Purpose

I will try my best to provide detailed info on various cars and what is like to live with them, I have already produced a few for Jaguar-car-forums, I will do my best to be unbiased, but it will be hard for some cars. I will re-produce press releases and copy from other motoring news.
Showing posts with label Los Angeles. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Los Angeles. Show all posts

Friday, 1 December 2017

The 2018 Jeep Wrangler, New Look, New Tech and launched at the LA Motor Show.

The all new Jeep® Wrangler – the most capable SUV ever – makes its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show today, building on its legendary history with an unmatched combination of off-road capability, authentic Jeep design, open-air freedom, superior on- and off-road dynamics, and a host of innovative safety and advanced technology features.
Even more legendary go-anywhere 4x4 capability
The all-new Jeep Wrangler delivers unmatched off-road capability courtesy of specific technical features including two advanced 4x4 systems, new Selec-Trac full-time two-speed transfer case, Tru-Lock electric front- and rear-axle lockers, Trac-Lok limited-slip differential and the electronic sway-bar disconnect. 
Modern take on authentic Jeep Wrangler design
The Wrangler's unique exterior design includes an instantly recognizable keystone-shaped grille, iconic round headlamps and square taillamps, improved aerodynamics, a convenient fold-down windshield, even more open-air freedom, and dozens of different door, top and windshield combinations.
The new car’s interior combines authentic styling, precision craftsmanship and high-quality materials that result in improved versatility and comfort for drivers and passengers. 
Advanced technology
The all-new Jeep Wrangler is loaded with more advanced technology features than ever before and offers three new Uconnect systems (Uconnect 5-, 7- and 8.4NAV), delivering communication, entertainment and navigation features. These new, fourth-generation Uconnect systems include a full-colour LED instrument cluster, the choice of 5.0, 7.0- or 8.4-inch touchscreens with pinch-and-zoom capability, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto features. Safety and security were paramount in the development of the new generation of Jeep Wrangler, which offers more than 75 available active and passive safety and security features. 
New advanced fuel-efficient powertrains join the Wrangler line-up available in North America including the all-new 2.0-litre turbocharged inline four-cylinder and the 3.0-litre EcoDiesel V-6 engines mated to a new eight-speed automatic transmission.
More information and images of the all-new Wrangler unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show are available on the FCA US media website at the link. Product specifications and detailed timing for the Wrangler in EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) will be available next year, closer to the commercial launch in the EMEA region.

Saturday, 8 April 2017

USA - The Honda Civic Type R will get it's US debut at the AutoCon before a full rollout.

  • The long-awaited Civic Type R finally comes stateside with an appearance at a hub of automotive performance and tuning
For East Coast enthusiasts, the Type R will make its debut at the New York International Auto Show on Apr. 12. 
The first Type R-badged Honda will go on sale nationwide in late spring with an MSRP in the mid-$30,000 range.

Thursday, 28 July 2016

USA - The Ford Fusion Energi becomes a huge seller for Ford in the Los Angeles area with significant growth.

  • Ford Fusion Energi retail sales jump 39 percent in Los Angeles in June; Fusion Hybrid retail sales in L.A. rise 35 percent in June
  • Overall Ford Fusion retail sales were up 20 percent in L.A. in June and 12 percent year-to-date
  • Fusion is Ford’s second-best-selling vehicle in L.A. and overall in North America, after the F-Series truck; after F-series, the Fusion is the best-selling vehicle to millennial buyers in Ford’s overall vehicle lineup
Ford Fusion electrified vehicle retail sales spiked in the Los Angeles market during the month of June, the first month of availability for the new 2017 model, as consumers remain charged up about the high-tech, efficient sedan with room for five.
Based on Ford June sales figures, Fusion Energi sales jumped nearly 40 percent in L.A. compared to June 2015. During the same time period, Fusion Hybrid sales jumped 35 percent. Both of these numbers are retail sales and do not include fleet sales.

By comparison, the total midsize sedan segment is down nearly 5 percent in L.A. through May, according to IHS Automotive data. Consumer demand for trucks and SUVs continues to rise in Los Angeles and across the country, but sales of the Ford Fusion Hybrid and Ford Fusion Energi plug-in are surging ahead.
“This significant growth for Ford’s midsize sedan should not be underestimated as Los Angeles is the largest car market in the United States,” said Wade Jackson, Ford Fusion marketing manager. “The spike in Fusion Hybrid and Energi sales is a testament to Ford’s advanced engineering team developing fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive electric vehicles offering customers the widest range of choice in the segment.”
The new 2017 Fusion Energi can travel 610 miles on a full tank of gas and battery charge – according to EPA estimates – the highest combined range of any plug-in hybrid sold in America.
Electrified Fusions becoming the new normal


In 2011, Fusion Hybrid represented 10 percent of new Fusion retail registrations in L.A. Through May of 2016, the most current data available, Fusion Hybrid and Fusion Energi plug-in represent 42 percent of new Fusion retail registrations in L.A., according to Ford analysis of new vehicle registration data from IHS Automotive, despite gasoline prices falling over the same period.

Overall sales of Fusion in L.A. are also bucking the trend in the midsize car segment, with sales up 20 percent in June and 12 percent year-to-date.
The L.A. region was the only region in America to hold consistent in midsize sedan sales last year. Almost one out of every 10 midsize sedans are sold in the L.A. region and since 2012, the Ford Fusion has doubled its sales and share there.
Reaching new customers


After F-series, the Fusion is the best-selling vehicle to millennial buyers in Ford’s overall vehicle lineup and remains Ford’s best-selling car.

In addition, Fusion registrations to women are up 20 percent in California through May, compared to the same period in 2015, according to IHS Automotive personal new vehicle registration data. 
To build on its success, Ford launched a new marketing campaign for Fusion earlier this month targeting key markets nationwide. 
“We need to make sure buyers know about the best-in-class Fusion Energi driving range, but our new Fusion Sport and Fusion Platinum models give us a great shot at going after buyers who might not have ever owned a Ford,” Jackson said. “We’re pretty excited about our chances for more conquest buyers.”
The 2017 Ford Fusion Energi has an EPA-estimated rating of 43 city/41 hwy/42 combined MPG, a 14 gallon tank and 21 miles of all-electric range. Range calculation is based on www.fueleconomy.gov. The 2017 Ford Fusion Hybrid has an EPA-estimated rating of 43 city/41 hwy/42 combined and a 13.5 gallon tank. Actual mileage and range will vary.

Wednesday, 15 June 2016

USA - Volkswagen continues to invest in new distribution and training centre's in the USA.

  • -Opening of new $6.8M Parts Distribution Center in Rocklin-
  • -$4.5M investment in new Southern California Training Center-

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (VWGoA) today announced the grand opening of its new $6.8 million Pacific Northwest Parts Distribution Center (PDC) in Rocklin, Calif. 
The company also confirmed that it will invest an estimated $4.5 million to open a new training center in Eastvale, Calif., just outside of Los Angeles. 
These facilities, which represent an estimated $11.3 million investment, are part of the company’s long-term commitment to the U.S. market and a broader strategy to invest more than $7 billion in North America through 2019.

“The new parts distribution center and upcoming training center in California is a testament to Volkswagen Group of America’s continued investment and commitment to the U.S market, our customers, and dealers,” said Hinrich J. Woebcken, president and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. 
“The company remains focused on these types of strategic investments that will enable long-term growth in the United States.”
Pacific Northwest Parts and Distribution Center

The newly expanded facility in Rocklin completes a U.S. network of seven Volkswagen Group parts distribution facilities across the United States. 

The 143,000 square-foot facility holds 40,000 automotive service part numbers and approximately $13 million in inventory, with distribution to 94 Volkswagen and Audi dealers across six states in the Pacific Northwest and Northern California.

“The new Rocklin facility plays a vital role in our commitment to providing quality service to our customers and dealer network in Northern California and the Pacific Northwest,” said Jan Bures, Executive Vice President Group After Sales and Services, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. 
“We are especially excited to increase our presence in California, a priority market for both Volkswagen and Audi brands.”
VWGoA took possession of the building in June 2015 and began shipping parts to dealers in April 2016, the facility is now fully operational. 
This seventh VWGoA PDC in the United States will enable improved efficiency in Volkswagen and Audi service parts deliveries and employ 30-plus people. This is the second VWGoA PDC in California, with another 310,000 square-foot facility in Los Angeles.
Eastvale Training Center

Volkswagen Group of America also announced today that it will invest an estimated $4.5 million to create a state-of-the-art training facility at the Goodman Commerce Center in Eastvale. 

The new Center will house Volkswagen, Audi and Porsche training facilities for the purposes of technical, collision repair and sales training. This is the first training facility to support all three brands and is expected to open in the first quarter of 2017.

Volkswagen Group has committed more than $7 billion in North America between 2015 and 2019. These new additions to Volkswagen Group’s California presence are among seven locations where the company operates in the state. 
Other sites include the Volkswagen Group of America Electronic Research Laboratory in Silicon Valley, a regional sales operations office in Woodland Hills, and the Test Center California in Oxnard.

Friday, 10 June 2016

BMW of America is supplying 100 BMW i3 Electric Vehicles to the Los Angeles Police Department.

BMW of North America today announced that it has won its bid to supply the Los Angeles Police Department with 100 fully-electric BMW i3 vehicles for use in the department’s transportation fleet.
This announcement comes after a field trial during which a BMW i3 was evaluated alongside other EVs on the streets of Los Angeles as part of the LAPD’s every day fleet. 

Ultimately, the BMW i3 was selected due to a combination of EPA rated best-in-class efficiency, reliability and state-of-the-art ConnectedDrive services, which can be used to support fleet management applications.



BMW’s extensive knowledge of charging infrastructure and the availability of a large network of BMW i centers for servicing the fleet in a convenient and cost effective way also played into the decision.
“We should be thinking green in everything we do — and these new EVs show how local government can lead,” said Mayor Garcetti. “Our sustainability plan pushes L.A. to speed adoption of greener practices and technologies, which also save money and resources.”  
“The attributes of the BMW i3 position it to excel as the ideal vehicle for municipal organizations. 

The performance and technical capabilities, such as the BMW i3 ‘s acceleration, and its ConnectedDrive integration, are perfectly suited to transform the future mobility of the Los Angeles Police Department while also reducing their carbon footprint,” said Ludwig Willisch, President and CEO of BMW of North America.  
The BMW i3 police cars began hitting the streets of Los Angeles this spring badged with an LAPD insignia. As the department’s non-emergency fleet vehicles, the BMW i3s will be used throughout the department as transportation vehicles for officers and in community outreach initiatives.  
BMW's software data system will integrate with the LAPD's fleet management system which will allow the department to electronically receive critical vehicle data needed to effectively maintain their fleet.  

BMW is also designing a web tool that will allow the department to track their fleet in near real-time, contributing to improved deployment, utilization, and the efficient charging of their fleet of BMW i3s. 
Greenlots, a global provider of open standards-based distributed energy resource solutions, will supply 100 Level 2 chargers and four DC fast chargers to LAPD.
Due in large part to its compact size and use of light-weight Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) in its construction, the sustainable, fully-electric BMW i3 has a tight turning radius and the agility needed to navigating congested city streets.

Tuesday, 17 November 2015

Bentley to make the "First Editions" highly equipped and exclusively designed, with only 608 units to be made..

  • First 608 Bentaygas to be exclusively designed and highly equipped
  • Bentayga is the most powerful, most luxurious, most exclusive and fastest SUV in the world
  • Limited edition celebrates the creation of an all-new luxury SUV market segment
  • Each owner to receive one of three special-edition Breitling chronographs
Bentley Motors is debuting the Bentayga First Edition to a select group of VIP customers tonight at the iconic Sunset Marquis Hotel, Los Angeles. The exclusive limited edition of the most powerful SUV in production is restricted to just 608 cars globally.
The eye-catching specification with exclusive details and unique components demonstrates the Bentayga’s abilities to the fullest. The First Edition’s unique design includes Union Jack badging, illuminated treadplates and 22” black painted and polished wheels. Just ten exterior colours are offered, highlighting the exclusivity of the model.

Inside the modern, luxurious cabin the ‘Diamond within Diamond’ quilting, bespoke ambient lighting, Union Jack fascia badging, unique contrast stitching and embroidered seats enrich the look and feel of this special series still further. The detailing in metal, wood and leather – including meticulous tolerances between elements of trim – sets a new standard in automotive design.
Bentley is producing 608 Bentayga First Edition models as this number marks the metric power output of the Bentayga 608 PS (600 bhp / 447kW) and 900 Nm (663 lb. ft).
Built in Crewe, an all-new twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre W12 engine is at the heart of the new Bentayga. The mighty 12-cylinder unit combines efficiency and refinement with ultra-luxurious levels of power and torque. With a 0-60 mph time of 4.0 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds) and a top speed of 187 mph (301 km/h), the Bentayga is the world’s most powerful and fastest SUV.
Kevin Rose, Board Member for Sales and Marketing, Aftersales, said: “With the First Edition we have created the ultimate expression of the Bentayga’s spirit. It is equipped with an array of striking features that celebrate both the pioneering nature of the Bentayga and its unique abilities.”
Bentayga Edition Breitling Watches
Each of the First Edition customers will receive a unique Breitling watch to complement their new, luxury SUV.
In tribute to the launch of the new Bentley Bentayga SUV, Breitling created three high-performance special-edition chronographs: the Emergency, which features an integrated dual frequency personal locator beacon; Cockpit B50 – with its electronic multifunction calibre; and the automatic Chronomat 38, which is designed for women.
These three Bentley Bentayga Edition models share several signature features: an officially chronometer-certified Breitling movement; an original and powerful design with an all-black case; a black mother-of-pearl dial; bronzetoned hands matching the livery of the first Bentayga presented to the public; and a rubber strap matching certain key interior elements.
These chronographs will be available later as optional equipment for Bentayga customers.

Thursday, 12 November 2015

USA - Jaguar Land ROver to have no less than three US debuts, XE, F-Pace and Evoque Convertible.

  • 2017 Range Rover Evoque Convertible makes global auto show debut
  • 2017 Jaguar XE sports sedan (U.S. specification) to make global auto show debut.
  • 2017 Jaguar F-PACE performance SUV makes North American Auto Show debut
  • Jaguar display to feature for the first time in the U.S. the expanded 5 model lineup.  Jaguar Art of Performance Tour, a nationwide Jaguar XE consumer test drive tour, kicks off in Hollywood, November 18
  • Press Conference: Wednesday, Nov. 18 at 11:35AM - South Hall
Jaguar Land Rover today announced it will debut three important new vehicles at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show, each representing an expansion of the brands' model lineups.
The Jaguar XE sports sedan and Jaguar F-PACE performance SUV expand the Jaguar lineup from 3 models to 5 when each goes on sale in North America in 2016. The Range Rover Evoque Convertible, the first premium compact convertible SUV, adds a 3rd variation to the popular Range Rover Evoque lineup in 2016 as well.

Land Rover Design Director and Chief Creative Officer, Gerry McGovern will unveil the production Range Rover Evoque Convertible at the show. The Range Rover Evoque Convertible Concept Vehicle was shown for the first time at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.
Jaguar Design Director, Ian Callum, will introduce the 2017 Jaguar F-PACE performance SUV to the North American market following its worldwide introduction at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show in September.
Callum will also unveil the 2017 model year Jaguar XE compact sports sedan.  The car launched in global markets as a 2016 model year, but debuts at the show with updated 2017 model year features and U.S. specification.
Range Rover Evoque Convertible
As the latest model in the Range Rover Evoque line-up, the all-new Range Rover Evoque Convertible enhances the desirability of the Range Rover Evoque family, expanding the Land Rover brand to a new audience of customers looking for a unique combination of open-air driving and luxurious refinement.
The new Range Rover Evoque Convertible has been engineered to be instantly identifiable as a member of the Range Rover Evoque family whether the acoustically-lined fabric top is up or down. 
In keeping with the award-winning design found in the five-door and coupe derivatives of the fixed-roof Range Rover Evoque, the new convertible retains not only the model's elegant design, but also the characteristic versatility, comfort and all-terrain capability. 
In fact, the Range Rover Evoque 5-Door recently received the Most Loved Vehicle Award by Strategic Vision for the Near-Luxury Utility Segment following its 21st annual New Vehicle Experience Study (NVES).
Gerry McGovern, Land Rover Design Director and Chief Creative Officer, commented: "When the Range Rover Evoque Convertible was first shown as a concept, the response was overwhelmingly positive. 
It was the next logical step to bring the pioneering concept to reality and with a clear design strategy we have safeguarded the distinctive character of the Range Rover Evoque. The result is the ultimate expression of fun and desirability building on the ever-popular Evoque nameplate which continues to bring new customers to the brand."
The Range Rover Evoque Convertible will be on sale in U.S. beginning mid-2016, priced from $50,4751.
2017 Jaguar F-PACE
The F-PACE is the first SUV from the Jaguar brand. First unveiled at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, the F-PACE joins the brand's sedan line-up and enters the highly competitive compact performance SUV segment delivering the same outstanding driving experience which sets all Jaguar vehicles apart from the competition.
As the latest Jaguar model, alongside the XE and XF, the F-PACE has benefitted from the brand's expertise in designing and manufacturing aluminum chassis. 
Through the use of advanced drivers assistance features and a shared platform of aluminum-intensive architecture, suspension and powertrain components found in the XE, XF and F-TYPE, the all-new F-PACE offers the same exceptional driving dynamics, refined ride characteristics and confident road holding abilities owners have come to expect in Jaguar sports sedans and sports cars, in an SUV.
U.S. buyers will have their choice of a 340- or 380-hp supercharged 3.0L gasoline V6 mated to an 8-speed transmission with power being routed to all four wheels via a torque-on-demand all-wheel drive system, when the car goes on sale in mid-2016. Later in the year, a new 180-hp four-cylinder Ingenium diesel engine will also be added to the model lineup, offering increased fuel economy and a lower price of entry for the model.
The F-PACE will be priced from $40,9901 for the turbocharged 180-hp 2.0L diesel four-cylinder  when it arrives in the U.S.
2017 Jaguar XE
Launched globally in 2015, the Jaguar XE will arrive in North American showrooms Spring of 2016 as a 2017 model year with key new features. Built on an aluminum-intensive architecture shared with both the new XF and F-PACE, the XE completes the modern Jaguar sedan line-up as an entry point for the brand's streamlined styling, luxurious interiors, outstanding ride and handling.
The XE will be available with a fuel-efficient3 2.0L 180-hp turbocharged diesel four-cylinder engine - the 20d; a 240-hp turbocharged petrol four-cylinder engine - the 25t; and a powerful, range-topping 340-hp supercharged petrol V6 engine - the 35t; in both rear- and all-wheel drive configurations selectively.
The XE will be priced from $34,9001 when it goes on sale in late Spring 2016.
Land Rover at the LA Auto Show
In addition to debuting the Range Rover Evoque Convertible at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Land Rover will have its full line-up of vehicles on display. 
The Land Rover display will feature the full range including the performance-minded Range Rover Sport SVR and the Land Rover Discovery Sport HSE LUX as well as the 2016 Range Rover powered by the new 3.0L turbocharged diesel V6, capable of achieving 29mpg highway fuel economy4.
Jaguar at the LA Auto Show
Joining the new US-spec 2017 XE and all-new Jaguar F-PACE, Jaguar will also have the 2016 XJ, F-TYPE, and new 2017 XF on display from the convention center floor. 
The grouping of cars marks the first time the full 5-model Jaguar line-up has been on display in North America since the announcement of the brand's new go-to-market strategy for U.S. consumers beginning with the 2016 model year. 
All 2016 model year and newer Jaguar models come standard with Jaguar EliteCare, a best-in-class ownership package offering a new vehicle limited warranty and the longest complimentary scheduled maintenance package of any luxury brand in the market, with five-years or 60,000 mile coverage, whichever comes first2.
Jaguar will introduce the XE compact sports sedan to the growing millennial consumer demographic with the launch of The Art of Performance Tour: Lights. Camera. Drive!; a seven-city cross-country tour, kicking off  November 18 in Hollywood, Calif. which invites consumers to see the full 2016/2017 Jaguar line-up, including the Jaguar F-PACE, and be among the first to drive the Jaguar XE six months before it goes on sale.
The drive experience will have a cinematic feel that celebrates Jaguar's long standing relationship with movies and provides consumers with the opportunity to star in their own filmed action sequence as they experience high performance driving on a closed course and on-road handling through a street drive. 
Their personal action sequence will then be available as a sharable film through popular social media pages. Consumers can sign up to receive more information about The Art of Performance by visiting JaguarUSA.com/RSVP.
The Jaguar Land Rover press conference at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show will be held in the South Hall of the Los Angeles Convention Center on Wednesday, November 18 at 11:35AM. For further information on any of the vehicles
1All prices shown are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price. Excludes $995 destination/handling charge, tax, title, license, and retailer fees, all due at signing, and optional equipment. Retailer price, terms and vehicle availability may vary. See your local authorized Land Rover Retailer for details.
2 Class is cars sold by luxury automobile brands and claim is based on total package of warranty, maintenance and other coverage programs. For complete details regarding Jaguar EliteCare coverage, please visit JAGUARUSA.COM, call 1.800.4.JAGUAR or visit your local Jaguar Retailer.
3 All figures are Manufacturer's fuel economy estimates.  Actual mileage may vary.  EPA estimates not available at time of press.
4 All figures are EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage may vary.