The DTM Race Season Kicks Off In Hockenheim

Welcome back ladies and gentlemen; I hope you all had a fantastic weekend and took advantage of the warmer-than-usual temperatures blanketing much of the country. To kick things off this morning comes a recap of the DTM season opener that took place in Hockenheim over the weekend. Rather than give you the full details of the race – something which could get somewhat confusing due to the number of Mercedes drivers involved – I’ll instead give you a quick summary of where each of the driver’s finished and let you check out the full press release for the actual race commentary. So without further ado, the Mercedes drivers’ results:

KLEEMANN Introduces New High Flow Exhaust Headers For The AMG 63 Engine

Are you the exuberant new owner of a Mercedes powered by the prodigious AMG 63 engine that wants to add a dash of additional power to your already impressive powerplant? If so, KLEEMANN has announced the introduction of new high flow exhaust headers for the M156 AMG 63 engine, the result of which is a power output increase of approximately 7% to 35 horsepower and 40 Nm of torque.

EvoBus GmbH Wins Contract From Czech Republic For 600 Mercedes-Benz Intouro Intercity Buses

DaimlerChrysler announced yesterday that in the city of Prague, privately-owned ICOM transport a.s. has just signed a contract with their subsidiary, EvoBus GmbH, to purchase a total of 600 Mercedes-Benz Intouro intercity buses. The agreement spans a total of five years, with 100 buses scheduled to be handed over this year, 300 additional buses scheduled to be delivered next year, and the remaining 200 buses scheduled to be delivered between 2009 and 2011.

Inside Line And Auto Bild Report On The 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Going through our inbox this bright Friday morning an astute reader by the name of Eric tipped us off to an article published by Inside Line – one which looks at the 2010 Mercedes E-Class. The article is based on recent Auto Bild renderings of the upcoming model, and states pretty much what you see in the picture. Gone are the oval headlights we’ve all come to know and love, replaced by a squared-off lights similar to the ones found on the new C-Class. Overall size and shape will remain similar to the current model however, while only minor revisions to the rear are expected.

Subaru Unleashes Impreza WRX STI Limited for 2007

Less Show, Same Go – Leather Interior, Power Moonroof – Only 800 Numbered Units Available
NEW YORK, April 13, 2006 – Subaru of America, Inc. today unveiled the 2007 Impreza WRX STI Limited model at the New York International Auto Show. The new edition of the road-conquering Impreza WRX STI packages greater comfort and refinement with subtler exterior styling, but does not sacrifice the performance of this street legend.
The WRX STI Limited will be available in the fall in a limited run of 800 numbered units, 400 in Satin White Pearl and 400 in Urban Gray Metallic.
The 2007 WRX STI Limited delivers all the power and performance of the standard model. This new limited-edition version adds a layer of refinement and design detail enhancements targeted at a new group of driving enthusiasts looking for supercar performance but with an understated demeanor. Designed by Subaru Tecnica International (STI), the high-performance and motorsports subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd., the WRX STI Limited is descended from the Subaru WRC Rally car.
“The WRX STI redefined the performance car category when it was introduced in 2004. We know some enthusiasts have resisted the temptation to buy one simply because they want more everyday driving comfort and refinement, along with less aggressive styling,” said Fred Adcock, executive vice president, Subaru of America. “Now, with the STI’s reputation for pure performance unquestioned, we recognized an opportunity to broaden the car’s appeal.”
Less Show, Same Go
The 2007 WRX STI Limited stands apart from the standard model with an appearance that’s more low-key, and even stealthy. A new trunk-mounted lip spoiler replaces the standard model’s large dual-plane rear spoiler, and the black aluminum roof vane spoiler is deleted. A new, deep front lip spoiler further distinguishes the WRX STI Limited from the standard model.
New Enkei wheels with high-luster paint replace the BBS® wheels, keeping the same 17 x 8-in. size and 225/45 ZR17 Bridgestone Potenza RE070 directional performance tires. Behind the new wheels, black Brembo® brake calipers with white lettering have a more reserved appearance than the gold and red-painted calipers on the standard WRX STI.
All WRX STI Limited models feature distinctive black gloss B-pillar paint and high luster paint for the exterior mirrors, and this special edition model includes standard fog lights.
New Refined Interior Keeps the Focus on Performance
The interior of the 2007 Impreza WRX STI Limited balances the performance-directed design and attitude with a dose of refinement. Most notably, the WRX STI Limited replaces the perforated blue high-grip Alcantara® fabric seating surfaces with leather and new dark gray metallic bezels and interior trim.
For the first time in a WRX STI, the performance-design front seats are heated for all-season comfort. Also enhancing all-season driving pleasure, the 2007 WRX STI Limited features the first-ever power glass moonroof on this model. Beyond the changed interior appearance, additional features include new carpeting with improved sound insulation materials, an auto-dimming compass rear view mirror and an audio system input jack for an iPod or other digital music player. Finally, each car in this series gets a sequential number plate.
The standard automatic climate control system integrates cabin air filtration. SIRIUSâ„¢ Satellite radio availability enhances the versatility of the standard 120-watt AM/FM premium stereo, which includes a 6-disc in-dash CD changer and six speakers.
Rally Tested and Road Ready
All Impreza WRX STI models are powered by a turbocharged and intercooled 2.5-liter DOHC Boxer engine producing 293 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 290 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,400 rpm. The Subaru Active Valve Control System (AVCS) variable valve timing technology helps provide strong torque characteristics throughout the engine’s operating range. A manually operated water spray feature helps to bolster intercooler efficiency during spirited driving.
All WRX STI models are exclusively equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission that features carbon-plated double-cone synchronizers on 4th, 5th and 6th gears to help ensure durability.
Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) All-Wheel Drive
From its launch, the WRX STI has been equipped with one of the most advanced and most performance-directed All-Wheel Drive systems on the market, regardless of vehicle segment. The Driver Control Center Differential (DCCD) Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system uses a planetary-type center differential to provide a 41:59 torque split, with automatic and manual differential modes.
Center differential lock-up is controlled by both a mechanical limited-slip type differential and an electronically controlled limited-slip differential. The mechanical limited-slip differential activates and operates initially in response to changes in engine torque, improving overall vehicle stability when accelerating or decelerating. In automatic mode, the electronic limited-slip differential controls the differential lock-up by evaluating the amount of lock-up in the mechanical limited-slip. The total amount of lock-up is based on the combination of both differentials. A steering sensor input improves torque transfer response by more accurately relaying the car’s cornering situation.
Set in automatic mode, the DCCD system can vary the torque distribution ratio as needed in response to vehicle acceleration, deceleration, steering angle, cornering force and wheel slippage.
In manual mode, DCCD allows the driver to select center differential lock-up to optimize All-Wheel Drive performance for varying driving conditions. The driver first selects manual mode with a console-mounted button and then turns a thumbwheel on the center console to select from among six levels of lock-up. Increasing the locking factor keeps more power at the front wheels (max. 50:50 torque split with 100 percent lock-up selected), which the driver might want in certain driving conditions or on particular road surfaces.
A helical-type limited-slip front differential and Torsen® limited-slip rear differential help to optimize power distribution side-to-side, helping to prevent the inside wheels from slipping during cornering.
Competition-Bred Chassis
A super-stiff Ring Frame Reinforced body structure with a hydroformed front subframe provides the foundation for the high-integrity Impreza platform. Compared to the standard WRX models, the WRX STI models are lowered by 0.4-inch to help lower the center of gravity.
The 4-wheel independent suspension inherits its inverted-strut technology from the Impreza WRC competition car. Aluminum front suspension lower control arms and aluminum rear suspension lateral links reduce unsprung vehicle weight. A quick-ratio steering system yields 2.6 turns lock-to-lock, and the steering rack uses a “cannon mount” for greater rigidity that improves on-center response.
The powerful Brembo Performance Brake System employs front discs measuring 12.7 inches in diameter and 1.2-inch thick and utilizing 4-piston, fixed-position calipers. The rear discs are 12.3 inches in diameter and 0.8-inch thick and use 2-piston, fixed-position calipers.
A combination of Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and the Super Sport Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) helps to reduce stopping distances and understeer compared to conventional ABS systems. EBD provides precise control of braking pressure between the front and rear wheels based on the vehicle load to improve stability and stopping distances. Super Sport ABS, using input from a lateral-g sensor, can control the braking forces at each rear wheel independently, optimizing the braking ability during hard cornering to help reduce understeer.
All Impreza, WRX and WRX STI models are equipped as standard with the Subaru Advanced Frontal Air bag system and front seat head/chest side impact air bags (SRS). The driver’s side air bag deploys according to the driver’s proximity to the steering wheel, as measured by a sensor on the seat track. In the passenger side front seat, a sensor module detects weight on the passenger seat – first determining if it’s occupied, and if so by a child or adult – to control air bag deployment.

Sports car manufacturer presents logo for multipurpose hall at NeckarPark in Stuttgart

Dynamic logo highlights flexibility of the new Porsche Arena
Stuttgart. After acquiring the name rights in October 2005, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, has now presented the official logo of the new Porsche Arena: Oval, gradated dynamic lines are paired with classical design. The familiar red Porsche logo combined with an energetically depicted arena silhouette in metallic gray are particularly eye-catching. The word “Arena” written in the manner otherwise used exclusively on the rear end of the Zuffenhausen sports cars completes the striking yet discrete expression.
“The dynamic logo is also a symbol for the highly flexible concept of the new Porsche Arena,” summarizes Anton Hunger, Head of Porsche AG Press and Public Relations, on the advantages of the multipurpose hall. In addition to the Annual General Meeting of the car maker and the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix a great variety of sports and cultural events are possible due to the short change-over times. The Porsche Arena is to be opened on May 27, 2006.

2006 Land Rover G4 Challenge

The Land Rover G4 Challenge is the ultimate adventure. Following the success of the very first Challenge in 2003, the adventure continues in 2006. The Land Rover G4 Challenge offers men and women from 18 nations the opportunity to match strategy, stamina and skill in an awesome 4×4 driving and multi-sport challenge. Working in bi-national teams, competitors are matched against each other across four consecutive stages spanning Southeast Asia and South America.
The Challenge will unfold in both urban and remote areas, with one competitor, representing one nation, emerging as the Challenge winner.

Lexus Reveals All-New ES Luxury Sedan at Chicago Auto Show

Lexus will stage the world premiere of its all-new 2007 ES luxury sedan at a press conference during the Chicago Auto Show on Wednesday, February 8, 2006.
Arriving late this spring, the fifth-generation Lexus ES will set impressive new standards in design, styling, engineering, safety and performance.
The Lexus press conference is scheduled for 9:15 a.m. at the Lexus display area in McCormick Place convention center.

All-New Fifth-Generation 2007 Lexus ES Sedan Redefines Entry Luxury Segment

The all-new 2007 Lexus ES 350 made its public debut today at the Chicago Auto Show. The all-new, fully redesigned ES marks the fourth Lexus sedan to benefit from the L-finesse design language. Going on sale in late April, the fifth-generation ES improves upon every level of comfort, safety, performance and craftsmanship in the elegant five-passenger sedan.
“We believe the newly revamped ES 350 is better in most every way than our original LS flagship sedan,” said Lexus Group Vice President and General Manager Bob Carter. “It’s faster, quieter and more powerful than the first LS that redefined the prestige luxury segment in the early 1990s.”
2007 ES Marks Complete Redesign of All Lexus Sedans
From a styling standpoint, the ES marks the latest Lexus sedan to receive a complete redesign emphasizing a more sculptural direction, one that now reveals a family resemblance across the entire passenger car lineup. With an over two-inch longer wheelbase and more than an inch wider track, the ES has a more confident stance. A long hood, pulled-back cabin and short rear deck are characteristic of the new L-finesse design theme, recalling classic sports car proportions with a contemporary look unique to all new-generation Lexus sedans.
The creation of a spatial feeling in the passenger compartment is central to the new Lexus design direction. Without increasing the overall exterior length, engineers were able to increase rear legroom while maintaining the already roomy driver and front-passenger compartment.
The interior of the new ES introduces a new level of craftsmanship as well. Premium wood and leather accents provide a level of luxury never before seen in the entry luxury segment. Everything inside the ES is designed and styled to create a comfortable and harmonious interaction, with touchpoints that convey quality and refinement. The roomy, luxurious cabin is complemented by intelligently designed displays and controls to make driving both simple and pleasurable. Bright, clear Optitron gauges combined with smartly integrated metallic and authentic brown walnut wood trim help create a luxurious, elegant ambience.
Powerful Technology for New V6
The ES 350’s 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers 272 horsepower and 254 lb.-ft. of torque, resulting in an estimated zero-to-60 mph time of 6.8 seconds, substantially quicker than the model it replaces. The highly sophisticated engine uses electronically controlled sequential fuel injection, which optimizes the fuel mixture and creates a precise burn, higher output and lower emissions to aid drivability. The result is a substantial improvement in engine efficiency with increased power and improved fuel economy.
The engine also benefits from reduced internal friction via chain-driven camshafts and roller-rocker arms that serve to increase efficiency. Aluminum heads and cylinder blocks feature special cast-in “spiny” cylinder liners to improve liner stability and cooling by increasing surface contact area with the cylinder head.
The new ES comes standard with dual exhaust, which reduces exhaust backpressure at high rpm. Extensive use of stainless steel in the exhaust system minimizes weight and improves durability. The integration of these technologies contributes to segment-leading efficiency with the ES 350 obtaining a manufacturer-estimated combined fuel economy of 25 mpg (21 mpg city/30 mpg highway) and an expected Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle II (ULEV II) certification.
Six-Speed Transmission
The front-wheel drive ES 350 features a six-speed automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) and sequential shift. The low-friction, high-efficiency gear train is lighter and more compact than the previous generation 5-speed transmission with 20 percent fewer parts and 24 percent fewer hydraulic controls. Gear ratios are carefully matched to both engine horsepower and torque characteristics to provide very smooth yet responsive shifts for improved drivability.
New Intelligent Luxury
In addition to a new look and feel, the new ES also improves upon the increasingly complex nature of automotive technology. The ES offers numerous standard features such as SmartAccess keyless entry and a new push-to-start ignition system that allows drivers to enter and start the vehicle without removing the access fob from their pocket or purse.
Lexus’ craftsmanship and renowned attention to detail provide true luxury by design. Dual-zone automatic climate control and 10-way power front seats, with available memory, highlight the front cabin. The supportive standard cloth seats are also available in leather and extra-soft upgraded perforated leather for additional comfort.
The three-spoke steering wheel features easy-to-use controls for the audio system, trip computer and multi-information display in the speedometer. It also adds a voice control switch for the available Bluetooth® navigation and features. An auto-dimming rearview mirror with an integrated digital compass is standard, as are heated exterior mirrors.
Additional standard luxury features include a sliding center console, a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, a one-touch power moonroof and an illuminated entry system that lights the exterior with puddle lamps and the interior cabin footwells.
Luxury extends to the smallest details in the new ES, from illuminated front cup holders to an interior LED soft-lighting system that provides just the right amount of light where driver and passengers need it most. And the ES lends extra peace of mind with the integrated Homelink® transmitter that can control a variety of compatible home security devices and systems.
Advanced Safety Features
New standard safety features include Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC), an electronic traction-control system that uses both throttle and brake intervention to help control wheel spin.
In addition, the new ES provides eight standard airbags; 10 with the optional rear-seat side airbags. For 2007, the ES gains new knee airbags for the driver and front passenger as well as a twin-chamber front passenger airbag. Side-curtain airbags coupled with front seat-mounted airbags and the optional rear-seat side airbags are designed to help offer additional crash energy management for the front and rear seat occupants.
The Supplemental Restraint System in the new ES also includes variable-force front airbags for both driver and front passenger. Sensors determine the severity of the accident and, in turn, the force with which to deploy the front airbags, helping to provide an appropriate level of occupant restraint. Rear-seat side airbags are offered optionally.
The ES 350 includes the safety of several visibility-enhancing technologies. The front side windows feature a water-repellant surface that helps to bead rainwater. A rear back-up camera, part of the available navigation package, is mounted near the top of the license plate surround and projects a color image of what the camera lens can detect behind the vehicle onto the navigation screen whenever the vehicle is in reverse.
In addition, the ES provides the first-ever intelligent Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) that allows both right and left front headlamp bulbs to swivel at the same time to help illuminate a turn or curve as the driver steers into it.
Luxury Alive in the Details
For the first time, Lexus offers an optional panorama glass roof on the ES 350 creating an expansive feeling of openness for interior passengers. The glass roof extends over the entire passenger cabin providing a fixed skylight for rear passengers and a sliding sunroof for front passengers. A manual interior shade is provided for the front and rear passenger compartments. The frameless design allows for significantly tighter gaps versus those provided by other manufacturers and, with no visible gaskets, contributes to its sleek appearance and efficient aerodynamics.
Optional ventilated front seats and an available power rear window sunshade work in concert with the standard dual-zone climate control that filters the air to keep occupants comfortable. A dual-zone automatic climate control allows driver and front passenger to customize interior temperatures, while rear passengers enjoy their own A/C vents.
The optional and newly upgraded fifth-generation navigation system offers eight million points of interest (POI). The multi-information display makes key information readily available and easy to see. These and other features available on the new ES, such as semi-aniline leather, High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps, intelligent Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, heated/ventilated front seats and the panorama glass roof are normally found only in more expensive luxury cars.
Mind-Expanding Audio Systems
An enhanced standard premium audio system brings an in-dash, six-disc CD-changer, MP3 player, iPod connectivity and an additional speaker to the 2007 ES. The system also includes an Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL) to maintain consistent sound levels at varying vehicle speeds.
Music aficionados will appreciate the newest generation of the optional Mark Levinson audio system in the new ES. Using a 7.1-channel speaker architecture, this leading-edge design uses 10 channels of amplification with a total of 300 watts at 0.1 percent Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) playing through 14 speakers to bring a major new dimension to automotive audio sound. The Mark Levinson audio also takes advantage of DVD audio and video technology, allowing users to play both conventional CDs and DVDs. DVD movies can be viewed on the color 7-inch touch screen when the vehicle is parked.
The all-new 2007 Lexus ES goes on sale late April. Although prices have not been finalized, it will represent the best value in the entry luxury segment.

American Honda Sales Increase 8.7 Percent to New February Record

Torrance, Calif. 03/01/2006 — American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is posting record February vehicle sales of 106,644, up 8.7 percent, led by increases for its most popular models including the all-new Civic and the re-designed Accord, up 37.6 percent and 4.4 percent, respectively. Year-to-date sales of 205,038 are up 14.1 percent.
Honda Division is posting record February sales of 92,498 cars and light trucks, an increase of 12.8 percent, with additional records broken for total Honda truck sales of 41,980 and Pilot sales of 10,901. Year-to-date, Honda Division is up 18.1 percent with sales of 176,911.
Civic sales of 24,722 include 1,780 Civic Hybrids (up 31.6 percent) and Accord sales of 25,285 include 783 Accord Hybrids. February combined sales of Honda’s three hybrid vehicles are up 18.2 percent to 2,635, and up 47.5 percent for the year to 6,210. February marks the first full year for the Ridgeline with sales cumulatively reaching 50,892, on-track with its 12-month sales target of 50,000 units.
“The American consumer is re-discovering cars and the timing for the all-new 2006 Civic couldn’t be better,” said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda. “The Civic has been strong out of the gate and Honda’s diverse lineup of light trucks has set a record for four consecutive months.”
Acura Division posted sales of 14,146 with record TSX sports sedan sales up 1.4 percent. The TL performance luxury sedan continued as Acura’s top-selling model with February sales of 5,169

2007 Honda Fit Press Information

General Introduction
The 2007 Honda Fit is designed to take the subcompact market into new territory with its highly refined and ultra-adaptable functionality, sporty driving demeanor and high levels of standard safety equipment. Built on Honda’s legendary foundation for dependability, quality and reliability, the Fit is a premium entry vehicle that emphasizes style, technology and value.
Already an established and hugely popular vehicle in Japan and Europe (sold as the Honda Jazz), the latest version of the Fit debuting in the U.S. has a 1.5-liter VTEC(TM) engine, six standard airbags, an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and a unique multi-configuration 60/40 split Magic Seat(R) as standard features, while a 5-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters is available. All of the Fit’s features and equipment are designed to give drivers the ability to maximize driving fun, utility and safety.
2007 Honda Fit Highlights
5-door, subcompact hatchback
1.5-liter VTEC 4-cylinder engine
109 horsepower @ 5800 rpm
105 lb-ft. torque @ 4800 rpm
Standard 5-speed manual transmission and available 5-speed automatic transmission
Drive-by-Wire throttle control
Estimated EPA fuel economy of 33 mpg city / 38 mpg highway (manual transmission)
Standard dual front, front side and side curtain airbags
Standard anti-lock braking system (ABS)
Power windows, mirrors and door locks
AM/FM/CD audio system with four speakers (six speakers on Fit Sport)
Available Fit Sport with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters and more
With a vast array of standard features, the Fit is a premium entry car – providing a versatile, multi-configurable small car that optimizes power, cargo room, handling and safety. The Fit is powered by a 1.5-liter VTEC gasoline engine generating 109 horsepower and 105 lb-ft. of torque. The engine is mated to a standard 5-speed manual transmission or the segment’s only 5-speed automatic transmission. The estimated 33 mpg city / 38 highway mileage (manual transmission) is among the best fuel economy ratings for conventional gasoline engines in 2006.
The Fit Sport adds steering wheel-mounted paddle shifter controls on models with the automatic transmission, while its underbody kit, rear roofline spoiler, fog lights and 15-inch aluminum-alloy wheels offer a sporty, aerodynamic look. Additional Fit Sport features include a security system with remote entry, premium 200-watt AM/FM/CD audio system and cruise control.
Automotive

2006 New York International Auto Show Remarks by Dick Colliver

2006 New York International Auto Show
Honda Press Conference, April 13, 2006
Remarks by Dick Colliver, Executive Vice President
American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
Good morning and thank you for joining us for the Honda press event. As you saw in our playful opening module, Honda is a company that now has a full line-up of world-class, award-winning vehicles. A line-up that is continuing to get stronger every day. The new Civic came out of the gate a winner on every level and Civic sales are up 32 percent over last year. And the all-new Fit launches next week…. a Honda in the full sense of the word, it’s a vehicle which is unique in its segment with great interior flexibility, and high levels of standard feature content, safety, and refinement.
And later this year we’ll be launching an all-new CR-V, and a very hot new Civic Si sedan. All of that in addition to the new vehicle I’m going to show you in a few moments. With the addition of the Ridgeline pickup at one end, and the sub-compact Fit at the other, Honda now has the most comprehensive line-up in its history, with product offerings in nearly all segments. Add it all up and its clear that Honda is on the move and we are projecting record sales for the our 11th record consecutive year with total sales of 1.3 million vehicles. As we expand our product line, and work to build sales, we’re also continuing to remain focused on protecting the environment.
Honda’s commitment to the environment runs deep and is expressed in everything we do including our alternative fuel vehicles. The Honda FCX for example, is the most advanced hydrogen powered vehicle on earth. And, while we create the technologies of tomorrow, we’re also making the most of the fuels available today.– Fuels like natural gas. Available in millions of homes across America, natural gas is a clean, eco-friendly alternative fuel. Until now the only ones able to use it for vehicles were large companies with their own fleet of refueling stations. Honda is changing that. Next month we’re launching the next generation of the natural gas powered Civic GX in California. Using the Phill refueling appliance, customers can now conveniently refuel at home. With an overnight refuel, the Civic GX has a range of approximately 250 miles – more than enough to cover most daily driving.
The Phill home refueling appliance removes the infrastructure barrier to consumer use of natural gas vehicles, and it is a breakthrough technology. As for the Civic GX, it’s the cleanest running vehicle sold anywhere on earth, and it’s an expression of Honda’s corporate commitment to creating “Blue skies” for our children. Honda is the only company to offer this technology, and I am pleased to announce today that Civic GX — and the home refueling appliance — will be available throughout New York State starting this fall.
And, while we work to protect the environment, we’re also doing everything we can to ensure that Honda vehicles are as safe as possible. In 2003 we publicly launched our “safety for everyone” initiative. This initiative was designed to bring a core suite of standard safety features that go beyond current regulations, to every Honda model regardless of size or price.
Those features include: side curtain airbags, front-side airbags, anti-lock brakes, and pedestrian safety design. It’s a comprehensive package and, by the end of this calendar year every Honda — except for our small volume specialty models — will have these safety technologies. In addition, we have also applied the ACE body structure to nearly half of our models, and have added a series of other safety features above and beyond our original commitment. The next great Hondas to include all of the “safety for everyone” features will be the 2007 Element line-up, including a new urban-oriented version of this popular SUV.
One of the hallmarks of Element is its versatility, and the new Element SC Prototype is designed to expand that versatility by appealing to a whole new group of young buyers.
This is the Element SC prototype, and it has been designed to be the hip, style conscious, performance-oriented brother of the original Element — which makes New York City the perfect place to introduce it. Complimenting the outdoor lifestyle features the Element is known for, the Element SC injects a new dimension of sophistication into the line-up that can best be summarized as “city performer”. With fully painted panels and trim pieces, the exterior is designed to convey a more sophisticated attitude.
Exclusive prototype features include: custom front bumper, a custom grill , projector beam headlights, a front to rear Aero Body Kit, a lowered roofline, a new suspension riding 3″ lower than the stock edition, and custom 21″ cast aluminum alloy wheels with high performance tires.
Inside, there are a variety of exclusive features which work together to create an upscale, urban feel. These include: glossy black trim pieces, a carpeted floor, copper-hue instrument panel lighting with corresponding trim accents and a new integrated seat-belt system. There’s also a center console that has enclosed storage areas ideal for cell phones and MP3 players, and which creates a more cockpit-like environment.
Element SC is powered by a 2.4 liter dual overhead cam, iVTEC engine that produces 166 horsepower — 10 more than the ’06 Element. It comes standard with a five-speed manual — and the available automatic has five forward gears instead of four. As for handling, it has been vastly improved thanks to a dynamic combination of “track worthy” steering and suspension. And, as I said a moment ago, it also comes standard with a full array of highly advanced, world-class safety features.
As for our buyers, we expect Element SC to appeal to young males seeking an expression of their personal style. This Element will provide that along with cargo versatility, plus a great driving experience. And, we will announce technical details, pricing, and sales plans closer to its debut this fall. With everything it has going for it, Element SC is going to be a hot new addition to the Honda line-up…. A line-up that continues to grow stronger, and better everyday as we set our sights on another year of record sales.