World aluminum demand to twice in next 10 years

World require for aluminum will twice in the next decade, determined by growing use in aircraft, Road transport and comfort cars, the head of major European goods maker Amag said on Monday. 'We estimate that require for aluminum will twice within the next 10 to 12 years, so a worldwide growth rate of 7 per cent. This is a pleasant picture,' Gerhard Falch, the Austrian aluminum group's chief administrative, told Reuters. Demand for its goods has put the company on objective to match or beat 2010's evidence year for pay. 'At smallest amount, we will be in line with the results of the record year of 2010,' he said.

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and paying back were 139.0 million Euros ($197 million) last year. Amag, capitalized at $865.35 million next an April list in Vienna, makes semi-finished aluminum goods out of area of expertise alloys used in BMW motors, aircraft, skis, construction, and Bentley and Rolls Royce cars. It moreover holds a piece bet in a hydro-electric aluminum smelter in Canada.

Approximately 85 per cent of the group's goods are for export, the lion's share to Western Europe. It is moreover effective to lift market share in Eastern Europe, as well as in China and India. Per capita aluminum spending in Europe and the U.S. stands at 5-8 times that of rising markets. Their catching up is probable to be a key driver of require enlargement, he said. This year, Amag expects worldwide utilization of primary aluminum to increase 9 per cent to 44.6 million tones, and that for flat rolled products to raise 8 per cent to 20.0 million tones. From the aircraft sector, insist is seen rising 9.1 per cent, followed by transport sector growth -- ships and railways -- by 8.0 per cent, and engineering and production growth at 5.6 per cent.

'Growth in our results has come on one hand from the most important aluminum side, and on the other side it is require for high quality alloys for an increasing variety of applications,' Falch said. In exacting, he said the European auto transportation sector has not presently stabilized but also enthusiastic up; next to insist for lighter and additional highly specialized aluminum-based materials. In 2010, Amag produced around 220,000 tons of rolled and cast products. It plans to expand capacity to around 280,000 tons by 2014. In the first quarter its metal division shipped 22,235 tons of aluminum.

Road transport and marketable Vehicle Event Builds on Success

UK – After a victorious CV 2011 which saw more than 16,000 public pass throughout the doors, the marketable Vehicle Show LLP consisting of the Road Haulage Association Ltd (RHA), The people of Motor Manufacturers and Traders Ltd (SMMT) and IRTE Services Ltd, the trading corporation of the Society of Operations Engineers (SOE) has announced dates for the 2012 occasion which will once again be at the NEC, Birmingham, 24th to 26th April being the dates to reminder. Sales and marketing of the occasion will be handling by Crystal Communications. RHA Chief Executive, Geoff Dunning commented:

“The CV demonstrates is the UK’s most important showcase for road transport, signifying the full capabilities of the division and its consequence to the broader financial system. It has quick become an entrenched fixture on the industry’s calendar so I am satisfied to verify details for the 2012 occasion. This year’s illustrate strike our entire prospect situation the scene for a marvelous event in 2012 for both exhibitors and company alike.”

SOE Chief Executive, Nick Jones additional, “even though the weak profitable conditions, the 2011 CV Show concerned an remarkable display of exhibitors and an excited set of visitors. I am pleased that our charming method will be repetitive next year and am sure that Crystal Communications will distribute an unmissable occasion in 2012.”

“The CV Show is a huge opportunity to showcase the most recent developments in auto transport technology, representing the industry’s achievements in lowering emissions and improving fuel effectiveness,” said SMMT Chief Executive, Paul Everitt. “The 2012 CV demonstrate is situate to construct on the success of this year’s occasion, attracting an even superior range of exhibitors and creating new trade opportunities.”

Difference Between Car Transport and Car Driving

Car transport means transporting your vehicle from one end to other with the help of Auto Transport Company. Auto Driving is self-driving, driving your van manually to its new destination. There are plenty of reasons where you may contain to make use of an auto shipping service to ship your van from place to place. If you are preparation a long distance move, then an auto transport service is rather you should think about. A vehicle shipping examine uses a simple method to transport your car to any place from your house or place where you may have bought your vehicle.

Car transport is a brilliant and excellent alternate to driving a truck. When you self-drive your van, the charge is twice than a car shipping company. Transporting expenses are fixed and it is based on the size, weight, source and destination of clients but the cost in self-driving is not permanent. The operating costs you have to tolerate are the petrol charges, your refreshments expenses, you are staying (hotel) expenses and lastly you will be tired to the heights. Truck shipping is improved based on your budget, or the necessity with which you require your car to land. By selecting the vehicle transport company, you can be ensuring with the intention of your car will be transported in time. And in case of car driving, it all depends on the vehicle driver and its velocity and on the entire no declaration of time.

In car driving you are to blame for the dents, scratches or nicks, any broken glass, or additional imperfections occurred during driving. But in case of transporting auto, the company is in charge for any injure occurred like dents, cuts, notches, scratches or nicks, any cracked glass, or other imperfections while transporting. The company has to compensate for it. Shipping your Car is protected, secured and inexpensive when compared with car driving. Auto shipping various characteristic. One characteristic they offer is safeguard and protects the truck against bad weather. Visualize you are driving your van and you are cleaned out in a rainstorm, your car is left and you are defectively struck. But car transport eliminates this trouble, as they provide better safety and security to your vehicle. The vehicles are secure in the enclosed trailer and are not even open to the elements to direct sunlight or rains. It eliminates the trouble of bad weather and your auto is sheltered in all seasons.

In case if you are moving a vast distance, or even overseas, how is it possible for self-drive and you to decide Auto Transport Company. It is dependable and delivers your car to you carefully and in a appropriate manner. Auto transporting companies are supportive for many people like individuals who are just moving to another place, military personnel, business relocation, college students, who frequently changes their destinations and contain to deliver the vehicles to its latest location. Car transport is the greatest, simplest and easiest way to transport vehicle which even reduce hassle. All in all, if you are scheduling transport your vehicle, then an auto shipping service is something you will require.

2011 Toyota Etios Liva - Commence on the 27th June 2011

The 2011 Toyota Etios Liva will be launched on the 27th of June with a petrol alternative in the beginning. With that, the extended wait for the first Toyota hatchback in the country will approach to an end as future buyers will be capable to drive out their Etios Livas not in of Toyota showrooms a short time by the end of July, when deliveries of the Liva are probable to begin.

One of the majority anticipated hatchbacks of 2011, the Etios Liva is probable to be a price warrior just like its vehicle sibling and will be Toyota’s main quantity puller in the Indian car advertise That said, the Etios Liva will have a harsh road to pass through at first as petrol car sales aren’t closely responsibility well at the instant with the high fuel prices and high notice rates causing a slowdown in car sales across segments in India over the past couple of months.

Toyota will be eager for its product value to take it thorough for the Etios Liva to get a decent start in India before the real sales booster arrives in the appearance of the diesel variant. The Etios Liva will characteristic a 1.2 Liter petrol engine produces 80 Bhp, which related to the very light weight of the car must ensure that the Etios Liva will be peppy as well as economical, just like it’s sedan sibling.

A bummer however is the interiors of the Etios Liva, which are accurately they are similar as the Etios Sedan which although tough wearing simply don’t feel premium enough. The price of the Etios Liva is likely to commence at about 4 lakhs with the variants speculated to be accurately the similar as that of the Etios Sedan. So imagine a good level of kit with several options to decide from for the consumer. So, the small price with honest levels tackle might be one of the main USPs of the Etios Liva.

Top 10 Reasons for Failing the Driving Test

Driving too slowly is seen as a mark of being missing confidence. Use of proper speed is significant. If the road you are on is obvious and safe, then drive at the speed limit and not unnecessarily slow. Driving too slow can be trying for other road vehicle users causing them to create unsafe actions such as overtaking.

Signal Intersections

Traffic control devices are signs, signals, roadway markings, and other devices located along highways and streets to provide for the secure and well-organized movement of all road transport users. These devices are located in key locations to direct and normalize traffic movement, control vehicle speeds, and caution of potentially dangerous conditions. Traffic control devices also offer significant information to users regarding detours and traffic delays. Traffic control devices at and in advance of intersections are of exacting significance.

Child Passenger Safety

Protecting our kids and encourages all adults to acquire the responsibility of keeping them safe when riding in a motor vehicle. It’s our job to ensure they clasp up, from the time when children are too young to do it themselves to the time they rise behind the wheel for the first time.

BMW and AUDI Plan Manufacture Growth As They Compete For A Comfort Guide

BMW, the world’s No. 1 comfort car manufacturer, is allowing for building two new factories in promising markets to expand its guide over Audi, Chief Executive Officer Norbert Reithofer said at present. Audi may make cars in the U.S. as it aims to enlarge its international workforce by 17 percent all the way through in the year of 2020.Audi, which has outsold Daimler AG’s Mercedes-Benz so distant this year, is set its sights on toppling BMW as the worldwide luxury-car head by 2015. The Volkswagen division wants to develop in the U.S. and make bigger its lead over BMW in Europe and China with latest cars like the A1 subcompact and Q3 compact sport- effectiveness vehicle.

“We are expecting additional development over the long term beyond 2015,” Chief Executive Officer Rupert Stadler said in a talking at Audi’s yearly shareholders’ assembly in Neckarsulm, Germany. “That gives us self-assurance to additional expand our product portfolio and enlarge our internationalization, probably also with manufacture ability in the U.S.” Audi, which employs concerning 60,000 people worldwide, strategy to append 10,000 positions over the upcoming decade, the CEO said. The organization expects China to stay rising “at a high pace” in the intermediate term. BMW is not sitting at leisure. The manufacturer of BMW, Mini and Rolls- Royce cars is moreover growing in promising markets as it looks to protector its independence and fends off Audi. BMW’s company plant in Shenyang, China, is boosting asset to 1 billion euro’s ($1.42 billion) starting 560 million euro’s.

The auto transport manufacturers, which is also preparation to invest 2 billion euro’s in German plants, is adding meeting of the X3 sport- usefulness car vehicle transport to an industrial unit in Chennai, India. The company will compensate a record profit-sharing additional benefit to employees this year based on 2010 outcome. Employees paid under collective-bargaining deals will acquire an average 5,840 euro’s, the comparable of 1.6 time’s monthly wages. The company today established its goal of growing profit this year and advertising more than 1.5 million vehicles. BMW aims to rent 2,000 people this year to maintain expansion, said by Reithofer.

BMW is proposing a bonus of 1.30 euro’s per share later than 2010 net income surged to 3.22 billion euro’s from 204 million euro’s a year in advance. The shareholder payment is an evidence for the company, recently said by Reithofer. The German carmaker earned additional money for each car than still in its 95-year the past in the initial quarter since of rolling deliveries of the revamped 5-Series car and lower expenses on goods. BMW complete a income of 4,462 euro’s per car on average, compared with 4,145 euro’s at Daimler AG’s Mercedes-Benz and 2,981 euro’s at Volkswagen’s Audi. Sales of BMW’s 5-Series other than doubled to 85,400 vehicle in the first quarter, fuelling a 21 percent move forward in whole sales to 382,800 auto shipping.

New Hyundai i40 to debut in Barcelona

Hyundai has released a glimpse of its future i40 sedan ahead of the sedan's May 12 debut at the Barcelona Motor Show. The i40 represents the newest Hyundai to be released under the company's latest new thinking. Fresh possibilities" ad slogan, along with its "fluidic sculpture" design language. According to Hyundai, the design brief uses shapes found in nature to make cars with a distinct flowing shape. To our eyes, we see a subtle development of the styling that made the Elantra so famous, and there's a little Lexus IS thrown in there for fine measure.

When it debuts, Hyundai tells the i40 concept will lead the D-segment for front head, shoulder and leg room, but until its debut next week, power plant and production information are kept under lock and key.

Honda to change production plan in North America

Honda is continuing to adjust its making schedules in the wake of the March 11 earthquake in Japan, and the shuffling will reportedly maintain at U.S. plants as well.

The plan is to run complete production shifts at U.S. facilities on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from May 9 through July 1, with a particular eight-hour shift added for Thursdays. With the exception of Honda's Greensburg, Indiana plant, all U.S. facilities were running two shifts prior to parts shortages. Employees at these facilities reportedly won't feel the pinch of the abbreviated production plans either, as they will have the choice of staying home or completing training without a pay penalty.

Honda talking head Ed Miller reportedly told Automotive News the reason for the shift is that it's more efficient to run operations that way. The automaker likely won't make any conclusions about U.S. production beyond July 1 until the condition is more clear.

On Monday, Honda announced it was suspending June and July trader orders for the CR-Z, Civic Hybrid, Fit, Acura TSX and Acura RL. Those vehicles are built in Japan, where shortages are still severe. At this point, the Japanese automaker expects operations to return to regular production before the end of the year.

This is all very bad information for Honda, and it's bad for customers as well. It shows that Honda showrooms are likely to be very short on product for an extended period of time.

Subaru predicts 50% sales hike for the upcoming 2012 Impreza

According to Ward's Auto, Subaru brass expects the 2012 Impreza to sell around 60,000 units a year, or half again as many as the car's current 40,000-unit overall. Subaru executive vice president of North America Tom Doll says the car fills holes in the company's lineup that prevented it from being as competitive as it could have been.

Subaru claims the latest Impreza will return 36 miles per gallon on the highway, a figure that would put the car on the top of the all-wheel-drive pile for fuel market. The gas mileage figures will come courtesy of a new-for-2012 2.0-liter boxer four-cylinder reigning in 148 horsepower. The future Impreza will also be lighter than the outgoing model, making fuel-sipping a little easier.

With all the latest tweaks, Subaru is trusting Impreza sales can push the brand's overall total from 264,000 vehicles previous year to closer to 300,000. That's a heady goal to be sure, but the company is confident enough in the latest car's appeal to make a bold prediction. Only time will tell if such hopefulness is fine founded.

Forbes releases 2011 Worst Cars on the Road Record

Forbes has released its 2011 Worst Cars on the Road list, and the outcome is not pretty for American manufacturers. With the exception of the 2011 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the 2011 Smart ForTwo and the 2011 Nissan Titan, the cars on the catalog are all American-made. Worse than that, they all come from two manufacturers: General Motors and Chrysler. Ford managed to avoid the list entirely.

To determine which cars get the dubious honor and which don't, Forbes compiles outcome from six studies by customer Reports including the Most Reliable Cars Report, Best and Worst protection Performance Survey, Best and Worst Fuel Economy, Highest Cost of Ownership, the Best and Worst Values Report and customer Reports' overall scores for latest cars.

Chrysler made the list with the 2011 Chrysler Town & Country, which racked up dismal scores for reliability and charge of ownership. Both the 2011 Jeep Wrangler and the Jeep Liberty made the cut, with the Liberty scoring poorly for reliability and fuel market. The Wrangler joined the Liberty in the reliability department, and also ranked for bad value, and made a spot on Consumer Reports' Worst Cars list. The 2011 Dodge Nitro and Dodge Dakota made the list for related reasons.

The image is almost as bleak at GM, where offerings from Chevrolet and Cadillac crowded the picture. The base model 2011 Cadillac Escalade earned spots on the Worst Value, Highest price of Ownership and Worst Safety Performance lists. The 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid hung with the Cadillac for Worst Value and safety, and earned a spot on the Least Reliable roster as well. The Chevrolet Aveo and Chevrolet Colorado rounded out the worst General Motors offerings for 2011.

New Volvo Concept Universe previews next range-topping sedan from Sweden

Volvo is looking to gain a foothold in the fast-growing Chinese auto market, and the Swedish automaker is trusting to pique interest in the brand with a range-topping luxury sedan concept. The design aims to incorporate the simplicity of Scandinavian design while also trying to discern what the modern luxury car buyer truly wants.

The Concept Universe bows at the Shanghai Motor Show to show what Volvo can do near the top-end of the large luxury sedan market. And although this vehicle is definitely a design study, Volvo doesn't appear interested in hiding its intention of going upscale. Volvo CEO Stafan Jacoby calls the concept "a sneak preview of what people can expect from our next top-of-the-line sedan."

The great concept features a coupe-like roofline that combines with a recent interpretation of the boxy Volvos of the past. Another home age to older Volvo models includes convex style lines between the wheel wells. Up front, the Concept Universe appears to borrow some lines from the Ford Interceptor concept from the 2007 Detroit Auto Show with its bumper-less front end that is rounded off all around. The grille is completely new for Volvo, with a series of shrinking, rounded rectangles; each smaller than the next.

Volvo design boss Peter Horbury feels the vehicle looks hand-crafted and durable, adding, "We will compete with the best with our particular kind of Scandinavian Design. It is unmatched in performance and technology, but without superficiality or complication."

Chevrolet looking to brand name "Crossvolt" moniker

General Motors has submitted an application to trademark "Crossvolt" as a possible name for the larger, MPV style edition of the Chevrolet Volt that's in the works. Chevrolet's patent application for the Cross volt handle doesn't mean it's settled on a name for the family friendly plug-in just yet. To maintain us guessing, Chevrolet also has trademarks pending on the Chevrolet Amp and Chevrolet Strobe names as well.

Whatever the common decides to call its enlarged Volt, it will likely wind up looking related to the Volt MPV5 Concept Chevrolet revealed at previous year's Beijing Motor Show. Expect the eco friendly soccer practice taxi to be in the similar size range as the Chevrolet Orlando.

Chevrolet shows off body graphics for latest Sonic

Chevrolet now introduced a bunch of accessories for the 2012 sonic months earlier than the car hits the streets.

Chevrolet's early begin shows a confidence that the mostly young buyers of the car plan to begin tricking it out in no time. Chevy wants a piece of that action.

Among the stuff that Chevy is offering for the subcompact are accent packages with contrasting-color external parts and graphics that express the car's performance characteristics. The entire package goes under the unattractive name of Z-Spec, in house automaker talk for cars that are sold with the notion that purchasers will fix them up on their own.

"The latest Z-Spec accessories reinforce sonic's fun, youthful spirit," told Rick Scheidt, vice president for Chevrolet marketing. "Customization is particularly important with the clients we trust will gravitate toward the Sonic, and we want to help them make their vehicle look exactly the way they want as simply as possible." Chevy says

2012 Volvo XC70 and S80 give refresh, tech upgrades

On the outside, the changes to the 2012 Volvo S80 and XC70 aren't immediately noticeable. The headlamps have been redesigned, the S80 gets LED turn signals in the side mirrors and every model gets a latest exterior color choice. Underneath the skin, however, these two Volvos have received a handful of new tricks.

Volvo's Sensus infotainment method, which made its debut with the 2011 S60, has found its way into the 2012 S80 and XC70, allowing the driver to simply operate audio, video, Bluetooth and navigational controls. It also gives information and setting adjustment for safety features such as City Safety, Collision Warning and Active Cruise Control.

The City Safety system is currently a standard feature on both of these 2012 models. The automaker has also added Pedestrian Detection, which keeps an eye out for foot traffic and provides an audible warning if it feels a collision is imminent. Should the driver fail to heed that warning, the S80 or XC70 can completely engage the brake automatically.

Check out the updated 2012 Volvo XC70 and S80 in the galleries below. Also, be sure to take a look at the complete press released posted after the jump.

Aston Martin Teases 600-Plus-Horsepower Vantage GT3 Race Car for 2012 Season

With a big V-12 engine at its heart and an extensive record of Aston Martin racing experience in its blood, the future Vantage GT3 is the latest race-ready performance machine from Aston. It replaces Aston’s aging DBRS9 racer and will make its debut in the 2012 period.

Unlike the Vantage GT4, which is based upon the road-going V8 Vantage, the Vantage GT3 is based on Aston’s gutsy, 510-horsepower V12 Vantage. The company says the GT3’s 6.0-liter V-12 will produce in excess of 600 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. It will be mated to an Xtrac racing sequential broadcast, and the car will have race-tuned versions of ABS and traction control. The teaser picture shows the car will wear a massive rear wing, front splitter, flared wheel arches, and a side-exit exhaust.

Aston Martin is targeting a weight of 2750 pounds for the aluminum Vantage GT3, which will start testing this summer. They will then build ten cars for consumers, ready for the 2012 race season. The car joins a host of Aston racers with the Vantage GT2, DBR9 GT1, and the all-out extreme AMR-One LMP1.

Audi previews next creation A3 hatchback

Audi has taken an interesting approach forecasting the next creation A3 with a sedan concept at the Geneva Motor Show even though the recent model is principally a hatchback. When it does hit showrooms sometime next year, however, the next generation A3 is expected to be offered first with a tailgate before a trunked version comes along the three door model leading the five-door, then the sedan and at last the soft-top convertible.

The information comes along with a trio of sketches released by Audi to the British motor press alongside those of the R8 GT Spyder. The renderings depict the three-door hatchback, the four-door sedan and the cabin of the next generation A3 manufacture model, which is tipped to be even more diverse in its engine offerings than it is in its body styles: expect gasoline, diesel, natural gas, hybrid and complete electric versions to be rolled out in succession.

The cabin, meanwhile, is tipped to feature the most recent technologies, including Audi's MMI controller and a pop-up infotainment screen. Look for the production 2013 A3 in one body form or another to debut in Geneva coming March, a year after the sedan concept we saw there previous month.

BMW Z4 GT3 undergoes opening round of customer tests

The 2011 BMW Z4 GT3 proved it can win races back in January when it took the overall win at the Dubai 24 Hours. Never one to relax on its laurels, BMW took the car from the winners circle in Dubai and place it right back on a test track. After a fine beating throughout March, BMW made aerodynamic and electronic tweaks to get the racer into absolute state of the art shape for consumer entries in 2011 GT3 competition.

The BMW Z4 GT3 resembles its manufacture cousin in name and basic shape only. Most of its body panels have been significantly altered to maintain the car slipping through the air and bolted to the road.

Under the hood, the production Z's six-cylinder heart has been ripped out and replaced with the similar 4.4-liter V8 that sees duty in the M3. The V8 feeds power to the ground through a six-speed paddle-shifted sequential manual. Stuffing all that engineering know-how into the Z4 GT3 isn't inexpensive, either; the car retails at just north of $450,000. Complete press release after the jump.

2012 Chevrolet Corvette gets Centennial Edition Package

This current year marks the 100th anniversary of the Chevrolet brand, and the company isn’t shy about celebrating it. Design chief Ed Welburn previously shared with us his top-ten favorite Chevrolet designs of all occasion, and currently Chevrolet is unveiling a special-edition package for the Corvette. The Centennial Edition treatment will be available this summer for all Corvette models with the ultra-performance ZR1.

The Centennial Edition treatment, known as ZLC in GM’s order books, starts by slathering every Corvette in exclusive satin-look Carbon Flash Metallic paint. The cars wear bespoke Centennial Satin Black wheels with red-painted rims, and red-painted brake calipers. The Corvette’s traditional crossed flags badge includes number “100,” and a logo of founder Louis Chevrolet is affixed to the wheel middle caps, steering wheel, and B-pillars.

The black-and-red theme maintains inside, with red stitching for the leather-wrapped dashboard, shifter, steering wheel, center console, and seats. Special centennial logos are embossed into the seat headrests, and Magnetic Selective Ride Control suspension is included as standard. Pricing for the Centennial Package will be released later this spring as its on-sale date approaches.

Chevrolet will also celebrate its century of existence by selling the 100th 2012 Corvette at the Barrett-Jackson auction, with proceeds benefitting the Austin Hatcher organization for Pediatric Cancer. The car, with its VIN ending in 100, will be a Corvette Z06 Centennial Edition equipped with the Z07 presentation package, CFZ carbon-fiber package, and the new carbon-fiber hood option. The winner of the auction also gets to attend the Corvette Engine Build Experience program, where they will assemble the car’s V-8.

Landmark Accomplished: Toyota sells one million Prius hybrids in U.S.

California Toyota dealers may or may not be running out of Priuses, but the hybrid is most certainly still famous. How else to give details the news that one million of the iconic fuel-mizers have been sold in the U.S., as Toyota just announced.

Back in mid-2008, the company told it had sold one million Priuses around the globe, which was a big enough agreement. To achieve that landmark, it took around five years; the first Prius was introduced over a decade back, but it was the second generation Prius (above), introduced in 2003, that actually sparked sales. It took Toyota only two more years to sell another million Priuses, and Toyota has sold over three million overall hybrids as of October 2010. That sounds impressive, but Charlie Sheen got 3.4 million supporters on Twitter in, like, a minute, so let's keep things in perspective.

Volkswagen Jetta ranked last among small sedans by Consumer information

The latest for 2011 Volkswagen Jetta received a new, far lower base cost tag of $15,995, but customer Reports evidently feels that the more affordable marker has come at too high of a price to the car itself. The buyer centric group ranked the Jetta dead previous among 11 small sedans tested for the April edition of its magazine.

David Champion, senior director of the group's Auto Test Center says, "In an effort to bring the car's starting cost down, VW cheapened the last Jetta's interior and suspension, making it less sophisticated and compromising handling."

CR isn't pulling any punches while describing why the sedan fares so badly, calling it "a shadow of the agile, well-finished car it once was." Ouch. Specially, the VW was dinged hard for sub-par handling and cornering grip, poor interior fit and finish and its coarse-sounding 2.5-liter, five cylinder. In addition, CR came away dissatisfied with long brake distances and a six-speed automatic that is reluctant to downshifting.

Nissan Altima outsells Camry, Accord in March, named top selling sedan in America in record

Nissan says it achieved a 9.7 percent U.S. market share in March, the maximum single month in company record. Complementing March's heady number is an overall market share of 9.3 percent for Nissan in the first quarter of 2011. It represents a 0.3 percent gain in market share, building on 2010's 0.4 percent gain.

March also saw the Nissan Altima get the title of best-selling sedan in America, another company first. The Altima contributed 32,289 units to Nissan's 121,141-car total, which is nearly a 27 percent bump over previous year's March figures. It isn't immediately clear what incentives Nissan had on the car during the month of March to aid sales, but currently, the Japanese automaker is offering zero-percent financing for up to 60 months or 1.9 percent APR financing for up to 72 months, or $1,250 cash back.

Had enough numbers? Too bad, Nissan isn't quite done. Monthly sales were up 28.4 percent for the division, an additional record, and Infiniti saw a 13.5 percent sales hike in March. With numbers this large, Nissan is looking at a banner year.

Ford to idle initial plant as an answer of Japan disaster

Ford hasn't said much about its provide situation in the wake of the earthquake in Japan, but currently the automaker has no option but to spill the beans. The Detroit News reports that Ford will shut down its Louisville, Kentucky plant coming week due to a parts shortage. The facility produces the Ford Expedition, Ford Super Duty trucks, and the Lincoln Navigator. Ford sales analyst George Pipas did not identify the part that was in short deliver, though he did add that high gas costs have helped slow sales of these vehicles anyway.

Ford will too shut down its Flat Rock, Michigan plant, where the Mustang is produced, because the automaker previously has a 116-day supply of the pony car. In Europe, Ford will idle the Genk, Belgium plant that gives the Mondeo, S Max and Galaxy minivan to help prevent future shortages.

Ford announced that events in Japan could further affect upcoming production, but at this point it isn't interested in divulging the extent of its deliver issues. Ford is actively searching for additional parts sources wherever possible.

Spada Codatronca Monza comes onto the interwebs

Images of the Spada Codatronca Monza boutique sports car have leaked onto the internet ahead of its debut at this current year's Top Marques Monaco show. The Codatronca, you'll remember, is a Chevrolet Corvette Z06 engined low volume supercar cooked up by Ercole Spada. Spada cut his teeth working for Zagato, BMW, and IDEA Institute before opening his own company, Spadaconcept.

The Codatronca is the company's first try at a supercar and it uses an aluminum spaceframe and magnesium engine cradle coupled with the aforementioned Corvette engine. To make things just a tad more attractive, Spada adds twin superchargers to the already potent 427, bringing the horsepower overall to a heady 700.

As quoted by All CarIndex, the Monza will have a scant 2,500-pound curb heaviness, meaning that Spada's creation ought to hit 60 mph in three seconds flat and top out at nearly 210 mph.

2012 Kia Rio sedan confirms for New York Auto Show

Our guy Jeremy Korzeniewski is attending a Kia event in Phoenix, Arizona this current week, and during a press briefing this morning, JK learned that the Korean automaker will be unveiling its 2012 Rio sedan to the 2011 New York Auto Show. The four door Rio will balance the hatchback body fashion that bowed at the Geneva Motor Show in early March.

Four power trains will be available on Rio overseas two gas and two diesel and while mum's the word on which engine(s) will be available here in the United States, we put our money on the 1.4-liter gasoline four. This mill produces 108 horsepower and 100 pound feet of torque, mated to either a six speed manual or four-speed(!) automatic transmission.

In other reports, Kia also let slip that the KV7 concept from this year's Detroit Auto Show previews what's in store for the next creation Sedona minivan. We hinted at this after a discussion with Michael Sprague, Kia's vice president of marketing, though it's still unclear closely what elements from the KV7 will be incorporated into the next-gen Sedona. The concept focused on a more traditional conversion van setup rather than the family-centric Sedona that now graces our streets.

New Chevrolet Teases 2013 Malibu Before Shanghai Launch

Chevrolet’s presently released this teaser video and taillight image of the latest, eighth-generation Malibu along with the announcement that the car, currently a global product, will debut at the Shanghai Motor Show on April 18.

The Malibu, before a North American car only, will become GM’s newest global car in its eighth generation and the Chevrolet brand’s initial global midsize sedan. Chevrolet says the next Malibu will be sold in 100 countries on six continents and built at several plants around the world. The Malibu, Chevrolet says, was designed for a worldwide audience with “European-inspired driving characteristics,” which should mean sporty handling.

As you can see, this global influence also means sporty look. While you can see the evolution from the present generation Malibu to the new car, the 2013 Malibu is less round and swoopy and more sharp and edgy. The common shape of the headlights and two-bar grille remain, but are bolder and protrude more from the body. Character outline along the hood and doors are more pronounced, as are the car’s hips and big wheels. The rear finish draws clear influence from the Camaro with its squared taillights, rectangular fascia and dual exhaust tips. The car you see here is a Chinese-spec model, but Chevrolet says there will be smallest differences between U.S.-spec and Chinese-spec cars.

New car BMW Tiger edition for China with M3 Matte Edition

Automakers have all sorts of different ways of celebrating milestone anniversaries. In the case of the M3, which turns 25 years old this current year, BMW opted to roll out a series of particular editions for individual market. Japan, for example, got the Competition Fire Orange Edition. Here in the United States, we got the Frozen Gray edition. In australia they got the Pure edition, and in China they got the Tiger edition. The final proved so popular that BMW has opted to roll out a second particular edition for the People's Republic.

Called the Matte Edition, its defining feature, as you might have guessed, is the matte black paint work, complimented by black chrome trim, high-gloss 19-inch alloys to contrast with the low gloss car body, red brake calipers and a interior decked out with carbon fiber trim and red stitching. Mechanically, the Matte Edition is just the same as a stock M3, but the color method is one of the most attractive we've seen yet.

New model 2011 Hyundai Genesis Sedan V6

Automakers have been carving the luxury segment into finer and finer slices for generation. Territory that once belonged solely to the likes of Mercury, Buick and Oldsmobile is currently the fertile hunting grounds of brands from Acura to Infiniti. Thanks to these relative newcomers, buyers without the money to jump into Bavarian marks like BMW, Mercedes-Benz or Audi can still plant their derrieres on supple leather thrones without having to sell the family farm in the process.

Three years back, Hyundai leapt into the low-buck luxury fray with the company's Genesis Sedan a motor vehicle that was intended to prove the Korean automaker could strut its stuff up marketplace without the burden of launching a separate dedicated luxury variety just for the occasion. We were impressed with the large Hyundai when it touched down three years back as a 2009 model, but domestic automakers like Buick and Chrysler have since sharpened their game in a big way. We jumped behind the wheel of the 2011 Genesis Sedan to find out how the vehicle's initial generation has held up before the updated second one arrives as a 2012 model.

2012 Mercedes Benz C-Class for Fine Drive

When it comes to automobiles, cost is usually the limiting factor. Endowed with limitless dough, who wouldn't drive their dream car?

For those inclined toward luxury, the full-size Mercedes-Benz S-Class coddles its drivers with massive comfort and technology that compensates for almost each common human frailty exhibited behind the wheel. The S-Class, however, remains beyond the means of most drivers.

Developed to make three pointed worth, safety and luxury more attainable, the W 201 sedan was introduced by Mercedes-Benz in 1982. Known as the 190, this compact sedan stands as the direct forerunner of the C-Class. Some 8.5 million sales stand as M-B's commercial verification of concept over four generations. And the way things are going, those sales are set to continue.

Global auto manufacture could fall 30% due to quake in Japan

You've likely seen plenty of news recently about how Japanese automakers have been affected by the March 11 earthquake in Japan, but what about the rest of the production? The Detroit News reports that research firm IHS Automotive thinks that worldwide auto production could drop by 30 percent, and almost every major automaker will be affected.

Volkswagen Golf MkVII would be available by 2012

The MkVI Volkswagen Golf has been available since 2009. The next all-new Golf may be approaching sooner than we thought. The automaker will have the MkVII Golf ready for public consumption by either the end of 2012 or beginning of 2013.

Golf generational changes typically occur in much larger intervals, but this rapid introduction for the MkVII is a result of the Volkswagen Group's new cost-savings model architecture called MQB. Different makes and models that share the same underpinnings will be built in a similar manner to save large percentages of money.

Audi A6 with 3D Paint Job by Artis

This shiny black Audi A6 is the work of Japanese paint specialist Artis. The German executive sedan features a special finish with diamond shape grooves that was achieved by applying a patterned film all over the car and then painting on top of it. The Japanese firm also added a custom bodykit along with 20-inch alloy wheels shod in 225/30 rubber, and upgraded the suspension and 3.2-liter V6 engine.

Exotic cars sales among Chinese women

The number of Chinese millionaires is increasing rapidly and women constitute the major part in that rising population. This is a great news for the exotic car manufacturers because wealthy Chinese women are buying exotic cars.

Sales of such high-end automobiles increased 60 percent last year and analysts believe that there will be a 35 percent climb this year. Maserati reports that 30 percent of its sales in China are to women compared to just 10 percent among European sales. China is ready to overcome Italy as the second largest automaker in the world.

It's not just Maserati, even Ferrari's and Lamborghini's are purchased in large numbers by Chinese Women. The wealthy Chinese women constitute 20 percent of the local Ferrari sales, which is double the global average. This rise in exotic vehicle sales has got the attention of Bugatti and Volkswagen.

Touring Superleggera Flying Star

Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera, the Milanese coach builder launched the Flying Star at the Geneva Motor Show last year. This car stole millions of hearts but since its debut Touring has only made three examples of the custom creation. It takes nearly 4,000 man-hours to convert a Continental GTC into the long-roofed coupe. The increased investment in the form of new equipments and staff made the Touring to work up to five vehicles at a time.

Each example still takes six months to deliver, with total production limited to 19 examples. Fortunate buyers can specify from a range of customizations, including the twin-turbo 6.0-liter W12 in states of tune ranging from 552 horsepower to 621.

Infiniti's entry-level and halo models

Infiniti, Nissan's luxury division is looking at a pair of new products to give it a better reach than the current range. First they thought about the Halo model but after looking at the competition they decided to make something attractive in order to lure buyers in to showrooms. The successor to the Q45 flagship was once considered as a potential route to rival the likes of the Audi R8, Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG and even the Lexus LFA.

The show-stopping Infiniti Essence concept previewed that notion, but Infiniti is still considering the idea over, and the presence of the Nissan GT-R surely isn't helping focus the picture. Infiniti has also been considering the idea of an entry-level hatchback model to take on the Audi A3, BMW 1 Series and Volvo C30. Lexus was the first of the Japanese brands to pursue the segment with the CT 200h. If Infiniti is considering about getting one, it would definitely suite in that order.

Japan’s Mitsubishi Motors To Trade Autos At Bic Camera

That's the plan from Japan's Mitsubishi Motors and retailer Bic Camera, which will sell the zero-emission electric cars alongside household appliances like TVs and dishwashers.

The leading discount retailer will display Mitsubishi's i-MiEV at four of its biggest stores around Tokyo, offering test drives and car information to shoppers.



Mitsubishi became the first major carmaker to sell battery-powered electric cars last year, and is in talks to sell the autos through U.S. electronics retailer Best Buy.

The carmaker's president said one of Japan's smallest automakers would be able to attract a wider range of consumers through its retailer tie-ups.

Mitsubishi aims to produce nine thousand i-MiEV cars this year, ramping up to 40-thousand units in next year.

MMC plans to unveil the North American version of the i-MiEV at the Los Angeles auto show next week, with sales beginning in autumn 2011.

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Everyone Needs To Know These Auto Transport FAQ’s And Answers

Auto transport is being used all over the world these days to get vehicles moved from one location to another safely. Before you can decide if this is the method you want to use to move your automobile, you first need to know some important FAQ’s and the answers for vehicle transport.



The following are the questions that everyone wants to know, along with the answers that will help you make a smart decision for you.

1. How do auto shipping really work?

First, it is important to get quotes from different companies, compare them to help you find the best price and then choose the best company for you to hire. Be sure you call the companies and ask any questions you have before making your choice.

Once you have booked the transport, then the company will let you know when they have your preferred method of transport available. All of this is something you have to be sure you go over carefully with the company that you choose.

Once you have booked transport with them, they will give you all of the important details on getting your car moved.

2. Is my presence required when my automobile is picked up?

You or someone you trust to take care of it for you needs to be present when the pickup happens for your automobile. You will be needed to sign the “bill of lading.”

This is the inspection that the driver will do before taking your automobile and will review with you. This is also done when the vehicle is transported to the new destination.

3. What types of payments are accepted and how do you pay?
When you book the transport, most of the transport companies will charge a small deposit. Once the driver has your vehicle, the remaining balance will be paid. Most companies will take cash, credit card, check or even a cashier’s check.

4. How many days before you need to move your vehicle do you need to hire a transport company?

It is a smart idea for you to book your transport within 7 to 10 days, at least, but the more notice you can give the company, the better for everyone.

5. Is your vehicle insured during transport?
Your vehicle will be insured during the transport process with most companies. To ensure this, be sure it is one of the questions you ask when choosing a company to hire.

These are definitely not all of the FAQ’s and answers you need to know, but they are the most important ones. These will help you get a head start on making the smart choice for moving your vehicle, but it is wise to find out the answers to other questions you have before making your final decision on the auto transport company to hire.

Nationwide Auto Transport Reports Seeing a Higher Number of America's Hottest and Greenest Cars Going to 2010 S.E.M.A.

Car shipping indicates auto industry’s specialty manufacturers are taking more “pimped rides” to S.E.M.A this year, according to leading car transport company

Car transport company Nationwide Auto Transport reported today that “the largest specialty manufacturers have always shown off their prize special parts and systems by using them to trick out entire vehicles; but, this year, we’re seeing more companies pull out all the stops. We can’t disclose the specifics of what we’ve seen in vehicle moving, but, when you ship a car, you automatically get the first peek and we’re repeatedly vehicle moving to Las Vegas some of the most exotic vehicles we’ve ever seen. This includes motorcycle transport and specialty vehicles.”

Nationwide’s Adam Talburt said, “If our experience is any example for other auto shippers and car transporters, it’s going to be quite a show. Car transport to Las Vegas this year has been exciting for us and, I imagine, for other auto transport companies and any organization involved in cars transportation. During the past few months, if we get a car shipping quote request for a one-of-a-kind vehicle, it’s almost always going to S.E.M.A.”

Nissan Unveils New Zero Emission Concept Car

Japanese car manufacturer Nissan‘s 100% electric vehicle, the LEAF, may not even be in showrooms yet, but, Nissan is already looking to the future with its “New Mobility Concept for Sustainable Zero-emission Society”, a two seater electric vehicle for urban use with the size and mobility of a motorcycle.

Nissan envisages a future with an increasingly elderly and single population of urban citizens who need simple, clean transport for short journeys within the city environment. The New Mobility Concept is an user-friendly, ultra-compact 100% electric vehicle for such urban situations.

Nissan’s concept will be used to study not only the physical aspects of the car’s design, but, also, the potential uses for such a car. For example, they are investigating the use of the EV‘s to enhance public transportation by interconnecting with public transport IT systems and the possibility of using the vehicles for 2-mode car sharing where the car is used for commuting in the mornings and evenings and as corporate transport during business hours. There is also potential to use these vehicles to improve mobility in large indoor and outdoor tourist locations where the zero emissions will be advantageous.

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Cardiff car use down by 7 per cent

THE number of people in Cardiff using a car to get to work has dropped by more than 7% in a year.

And the proportion of drivers fell by more than 12.5% in five years as the amount of people using public transport or getting around by walking or cycling soared.

But as the city council talked up its sustainable travel programme, disgruntled drivers joined experts and politicians in blaming traffic congestion and ongoing roadworks for the figures.

Castle Street was closed yesterday as work continued on the capital’s roads.


The four-month long scheme to create a Castle Quarter and introduce new bus lanes was due to be completed by this week, but was still ongoing over the weekend.

And contractors were forced to dramatically shelve work during the Ryder Cup to try to cut
Councillor Delme Bowen, executive member for traffic and transportation, said the trend of falling car use was encouraging, even though national patterns show car use increasing.

2 Top reasons for Auto Transport business has become immense Business

The auto transport business is a best example of an industry just like that has been swiftly transformed. Listed here are the 2 reasons why auto transport has boomed.

Ebay. Are you aware that Ebay Motors is currently the biggest used car dealership in the planet? Yes, Ebay sells more cars than anyone else on the planet. And Ebay wasn’t shaped that long ago Clearly, chances are that if you want to buy an automobile, it perhaps is not likely to be found anywhere near your present location. And your car has to get to the new owner by some means. That’s where auto transport companies arrive. Ebay has been a shot in the arm to the auto transport industry. Right now, when you buy a car, these companies arrange the vehicle to be delivered to you. Ebay is the one company that has had a huge effect on the auto transport industry.

2) Raised mobility and price comparison ability. Other than Ebay, you will find a lot of other small car dealers and auto lots all over the country who have web sites. They list their inventory and individuals from all over the country (even all over the world) can peruse the merchandise. If you like an automobile in Dallas and you happen to reside in Philadelphia, you can have it shipped to you via an auto transport company.

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What Are The Vehicles Used To Transport Cars?

If you are in need of a car transport service and you are wondering on how the company will be able to transport your car, here is something that you might want to know about.

Car transport companies do not actually hire drivers to drive your car all the way to the destination. Instead, they use car transport trailers in transporting cars.

In this way, they will be able to transport more than one car at the same time. There are actually two types of trailers; an open trailer and an enclosed trailer.

But what are the differences between the two types of trailers? Actually, as obviously, open trailers are the ones you commonly see on the road wherein the cars have no protection against dust, dirt, and foreign debris. With enclosed trailers, your car will have protection since it is loaded inside a container. You do not have to worry about the safety of your car since with enclosed auto transport; it will have the protection against harmful elements.

But you have to take note that transporting your car by an enclosed trailer is far more expensive that open car transport. This is due to the fact that enclosed car transport provides extra protection to your car.

Open car transport is commonly chosen by many customers because this service readily available; meaning you do not have to wait for available enclosed trailers since they are only limited.

Actually, if you are just transporting an ordinary car, an open car transport will do. But if you are transporting expensive cars such as luxury cars, classic cars, or even customized cars, you might want to use enclosed car transport so that they may have the protection that they need to preserve their quality.

Nissan will craft small sedan for Smart -- but not for itself in U.S.

Nissan says its deal to build a five-seat sedan for U.S. sale by Daimler's Smart mini-car brand, announced this week, means that Nissan has no plans to bring a mini-car to the U.S. under its own nameplate.

"We're satisfied with Versa" as the company's entry-level car in the U.S., Larry Dominique, vice president in charge of product-planning for Nissan North America, tells Drive On.

The base Versa sedan, $9,990 (or $10,740 with $750 shipping charge), is the lowest-price new car in the U.S. Not the smallest, though. Smart ForTwo is the teensiest machine sold in the U.S. And within the Nissan lineup, the new Juke is slightly smaller.

Versa took a hit in the government's latest crash-test scores. It got just two stars in the new overall scoring, out of five. Of the 33 others rated at the same time, almost all got at least four stars overall.

The subcompact Nissan-made Smart is to be on sale within 15 months, the company says.

The pact with Smart is meant to give the brand a vehicle more attractive to American buyers. Never-very-strong U.S. sales of the ForTwo, its only current product, have been shrinking fast -- just 4,779 through September this year -- and U.S. distributor Penske Automotive Group had been arguing hard for an additional, larger Smart vehicle.

"We are faced with continuing customer demand for a Smart car with more seating capacity," explained Chairman Roger Penske. "Sales and service of the five-seater will be carried out exclusively by our approximately 75 Smart dealerships in the United States.

"Together with Nissan, we will bring to market a fully equipped small car for our customers and dealers in the USA. It will fit in well with the smart brand," Penske said.

In additional to Smart, German automaker Daimler's other brands include Mercedes-Benz luxury cars and Maybach (MY-bach) ultra luxury cars.

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Consumer Reports’ Most Consistent Cars

While Honda and Toyota still dominate in reliability, General Motors has improved considerably in our latest predicted-reliability Ratings. Those are the findings of our 2010 Annual Auto Survey, based on subscribers' experiences with 1.3 million vehicles.

While some GM nameplates had been among the least reliable brands in past years, they now rank above some major European competitors. But as a company, GM is still far from tops in reliability.

Across GM brands (Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC), 69 percent of models had average or better reliability. Cadillac improved the most, rising seven places from last year's ranking. Chevrolet had its best showing in years; 83 percent of models had average or better scores in predicted reliability, up from 50 percent. Also noteworthy.

The major Asian brands are still doing well overall.
All models from Acura, Honda, Hyundai, Infiniti, Scion, and Toyota have at least average predicted reliability.

Ford continues to be the most reliable American automaker. Ninety percent of Fords, including Lincoln models, have at least average reliability.

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Brisk demand leads to rosy earnings for Asia car manufactures

Asia's top automakers including Toyota Motor Corp (7203.T) and Hyundai Motor Co (005380.KS) will likely post big jumps in quarterly earnings thanks to better-than-expected global car demand and further cost cuts.

Japanese car makers are hurting from a stronger yen JPY= but will likely manage big cost reductions and have enough of a profit cushion from the first half to warrant an upward revision to their conservative annual guidance, analysts said.

"Global auto demand was surprisingly good," said Kurt Sanger, auto analyst at Deutsche Securities in Tokyo. "There were concerns that we would be flat to negative, but July-September saw 4-5 percent global growth in a quarter that people expected no growth."

Vehicle sales exceeded expectations in Japan and the rest of Asia, while they were in line in the United States and Europe, Goldman Sachs analyst Kota Yuzawa said.

With higher raw materials costs not expected to fully hit Japanese automakers until October, Toyota, Nissan Motor Co (7201.T) and Honda Motor Co (7267.T) are seen reporting operating profit growth of between 50 percent to 150 percent in their second quarter.

Better-than-expected global demand helps in July-Sept

* Sales growth, cost cuts to outweigh Japan fx losses

* Hyundai on fast track with new products, won advantage

* Own-brand Chinese carmakers to suffer, JVs to surge

* Indian car makers to face margin pressure

By Chang-Ran Kim, Asia autos correspondent

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Additional information released by Patrol on Friday Accident

(Chadron)-The Nebraska State Patrol has released its preliminary report on an accident west of Chadron Friday morning involving a Chadron couple. According to the Patrol, 27-year-old Christopher Powell of Victoria, Australia, was southbound on Highway 385, driving a 2010 Dodge Charger when he ran a stop sign at the junction.

The vehicle then struck a 1961 Chevrolet pickup, driven by Chad Graves of Chadron. The passenger in the car, 28-year-old Shantelle Earnshaw, also of Australia, as well as Graves and his wife, Gloria, who was also in the pickup, were transported to Chadron Community Hospital. Powell also received transport, but received no injuries.

Restraints were in use in the car, but not the pickup. Family of the Chadron couple reported to KCSR on Saturday morning that Chad had undergone surgery on his knee, and is currently at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff, while Gloria was to undergo surgery on Saturday morning, and is in Denver.

The accident occurred just after 11:30 Friday morning. Westbound traffic on Highway 20 was diverted for a short time, while Eastbound traffic was temporarily halted. The Chadron Volunteer Fire Department called in assistance from the Crawford Rescue Unit on the scene of the accident for transport of victims to the hospital, and the Chadron Police Department and Dawes County Sheriff’s Office assisted the Patrol with traffic control.

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Auto and Industrial Shipping Push Union Pacific’s Q3 Profit up 51% (UNP)

Railroad operator Union Pacific Corporation (UNP) on Thursday said its third quarter profit rose 51% from last year, aided by higher automotive and industrial shipping volumes.

The Omaha-based company reported third quarter net income of $778 million, or $1.56 per share, compared with $514 million, or $1.01 per share, in the year-ago period.

Revenue surged 20% from last year to $4.4 billion.



On average, Wall Street analysts expected a smaller profit of $1.46 per share on lower revenue of $4.35 billion.

CEO Jim Young said that “Strong volume growth, pricing gains and operating efficiency combined to produce another record quarter for our company.”

Union Pacific shares fell $1.54, or -1.8%, in premarket trading Thursday.

The Bottom Line
Shares of Union Pacific (UNP) have a 1.54% dividend yield, based on last night’s closing stock price of $85.79. The stock has technical support in the $78-$80 price area. The stock is trading near all-time highs and has little overhead resistance.

Union Pacific Corporation (UNP) is not recommended at this time, holding a Dividend.com DARS™ Rating of 3.4 out of 5 stars.

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1.5% increase in Car sales price

The Transport group index registered an increase of 1.6 percent, from 129.6 to 131.6 between the two periods. Accroding to Acting Government statistician, M. P Kerekang this was largely due to an increase in the constituent section indices of Transport Services and Purchase of Vehicles which rose by 5.9 and 2.5 percent respectively.

The rise in Transport Services section index was mainly due to an increase in Minibus and Taxis Fares by 9.4 percent while long distance Bus (bitumen road) increased from 16.86 thebe to 18.55 thebe per kilometre, which effected on 1st September 2010. The increase in Purchase of Vehicles section index was attributed to the general increase in the prices of vehicles.

On other indicators, Kerekang said the September 2010 national Consumer Price Index was 139.4, registering an increase of 0.6 percent on the August index of 138.7. The urban villages’ index was 138.7 in September, recording an increase of 0.8 percent from 137.6 in August. The cities and towns’ index went up by 0.6 percent, moving from 137.8 to 138.6 between August and September, while the rural villages’ index increased from 142.7 in August to 143.0 in September, an increase of 0.2 percent.

Only two group indices recorded a change of at least 1.0 percent between August and September – Transport (1.6 percent) and Clothing & Footwear (1.2 percent).

The Clothing and Footwear group index recorded an increase of 1.2 percent from 123.6 in August to 125.0 in September. All constituent section indices recorded increases, notably, Cleaning, Repair & Hire (4.9 percent), Clothing (1.5 percent) and Other Articles of Clothing (1.5 percent).

The Alcohol & Tobacco group index recorded an increase of 0.9 percent from 177.6 in August to 179.1 in September 2010. The increase was mainly due to the rise in the section index of Tobacco (4.8 percent), and Alcoholic Beverages (0.3 percent).

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Better Place Battery Exchange Station Rollout Slowed for Denmark

Better Place’s battery exchange network will be launched soon in Denmark; but at a much slower pace than originally planned, according to an article in the Danish Ingenoren transport website, and Martin Thomson, host of the electric car news web blog Easyecar.com. According to the Ingenoren site, the cost of the cars in Denmark will run around Kronen 205,000 ($38,500) and a monthly battery rental fee of DK 589 ($ 110). These prices are really overly extravagant as compared to other types of electric cars, especially high performance sport models like the ones made by Tesla Motors.

The logistical factors surrounding the Better Place battery exchange infrastructure, which so far has only been tested seriously in Japan, has resulted in only about 10 or 11 battery exchange stations slated to be opened in Denmark, most likely in the capital, Copenhagen. The situation is a bit more optimistic there, however as Thomson adds that he was informed by the Better Place Sales Manager for Denmark that the actual number of exchange stations may be more, and new ones will be opened as needed. Thomson has himself tested one of the Better Place Renault Fluence ZE models, as well as other types of electric and hybrid models. He has also tested cars running on various types of hydrogen fuel mixes.

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Carmoza Auto Transport Partners with AAA to Save Car-Movers Money

Auto-transport is now as easy as 1-2-3 with AAA. Beginning in September, 51 million AAA members have been able to Show Your Card & Save at Carmoza, a premier auto transport company dedicated to providing timely, safe and cost-efficient vehicle delivery with unparalleled customer service every step of the way.

“AAA is committed to providing our members with valuable resources when it comes to their automotive needs and our relationship with Carmoza now offers our members a reliable resource in the auto transport arena,” said Brian St. Leger, Show Your Card & Save Director for AAA Mid-Atlantic. “When looking to transport a vehicle, either one way or round trip, AAA members can now take advantage of another Show Your Card & Save discount from another reliable AAA partner.”

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Careless driving is serious issue for everyone

As we all know, careless driving has become a very serious problem. In New York, at least one out of five motor vehicle crashes has distracted driving listed as a contributing factor. In 2009, nearly 5,500 people died in crashes involving a distracted or inattentive driver and more than 440,000 were injured.

As commissioner of the New York state Department of Motor Vehicles and Chair of the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee, I was honored to be invited recently to attend U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood's second Summit on Distracted Driving in Washington, D.C. Also participating at that meeting were leading national transportation officials, safety advocates, law enforcement agencies, industry representatives, researchers and victims affected by distraction- related crashes. Together, we addressed challenges and identified opportunities for national anti-distracted driving efforts.

Secretary LaHood refers to distracted driving as a "deadly epidemic." I could not agree more. As part of his distracted driving initiative, New York was one of only two states selected to receive a $300,000 federal grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to develop a pilot program that targets distracted driving.

The pilot project, launched in Syracuse last April, is called "Phone in One Hand. Ticket in the Other." It uses a combination of high-visibility enforcement and increased public education to convince motorists to put down their cell phones while driving. For the public education component, a public service announcement focusing on the dangers of distracted driving was developed that features several different motorists talking on their cell phones or texting while driving and the crashes that result from their inattention. For the enforcement component, the first 10 day wave in April resulted in 2,300 tickets being issued for either talking on a cell phone or texting while driving. The second wave in July resulted in nearly 2,150 tickets being issued. A third wave of education and enforcement is scheduled for October, with the final wave being conducted next April.
In conjunction with the Distracted Driving Summit, the National Highway Traffic Safety Committee released a distracted driving report on results of the Syracuse program thus far. According to that report, since the inception of the program, hand-held phone use while driving dropped 38 percent and texting while driving decreased 42 percent in Syracuse.

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