Tokyo — TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announced today that Toyota Technical Center (TTC), a division of Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. (TEMA), has opened a campus in York Township, Michigan, U.S.A. The new campus will handle TTC’s product planning and engineering design operations, as well as serve as TMC’s first collision-safety testing facility outside Japan.

At a Thursday, October 9 ceremony to officially open the campus, attendees included Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm, TMC Senior Managing Director Yasuhiko Ichihashi and TTC President Shigeki Terashi.

TTC, which is based in Ann Arbor, Michigan and which has served as TMC’s North American vehicle research and development base since 1977, has invested 187 million U.S. dollars in the York Township campus. The campus, for which plans were announced in April 2005, will create a total of 400 additional jobs at TTC by the end of 2010, 300 of which have already been filled.

TTC’s Ann Arbor campus will continue to carry out evaluation activities, powertrain design and development, and research into materials and cutting-edge technologies.

With Japan as the center, TMC has established research and development bases in North America, Europe, Asia and Australia to carry out vehicle and parts design, planning and evaluation. TMC intends to continue striving to develop and offer products that suit regional conditions, and to meet the needs of customers all over the world.

Source: http://www.toyota.co.jp/en/news/08/1010.html

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Toyota Vehicles

HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation has confirmed that the sedan version of the all-new Mazda3 (known as Mazda Axela in Japan), fully redesigned for the first time in 5 years, will be revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show*1 on November 19, 2008.

The covers will be pulled off during Mazda’s press conference from 12:20 to 12:45 (local time) revealing the all-new Mazda3, the latest evolution of Mazda’s Zoom-Zoom spirit.

All-new Mazda3 sedan (North American specification)

Every element of the all-new Mazda3 has been developed for heightened exhilaration, with a more refined sporty ride, top class fuel economy and quietness. Environmental and safety features, based on Mazda’s long-term “Sustainable Zoom-Zoom” vision, aim to achieve a balance with fun-to-drive. Add in a new expressive face and Mazda’s dynamic design elements, and the all-new Mazda3 is everything a driver could ask for in a sports compact. The brand new version of Mazda’s best-selling sports compact carries forward the heritage of Mazda and the pedigree of the current Mazda3. Since its launch in 2003, the current Mazda3 has sold approx. 1.8 million vehicles*2 in over 100 countries and has won more than 90 global motoring awards*3 to date. The Mazda3 accounts for almost one in three Mazdas sold every year. Following the world debut of the North American specification sedan with 2.0- and 2.5-liter engines at the show, the five-door hatchback version will be revealed in line with Mazda’s global sales schedule.

Source: http://www.mazda.com/publicity/release/2008/200810/081009.html

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Mazda Cars, Japanese Vehicles

Toyota ‘iQ’ in Good Design Award 2008 Best 15

Thursday, October 9th, 2008

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. presented the concept model of its all-new Insight dedicated hybrid vehicle scheduled to be introduced in 2009, at the 2008 Paris Motor Show (October 2–19; Press Days: October 2–3).

Based on a theme of achieving dynamic performance through excellent aerodynamics, the exterior design of the Insight concept model combines excellent environmental performance and a fun to drive spirit. The compact Insight Concept measures 4,375 mm (172.2 in.) in length, 1,695 mm (66.7 in.) in width, and 1,425 mm (56.1 in.) in height, with specially designed, ultra-light aluminum wheels and 205/40 R18 tires. With a cockpit that enables the driver to experience the joy of driving, the interior of the Insight Concept provides an advanced and futuristic feeling that is possible only through a hybrid vehicle.

The all-new Insight, which will be developed based on this Insight Concept, will be a five-door, five-passenger hatchback equipped with Honda’s lightweight and compact hybrid system, with a 1.3-liter gasoline engine serving as the main power source, assisted by an electric motor. While achieving fuel economy on par with the Civic Hybrid, the new Insight will also achieve excellent utility and light and comfortable driving through the adoption of a new platform developed specifically for this vehicle. Honda will begin sales of the all-new Insight in Japan, Europe and North America in spring 2009, and projects annual global sales of 200,000 units.

In his speech at the Paris Motor Show, Honda Motor president & CEO Takeo Fukui said, “This new Insight will give more people the chance to get behind the wheel of a high quality hybrid vehicle only Honda can develop.”

The name Insight was chosen to denote that this new vehicle provides “insight” into a new era in which hybrid vehicles come within reach of most car buyers.

Source: http://world.honda.com/news/2008/4081002All-New-Insight/

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France Vehicles Exporters

Today the new Lancer Sportback saw its world debut at Le Mondial de l’Automobile 2008 (Paris Motor Show 2008), held in Halls 1-8 of the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles from October 2 (October 4 for the general public) through October 19. Joining the Lancer Sportback on the Mitsubishi Motors stand for its first viewing is the facelifted made-in- Europe Colt compact model, built at Mitsubishi Motors NedCar Factory in Borne, The Netherlands.

Debuting alongside the new Lancer Sportback and Colt models is Mitsubishi Motors’ new Racing Lancer turbodiesel competition car. The company will enter the car in the next Dakar Rally, which moves from the African to the South American continent for 2009. Also starring in the 15 model lineup (16 during Public Days) is the i MiEV new-generation electric vehicle, currently undergoing proving testing in Japan, with exploratory plans scheduled or under consideration in the United States, New Zealand and Iceland.

Source: http://media.mitsubishi-motors.com/pressrelease/e/motorshow/detail1838.htmlTechnorati tag:

Mitsubishi Cars Exporters

Lexus announced today that it is exhibiting the new “IS250C” convertible at the 2008 Paris Motor Show¹, which runs from October 2 to 19².

IS250C (European market model)

The IS250C, part of the “Intelligent Sports Sedan” IS250 series, is a four-seater convertible that maintains its characteristic beauty equally with the top up or down and aims to embody the joy of open-air driving.

IS250C special features:

• Use of a lightweight aluminum alloy three-segment top with full electric mechanism allows smooth control, and prompt and quiet 20-second opening and 20-second closing. Use of this compact top creates a comfortable interior space for four adults.
• With the top down, the unique shape of the upper part of the trunk is given even more presence, resulting in an elegant flowing silhouette, and with the top up, the car takes on a sporty coupe look with a harmoniously balanced cabin and body, thus giving the car two distinct personalities.
• Even with the top down, the trunk has ample space to stow a golf bag.
• The body structure was specifically strengthened to ensure comparable driving performance with the top up or down, and the shape of the windshield and other parts of the car were designed to reduce wind disturbance on occupants during top-down driving.
• The front seats feature large SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) side-airbags to protect the upper body and head in the event of a side-on collision. Also, the IS250C’s body structure was designed to meet—even with the top down—the highest EURO NCAP safety rating (5-star).
• Cabin temperature, audio quality, volume of turning signal indicators and other warning systems can be automatically controlled to suit conditions for when the top is up or down. Also, the front seat can be folded, slid to full-front position and returned to its original position at the push of a button, facilitating easier ingress and egress for rear seat passengers.

Source: http://www.toyota.co.jp/en/news/08/1002.html

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Paris Car Exporters

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today announced the addition of KIX to complement its minicar portfolio. KIX, a sport utility vehicle, is scheduled for release in end-October in Japan.

KIX

The name “KIX” derives from the term “kicks”, a reference to irreverent fun, and the X-factor for the extreme and adventurous spirit.

KIX is supplied to Nissan by Mitsubishi Motors Corporation under an OEM agreement.

Source: http://www.nissan-global.com/EN/NEWS/2008/_STORY/080930-01-e.html

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Mini Vehicles

Honda Siel Cars India launched its all-new Third Generation Honda City with a completely new design, new engine, spacious cabin and equipped with various active and passive safety features.

The all new Honda City – which has been designed for Indian market - was unveiled by Honda’s President and CEO, Takeo Fukui.

With its aesthetically appealing strong & sleek exterior style, the third generation Honda City is sure to be the most stunning car on Indian roads. The all-new City’s unique ‘Arrow Shot Form’ design gives it a powerful and imposing presence. Seen from the front, the streamlined grill and sharp headlights deliver a distinctive road presence. With the City’s shortened rear end, the aerodynamic looking rear combination lights enhance its sporty looking tail design. The new City offers 15 inch wheel base and the design contribute to making the Arrow-shot form even more impressive.

The all new Honda City is longer, wider and sturdier. It measures 4420 mm in length (5 mm longer than its predecessor if license plate is excluded) and 1695 mm in width (5 mm wider) While maintaining the same ground clearance and same head clearance, the height has been lowered by 15 mm to 1480 mm delivering a sleeker and sturdier body shape which gives the City a refined driving position. With its wheelbase extended by an additional 100 mm, efficient use of space has been made for both driver and occupants to create a spacious cabin interior. The all-new City has a practical and spacious trunk offering a one class above capacity of 506 liters.

The interiors of the car look very attractive with the advanced looking meter design and soothing colour contrasts of the new City promises its consumers with a stylish, spacious and comfortable lounge.

The all-new Honda City comes equipped with a 1.5L, 4 cylinder new generation i-VTEC engine that delivers class leading power of 118PS while providing good fuel economy similar to the City ZX. In line with the Honda’s policy of reducing impact on the environment the engine is E10 compliant and has Euro IV emission levels.

The higher body rigidity with Improved MacPherson strut in front and H Type torso beam suspension in the rear offers solid road handling and supple ride feeling.

The 3rd generation Honda City will be the only car in its segment to be equipped with 5 Speed Automatic Transmission with a “Paddle Shift” option to allow the driver to enjoy a manual transmission-like driving feel.

Safety of passengers and pedestrians is a first priority for Honda. With the new City, safety features are now a standard offering across the entire range of Honda in the Indian market The new Honda City comes fully loaded with various active and passive safety features including ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) with Brake Assist (BA), Dual SRS airbags, pre-tensioner seat belts and G-CON (G-Force Control Technology) body with a crush-proof survival zone. The front body structure of the new Honda City ensures advanced pedestrian safety features.

The all new City features an Advanced Integrated Audio System - which is the world’s first car audio exclusive to digital media. This advanced Audio system offers consumers the liberty to integrate with any of the newer technologies like iPOD, MP3player, USB Memory, cell phone with MP3 Player. The system promises a high quality sound with advanced functionalities. The audio system comes with steering mounted controls & separate remote control.

The all new Honda City has two grades 1.5E (MT) and 1.5S (MT and AT) and is available in six colours – Habenero Red Pearl, Alabaster Silver Metallic, Polished Metal Metallic, Bold Beige Metallic, Tafetta White and Crystal Black Pearl. The 1.5E MT comes with Grayish Beige interior colour while 1.5S (MT & AT) has Beige interiors.

The all new Honda City comes with a 2+2 year warranty and 24-hr roadside assistance as standard value for all City buyers.

Bookings for the all new City will start immediately at all Honda dealers nationwide however deliveries will begin from the month of November 08.

The First Generation of Honda City was introduced in mid 90’s responding to the requirements of automobiles among Asian people. Completing its advancement, the Third generation Honda City will move on to a new stage in 2008. The ‘City’ of Asia becomes the ‘City’ for the world and would be sold in several new markets.

Speaking on the occasion Fukui said, “The all-new, third-generation Honda City unveiled today, is Honda’s most significant model in this market. The new Honda City will strengthen the Honda brand, as it meets all the global concerns of Honda – safety, fuel efficiency and conservation of the environment.”

M. Takedagawa, President and CEO, Honda Siel Cars India said, “Honda City is one of the most successful car brands in the country and certainly the most desirable sedan in its category. With this launch, India will become the largest market for Honda City in this region.”

Source:http://world.honda.com/news/2008/c080925Third-Generation-City-India/

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Car Dealers

Suzuki Motor Corporation is pleased to announce the Japanese domestic launch of the new 660cc Wagon R and Wagon R Stingray. Both models are only available in Japan and sales began on 25 September 2008.

The Wagon R is the vehicle with which Suzuki pioneered the miniwagon category. Since its first-generation launch in 1993, it has been popular with wide range of people regardless of age and gender thanks to characterful styling, a roomy cabin, easy driveability, and a design that allows people to step in and out with ease. The Wagon R’s leading position in Japan’s minivehicle market led to cumulative domestic sales of three million units^* in June 2008.

The new Wagon R and Wagon R Stingray reflect a “comfortable, stylish Wagon R” development concept. Each embodies further enhancements in economy and user-friendliness (the fundamental attributes demanded of minivehicles), has a more comfortable cabin that allows users to step in and out with even greater ease, and has a stylish design that will appeal to more people.

Suzuki targets combined monthly sales of 18,000 units.

*Based on Suzuki research.

Source: http://www.globalsuzuki.com/globalnews/2008/0929.html

Technorati tag:Japanese Cars, Mini Vehicles