 for Nissan.

Still yet to be announced are Volkswagen sales in China.  The German automaker has been battling GM for the top sales spot in China this year, and it outsold GM last quarter for the first time in eight years.  When we last checked in on the two companies, GM had a slight year-to-date lead of 77,000 units.

CHEVROLET TEST TRACK OPENING AT WALT DISNEY

By Foxnews.com - Chevy's next car is a self-driving passenger convertible that's only available in Florida.

Don't expect to go very far in it, though, the open-top transport is part of the refurbished Test Track exhibit in Walt Disney World's Epcot theme park.

First opened in 1999, the Chevrolet-sponsored attraction has been fully reeingineered with state of the art equipment to offer visitors the virtual experience of designing, testing and marketing a car of their creation.

After designing their car, truck or crossover on a computer, guests will bring it with them to the test track through the use of RFID technology, where it's capability, efficiency, responsiveness, and power will be evaluated while they go for an actual ride that encompasses several different surfaces and reaches speeds of up to 65 mph.

A computerized racing simulation follows, along with the production of a commercial for the vehicle.

Aside from the marketing opportunity the attraction offers Chevrolet, the company hopes the experience will inspire kids to enter the world of automotive design and engineering.

The new Test Track opens to the public on December 6th.

CHEVY GOES SMALL WITH NEW TRAX

Chevrolet Trax will be the brand's smallest
SUV, announced at the 2010 Paris Auto Show

By Alexandra Straub, Ottawa Citizen, Driving Local - When people think of Chevrolet, the first word that comes to mind isn't necessarily "small".  After all, the longest-running nameplate in the company is the Suburban -- with more than 75 years on the road.  It's not what you'd call a compact vehicle.  But that doesn't mean the brand hasn't evolved.  This year, they launched their mini car, the Spark, which is the smallest vehicle in their model lineup and an id4eal companion for urban environments.

And a recent announcement at the 2012 Paris Auto Show marked the introduction of Chevy's smallest sport utility to date: the 2013 Trax.

With the compact crossover segment really taking flight, it was only a natural decision to introduce a vehicle with the choice of front- or all-wheel drive, an efficient package and pleasant styling cues.  Having had the opportunity to take some pre-production Traxes for a spin, I think they're headed in the right direction.

Design
What would a Chevrolet be without a little chrome?  While this signature staple in execution wasn't overlooked, there are not too many shiny parts to distract one from the over-all peppy outside appearance.  There are some bold lines that work together to create the architecture of the outside.

Up front, the Chevy bow tie separates but also binds together the upper and lower parts of the grille.  There's an understated centre line crease on the hood and funky-looking halogen headlamps complete the front end.

Walking around the vehicle, there's a rearward roof spoiler and the offering of 16- or 18-inch wheels.

Sit inside and you'll find another well-executed cabin.  Over the last few years, Chevrolet has been on a roll when it comes to delivering an interior that has both visual appeal and creature comforts.

There are four trims available: LS, 1LT, 2LT and LTZ.  The 2LT and LTZ come standard with the MyLink infotainment system.  It's a seven-inch touch screen that acts as an extension of your smart phone.  It's intuitive to use and the colours on the display are vibrant and rich.

I'm not a huge fan of the volume control function -- I prefer twisting a knob rather than pushing the arros up on the screen -- but it doesn't deter my appreciation for the system as a whole.

Performance
A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the LS model, and the LT and LTZ models receive a six-speed automatic transmission.

Regardless of trim chosen, the Trax is propelled by a 1.4L, turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an output of 138 horsepower and 148 foot-pounds of torque.  If these specs look familiar, they are.  It's the same turbocharged engine that's found in the Cruze and Sonic RS.

When it comes to fuel economy, with the front-wheel-drive model equipped with the manual transmission, it uses an estimated 7.8 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 5.7L/100 km on the highway.  Opt for the automatic transmission and you're looking at an estimated 8.1L/100 km in the city and 5.9L/100 km on the highway.

Having had the opportunity to drive the LTZ with the AWD and the six-speed automatic, the car doesn't feel too underpowered.  It tips the scale at 1,380 kg, but still has a decent amount of juice to get it and keep it going.

Driving/Utility
Because the Trax is based on the same platform as the Sonic, it has a tendency to have car-like characteristics rather than those of an SUV.  That incorporates fluid movement through its electric power steering, easy manoeuvrability and minimal effort when parking.

With the rear 60/40 split seats folded flat, there's up to 48.4 cubic feet of storage space.

Furthermore, the front passenger seat can be folded flat, offering additional flexibility for longer items.  There are a total of eight seating combinations and configurations to play around with.

When the 2013 Trax hits the market in the near future, I'm looking forward to a little more seat time.  They're enjoyable to drive.

CITY OF OTTAWA REVVED UP FOR ELECTRIC CAR STATION

An electric car sits plugged in at the new
electric charging station at City Hall in Ottawa

By Kelly Roche, Ottawa Sun - A red car was plugged in at City Hall Friday, less than 24 hours after an electric vehicle charging station was unveiled.

"I couldn't believe it," said environment committee chairwoman and River Ward Coun. Maria McRae, who posted a photo on Twitter.  "I though, 'this is cool.'"

Owners can recharge their EV batteries for free.

Hydro Ottawa and the city are splitting the $25,000 installation tab as part of a six month pilot project to "understand demand and real cost for these services," said McRae.

Hydro Ottawa estimates the cost would be less than $600 per year, even if the charging station is used 24/7. 

The central location is ideal given residents access municipal and provincial services, and the courthouse is next door.  The maximum charge time is two consecutive hours.

"We'll be measuring the whole entire time," said McRae.  If there is demand, "it could be a halfway point for people to commute," she said.  And the city will then determine how much the charge will cost users.

Roughly 200 electric vehicles are in the Ottawa-Gatineau region, said the president of the Electric Vehicle Council of Ottawa.  The electric vehicle scene isn't Ottawa's forte, but "the potential is there for us to catch up quickly," said Darryl McMahon.  "Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal are all probably the leaders."

Ricardo Borba, the first Canadian to drive away in the Nissan Leaf SL when it launched last fall, likes the Lisgar St. location.  "I look back one year ago - there was absolutely nothing in Ottawa," said Borba.  Since then, a handful have popped up.

Last month, a free Level 2 charger was installed at the Canada Science and Technology Museum.  In August, Place d'Orleans unveiled the first public charging station for shoppers, a joint project with Myers Orleans Chevrolet Buick GMC.

As of late October, the Ministry of Transportation has issued 708 green plates for electric vehicles in Ontario.  Ontario residents are eligible for an incentive ranging from $5,000 to $8,500 when they buy or lease a new plug-in hybrid electric or battery electric vehicle.

Since the program began in 2010, "we've seen a steady increase in the number of electric vehicles being registered as more and more electric vehicle models come on the market," ministry spokesman Bob Nichols wrote in an e-mail.

"The number of electric vehicles available is expected to continue to increase over the coming years."

TOP 10 MOST RELIABLE AMERICAN CARS

By Consumer Reports - Consumer Reports recently unveiled its latest predicted reliability results, from the 2012 Annual Auto Survey, which found Japanese brands claimed the top seven spots in our rankings.  However, it's not all bad for the domestic brands and within some vehicle segments there are standouts.

We're often asked how the domestics' reliability stacks up, especially with some people wanting to specifically buy American.  (Of course, defining what is an "American" car can be a challenge these days.)  The results show that there are some very reliable U.S.-branded models, but they also remind of potential risks with buying first-year models.

Below is a list of vehicles with the highest predicted reliability within their respective segments.  (We have only listed models whose predicted reliability is average or better, and scored high enough in CR tests to be recommended.)

Small cars:  Chevrolet SonicFuel-efficient hatchbacks:  Chevrolet VoltCompact sports sedans:  Cadillac CTSUpscale cars:  Chrysler 300 (V6)Sporty cars:  Ford Mustang (V6)Large SUvs:  Chevrolet TraverseMidsized SUVs:  Chevrolet Equinox (V6)/GMC Terrain (V6)Luxury SUVs:  Buick EnclaveFull-sized pickups:  Chevrolet Avalanche
Other models, such as the Lincoln MKS luxury sedan and Jeep Patriot small SUV, have average or better reliability but did not do well in Consumer Reports' tests.  Hence, they are not recommended.  CR only recommends models that have performed well in tests conducted at its 327-acre Auto Test Center in Connecticut, have average or better predicted reliability based on the annual survey, and perform at least adequately in government or insurance-industry crash and rollover tests, if tested.

Our reliability data are based on responses on 1.2 million vehicles owned or leased by subscribers to Consumer Reports or ConsumerReports.org.

HOW THE AUTOMAKERS ARE HELPING WITH HURRICANE SANDY RELIEF

By George Kennedy, Autoblog - To help those effected by Hurricane Sandy cope with the natural disaster, automakers are stepping up in various ways.  Known to us right now are contributions of aid or assistance by Ford, General Motors, Toyota, Fisker and Nissan.  Toyota and Ford have opted to give in the most straightforward fashion: donations of money.  Ford has announced that its own employees have collected US$50,000 to donate, and Toyota has stated that it will contribute US$1 million in support of relief efforts.  Both companies have made these contributions to the American Red Cross.

Other automakers have opted to offer tangible, on-the-ground resources to the relief effort.  GM has pledged 50 utility vehicles, including Express cargo vans, Traverse crossovers and Tahoe SUVs, to the Red Cross.  The vehicles will be fitted with 200 OnStar Hands-Free calling minutes and a month of turn-by-turn navigation.  GM has also donated US$250,000 to the Red Cross.

Fisker Automotive has offered up its 3.2-million-square-foot Wilmington, DE facility as a staging area for rescue crews and power trucks.

For many, part of the rebuilding process will be replacing their flooded vehicle(s).  To that end, Nissan North America has announced that it will offer discounted pricing and financing on new cars through January 2 to help victims replace the transportation they may have lost from flood or storm damage.  For current customers, Nissan is also offering payment extensions for the next three payments without fees.  Ford has also just announced a similar program, offering a US$500 discount on new vehicles and allowing current owners to skip a payment or two.

We are certain more automakers have/will come forward with aid similar to those efforts mentioned here.

IS CONSUMER REPORTS LOSING ITS SWAY? ARE WE ALL?

By George Kennedy, Autoblog - Do the opinions of automotive journalists matter?  For us, that may be a bit of transcendental self-examination, but for the consuming public, it's a very real question.  Is a potential customer of a new family sedan going to rely completely on Consumer Reports, or are they willing to go with their own gut feelings and neighbors' recommendations?

Bloomberg has an interesting new report highlighting cars that are selling well in spite of not receiving high marks from Consumer Reports.  One such vehicle is the 2012 Honda Civic, which has been largely derided by the automotive press.  Yet sales of the Japanese compact are on pace to beat out vehicles like the acclaimed Chevrolet Cruze.

One criticism offered for CR's methods is their approach of putting all types of vehicles through the same type of testing.  The Chrysler Town & Country as well as the Dodge Grand Caravan were given low marks for their performance in the slalom-the-same slalom in which sports cars are tested.  How important is that in buying a minivan?

While cars from Korea and the United States are increasingly lauded by the automotive community, owners of brands like Honda and Toyota remain fiercely loyal.  In a time when some critics suggest that "there are no bad cars," customer loyalty and brand equity play a large part in the buying process.  Korean and US automakers may be building some terrific vehicles now but the Japanese automakers have history on their side, and most buyers are still heavily weighing brand reputation in their decision-making processes.

It might be difficult convincing a consumer that the Civic is a substandard vehicle, just as it may be difficult to overcome someone's preconceived notions that a given automobile is an inferior product just because of its badge.  If, in fact, there are "no more bad cars," then what's the role of professional evaluators in the buying process?  Hopefully it still resides in educating consumers on making the best buying purchase-as long as they're still listening.