Nurburgring (Germany) - After a tough Saturday the Nissan GT-Rs started to move back up the order in the FIA GT1 World Championship at the Nürburgring today. The No.22 Sumo Power GT Nissan GT-R of Jamie Campbell-Walter and Warren Hughes was the top-finisher in eighth place, closely followed by the improving No.3 Swiss Racing Team Nissan GT-R of Karl Wendlinger and Henri Moser in tenth.

Michael Krumm and Peter Dumbreck had an action-packed race from the back of the grid to take 15th place and Seiji Ara and Max Nilsson finished in 21st after Nilsson briefly lost power during his run.

Warren Hughes had a strong run in the early part of the race, moving up from 16th on the grid to ninth before the pit stop.

“Both Jamie and I had good stints,” said Hughes. “I pitted early as I was behind another car and I wanted to get into the clear air. All in all we had a good race but it’s no good if you start from the back so we need to sort qualifying out as soon as we can.”

“We had the pace today but its hard work when you start from 16th,” added Campbell-Walter. “We picked up points which is great but now we need to get on top of qualifying. We have a test between now and the next race though to work on that. Everything went well during my stint and we had a great pit stop so we know what we need to do now.”

Henri Moser took the wheel of the No.3 Swiss Racing Team Nissan GT-R after Karl Wendlinger had put in a great drive from 14th through to eighth, and then to fifth briefly before he pitted. Henri continued the good job that Karl started and brought the car home in tenth place.

“I’m very happy with the result today,” said Moser. “I struggled with cold tyres for the first couple of laps of my run but after that I could push very hard. I had some drama when the No.5 Ford tipped me into a spin but he got punished later with a drive through. We are much more on the pace now and have definitely made some good progress so all in all we are happy. It is always good to score World Championship points.”

Source: http://www.nissan-global.com/EN/NEWS/2010/_STORY/100830-03-e.html

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HONOLULU - Today, Nissan North America and the state of Hawaii announced a partnership to advance zero-emission mobility by promoting the development of electric vehicles, and an electric-vehicle charging network, throughout the state. The partnership, which was announced at the Asia Pacific Clean Energy Summit and Expo in Honolulu, marks Nissan’s first definitive agreement in the United States and will help to foster the adoption of electric-vehicle technology. The Nissan LEAF, the world’s first affordable, zero-emission, all-electric vehicle for the mass market, will be available in Hawaii beginning in January 2011.

“Nissan is a global leader in electric vehicles, and the state of Hawaii has shown similar leadership through its progressive policies and focus on clean energy,” said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing, Nissan North America. “Hawaii’s drivers share that commitment, as demonstrated by their strong interest in the Nissan LEAF, the first affordable, zero-emission vehicle, which arrives in Hawaii in January.”

Hawaii has demonstrated policy leadership through the creation of a $4,500 state tax credit towards the purchase of an electric vehicle and a $500 state tax credit towards the purchase and installation of a home charging station. The state tax credit, paired with an available $7,500 federal tax credit, could bring the price of a Nissan LEAF, which carries a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $32,780, to as low as $20,780 for Hawaii consumers.

As part of the agreement, Nissan and the State of Hawaii will develop plans to promote a charging infrastructure for EVs, as well as the deployment, operation and maintenance of a charging network. The partners also will work to coordinate the establishment of policies and help streamline the deployment of an EV infrastructure. Nissan is committing to bringing a supply of Nissan LEAF electric vehicles to Hawaii and readying the dealer body to sell and lease them to consumers.

“I appreciate Nissan’s confidence in Hawaii and recognition of our commitment to pursuing a clean energy future,” said Hawaii Governor Linda Lingle. “By bringing the Nissan LEAF to Hawaii and working collaboratively with the State and our partners toward the electrification of transportation, Nissan is playing an important role in helping us achieve the goal of reducing our dependence on imported oil.”

Source: http://www.nissan-global.com/EN/NEWS/2010/_STORY/100831-01-e.html

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Rapid fluctuations in currency exchange rates have a significant impact on corporate activity including that of the automotive industry because of the global scale of its operations.

A case in point is the recent appreciation of the Japanese yen against other major world currencies to levels exceeding all projections. If sustained, this trend will adversely affect automotive production and employment in Japan, and cause increased apprehension on the part of the industry in regard to the yen’s future prospects.

Our industry therefore hopes that the Japanese government will work towards foreign-exchange stability under a framework of international cooperation. We also look forward to appropriate and timely economic management on the part of the government to help ensure that the current business recovery can complete its course, thus enabling continued future growth.

Source: http://www.jama-english.jp/release/comment/2010/100809.html

Japan: Although Suzuki Motor Corporation we faced continued severe market conditions, the Group ended the first quarter (1 April thorough 30 June) of FY 2010 with increased consolidated profits.
Consolidated net sales was ¥656.3 billion (increased by ¥79.2 billion, 113.7% y-o-y) thanks to the increased sales of automobiles in Japan and increased sales of motorcycles and automobiles in Asia despite sales decrease in North America and Europe.

As for consolidated profits, the reduced profits caused by exchange influences and the increased research and development expenses and depreciation expenses were covered by the sales increase and the reduction of costs and various expenses. As a result, the Group achieved ¥31.9 billion of operating income (up ¥25.0 billion y-o-y), ¥30.6 billion of ordinary income (up ¥18.0 billion y-o-y) and ¥15.2 billion of net income (up ¥13.1 billion y-o-y).

As for operating results of automobile segment, the Group achieved increased overall sales volume of 0. 61 million units (112.8% y-o-y) and increased sales of ¥575.9 billion (up ¥86.7 billion 117.7% y-o-y). Operating income also increased to ¥32.0 billion (up ¥25.0 billion y-o-y) thanks to the sales increase in Japan and the reduction of loss in the US business.

Regarding motorcycle segment, overall sales volume (ATV included) was 0.82 million units (115.7% y-o-y) and global sales were ¥69.8 billion (decreased by ¥11.1 billion, 86.3% y-o-y). Operating loss was reduced by ¥1.1 billion year-on-year, but was ¥1.8 billion on account to the continued sales slowdown of large motorcycles for Europe and the US.

Sales of marine and power products, etc. business increased to ¥12.7 billion (up ¥0.7 billion, 105.5% y-o-y) because sales of outboard motors increased in various areas such as North America, Asia, and Japan. Operating income also increased to ¥1.7 billion (up ¥0.4 billion, 134.1% y-o-y).

Source: http://www.globalsuzuki.com/globalnews/2010/0804b.html

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Tokyo, Japan: Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) announced financial results for the first quarter ended June 30, 2010.

On a consolidated basis, net revenues for the first quarter totaled 4,871.8 billion yen, an increase of 27.0 percent compared to the same period last fiscal year. Operating income increased from a loss of 194.9 billion yen to 211.6 billion yen, while income before income taxes and equity in earnings of affiliated companies was 263.0 billion yen. Net income* increased from a loss of 77.8 billion yen to 190.4 billion yen.

Operating income increased by 406.5 billion yen. Major factors contributing to the increase include the effects of marketing efforts of 400 billion yen and cost reduction efforts of 50.0 billion yen.

Consolidated vehicle sales for the first quarter totaled 1,820 thousand units, an increase of 419 thousand units compared to the same period last fiscal year.

Commenting on the first quarter results, TMC Senior Managing Director Takahiko Ijichi said, “Due to an increase in vehicle sales and a large decrease in the costs related to loan losses and residual losses in Financial Services, operating income improved substantially on last year.”

Operating income improved year on year in all regions for the first quarter.

In Japan, operating loss improved by 184.5 billion yen to 27.5 billion yen.

In North America, operating income increased by 113.4 billion yen to 109.7 billion yen including 700 million yen of valuation gains/losses from interest rate swaps. Operating income, excluding the impact of valuation gains/losses from interest rate swaps, increased by 125.1 billion yen to 109.0 billion yen.

In Europe, operating loss improved by 13.6 billion yen to a loss of 6.8 billion yen.

Operating income in Asia increased by 63.3 billion yen to 90.2 billion yen.

In Central and South America, Oceania and Africa, operating income increased by 23.6 billion yen to 41.0 billion yen.

In the financial services segment, operating income increased by 65.5 billion yen to 115.1 billion yen compared to the same period last fiscal year, including 5.6 billion yen of valuation gains/losses from interest rate swaps. Excluding valuation gains/losses, operating income increased by 74.9 billion yen to 109.5 billion yen. The increase was in part due to higher than expected prices of second hand vehicles and a large reduction in costs related to loan losses and residual losses as provisions were reversed in the United States. Our strengthened vehicle marketing programme also increased the lending balance.

Regarding the forecasts for fiscal year 2011, TMC revised its consolidated vehicle sales for the full fiscal year ending March 31, 2011 from 7.29 million to 7.38 million units, an increase of 90 thousand units from TMC’s forecast announced in May 2010.

TMC also revised its consolidated financial forecasts for fiscal year 2011 to consolidated net revenues of 19.5 trillion yen, operating income of 330 billion yen, income before income taxes and equity in earnings of affiliated companies of 380 billion yen and net income of 340 billion yen.

Commenting on the FY2011 forecasts, Ijichi said, “We note a lack of visibility concerning currency movements and the possible backlash in demand after the end of the demand-stimulus programmes in Japan, which requires our close monitoring. Nevertheless, we will do our utmost to reach as many customers with as many vehicles as possible. We will continue our activities for fixed and variable cost reduction as previously promoted under the Emergency Profit Improvement Activities. Through the activities, and the further improvement of our earning structure, we will maximise our effort to exceed our forecasts.”

Source: http://pressroom.toyota.com/pr/tms/toyota-announces-first-quarter-165832.aspx

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Tokyo - The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd., announced that its premium ADVAN Sport tire has been approved by Dr. Ing. H.c.F. Porsche AG as original equipment tires for the new model of its prestige SUV “Cayenne.” Tire sizes to be supplied are 275/45R20 110Y XL (extra load) and 295/35R21 107Y XL (extra load). ADVAN Sport tires were also used on first-generation Cayennes. The new Cayenne is released around the world in 2010.

The ADVAN Sport models for the new Cayenne were jointly developed by Porsche and Yokohama Rubber and bear “N-0″ and “N-1″ markings on the sidewalls indicating Porsche’s approval. Designed to perform stably at speeds in excess of 300 km/h, the ADVAN Sport lineup perfectly balances high-speed stability, comfort, handling and braking in wet and dry conditions. The tires have been adopted for high-performance cars including the Porsche 911 Carrera 4, Audi S8 and Bentley Continental, as well as various models from Mercedes-AMG.

The ADVAN brand symbolizes Yokohama Rubber’s global concept, under which the company is committed to aggressive execution of all its activities, including co-development of flagship tire products, participation in motor sports and collaboration with the world’s leading automakers and tuners. The ADVAN brand embodies the company’s spirit of pursuing the ultimate in performance and quality. Yokohama Rubber intends to continue showcasing ADVAN brand products for consumers around the world.

Source: http://www.yrc-pressroom.jp/english/html/20108312tr001.html

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HIROSHIMA, Japan—As part of celebrations marking its 90th anniversary, Mazda Motor Corporation today launched a special edition version of its globally acclaimed Demio compact car (known overseas as the Mazda2) for the Japanese market. The Mazda Demio 13C-V HID*1 EDITION goes on sale today at all Mazda, Mazda Anfini and Mazda Autozam dealerships throughout Japan.

The special edition Demio 13C-V HID EDITION is based on the Demio 13C-V model grade that features a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and achieves eco-friendly fuel economy of 23.0 kilometers per liter*2. The special edition includes a selection of functional and stylish features, such as discharge headlights and fog lights, for an affordable price. Additionally, Mazda’s high quality Copper Red Mica exterior body paint is available exclusively on the special edition model.

Main features of the 90th anniversary special edition Mazda Demio 13C-V HID EDITION
Base model
Demio 13C-V (FWD model with a Miller-cycle engine and CVT)

Special equipment

• Discharge headlights (with auto-leveling function)
• Front fog lights
• Dark tinted glass (rear door and liftgate windows)
• A choice of 11 exterior body colors, including Copper Red Mica*3, which is exclusive to the Demio 13C-V HID EDITION

Source: http://www.mazda.com/publicity/release/2010/201007/100729a.html

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Japan - Mazda Motor Corporation’s production and sales results for June 2010 and for January through June 2010 are summarized below.

1. Domestic Production
(1) June 2010
Mazda’s total domestic production volume in June 2010 increased year-on-year for the seventh consecutive month, growing 17.8% compared to June 2009, reflecting increased production of both passenger and commercial vehicles.

[Domestic production of key models in June 2010]
Mazda3 (Axela): 37,095 units (up 12.1% year-on-year)
Mazda2 (Demio): 14,108 units (up 1.1% year-on-year)
Mazda6 (Atenza): 7,373 units (up 46.7% year-on-year)
CX-7: 6,272 units (up 148.5% year-on-year)

(2) January through June 2010
Mazda’s domestic production volume in the period from January through June 2010 increased 59.3% compared to the same period in 2009, reflecting increased production of passenger vehicles.

[Domestic production of key models in the period from January through June 2010]
Mazda3 (Axela): 185,348 units (up 37.9% year-on-year)
Mazda2 (Demio): 75,351 units (up 27.1% year-on-year)
Mazda6 (Atenza): 40,132 units (up 113.3% year-on-year)
CX-7: 38,232 units (up 670.7% year-on-year)

2. Overseas Production
(1) June 2010
Posting a year-on-year increase for the thirteenth consecutive month, Mazda’s overseas production volume in June 2010 improved 44.4% on June 2009, reflecting healthy production of both passenger and commercial vehicles.

[Overseas production of key models in June 2010]
Mazda6: 14,949 units (up 28.4% year-on-year)
Mazda2: 9,012 units (up 311.1% year-on-year)

(2) January through June 2010
Mazda’s overseas production volume in the period from January through June 2010 increased 76.7% compared to the same period in 2009, reflecting increased production of both passenger and commercial vehicles.

[Overseas production of key models in the period from January through June 2010]
Mazda6: 83,181 units (up 71.6% year-on-year)
Mazda2: 39,835 units (up 360.5% year-on-year)

II. Domestic Sales

(1) June 2010
Mazda’s total domestic sales volume in June 2010 increased year-on-year for the ninth consecutive month, growing 14.1% compared to June 2009, due to healthy sales of both passenger and commercial vehicles.
Mazda’s registered vehicle market share was 5.3% (down 0.3 points year-on-year), with a 2.9% share of the micro-mini segment (up 0.1 points year-on-year) and a 4.4% total market share (down 0.2 points year-on-year).

[Domestic sales of key models in June 2010]
Mazda2 (Demio): 6,020 units (up 16.7% year-on-year)
Mazda3 (Axela): 2,561 units (down 5.2% year-on-year)

(2) January through June 2010
Mazda’s total domestic sales volume in the period from January through June 2010 increased 28.8% compared to the same period in 2009, due to increased sales of both passenger and commercial vehicles.
Mazda’s registered vehicle market share was 5.5% (up 0.1 points year-on-year), with a 3.0% share of the micro-mini segment (up 0.1 points year-on-year) and a 4.6% total market share (up 0.2 points year-on-year).

[Domestic sales of key models in the period from January through June 2010]
Mazda2 (Demio): 36,436 units (up 40.3% year-on-year)
Mazda3 (Axela): 15,388 units (up 108.6% year-on-year)

III. Exports

(1) June 2010
Mazda’s export volume in June 2010 increased year-on-year for the seventh consecutive month, growing 31.9% over June 2009 due to increased shipments to North America, Oceania and other regions (the Middle East, Central & South America, Asia and Africa).

[Exports of key models in June 2010]
Mazda3: 36,454 units (up 22.9% year-on-year)
CX-7: 7,607 units (up 253.8% year-on-year)
Mazda6: 6,915 units (up 66.6% year-on-year)

(2) January through June 2010
Mazda’s exports in the period from January through June 2010 increased 65.4% compared to the same period in 2009, due to increased shipments to North America, Europe, Oceania and other regions (the Middle East, Asia, Central & South America and Africa).

[Exports of key models in the period from January through June 2010]
Mazda3: 170,173 units (up 39.0% year-on-year)
CX-7: 38,535 units (up 738.3% year-on-year)
Mazda6: 34,423 units (up 130.3% year-on-year)

Source: http://www.mazda.com/publicity/release/2010/201007/100727a.html

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Kawasaki - Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC), one of Asia’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers, announced that its January-to-May sales in Indonesia more than doubled over the same period in 2009, achieving a sales record for the first five months of the year. Amidst the positive market conditions, market leader Mitsubishi Fuso is now participating in the 18th Indonesia International Motor Show 2010 with an exhibit including current products and showcasing the new FV heavy-duty truck and an advanced generation FN medium-duty truck.

“Mitsubishi Fuso continues to achieve very strong sales in Indonesia, reflecting the overall positive momentum in international markets,” said Mr. Kai-Uwe Seidenfuss, MFTBC Vice President of Sales and Service International. “As Mitsubishi Fuso’s largest export market and the largest truck market overall in Southeast Asia, Indonesia plays a key role in the success of our international business.”

Mr. Seidenfuss outlined, “Mitsubishi Fuso’s commitment to further strengthen the Indonesia business is highlighted in the brand’s presence at Indonesia Motor Show, which shows the robust products and outstanding services we can deliver to our customers, together with our local partners.”

Record Sales in First Five Months
Through the five months in 2010, Indonesia sales increased 115% to 20,832 units (Jan.-May 2009 = 9,708 units, Jan.-May 2008 = 17,796 units). This represents the highest ever sales over such an interval, exceeding the same pre-economic-crisis period in 2008.

Mitsubishi Fuso at the Indonesia International Motor Show 2010
As excellent sales continue into the second half of the year, Mitsubishi Fuso is participating in the Indonesia International Motor Show starting today and running through August 1 at the Jakarta International Expo. On display are a suite of vehicles that show Mitsubishi Fuso’s ability to deliver reliable and efficient vehicle solutions to Indonesia customers.

The company’s exhibit is based on three current models in the market: the Colt Diesel van, Colt Diesel dump truck and Colt Diesel light-duty bus. A classic Colt Diesel is also exhibited, representing the brand’s historic development and success in the Indonesia market in earlier times.

Showcasing FV Heavy-duty Truck and Advanced FN Medium-Duty Truck
Mitsubishi Fuso is also showcasing two additional new products at the Show: the FV heavy-duty tractor head and an advanced generation FN medium-duty truck.

The FV heavy-duty truck marks the upper end of Fuso’s line-up and opens up the potential to offer an even broader and more comprehensive truck line in Indonesia, extending from 5 tons up to 27.6 tons gross vehicle weight (gvw), and to serve a wider range of business and industry.

The advanced generation FN medium-duty truck on display incorporates additional modern advances in safety, reliability and efficiency, showing the further possibilities Mitsubishi Fuso can deliver.

Mr. Seidenfuss explained, “We are confident to find major demand for the flagship FV heavy-duty truck with its ability to tap into the heavier segment of the market. The advanced generation FN medium-duty truck shows a view to advanced technology for Indonesia, building on and adding to the successful products already in the market.

“The exhibit of these two vehicles demonstrates further ways to enhance our product line in Indonesia, which is based on the iconic Colt Diesel Canter and complemented by the rest of the Fuso line-up.”

Source: http://www.mitsubishi-fuso.com/en/press/100723/100723.html

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Tanto Exe Tanto Exe CUSTOM

DAIHATSU MOTOR CO., LTD. (Daihatsu) announced on December 24 the launch in Japan of a new mini passenger car, the Tanto Exe1.

In contrast to the Tanto, intended for families with young children, the Tanto Exe is designed for adults, particularly men and women who value communication with each other and individuality. The Tanto Exe aims to combine upscale quality and comfort by retaining the acclaimed roomy interior of the Tanto, while introducing the added features of reduced weight, higher fuel efficiency, and advanced styling.
The Tanto Exe CUSTOM, with more refined styling, is also available.

New Tanto Exe offers the following features:

1. Emotional x Elegant design: Creates refined styling particularly suited to adults
   Dynamic and stylish exterior surrounds the roomy interior cabin
   Refined, upscale interior satisfies adult sensibilities
2. Executive space: Upscale interior where adults can relax
   Spacious interior of the original Tanto has been further refined for a comfortable space where adults can feel completely at ease
   Four ultra-comfortable seats offer a sofa-like experience
   Equipped with stylish and functional storage areas (including illuminated twin consoles2)
3. Exceed x Excellent ecology: Fuel efficiency at the highest level of its class3 (21.5 km/L4)
   The new Tanto Exe is about 60 kg lighter5 than the original Tanto. Its engine and transmission have also been optimized to achieve fuel efficiency at the highest level of its class (21.5 km/L), making the new vehicle eligible for both the tax break in Japan to promote environmentally-considerate vehicles and the subsidy to promote environmentally-considerate vehicles

   The lighter weight and new power train provide exceptional cruising performance

   A balance is achieved between the lighter weight and outstanding safety performance
   1. Exe standards for: Exceed x Excellent ecology, Emotional x Elegant design and Executive space; the name expresses the outstanding environmental performance and styling, sense of quality, and comfort that satisfy adult sensibilities

   2. Standard equipment on the S, G, CUSTOM S, CUSTOM G, and CUSTOM RS

   3. For the class of mini vehicles with a height of 1,700 mm or more (as of December 2009; according to Daihatsu’s research)

   4. Fuel efficiency under the 10-15 Japanese test cycle of the X “Special”, X, G, CUSTOM X, and CUSTOM G

   5. Compared to the original Tanto (according to Daihatsu’s research)

Monthly sales target for Japan is 4,000 units. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (excluding consumption tax) ranges from 1.076 million yen to 1.268 million yen for Tanto Exe and from 1.286 million yen to 1.610 million yen for Tanto Exe CUSTOM.

Source: http://www.daihatsu.com/news/n2009/09122401/index.html

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