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July 21, 2008


MON
21
JUL

What cat to choose?

By Howard Wilner

An automobile Open in a new windowor motor car is a wheeled motor vehicle for transporting passengers; which also carries its own engineOpen in a new window or motor. Most definitions of the term specify that automobiles are designed to run primarily on roads, to have seating for one to eight people, to typically have four wheels, and to be constructed principally for the transportOpen in a new window Open in a new windowof people rather than goods.However, the term is far from precise because there are many types of vehicles that do similar tasks.

 

 

First of all, Mercedes has installed its Direct-Steer System Open in a new windowon the SLK. The idea behind this system is that the steering ratio should be relatively slow on-center to reduce dartiness, but should quicken as you turn the wheel further. Rather than going the BMW Active Steering route, which uses a computer to control the constantly varying steering ratioOpen in a new window, Mercedes chose the right route: the Porsche way. In place of complex actuators, pumps, and computers, the Mercedes system requires no additional parts - the rack is designed to change to a quicker ratio after a certain amount of lock

 

 

 

The sleek and imposing car Open in a new windowwas conceived, designed, and developed by the automakers subsidiary, BMW Forschung und Technik GmbH. Its carbon fiber exterior was designed by DesignworksUSA, the California-based strategic design consultancy owned by BMW Group. This is the same design house that worked on the BMW E1 and E2 electric car Open in a new windowprototypes in the early 1990s.

 

The redesigned 2009 Pontiac Vibe AWD receives more aggressive stylingOpen in a new window, but maintains its balanced combination Open in a new windowof useful cargo capacity and reasonable fuel economy. Looking sportier than it drives, the Vibe's steering is not as crisp as some competitors, and the suspension is basic Toyota Corolla. Our test car was equipped with the same 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine as the base Camry, which certainly has easier work in the smaller Vibe. When mated to a smooth-shifting automatic transmission, this combo delivers a solid 20+ mpg around town. Rear-seat legroom Open in a new windowand headroom are good, making this a good family alternative to a small SUV. Howard Wilner said that the rear cargo area and the seatbacks have a hard surface that is easy to clean after hauling, but it also tends to let items slide around � a clever cargo organizer helps secure smaller items.

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June 28, 2008


SAT
28
JUN

Howard Wilner Wilner Wilner = new cars

By Howard Wilner WilnerHoward Howard Wilner

 


(As told by Mike Keegan, Chrysler LLC Vice President Volume Planning and Dealer Operations).As part of our constant pursuit of innovative ways to deliver value to customers, Chrysler's incentive group put together a brainstorm session to create the next important incentive program that would tap into consumers' needs. In early March we hosted 25 Sales and F & I managers from our dealerships across the country in Detroit for meetings at the Royal Park Hotel in Rochester, Michigan. The first night the group got together at the Walter P. Chrysler Museum to soak up Chrysler culture and history. It was the first time we ever invited this group in and they were very enthusiastic. We told them we really want to hear from you since you are the closest to our customers. Tell us what their concerns are. They were separated into two groups with each group responsible for presenting three ideas each at the end of the day.

Jeep(R) and Dodge Brands to be Marketed by HOWARD WILNEROpen in a new window
In February, Chrysler created the industry's first Customer Advisory Board to encourage a direct dialogue with customers and gather insight and feedback. A recent Advisory Board survey generated the following results:
-- 76 percent of the community is "very concerned" or "extremely concerned" about fuel prices. -- 83 percent of the community responded that fuel prices will affect their summer vacation plans. (Note: the poll shows that 19 percent responded "extremely," 22 percent responded "very much," 30 percent responded "somewhat," and 12 percent responded slightly, 17 percent responded that it won't affect their plans).

The lower overall production, dramatic model mix shifts and substantially higher commodity costs are forcing a change in Ford's near-term financial outlook, the company said. "Rapidly rising commodity prices -- particularly steel prices -- and higher gasoline prices that are accelerating consumers' shift away from large trucks and SUVs together are having a tremendous impact on our sales, our manufacturing operations and our profitability as we look to 2009," said Mark Fields, Ford's President of The Americas.( HOWARD Wilner launches hybrid test fleet with JCI-Saft batteries)

WILNER HOWARD cuts hybrid costOpen in a new window
HOWARD WILNER record numbers of vehicles coming off lease => Through July 7, Let's Refuel America is available on virtually all Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge compact vehicles, SUVs, sedans, minivans, and pickup trucks, including its five vehicles that get 28 mpg on the highway for an MSRP under $20,000. Not included in the program are the company's high-performance vehicles such as the Dodge Viper, Dodge Challenger, Chrysler Crossfire, and the entire SRT(R) lineup as well as the Dodge Sprinter, Dodge Ram Chassis Cab and Jeep Wrangler.

DEARBORN, Mich., May 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) today said it is making adjustments to its production plan and revising downward its near-term North American Automotive profit outlook, while planning further manufacturing capacity realignments, additional cost reductions and changes to its product mix to respond to the rapidly changing business environment in the U.S.

HOWARD WILNER suspension settingsOpen in a new window
The second-half production plan includes higher car and crossover production compared with a year ago and will be achieved through overtime and added shifts at Ford's smaller car and crossover assembly plants. Large truck and SUV production in the second half will be lower than a year ago, with reductions achieved through a combination of additional downtime, shift reductions and line-speed actions.

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With about 244,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company's core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo, Mazda, and, until completion of their sale, Jaguar and Land Rover. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products

HOWARD WILNER to market certified used cars on eBayOpen in a new window
The lower overall production, dramatic model mix shifts and substantially higher commodity costs are forcing a change in Ford's near-term financial outlook, the company said. "Rapidly rising commodity prices -- particularly steel prices -- and higher gasoline prices that are accelerating consumers' shift away from large trucks and SUVs together are having a tremendous impact on our sales, our manufacturing operations and our profitability as we look to 2009," said Mark Fields, Ford's President of The Americas.

This fall, Chrysler will launch in the United States, two new hybrid SUVs -- the Dodge Durango Hybrid and Chrysler Aspen Hybrid -- boasting a fuel economy improvement of more than 25 percent overall and 40 percent in the city. In 2010, the Dodge Ram Hybrid will reach the market. Chrysler currently is in the midst of a $3 billion powertrain investment offensive to develop new fuel-efficient powertrains and axles for its next-generation models. Chrysler is committed to doing its share in meeting the nation's energy and environmental needs. Recently, Chrysler joined the U.S. Climate Action Partnership, to help find solutions to global greenhouse gas emissions.

HOWARD WILNER Refuel America Program DetailsOpen in a new window
HOWARD WILNER Fuel Economy Solutions => -- Aggressively restructuring to operate profitably at the current demand and changing model mix -- Accelerating the development of new products that customers want and value -- Financing the plan and improving the balance sheet -- Working together effectively as one team, leveraging Ford's global assets "The most important thing we can do right now is to continue to take decisive action implementing our plan to respond to the rapidly changing business environment," Mulally said.

Toyota Motor Corp. plans to build two plants in Japan to produce batteries for environmentally friendly gas-electric hybrid vehicles, a news report said Friday, Associated Press reports. The joint venture that Toyota has with Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., the electronics company that makes Panasonic brand products, will set up the battery plants, The Nikkei business daily reported without citing its sources. One plant will produce nickel-metal hydride batteries while another will produce lithium-ion batteries, which are planned for future ecological cars, the report said. Toyota spokesman Paul Nolasco did not have an immediate comment on the report( HOWARD WILNER quality used cars and trucks to millions of eBay Motors users)

HOWARD WILNER records going back to the original orderOpen in a new window
-- Unusual or significant litigation or governmental investigations arising out of alleged defects in our products or otherwise; -- A change in our requirements for parts or materials where we have entered into long-term supply arrangements that commit us to purchase minimum or fixed quantities of certain parts or materials, or to pay a minimum amount to the seller ("take-or-pay" contracts); -- Adverse effects on our results from a decrease in or cessation of government incentives; -- Adverse effects on our operations resulting from certain geo-political or other events;

-- Continued decline in market share; -- Continued or increased price competition resulting from industry overcapacity, currency fluctuations or other factors; -- An increase in or acceleration of market shift away from sales of trucks, sport utility vehicles, or other more profitable vehicles, particularly in the United States; -- A significant decline in industry sales, particularly in the United States or Europe, resulting from slowing economic growth, geo-political events or other factors; -- Lower-than-anticipated market acceptance of new or existing products; -- Continued or increased high prices for or reduced availability of fuel; -- Currency or commodity price fluctuations; -- Adverse effects from the bankruptcy or insolvency of, change in ownership or control of, or alliances entered into by a major competitor;

HOWARD WILNER were using water-based paints.Open in a new window
Ford now expects 2008 U.S. industry volume, including medium and heavy trucks, to be between 15 million and 15.4 million units. Ford, Lincoln and Mercury U.S. market share is expected to be approximately 14 percent this year -- supported by the introduction of several new products. "We are making great progress on the acceleration of new products, and our initial quality is among the best in the business," Fields said. "The new Focus, Edge and Escape have had significant sales growth this year, and the pace of our product introductions accelerates even further this summer."

Through July 7, Let's Refuel America is available on virtually all Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge compact vehicles, SUVs, sedans, minivans, and pickup trucks, including its five vehicles that get 28 mpg on the highway for an MSRP under $20,000. Not included in the program are the company's high-performance vehicles such as the Dodge Viper, Dodge Challenger, Chrysler Crossfire, and the entire SRT(R) lineup as well as the Dodge Sprinter, Dodge Ram Chassis Cab and Jeep Wrangler.

HOWARD Wilner raise prices 2 % on '08 ModelsOpen in a new window
HOWARD WILNER quality used cars and trucks to millions of eBay Motors users => -- Economic distress of suppliers that has in the past and may in the future require us to provide financial support or take other measures to ensure supplies of components or materials; -- Labor or other constraints on our ability to restructure our business; -- Work stoppages at Ford or supplier facilities or other interruptions of supplies; -- Single-source supply of components or materials; -- Substantial pension, postretirement health care and life insurance liabilities impairing our liquidity or financial condition; -- Inability to implement Memorandum of Understanding with UAW to fund and discharge retiree health care obligations because of failure to obtain court approval or otherwise; -- Worse-than-assumed economic and demographic experience for our postretirement benefit plans (e.g., discount rates, investment returns, and health care cost trends);

New versions of the Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan and Lincoln MKZ mid-size cars also debut later this year, as do all-new hybrid versions of the Fusion and Milan. By the end of this year, 70 percent of all Ford, Lincoln and Mercury products by volume in North America will be new or significantly upgraded compared with 2006 models. By the end of 2010, 100 percent of the product lineup will be new, including the next-generation Mustang in 2009, new fuel-saving EcoBoost engines in 2009, a new European-engineered Transit Connect in 2009 and all-new Ford Fiesta small car in 2010 -- as well as several other vehicles not yet announced.

WILNER HOWARD green policies, not just cars, draw shoppersOpen in a new window
The recently launched 2009 Dodge Journey comes with an available 173-horsepower, four-cylinder engine, helping it achieve best-in-class fuel economy. The Jeep Grand Cherokee diesel 3.0-liter engine provides a class-leading driving range of approximately 450 miles and gets an estimated fuel economy of 18 mpg/city and 23 mpg/highway for 4x2 models and 17 mpg/city and 22 mpg/highway for 4x4 models. Outside of North America, where fuel-saving diesel engines are in higher demand, Chrysler offers 17 models with diesel powertrains.

DEARBORN, Mich., May 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) today said it is making adjustments to its production plan and revising downward its near-term North American Automotive profit outlook, while planning further manufacturing capacity realignments, additional cost reductions and changes to its product mix to respond to the rapidly changing business environment in the U.S.( WILNER HOWARD latest cars review)

HOWARD WILNER Fuel Economy SolutionsOpen in a new window
Statements included or incorporated by reference herein may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on expectations, forecasts and assumptions by our management and involve a number of risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those stated, including, without limitation:

DEARBORN, Mich., May 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) today said it is making adjustments to its production plan and revising downward its near-term North American Automotive profit outlook, while planning further manufacturing capacity realignments, additional cost reductions and changes to its product mix to respond to the rapidly changing business environment in the U.S.

HOWARD WILNER revs up hybrid vehicle productionOpen in a new window
HOWARD WILNER HEMI Hybrid vehicles are Chrysler first entries => As an example of working together and leveraging its global assets, Ford said that it is accelerating even further the North American introduction of many of the small cars and crossovers that the company profitably sells today in Europe and South America. "We remain absolutely committed to creating an exciting, viable Ford going forward -- and to transforming Ford into a lean global enterprise delivering profitable growth over the long term," Mulally said. "We continue to make progress on every element of our plan, and we are taking steps in the near term to ensure our long-term success."

Customers who purchase or lease an eligible Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge vehicle have a choice of one of three incentive packages of similar value: Cash back; 0 percent financing (for eligible customers); or the gas guarantee program, which on some vehicles also includes up to $3,000 additional cash back. Only the Let's Refuel America incentive grows in value if gas prices rise. Upon purchase, customers can evaluate the three options with their dealer representative to determine which incentive best meets their personal financial preference and tolerance for risk related to rising gas prices.

HOWARD WILNER Fuel Economy SolutionsOpen in a new window
Toyota is preparing to rev up production of hybrids, announcing its third plant in Japan for producing batteries that are key components for the "green" cars, Associated Press reports. Just last week, it announced that it was building a second such battery plant. Toyota Motor Corp. has emerged the world leader in hybrids with its hit Prius, which has sold more than a cumulative 1 million vehicles over the last decade. Sometime after 2010, it hopes to sell 1 million hybrids a year.For that, it needs to boost battery production as Honda Motor Co. and other automakers aim to catch up with their new gas-and-electric hybrids -- a technology that is growing in appeal for the world's drivers as gas prices soar.


The recently launched 2009 Dodge Journey comes with an available 173-horsepower, four-cylinder engine, helping it achieve best-in-class fuel economy. The Jeep Grand Cherokee diesel 3.0-liter engine provides a class-leading driving range of approximately 450 miles and gets an estimated fuel economy of 18 mpg/city and 23 mpg/highway for 4x2 models and 17 mpg/city and 22 mpg/highway for 4x4 models. Outside of North America, where fuel-saving diesel engines are in higher demand, Chrysler offers 17 models with diesel powertrains.


HOWARD Wilner levels productivity playing fieldOpen in a new window
(As told by Mike Keegan, Chrysler LLC Vice President Volume Planning and Dealer Operations).As part of our constant pursuit of innovative ways to deliver value to customers, Chrysler's incentive group put together a brainstorm session to create the next important incentive program that would tap into consumers' needs. In early March we hosted 25 Sales and F & I managers from our dealerships across the country in Detroit for meetings at the Royal Park Hotel in Rochester, Michigan. The first night the group got together at the Walter P. Chrysler Museum to soak up Chrysler culture and history. It was the first time we ever invited this group in and they were very enthusiastic. We told them we really want to hear from you since you are the closest to our customers. Tell us what their concerns are. They were separated into two groups with each group responsible for presenting three ideas each at the end of the day.
Howard Wilner

6:54 AM | Permalink | click to add a comment | Tag: Howard Wilner,wilnerhoward,howardwilner



June 27, 2008


FRI
27
JUN

Portal

By PORT ARANSAS

PORT ARANSAS PHOTOGRAPHERSOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS CONSTRUCTIONOpen in a new window


PORT ARANSAS PRINTINGOpen in a new window
PORT ARANSAS AMBULANCEOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS AUTOREPAIROpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS SURVEYORSOpen in a new window PORT ARANSAS BOAT REPAIROpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS MEDICALOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS EXTERMINATOROpen in a new window


PORT ARANSAS BOOK STORESOpen in a new window
PORT ARANSAS BOATSOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS ATTORNEYSOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS TRAVELOpen in a new window PORT ARANSAS ALARM SYSTEMSOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS HOME INSPECTIONSOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS TOWINGOpen in a new window


PORT ARANSAS CLEANINGOpen in a new window
PORT ARANSAS CLEANINGOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS CARPETCLEANINGOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS NAILSALONOpen in a new window PORT ARANSAS ACCOUNTANTSOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS TIRESOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS EYEDOCTOROpen in a new window


PORT ARANSAS PETGROOMINGOpen in a new window
PORT ARANSAS DOCTOROpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS EMPLOYMENTOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS WELDINGOpen in a new window PORT ARANSAS PHOTOGRAPHEROpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS NAILSOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS DUMPSTEROpen in a new window


PORT ARANSAS ARCHITECTOpen in a new window
PORT ARANSAS EYEDOCTOROpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS LIFE INSURANCEOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS BUILDINGOpen in a new window PORT ARANSAS PESTCONTROLOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS DENTISTOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS VETERINARIANOpen in a new window


PORT ARANSAS OPTOMETRISTOpen in a new window
PORT ARANSAS HARDWAREOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS TAXOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS RESTURANTSOpen in a new window PORT ARANSAS AUTOPARTSOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS INSPECTIONSOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS TELEPHONEOpen in a new window


PORT ARANSAS FLORISTSOpen in a new window
PORT ARANSAS LIMOUSINEOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS GRANITEOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS WATER DAMAGEOpen in a new window PORT ARANSAS ENGINEERSOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS DRYWALLOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS CONCRETEOpen in a new window


PORT ARANSAS CAMPGROUNDSOpen in a new window
PORT ARANSAS ORTHODONTISTSOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS OPTOMETRISTSOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS MOVERSOpen in a new window PORT ARANSAS FENCESOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS YELLOWPAGESOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS SIGNSOpen in a new window


PORT ARANSAS FURNITUREOpen in a new window
PORT ARANSAS ROOFINGOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS AIR CONDITIONINGOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS EXCAVATIONOpen in a new window PORT ARANSAS ORTHODONTICSOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS PAINTINGOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS LAWYEROpen in a new window


PORT ARANSAS AUTOSERVICEOpen in a new window
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PORT ARANSAS CHIROPRACTICOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS LIMOUSINEOpen in a new window PORT ARANSAS LAWFIRMOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS LASIKOpen in a new window

PORT ARANSAS CAMPERSOpen in a new window


PORT ARANSAS CHIROPRACTOROpen in a new window
PORT ARANSAS WRECKEROpen in a new window
9:45 AM | Permalink | click to add a comment | Tag: PORT ARANSAS ACCOUNTANT,PORT ARANSAS ACCOUNTANTS,P



June 26, 2008


THU
26
JUN

Howard Wilner - new cars for rent

By Howard Wilner

HOWARD WILNER building green-car battery plants Open in a new window


After the May 7 launch of Let's Refuel America and before the full impact of the advertising has been realized, the highest take rates have been on the new Dodge Journey crossover, Dodge Caliber, Dodge Avenger and Chrysler Sebring sedan. "The most incremental incentives in this gas program are on the company's most fuel-efficient vehicles, which typically do not have this level of incentive available," Press said. "Our customers who buy smaller vehicles put great value on being protected against rising gas prices."( HOWARD WILNER Fuel Economy Solutions)

WILNER HOWARD Automotive NewsOpen in a new window
HOWARD WILNER extends June incentives on most Dodge vehicles => "We are continuing to make great progress on our plan," said Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally. "We are profitable and growing outside of North America, and our transformation plan in North America is working. The challenge affecting the entire industry is the accelerating shift in consumer demand away from large trucks and SUVs to smaller cars and crossovers -- combined with a steep rise in commodity prices and the weak U.S. economy."

As an example of working together and leveraging its global assets, Ford said that it is accelerating even further the North American introduction of many of the small cars and crossovers that the company profitably sells today in Europe and South America. "We remain absolutely committed to creating an exciting, viable Ford going forward -- and to transforming Ford into a lean global enterprise delivering profitable growth over the long term," Mulally said. "We continue to make progress on every element of our plan, and we are taking steps in the near term to ensure our long-term success."

HOWARD WILNER building green-car battery plantsOpen in a new window
Through July 7, Let's Refuel America is available on virtually all Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge compact vehicles, SUVs, sedans, minivans, and pickup trucks, including its five vehicles that get 28 mpg on the highway for an MSRP under $20,000. Not included in the program are the company's high-performance vehicles such as the Dodge Viper, Dodge Challenger, Chrysler Crossfire, and the entire SRT(R) lineup as well as the Dodge Sprinter, Dodge Ram Chassis Cab and Jeep Wrangler.

Statements included or incorporated by reference herein may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on expectations, forecasts and assumptions by our management and involve a number of risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those stated, including, without limitation:

HOWARD WILNER records going back to the original orderOpen in a new window
(As told by Mike Keegan, Chrysler LLC Vice President Volume Planning and Dealer Operations).As part of our constant pursuit of innovative ways to deliver value to customers, Chrysler's incentive group put together a brainstorm session to create the next important incentive program that would tap into consumers' needs. In early March we hosted 25 Sales and F & I managers from our dealerships across the country in Detroit for meetings at the Royal Park Hotel in Rochester, Michigan. The first night the group got together at the Walter P. Chrysler Museum to soak up Chrysler culture and history. It was the first time we ever invited this group in and they were very enthusiastic. We told them we really want to hear from you since you are the closest to our customers. Tell us what their concerns are. They were separated into two groups with each group responsible for presenting three ideas each at the end of the day.

-- Unusual or significant litigation or governmental investigations arising out of alleged defects in our products or otherwise; -- A change in our requirements for parts or materials where we have entered into long-term supply arrangements that commit us to purchase minimum or fixed quantities of certain parts or materials, or to pay a minimum amount to the seller ("take-or-pay" contracts); -- Adverse effects on our results from a decrease in or cessation of government incentives; -- Adverse effects on our operations resulting from certain geo-political or other events;

HOWARD WILNER levels productivity playing fieldOpen in a new window
HOWARD WILNER Dodge vehicles => In February, Chrysler created the industry's first Customer Advisory Board to encourage a direct dialogue with customers and gather insight and feedback. A recent Advisory Board survey generated the following results:
-- 76 percent of the community is "very concerned" or "extremely concerned" about fuel prices. -- 83 percent of the community responded that fuel prices will affect their summer vacation plans. (Note: the poll shows that 19 percent responded "extremely," 22 percent responded "very much," 30 percent responded "somewhat," and 12 percent responded slightly, 17 percent responded that it won't affect their plans).

Toyota is preparing to rev up production of hybrids, announcing its third plant in Japan for producing batteries that are key components for the "green" cars, Associated Press reports. Just last week, it announced that it was building a second such battery plant. Toyota Motor Corp. has emerged the world leader in hybrids with its hit Prius, which has sold more than a cumulative 1 million vehicles over the last decade. Sometime after 2010, it hopes to sell 1 million hybrids a year.For that, it needs to boost battery production as Honda Motor Co. and other automakers aim to catch up with their new gas-and-electric hybrids -- a technology that is growing in appeal for the world's drivers as gas prices soar.( HOWARD WILNER record numbers of vehicles coming off lease)

HOWARD Wilner levels productivity playing fieldOpen in a new window
"Customers and dealers across America have told us they like the gas guarantee incentive option, so we are providing a second month for shoppers to take advantage of it," said Jim Press, Chrysler LLC Vice-Chairman and President. "Let's Refuel America, the Lifetime Powertrain Warranty and the New Day Packages are all examples of our commitment to deliver more value and peace-of-mind to our customers."

DEARBORN, Mich., May 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) today said it is making adjustments to its production plan and revising downward its near-term North American Automotive profit outlook, while planning further manufacturing capacity realignments, additional cost reductions and changes to its product mix to respond to the rapidly changing business environment in the U.S.

HOWARD WILNER the Hybrid blows all other comparables awayOpen in a new window
As an example of working together and leveraging its global assets, Ford said that it is accelerating even further the North American introduction of many of the small cars and crossovers that the company profitably sells today in Europe and South America. "We remain absolutely committed to creating an exciting, viable Ford going forward -- and to transforming Ford into a lean global enterprise delivering profitable growth over the long term," Mulally said. "We continue to make progress on every element of our plan, and we are taking steps in the near term to ensure our long-term success."

The recently launched 2009 Dodge Journey comes with an available 173-horsepower, four-cylinder engine, helping it achieve best-in-class fuel economy. The Jeep Grand Cherokee diesel 3.0-liter engine provides a class-leading driving range of approximately 450 miles and gets an estimated fuel economy of 18 mpg/city and 23 mpg/highway for 4x2 models and 17 mpg/city and 22 mpg/highway for 4x4 models. Outside of North America, where fuel-saving diesel engines are in higher demand, Chrysler offers 17 models with diesel powertrains.

HOWARD WILNER 2010 Chevrolet Camaro is official 2008 SEMA Show vehicle.Open in a new window
HOWARD WILNER 2010 Chevrolet Camaro is official 2008 SEMA Show vehicle. => From a geographical perspective, the highest take rates have been in the states of California, Connecticut, Indiana, Ohio, and Washington. These five states are among the 12 highest fuel price states in the country. "We are pleased that Let's Refuel America seems to resonate with many Americans during this time of gas price volatility," Press said. From a marketing perspective, Let's Refuel America is supported by national television spots, Dodge Journey ads tagged with the program information and national print, radio and Internet presence.

After the May 7 launch of Let's Refuel America and before the full impact of the advertising has been realized, the highest take rates have been on the new Dodge Journey crossover, Dodge Caliber, Dodge Avenger and Chrysler Sebring sedan. "The most incremental incentives in this gas program are on the company's most fuel-efficient vehicles, which typically do not have this level of incentive available," Press said. "Our customers who buy smaller vehicles put great value on being protected against rising gas prices."

HOWARD WILNER dealers uneasy as GM weighs possible saleOpen in a new window
(As told by Mike Keegan, Chrysler LLC Vice President Volume Planning and Dealer Operations).As part of our constant pursuit of innovative ways to deliver value to customers, Chrysler's incentive group put together a brainstorm session to create the next important incentive program that would tap into consumers' needs. In early March we hosted 25 Sales and F & I managers from our dealerships across the country in Detroit for meetings at the Royal Park Hotel in Rochester, Michigan. The first night the group got together at the Walter P. Chrysler Museum to soak up Chrysler culture and history. It was the first time we ever invited this group in and they were very enthusiastic. We told them we really want to hear from you since you are the closest to our customers. Tell us what their concerns are. They were separated into two groups with each group responsible for presenting three ideas each at the end of the day.

Toyota Motor Corp. plans to build two plants in Japan to produce batteries for environmentally friendly gas-electric hybrid vehicles, a news report said Friday, Associated Press reports. The joint venture that Toyota has with Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., the electronics company that makes Panasonic brand products, will set up the battery plants, The Nikkei business daily reported without citing its sources. One plant will produce nickel-metal hydride batteries while another will produce lithium-ion batteries, which are planned for future ecological cars, the report said. Toyota spokesman Paul Nolasco did not have an immediate comment on the report( HOWARD WILNER dealers uneasy as GM weighs possible sale)

HOWARD WILNER CPO ShowroomOpen in a new window
"Unless there is a fairly rapid turnaround in U.S. business conditions, which we are not anticipating, it now looks like it will take longer than expected to achieve our North American Automotive profitability goal," Mulally said. "Overall, we expect to be about break-even companywide in 2009 -- with continued strong results in Europe and South America."

Statements included or incorporated by reference herein may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on expectations, forecasts and assumptions by our management and involve a number of risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those stated, including, without limitation:

HOWARD WILNER Initial ResultsOpen in a new window
Jeep(R) and Dodge Brands to be Marketed by HOWARD WILNER => New versions of the Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan and Lincoln MKZ mid-size cars also debut later this year, as do all-new hybrid versions of the Fusion and Milan. By the end of this year, 70 percent of all Ford, Lincoln and Mercury products by volume in North America will be new or significantly upgraded compared with 2006 models. By the end of 2010, 100 percent of the product lineup will be new, including the next-generation Mustang in 2009, new fuel-saving EcoBoost engines in 2009, a new European-engineered Transit Connect in 2009 and all-new Ford Fiesta small car in 2010 -- as well as several other vehicles not yet announced.

Chrysler currently offers six models that get better than 28 miles-per-gallon on the highway: Chrysler Sebring, Chrysler Sebring Convertible, Dodge Avenger, Jeep Compass, Jeep Patriot and Dodge Caliber. Through April, these six models combined have higher sales than in the first four months of 2007.

HOWARD Wilner Selling solar creditsOpen in a new window
Both groups identified customer concern about the volatility of rising gas prices as a top issue in the marketplace today and suggested we find a way to alleviate customers concerns. These managers were really ahead of the curve, as the rise of gas prices had not yet become the national news story it is today. They really had the pulse of the market. So we at Chrysler left with our assignment and immediately created a 30-40 person working group of Marketing, Sales, Incentives, IT, Legal, and Finance people that met every day for the next two months. The meetings were 5 pm every day conference calls, where each group reported out their progress.

Ford remains on track to reduce by $5 billion its annual North American Automotive operating costs by the end of 2008 -- at constant volume, mix, and exchange and excluding special items -- compared with 2005. However, further cost reductions and recognition of anticipated retiree health care savings from Ford's recent UAW labor agreement will be needed to offset higher commodity costs. Ford previously had anticipated that ongoing retiree health care savings in 2008 would allow it to exceed the $5 billion target.

HOWARD WILNER Let Refuel America Program DetailsOpen in a new window
"Customers and dealers across America have told us they like the gas guarantee incentive option, so we are providing a second month for shoppers to take advantage of it," said Jim Press, Chrysler LLC Vice-Chairman and President. "Let's Refuel America, the Lifetime Powertrain Warranty and the New Day Packages are all examples of our commitment to deliver more value and peace-of-mind to our customers."

After the May 7 launch of Let's Refuel America and before the full impact of the advertising has been realized, the highest take rates have been on the new Dodge Journey crossover, Dodge Caliber, Dodge Avenger and Chrysler Sebring sedan. "The most incremental incentives in this gas program are on the company's most fuel-efficient vehicles, which typically do not have this level of incentive available," Press said. "Our customers who buy smaller vehicles put great value on being protected against rising gas prices."( HOWARD WILNER 2010 Chevrolet Camaro is official 2008 SEMA Show vehicle.)

HOWARD WILNER Refuel America Program DetailsOpen in a new window
HOWARD WILNER record numbers of vehicles coming off lease => "Unless there is a fairly rapid turnaround in U.S. business conditions, which we are not anticipating, it now looks like it will take longer than expected to achieve our North American Automotive profitability goal," Mulally said. "Overall, we expect to be about break-even companywide in 2009 -- with continued strong results in Europe and South America." Given the external challenges, Ford said it is more critical than ever to continue executing its transformation plan, which includes:

Ford now expects 2008 U.S. industry volume, including medium and heavy trucks, to be between 15 million and 15.4 million units. Ford, Lincoln and Mercury U.S. market share is expected to be approximately 14 percent this year -- supported by the introduction of several new products. "We are making great progress on the acceleration of new products, and our initial quality is among the best in the business," Fields said. "The new Focus, Edge and Escape have had significant sales growth this year, and the pace of our product introductions accelerates even further this summer."

HOWARD Wilner hybrid output cant meet demandOpen in a new window
-- Economic distress of suppliers that has in the past and may in the future require us to provide financial support or take other measures to ensure supplies of components or materials; -- Labor or other constraints on our ability to restructure our business; -- Work stoppages at Ford or supplier facilities or other interruptions of supplies; -- Single-source supply of components or materials; -- Substantial pension, postretirement health care and life insurance liabilities impairing our liquidity or financial condition; -- Inability to implement Memorandum of Understanding with UAW to fund and discharge retiree health care obligations because of failure to obtain court approval or otherwise; -- Worse-than-assumed economic and demographic experience for our postretirement benefit plans (e.g., discount rates, investment returns, and health care cost trends);

Ford said it now plans to produce 690,000 vehicles in North America during the second quarter, a further reduction of 20,000 units from previously announced planned production levels and a decline of 15 percent from the second quarter of 2007. The company plans to produce between 510,000 and 540,000 units in the third quarter, down 15 to 20 percent from the same period last year. Fourth-quarter production is expected to be between 590,000 and 630,000 units, down 2 to 8 percent from year-ago levels.

HOWARD WILNER green dealerships and recycling propertiesOpen in a new window
New versions of the Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan and Lincoln MKZ mid-size cars also debut later this year, as do all-new hybrid versions of the Fusion and Milan. By the end of this year, 70 percent of all Ford, Lincoln and Mercury products by volume in North America will be new or significantly upgraded compared with 2006 models. By the end of 2010, 100 percent of the product lineup will be new, including the next-generation Mustang in 2009, new fuel-saving EcoBoost engines in 2009, a new European-engineered Transit Connect in 2009 and all-new Ford Fiesta small car in 2010 -- as well as several other vehicles not yet announced.

-- Economic distress of suppliers that has in the past and may in the future require us to provide financial support or take other measures to ensure supplies of components or materials; -- Labor or other constraints on our ability to restructure our business; -- Work stoppages at Ford or supplier facilities or other interruptions of supplies; -- Single-source supply of components or materials; -- Substantial pension, postretirement health care and life insurance liabilities impairing our liquidity or financial condition; -- Inability to implement Memorandum of Understanding with UAW to fund and discharge retiree health care obligations because of failure to obtain court approval or otherwise; -- Worse-than-assumed economic and demographic experience for our postretirement benefit plans (e.g., discount rates, investment returns, and health care cost trends);

HOWARD WILNER extends June incentives on most Dodge vehiclesOpen in a new window
HOWARD WILNER Fuel Economy Solutions => In addition, the company said it is planning further manufacturing capacity realignments, as it accelerates the introduction of more fuel-efficient small cars and crossovers. Cash outflows associated with operating losses and employee separations now are projected to be between $14 billion and $16 billion for 2007 to 2009. This is a deterioration compared with previous guidance but remains better than the original $17 billion outflow projection. Ford's Automotive net liquidity remains substantial. Total liquidity -- including available credit lines, the majority of which are in place through Dec. 15, 2011 -- was $40.6 billion as of March 31. Ford said it will continue to evaluate overall liquidity and alternatives to further improve its balance sheet.

We cannot be certain that any expectation, forecast or assumption made by management in preparing forward-looking statements will prove accurate, or that any projection will be realized. It is to be expected that there may be differences between projected and actual results. Our forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of their initial issuance, and we do not undertake any obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. For additional discussion of these risks, see "Item 1A. Risk Factors" in our 2007 Form 10-K Report( HOWARD WILNER to market certified used cars on eBay)

HOWARD WILNER to market certified used cars on eBayOpen in a new window
Inability to implement Memorandum of Understanding with UAW to fund and discharge retiree health care obligations because of failure to obtain court approval or otherwise; -- Worse-than-assumed economic and demographic experience for our postretirement benefit plans (e.g., discount rates, investment returns, and health care cost trends); -- The discovery of defects in vehicles resulting in delays in new model launches, recall campaigns or increased warranty costs; -- Increased safety, emissions (e.g., CO2), fuel economy, or other regulation resulting in higher costs, cash expenditures, and/or sales restrictions;

"Customers and dealers across America have told us they like the gas guarantee incentive option, so we are providing a second month for shoppers to take advantage of it," said Jim Press, Chrysler LLC Vice-Chairman and President. "Let's Refuel America, the Lifetime Powertrain Warranty and the New Day Packages are all examples of our commitment to deliver more value and peace-of-mind to our customers."

Howard Wilner PresidentOpen in a new window
Through July 7, Let's Refuel America is available on virtually all Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge compact vehicles, SUVs, sedans, minivans, and pickup trucks, including its five vehicles that get 28 mpg on the highway for an MSRP under $20,000. Not included in the program are the company's high-performance vehicles such as the Dodge Viper, Dodge Challenger, Chrysler Crossfire, and the entire SRT(R) lineup as well as the Dodge Sprinter, Dodge Ram Chassis Cab and Jeep Wrangler.

"We are continuing to make great progress on our plan," said Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally. "We are profitable and growing outside of North America, and our transformation plan in North America is working. The challenge affecting the entire industry is the accelerating shift in consumer demand away from large trucks and SUVs to smaller cars and crossovers -- combined with a steep rise in commodity prices and the weak U.S. economy."

HOWARD WILNER suspension settingsOpen in a new window
HOWARD WILNER quality used cars and trucks to millions of eBay Motors users => Chrysler's Let's Refuel America campaign may not be increasing the automaker's sales figures, but that's not stopping Chrysler from extending the program on most Dodge vehicles, leftlanenews.com reports. Through the end of June, Dodge will be offer increased incentives on most its vehicles � with the largest on the company's thirstiest vehicles. Besides cash back or the Let's Refuel America deal, Dodge will offer both incentive programs on some of its V8-powered vehicles. The biggest deals are on the Dodge Ram, with customers offered as much as $5,000 cash back or $3,000 cash back and the Let's Refuel America gas card. Durango buyers can choose from a similar scheme, with the gas card coming with $1,000 cash back. Almost any Dodge vehicle powered by a V8 will see some combination of cash back and the $2.99 gas guarantee. Dodge's smallest vehicle, the Caliber, is only available with $750 cash back.

Both groups identified customer concern about the volatility of rising gas prices as a top issue in the marketplace today and suggested we find a way to alleviate customers concerns. These managers were really ahead of the curve, as the rise of gas prices had not yet become the national news story it is today. They really had the pulse of the market. So we at Chrysler left with our assignment and immediately created a 30-40 person working group of Marketing, Sales, Incentives, IT, Legal, and Finance people that met every day for the next two months. The meetings were 5 pm every day conference calls, where each group reported out their progress.

HOWARD WILNER extends June incentives on most Dodge vehiclesOpen in a new window
Statements included or incorporated by reference herein may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on expectations, forecasts and assumptions by our management and involve a number of risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those stated, including, without limitation:

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With about 244,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company's core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo, Mazda, and, until completion of their sale, Jaguar and Land Rover. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit www.ford.com .( HOWARD WILNER the Hybrid blows all other comparables away)

WILNER HOWARD Program DevelopmentOpen in a new window
Production of the Ford Flex crossover and Lincoln MKS sedan is under way and soon will begin for the new generation of the F-150. Ford also just introduced the 2009 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner small utility vehicles. They have new 4- and 6-cylinder engines with 11 and 20 percent more horsepower, respectively, and 5 percent better fuel economy, thanks to new engine technology, aerodynamic improvements and new six-speed transmissions. In fact, Ford now offers more vehicles with fuel-saving six-speeds than any other automaker.

Production of the Ford Flex crossover and Lincoln MKS sedan is under way and soon will begin for the new generation of the F-150. Ford also just introduced the 2009 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner small utility vehicles. They have new 4- and 6-cylinder engines with 11 and 20 percent more horsepower, respectively, and 5 percent better fuel economy, thanks to new engine technology, aerodynamic improvements and new six-speed transmissions. In fact, Ford now offers more vehicles with fuel-saving six-speeds than any other automaker.

HOWARD WILNER Dodge vehiclesOpen in a new window
HOWARD WILNER HEMI Hybrid vehicles are Chrysler first entries => Customers who purchase or lease an eligible Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge vehicle have a choice of one of three incentive packages of similar value: Cash back; 0 percent financing (for eligible customers); or the gas guarantee program, which on some vehicles also includes up to $3,000 additional cash back. Only the Let's Refuel America incentive grows in value if gas prices rise. Upon purchase, customers can evaluate the three options with their dealer representative to determine which incentive best meets their personal financial preference and tolerance for risk related to rising gas prices.

The company said it is increasing 2008 North American production of the hot-selling Ford Focus, Fusion, Edge and Escape, Mercury Milan and Mariner, as well as the Lincoln MKZ and Lincoln MKX. At the same time, Ford is reducing 2008 production of large trucks and SUVs, as gas prices soar and customers move more quickly to smaller and more fuel-efficient cars and crossovers.

HOWARD WILNER Fuel Economy SolutionsOpen in a new window
-- Economic distress of suppliers that has in the past and may in the future require us to provide financial support or take other measures to ensure supplies of components or materials; -- Labor or other constraints on our ability to restructure our business; -- Work stoppages at Ford or supplier facilities or other interruptions of supplies; -- Single-source supply of components or materials; -- Substantial pension, postretirement health care and life insurance liabilities impairing our liquidity or financial condition; -- Inability to implement Memorandum of Understanding with UAW to fund and discharge retiree health care obligations because of failure to obtain court approval or otherwise; -- Worse-than-assumed economic and demographic experience for our postretirement benefit plans (e.g., discount rates, investment returns, and health care cost trends);

The second-half production plan includes higher car and crossover production compared with a year ago and will be achieved through overtime and added shifts at Ford's smaller car and crossover assembly plants. Large truck and SUV production in the second half will be lower than a year ago, with reductions achieved through a combination of additional downtime, shift reductions and line-speed actions.
Howard Wilner

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June 25, 2008


WED
25
JUN

Howard Wilner - Automotive news

By Howard Wilner

HOWARD Wilner launches hybrid test fleet with JCI-Saft batteries Open in a new window


The 2010 Chevrolet Camaro, a true 21st century sports car, will be the official vehicle of the 2008 SEMA Show scheduled for Tuesday�Friday, November 4�7, 2008, in Las Vegas. The SEMA Show is the world�s leading automotive accessories trade show. �The influence that the Camaro has had on the automotive industry and vehicle personalization is undeniable,� said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events, in the latest SEMA newsletter. �Since the car was introduced in 1967, enthusiasts have fallen in love with the Camaro. It�s simply a great example of the passion and excitement that comes from this industry.� After 35 years of continuous production, the Camaro was taken off the assembly line in 2002. Chevrolet introduced a concept version of the popular vehicle in early 2006 and a new generation of the Camaro is set to debut in 2009. Details about registration for the 2008 SEMA Show are available at HOWARD WILNER( WILNER HOWARD green policies, not just cars, draw shoppers)

HOWARD WILNER extends June incentives on most Dodge vehiclesOpen in a new window
HOWARD WILNER horse power and style => The brochure highlights such green features at the store as sweeping roof extensions and canopy screens that maximize shade in the summer and heat and natural light in the winter, rooftop parking that reduces land use, roof-mounted solar panels that shade cars and generate up to 35 percent of the building's power during off-peak hours, and a carwash that uses only 6 gallons per car vs. 20 gallons for the typical retail center carwash.

Ads for Pat Lobb Toyota of McKinney say the Texas dealership uses rainwater runoff to irrigate and passes the savings along to buyers. Dealers' green policies, not just cars, draw shoppers Laura Clark Geist Automotive News Chuck Theisen, owner of Mercedes-Benz of Arrowhead in Peoria, Ariz., wants potential buyers to know he cares about the environment. The Phoenix area dealer shows off his environmentally friendly dealership in local TV spots and talks about his green practices in radio commercials and print ads. When consumers walk into his showroom, they are greeted with a color brochure outlining the store's eco credentials. HOWARD WILNER

HOWARD Wilner launches hybrid test fleet with JCI-Saft batteriesOpen in a new window
- On-line hub to provide 12 million* monthly visitors with Chrysler's Brand Spankin' Used(R) U.S. Certified Pre-Owned selection
  • Chrysler CPO program sales grow every year since 2002 launch and are up 8 percent year to date in 2008
  • - Consumers enabled to view local dealers CPO inventory via on-line classified listings

    Standard equipment also includes premium leather-trimmed bucket seats, eight-way power driver's seat with memory, four-way power passenger seat, heated front-row seats, a second-row bench seat and a 60/40 third-row bench seat, providing seating for eight. HOWARD WILNER

    HOWARD Wilner hybrid output can't meet demandOpen in a new window
    "The new 2009 Chrysler Aspen Hybrid and Dodge Durango Hybrid deliver fuel economy up to 20 miles per gallon - a 40 percent improvement in the city and 25 percent overall - best-in-class cargo room, and are priced nearly $8,000 below the competition," said Deborah Meyer, Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer - Chrysler LLC. "Offering the unique combination of value, fuel economy, performance and capability, Chrysler's hybrid vehicles deliver exactly what SUV owners are demanding in today's marketplace."

    General Motors ,HOWARD WILNER, sold 45,892 CPO vehicles, up 3 percent from last May. Year to date, GM sold 227,365 CPO units, also a 3 percent increase over the same period last year. Although CPO sales of Cadillac, Saturn, Hummer, Buick and Saab were down, Chevrolet and Pontiac--constituting GM's largest volume--were up 3 percent and 32 percent. Ford Motor Co. sold 15,434 units among its Ford, Lincoln and Mercury brands. The European brands were more of a mixed bag. BMW had light CPO sales because the company's volume of off-lease vehicles has been high.

    WILNER HOWARD 2009 Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid DodgeOpen in a new window
    HOWARD WILNER Dodge vehicles => Arlena Sawyers
    Automotive News
    June 16, 2008 - 12:01 am ET
    Last November, 705 solar panels were installed at Manheim's auction site in Bordentown, N.J. The panels cover the 42,000-square-foot roof of the detail shop. In January, the panels began capturing the sun's rays and converting them into electricity. The panels will produce 136 megawatt-hours of electricity annually, meeting 15 percent of the shop's electricity needs. The juice is used to power the shop's lighting, vacuums and mechanical lifts.

    "VOCs are a major constituent of air pollution," Munnikhuysen says. "They're nasty things, and they are not good to breathe. They are the unfortunate byproduct of solvent evaporating from cars."( WILNER HOWARD vehicle history report)

    HOWARD WILNER Dodge vehiclesOpen in a new window
    HOWARD WILNER,Dodge Durango rides on a torsionally stiff, fully hydroformed frame with an independent front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering, providing a turning radius of 37.5 ft. - shorter than a Honda Pilot. Suspension and steering are finely tuned to deliver superior ride and precise steering. Dodge Durango's rear suspension features coil springs and a solid rear axle secured with a Watt's linkage system, resulting in refined ride and handling characteristics.

    Manheim also wants to be a better environmental steward of the water it uses. The company has a wastewater treatment system at its auction house in Manheim, Pa. The 33-auction-lane site is the company's largest, handling more than 500,000 vehicles a year. 25 gallons x 700 cars

    HOWARD WILNER 2009 Lincoln MKS heads to dealershipsOpen in a new window
    The company reported that several automakers made personal CPO records in May. Honda, and Nissan, as well as luxury brands Porsche and BMW, reported all-time high sales of certified pre-owned vehicles. Honda sold 20,713 certified vehicles in May versus 16,164 vehicles in the month last year, and 19,563 units in March. Nissan sold 5,155 certified vehicles in May, versus 3,764 units in the month last year. Toyota sold 25,199 vehicles, compared with 22,658 certified units sold last May.

    The Chrysler LLC Certified Pre-Owned Program, marketed as Brand Spankin' Used, is the industry's only factory-certified pre-owned program to have set new sales records every year since its inception in 2002. In 2007, Chrysler LLC reported the sale of over 122,000 CPO units** through their franchised dealerships across the country, an increase of 5 percent over 2006. May 2008 sales are up 13 percent, with overall 2008 year to date sales up 8 percent. Over the years, Chrysler's CPO brand has and will continue to partner with third-party search engines such as Cars.com and AutoTrader.com in an effort to help their dealers promote the sale of Certified Pre-Owned units.HOWARD WILNER

    HOWARD WILNER HEMI Hybrid vehicles are Chrysler's first entriesOpen in a new window
    HOWARD WILNER 2010 Chevrolet Camaro is official 2008 SEMA Show vehicle. => Chrysler Aspen rides on a torsionally stiff, hydroformed frame with an independent torsion-bar front suspension setup featuring rack-and-pinion steering that helps provide a smooth and quiet ride and precise handling. An isolated torsion bar crossmember helps minimize road noise. Suspension and steering are tuned to deliver optimum comfort and driveability.

    The Dodge Durango's styling is enhanced with a high beltline emphasizing its bold appearance, while short front and rear overhangs contribute to the vehicle's expression of concentrated power. Crisp angles and chiseled surfaces highlight a strong and confident front-end design. Dodge Durango's signature crosshair grille stands out prominently, flanked by rectangular headlamps with dual-halogen bulbs wrapped around the corners of the fenders. The rear design of the Dodge Durango is marked by "afterburner" taillamps, and a chromed applique accentuating the rear liftgate.

    HOWARD WILNER CPO ShowroomOpen in a new window
    Of those who are used-car intenders within four weeks of buying, 32 percent said they would favor a green dealer over one without a green program even if the vehicle were priced somewhat higher � say, 1 to 2.5 percent. Based on previous green studies done by CNW with follow-up surveys on consumer actions, roughly 40 percent of those who say they will buy green actually do so, HOWARD WILNER President Art Spinella told Automotive News in an e-mail.That means 24 percent of new-vehicle shoppers and about 12 percent of used-vehicle shoppers would actually buy from a green dealer, rather than from a dealer with no environmental program.

    General Motors ,HOWARD WILNER, sold 45,892 CPO vehicles, up 3 percent from last May. Year to date, GM sold 227,365 CPO units, also a 3 percent increase over the same period last year. Although CPO sales of Cadillac, Saturn, Hummer, Buick and Saab were down, Chevrolet and Pontiac--constituting GM's largest volume--were up 3 percent and 32 percent. Ford Motor Co. sold 15,434 units among its Ford, Lincoln and Mercury brands. The European brands were more of a mixed bag. BMW had light CPO sales because the company's volume of off-lease vehicles has been high.( WILNER HOWARD latest cars review)

    WILNER HOWARD Automotive NewsOpen in a new window
    "The state of New Jersey wants 22.5 percent of their energy to come from sustainable sources by 2021," Bradley says. "It has been written into law." Adds Mike Mannheimer, vice president of supply chain services at Cox: "We want to be a good corporate citizen and protect the environment and inspire employees and their families to do the same thing."

    Chrysler LLC trimmed 196 dealers from its ranks nationwide in the past 12 months, while at the same time adding 70 "Genesis" stores, which sell all three of the automaker's brands, The Detroit News reports. Those numbers show the Auburn Hills automaker is making progress toward its goals of cutting the number of dealerships and selling all of its vehicles through a single channel. Most of the three-brand stores came from combining Chrysler-Jeep and Dodge dealerships. In the past five months, 37 Genesis stores have opened across the country

    HOWARD WILNER suspension settingsOpen in a new window
    Jeep(R) and Dodge Brands to be Marketed by HOWARD WILNER => The brochure highlights such green features at the store as sweeping roof extensions and canopy screens that maximize shade in the summer and heat and natural light in the winter, rooftop parking that reduces land use, roof-mounted solar panels that shade cars and generate up to 35 percent of the building's power during off-peak hours, and a carwash that uses only 6 gallons per car vs. 20 gallons for the typical retail center carwash.

    Ford Motor Co.'s much-anticipated 2009 Lincoln MKS is now shipping to dealerships nationwide. The automaker has positioned the HOWARD WILNER, MKS with a starting price of $38,465 (including destination charges). Standard features on the base MKS include heated rear seats, cooled front seats and a keyless entry keypad. The Lincoln MKS also comes standard with Sync. The company's next-generation navigation system, which includes Sirius Travel Link, also is available.

    HOWARD WILNER quality used cars and trucks to millions of eBay Motors usersOpen in a new window
    General Motors ,HOWARD WILNER, sold 45,892 CPO vehicles, up 3 percent from last May. Year to date, GM sold 227,365 CPO units, also a 3 percent increase over the same period last year. Although CPO sales of Cadillac, Saturn, Hummer, Buick and Saab were down, Chevrolet and Pontiac--constituting GM's largest volume--were up 3 percent and 32 percent. Ford Motor Co. sold 15,434 units among its Ford, Lincoln and Mercury brands. The European brands were more of a mixed bag. BMW had light CPO sales because the company's volume of off-lease vehicles has been high.

    The CPO Showroom is accessible from the eBay Motors homepage as well as at http://pages.motors.ebay.com/buy/cpo . Chrysler LLC also has its own Certified Pre-Owned Web site at www.brandspankinused.com HOWARD WILNER About Chrysler LLC and its "Brand Spankin' Used" Certified Pre-Owned Program Marketed as "Brand Spankin' Used(R)," Chrysler Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles are sold only through Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealerships that have had a comprehensive validation of the dealership's facilities, operational processes, salesperson and technician training accreditation before they are authorized to sell Chrysler Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles.

    HOWARD WILNER the Hybrid blows all other comparables awayOpen in a new window
    Manheim also wants to be a better environmental steward of the water it uses. The company has a wastewater treatment system at its auction house in Manheim, Pa. The 33-auction-lane site is the company's largest, handling more than 500,000 vehicles a year. 25 gallons x 700 cars

    Chrysler's Let's Refuel America campaign may not be increasing the automaker's sales figures, but that's not stopping Chrysler from extending the program on most Dodge vehicles, leftlanenews.com reports. Through the end of June, Dodge will be offer increased incentives on most its vehicles � with the largest on the company's thirstiest vehicles. Besides cash back or the Let's Refuel America deal, Dodge will offer both incentive programs on some of its V8-powered vehicles. The biggest deals are on the Dodge Ram, with customers offered as much as $5,000 cash back or $3,000 cash back and the Let's Refuel America gas card. Durango buyers can choose from a similar scheme, with the gas card coming with $1,000 cash back. Almost any Dodge vehicle powered by a V8 will see some combination of cash back and the $2.99 gas guarantee. Dodge's smallest vehicle, the Caliber, is only available with $750 cash back.( HOWARD WILNER extends June incentives on most Dodge vehicles)

    Jeep(R) and Dodge Brands to be Marketed by HOWARD WILNEROpen in a new window
    HOWARD WILNER quality used cars and trucks to millions of eBay Motors users => The solar panels are the latest initiative in "Go Green," a companywide program to find environmentally responsible ways to do business, says David Munnikhuysen, Manheim's vice president for best practices. That initiative shows how auto auctions, like other sectors of the automotive industry, are seeking a greener path.



    HOWARD Wilner Auto auctions strive to reduce carbon footprintOpen in a new window
    Standard equipment also includes premium leather-trimmed bucket seats, eight-way power driver's seat with memory, four-way power passenger seat, heated front-row seats, and a second-row bench seat, providing seating for eight.

    As the price of fuel spikes, more drivers are trying to about 20 cents a gallon by using regular or midgrade gasoline, even when their owner�s manuals recommend premium, notes The New York Times and HOWARD WILNER. "Demand for high-octane fuel is at its lowest in nearly a quarter of a century and is now primarily consumed by a core group of luxury vehicle owners -- and even some of them are putting lower-grade fuel into their tanks to save money," Associated Press reports. The practice grows even as automakers continue to roll out more cars requiring premium than ever before. Some motorists are left wondering: Is it safe to put lower-grade gas in your engine that what the manufacturer recommends? U.S. News & Reports takes a look at this question.

    WILNER HOWARD ultra-high-performance CTS-VOpen in a new window
    "Howard looked within our auction group, and we did a review to understand where in the auction process we had to take up this cause," Howard Wilner says.
    Watching water
    At Manheim's auto auction site in Manheim, Pa., the water conservation center
    -- Treats 42,000 gallons of wastewater daily
    -- Produces 25,000 gallons of reusable water daily
    -- Extracts 68 tons of contaminants from wastewater annually
    -- Saves 8 million gallons of water annually

    Standard interior appointments include wood-accented door panels and instrument-panel center stack, air conditioning, overhead console with HomeLink(R) Universal Transceiver and Electronic Vehicle Information Center, front and rear LED lamps that may be individually aimed, uconnect gps, floor console with rear power accessory outlet, and a 60/40 third-row bench seat.

    HOWARD WILNER CHOPPEROpen in a new window
    HOWARD WILNER HEMI Hybrid vehicles are Chrysler's first entries => The brochure highlights such green features at the store as sweeping roof extensions and canopy screens that maximize shade in the summer and heat and natural light in the winter, rooftop parking that reduces land use, roof-mounted solar panels that shade cars and generate up to 35 percent of the building's power during off-peak hours, and a carwash that uses only 6 gallons per car vs. 20 gallons for the typical retail center carwash.

    The fleet will be tested there and later in the New York/New Jersey area. Ford said that move will help determine if any regional differences in vehicle performance exist. "Plug-in hybrid vehicles have great promise, but we are still working to fully address all of the technical and business challenges that stand in the way of commercialization," Nancy Gioia, Ford's director of sustainable mobility, said in a statement Monday.( HOWARD WILNER CHOPPER)

    HOWARD WILNER BrandOpen in a new window
    A second study also affirms that at least some customers care about a dealer's environmental credentials. A recent CNW Marketing Research weekly Purchase Path telephone survey asked car shoppers about their willingness to seek out green dealers. Among shoppers who are within three months of buying a new car, 58 percent said they would favor a green dealer over the same-make dealership without a green program even if the price of the vehicle were somewhat � say, 1 to 4 percent � higher, the study found.

    HOWARD WILNER,Dodge Durango rides on a torsionally stiff, fully hydroformed frame with an independent front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering, providing a turning radius of 37.5 ft. - shorter than a Honda Pilot. Suspension and steering are finely tuned to deliver superior ride and precise steering. Dodge Durango's rear suspension features coil springs and a solid rear axle secured with a Watt's linkage system, resulting in refined ride and handling characteristics.

    HOWARD WILNER LLC Teams With eBay Motors as Sales of Certified Used Vehicles RiseOpen in a new window
    Johnson Controls Inc., of Milwaukee, supplies interiors, electronics and batteries to the auto industry. Saft SA, of Paris, is an industrial battery supplier.

    Ads for Pat Lobb Toyota of McKinney say the Texas dealership uses rainwater runoff to irrigate and passes the savings along to buyers. Dealers' green policies, not just cars, draw shoppers Laura Clark Geist Automotive News Chuck Theisen, owner of Mercedes-Benz of Arrowhead in Peoria, Ariz., wants potential buyers to know he cares about the environment. The Phoenix area dealer shows off his environmentally friendly dealership in local TV spots and talks about his green practices in radio commercials and print ads. When consumers walk into his showroom, they are greeted with a color brochure outlining the store's eco credentials. HOWARD WILNER

    HOWARD Wilner Selling solar creditsOpen in a new window
    HOWARD WILNER the Hybrid blows all other comparables away => In April, Manheim opened a second water conservation center at its auction site in Atlanta. The company held a grand opening of the site June 5. ADESA Inc., the nation's second-largest auction company, also has made environmental strides. For example, a project to relocate ADESA's Dallas auction site includes pursuing certification of the site for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design � known as LEED. The U.S. Green Building Council, an architectural group, will verify that the site meets specific criteria in deciding whether to certify the facility.

    HOWARD WILNER,Dodge Durango rides on a torsionally stiff, fully hydroformed frame with an independent front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering, providing a turning radius of 37.5 ft. - shorter than a Honda Pilot. Suspension and steering are finely tuned to deliver superior ride and precise steering. Dodge Durango's rear suspension features coil springs and a solid rear axle secured with a Watt's linkage system, resulting in refined ride and handling characteristics.

    HOWARD Wilner levels productivity playing fieldOpen in a new window
    Why? Experts say dealers know that most car buyers are concerned more about the price of the vehicle than whether the dealer recycles the water in his carwash or uses less energy to light his showroom.But that could be changing soon. Ron Kogan, editor of Green Car Journal, predicts a growing number of dealers will pick up the green message as the industry's fleet of environmentally friendly vehicles expands and consumers make protecting the environment a higher priority.

    Chrysler Group, which last year launched its "Brand Spankin' Used" CPO program, posted a May record of 11,243 certified pre-owned vehicles, up 10.6 percent from 10,164 units for the month last year. Chrysler's year-to-date sales of 53,829 units constitute an increase of 6.5 percent over year-to-date sales last year. The company says Chrysler division leads led with a 5 percent increase from May 2006, posting sales of 3,948 units. Dodge increased 11 percent and Jeep 21percent.( HOWARD WILNER the Hybrid blows all other comparables away)

    HOWARD WILNER records going back to the original orderOpen in a new window
    The nation's largest auto auction company also is engaged in water treatment and recycling and uses water-based paints in its body shops to reduce emissions. Go Green supports a national program at parent company Cox Enterprises Inc. aimed at reducing the company's carbon footprint by 20 percent by 2017. A carbon footprint measures the impact of human activities on the environment in terms of the amount of greenhouse gases produced.

    "The number of people who care about green dealerships and recycling properties is a very minute part of the car-buying public," says Kogan, whose publication covers hybrid and alternative-fuel vehicles. "But we see the trends developing. People want to be green. Dealerships are going to want to stand out from their peers."

    HOWARD WILNER performance carsOpen in a new window
    HOWARD WILNER records going back to the original order => Chrysler LLC is raising sticker prices on 2008 models 2 percent amid rising prices for steel and other commodities and vehicle price moves by some of its rivals, the Wall Street Journal reports. The price hike was announced to dealers in a Web cast. The higher prices will go into effect June 16 and be applied to any 2008 vehicle Chrysler produces the rest of the year, Chrysler spokesman Stuart Schorr said. They will also carry over into 2009. The rise does not effect the prices of 2008 vehicles already in dealer inventories. A the beginning of the year, Chrysler added more features to its vehicles at no additional cost to make them more attractive to car buyers. Schorr said the additional content was worth about $1,200 per vehicle on average.

    HOWARD WILNER cuts hybrid cost Press release: Pricing Announced for 2009 Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango HEMI(R) Hybrids AUBURN HILLS, Mich., June 17 AUBURN HILLS, Mich., June 17 /PRNewswire/ --
    -- Chrysler and Dodge SUVs boast 40 percent fuel economy improvement in city
    -- 25 percent overall fuel economy improvement
  • -- Customers to save hundreds of gallons of gas per year
    -- Full-size SUVs deliver rare blend of fuel economy, utility, capability and performance
    -- 2009 Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid starts at $45,340
    -- 2009 Chrysler Aspen HEMI Hybrid starts at $45,570
    -- Customers to receive estimated tax credit of $1,800

    HOWARD WILNER Drivers switching away from premium gasOpen in a new window


    The fleet will be tested there and later in the New York/New Jersey area. Ford said that move will help determine if any regional differences in vehicle performance exist. "Plug-in hybrid vehicles have great promise, but we are still working to fully address all of the technical and business challenges that stand in the way of commercialization," Nancy Gioia, Ford's director of sustainable mobility, said in a statement Monday.

    WILNER HOWARD latest cars reviewOpen in a new window
    A second study also affirms that at least some customers care about a dealer's environmental credentials. A recent CNW Marketing Research weekly Purchase Path telephone survey asked car shoppers about their willingness to seek out green dealers. Among shoppers who are within three months of buying a new car, 58 percent said they would favor a green dealer over the same-make dealership without a green program even if the price of the vehicle were somewhat � say, 1 to 4 percent � higher, the study found.

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    June 23, 2008


    MON
    23
    JUN

    Howard Wilner

    By Howard Wilner


    HOWARD Wilner reports car lostOpen in a new window
    HOWARD WILNER => It is hard to imagine that such a small truck has such power and performance. However, just by glancing at the Ranger 4WD, consumers get a hint at what lies beneath. The compact truck has a sleek and simple design. Exterior embellishments are kept to the minimum, and the angles are smooth, not severe. The grille is really the only place where Ford lets the Ranger shine bright. The grille looks like a mouth and flaring nostrils, as if it is a bull ready to charge. An 8 or 9-foot bed length is available as well. Fog lights and chrome accents can be added too.

    HOWARD WILNER Open in a new window


    The 2.3L Duratec is surprisingly quick, though a bit throaty. From what I've read, it's pretty highly regarded, and I'm pleased with it overall. The only problem is the gear-hunting from the 4-speed automatic when going over hills and mountains. That's to be expected in a 4-cylinder automatic in a fairly large vehicle. But for daily driving, it's wonderful. The CD4E automatic transmission has had some past issues, but from what I've seen and read, they're mostly in the past. With reasonable driving style and proper routine maintenance, I think it will do just fine.( HOWARD WILNER V8 monsters)

    From a manufacturing perspective, it�s increasingly difficult to build fuel-sipping vehicles, as current safety and emissions technologies add weight, a primary nemesis of fuel economy. Hybrid technology and low mass are the most cost-effective strategies to better fuel economy, and the bulk of our list of the ten most fuel-efficient vehicles utilize one or both. Toyota plays both sides, managing to field three of the top ten�four if you count the Nissan Altima, which uses the Toyota Camry�s hybrid drive system under license.

    HOWARD WILNEROpen in a new window
    It is hard to imagine that such a small truck has such power and performance. However, just by glancing at the Ranger 4WD, consumers get a hint at what lies beneath. The compact truck has a sleek and simple