According to reports, Toyota's chief test driver, 67-year-old Hiromu Naruse, has died in a crash on highway 410 near the famed Nürburgring race track in Germany. He was driving the recently spied Lexus LFA Nürburgring Edition (above) at the time of the accident, and reports say he veered into oncoming traffic and collided head-on with two others test drivers in a BMW. The two BMW test drivers survived the crash, though one is reportedly still in critical condition. German video of the crash scene after the accident took place can be viewed below. Police are investigating the crash and have yet to determine its cause.
Naruse was heavily involved with the development of the Lexus LFA supercar he was driving, along with many other past sports cars from Toyota's history since he joined the company in 1963. Enthusiasts today call him the "Godfather of the LFA," though he was involved in the development of sports cars for Toyota going as far back as the storied 2000GT from the late 1960s. The prototype of a special edition version of the LFA that he was driving when the accident occurred was reportedly worth 1.5 million euro.
WASHINGTON -- The dealer lobby accused Senate negotiators of trying to slip an expansion of dealer oversight into a bill to create a consumer finance agency on the eve of a conference committee vote.
The National Automobile Dealers Association today urged the 43 House and Senate negotiators to oppose the Senate version and vote for the House approach.
The dealer lobby, which has largely gotten its way thus far, received a boost today from Sen. Sam Brownback, R-Kan. He urged opposition to Senate changes “that would radically alter the original intention of a sensible bipartisan compromise.”
Both the Senate and House proposals would exempt dealers from supervision and enforcement by a new consumer finance agency lodged in the Federal Reserve -- in defiance of a request by President Barack Obama to avoid special exclusions.
But the Senate plan put forth by Sen. Chris Dodd, D-Conn., would allow the agency to write rules for dealers that involve credit discrimination, credit disclosure, financial privacy, and credit-report accuracy, the NADA letter said.
The Senate proposal “disregards the goal of the vast majority of Congress, which is to maintain the existing oversight which has provided millions of Americans an affordable way to finance a vehicle,” NADA spokesman Bailey Wood said.
The Senate version also would allow the Federal Trade Commission, which would continue to oversee dealers, the authority to waive certain reviews in writing rules that bar unfair and deceptive practices.
A spokesman for Dodd, the lead Senate negotiator as chairman of the banking committee, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The 43 conferees are due to vote this afternoon on whether to adopt the House or Senate approach, Wood said.
Last month, Brownback's proposal to exempt dealers from oversight by the new agency was approved 60-30 as a nonbinding recommendation to Senate negotiators.
The Brownback proposal's language was incorporated by House negotiators this week into the House conference proposal.
The consumer finance agency is part of a broader financial regulation package that has passed both the House and Senate.
The legislation agreed on in conference, likely by the end of this week or early next week, would then be submitted to the full House and Senate for final approval before being sent to Obama for his signature.
HIROSHIMA, Japan—As part of celebrations marking its 90th anniversary, Mazda Motor Corporation has announced the sales launch of special edition and limited edition versions of its mid-size, tall “high-roof” Biante minivan for the Japanese market. Both the special edition Mazda Biante “i-stop SMART EDITION II” and the limited edition Mazda Biante “i-stop SMART EDITION II NAVI SPECIAL” come with Mazda’s unique idling stop technology, i-stop, and go on sale today at all Mazda, Mazda Anfini and Mazda Autozam dealerships throughout Japan.
Based on the Mazda Biante 20CS, the Biante i-stop SMART EDITION II is equipped with Mazda’s fuel-saving i-stop system. It also features popular factory-installed options including power dual sliding rear doors, a ‘nanoe ion’ air purification system*1, an Alleru [Allergy] Buster®*2 air filter that removes allergens and viruses, and seats that are upholstered with an easy-wipe fabric.
The 90th Anniversary Mazda Biante i-stop SMART EDITION II
The limited edition Biante i-stop SMART EDITION II NAVI SPECIAL is based on the Biante i-stop SMART EDITION II. It also includes an HDD navigation system and a parking assist system at a reasonable price. Production is limited to 600 units.
The special edition and limited edition versions of the Biante qualify for Japan’s eco-car incentive program and 75 percent tax reductions under the government’s eco-car tax reduction program.
*1 “Nanoe” is a trademark of Panasonic Electric Works, Ltd.
*2 Alleru [Allergy] Buster is a registered trademark of Panasonic Co., Ltd.
Main features of the special edition Mazda Biante i-stop SMART EDITION II
Base model
Biante 20CS (FWD version with 2.0-liter DOHC engine and 5-speed automatic transmission)
Special features
* i-stop (engine idling stop)
* Power dual sliding rear doors
* Nanoe ion*1 air purification system
* Alleru [Allergy] Buster®*2 filter
* Cleanable seats upholstered with easy-wipe fabric
* Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
* *1 “Nanoe” is a trademark of Panasonic Electric Works, Ltd.
*2 Alleru [Allergy] Buster is a registered trademark of Panasonic Co., Ltd.
Main features of the limited edition Mazda Biante i-stop SMART EDITION II (limited to 600 units)
Base model
Special edition Biante i-stop SMART EDITION II
Special features
(In addition to the special features of the Biante i-stop SMART EDITION II listed above)
* MAZDA G-BOOK ALPHA-compatible voice-controlled HDD navigation system*3
* Parking assist system (front, side and rear guide monitors)
* *3 A TV tuner (dealer option) is necessary to receive terrestrial digital television broadcasts.
A former employee of Mazda, Toshiaki Hikiji (42 years), a suspect in a brutal crash at the factory Mazda Minami Ward, Hiroshima, yesterday (22 / 6). Hikiji, now, was arrested by local police.
Hikiji enter from the east gate and then plow eleven Mazda factory employees who were there by using a driving Mazda Familia. The result, one person was killed and 10 others were injured. This incident took place at 7:35 pm local time. Local police acted immediately and arrested Hikiji held one hour after the incident.Mazda Hikiji an ex employee who was fired last April. This incident allegedly caused by her frustration over the layoffs.
Hikiji began working at Mazda on March 25, 2010 with a six-month contract status. On 1 April 2010, he was assigned to take care of Ujina factory bumper. However, after only eight days off work, she was laid off on April 14, 2010.
The management of Mazda express regret and deep sorrow to the victims and their families.
The Third Philippine International Motor Show Date: August 19 to 22, 2010 Venue: The World Trade Center Webpage: http://businessmirror.com.ph
China International Automobile Manufacturing Exposition (CIAME) 2010 Date: on October26-28, 2010 Venue: China International Exhibition Center, Beijing Webpage: http://china.ahk.de/en/regional-events/trade-fairs-in-china/
15th Oman International Motor Show Date: on December 1-4, 2010 Venue: Oman International Exhibition Centre WEbpage: http://www.ameinfo.com
The 2011 Model Central Florida International Auto Show Date: November 25-28, 2010 vinue: Orange Country Convention Center-West Concourse Webpage: http://www.motortrendautoshows.com/orlando
Arizona International Auto Show Date:November 25–28, 2010 Venue: Phoenix Convention Center Phoenix, Arizona
The 2011 San Diego International Auto Show Date: December 30, 2010-January 2, 2011 Vinue: San Diego Convention Center Webpage: http://sdautoshow.com
The 2011 North American International Auto Show Date: Jan. 15-23, 2011 Veneu: Cobo Center Webpage: http://www.detnews.com
To create an activity of the Miss Motor Show 2010 which have a certain quality and be expected not will only be supported program alone later today but is able to show to contribute as one of the main event attract and strengthen The Exhibition 18th IIMS awareness itself as the largest otomotive event in the country.
Relaunch & developing The New Image of Miss Auto Show is demanded not only the physical beauty alone but also the intellectual ability and personality attractive, which is expected to be a Brand Representative of The 18th IIMS.
PURPOSE
Creating a positive perspective indirectly affected the image of The 18th IIMS as the biggest and best.
Building a positive perception of the image directly from the Miss Motor Show, which is expected to be an interesting and valuable event.
TARGET PARTICIPANTS
Women
Body is Proportional (Min. 165 cm)
Age 18-25 years
SPG in the Exhibition The 18th IIMS
Minimum Education High School
Mastering English (other foreign language is a plus)
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 1. Brain (30th%)
General knowledge
Automotive knowledge
Product knowledge
Foreign language proficiency
2. BEAUTY (40%)
Confidence
Proportional body
Exteriors
3. Behaviour (30%)
Interpersonal skills
Psychology
Ethics and behavior
Social care
WINNERS
Miss Motor Show 2010
Miss Motor Show 1st Runner-Up
Miss Motor Show 2nd Runner-Up
Miss Motor Show Favorites
Miss Motor Show Automotive
Miss Friendship Motor Show
Miss Motor Show photogenic
Prize
Semi Finalists for Miss Motor Show 2010 will obtain the product package La Tulipe, while the winner of the Miss Motor Show 2010 will receive a gift - a gift as follows:
Miss Motor Show 2010 will receive a cash prize of USD 276 and a package of products from LT Pro
Miss Motor Show 2010 1st Runner-Up will receive a cash prize of USD 221 and a package of products from LT Pro
Miss Motor Show 2nd Runner-Up 2010 will get cash prizes asebesar USD 166 and a package of products from LT Pro
Favourite Miss Motor Show 2010 will receive a cash prize of USD 110 and a package of products from LT Pro
Automotive Miss Motor Show 2010 will receive a cash prize of USD 110 and a package of products from LT Pro
Miss Friendship 2010 Motor Show will get a cash prize of USD 110 and a package of products from LT Pro
Photogenic Miss Motor Show 2010 will receive a cash prize of USD 110 and a package of products from LT Pro
"Most likely the Audi A8 will be marketed early next year," said Wanny Bhakti, Audi Marketing Communications Manager for Indonesia.
According to Herry Audi Indonesia Noverino Marketing Supervisor, This is related to the Audi A8 L started it markets in Europe in the middle of this year. "It can also A8 L Landed end of the year," he said.
A8 L first appearance at Beijing Auto Show 2010 last. With a length of 5.267 meters, Audi A8 L is 130 mm longer than the regular A8. Bodi A8 L is made of aluminum so light that embraces the OH ASF (Audi Space Frame) so 40% lighter than steel materials. However, for steel materials applied by the B-pillars to provide power when the car overturned.
Indonesia plans to market the Audi A8 L Audi 2.8-liter engine. Meanwhile, up to Audi AG currently offers four engine choices, 3.0-liter TDI (250 hp), 4.2-liter TDI (350 hp), 4.2-liter FSI (372 PS) and 6.3 liter FSI W12 ( 500 hp).
BMW, a German luxury car maker launches the BMW 5 series to the Indonesian automotive market. Three new models represents the sixth generation of the BMW 5 Series. PT. Indonesia BMW says BMW 5 Series combines the superior handling and performance blend of luxury and elegant style. BMW is the latest variant was introduced before the reporters on this day (17 / 6), held at the Fountain Area, Plaza Senayan.
The All New BMW 5 Series consists of the BMW 535i, BMW 528i and BMW 523i Executive. All BMW 5 Series models are equipped with keyless start and features an electric glass roof as a supporting feature comfort. Headlamp design with the latest intake of Bi Xenon lights and LED ring is equipped to make this premium sedan looks more elegant. This sedan is also equipped with Dynamic Brake Light will be glowing during sudden braking. The passengers more comfortable being in the car because BMW 5 Series has the widest cabin space than its predecessor. Interior BMW 5 Series is equipped with high quality materials so that the impression of luxury and elegance is very strong.
BMW offers three six-cylinder engine as an option. Kitchen implanted with a capacity of 3 liters in the BMW 535i is the first machine that combines technology and Twinpower Turbocharge with High Precision Direct Injection. Meanwhile, six-cylinder engine with a naturally aspirated system on the BMW 528i and 523i display double-VANOS and Valvetronic technologies that can improve the efficiency of fuel consumption. For this new model, BMW set up six color options for their latest sedan include Alpine White, Black Sapphire, Imperial Blue, Sophisto Grey, Space Grey and Titanium Silver. Order to satisfy consumers BMW also provides a choice of four interior colors like Black, Cinnamon Brown, Beige and Oyster. Membanderol BMW 535i BMW with price USD 1188 billion and USD 958 million BMW 528i BMW 523i temporarily pegged USD 818 million.
In May, Toyota managed to sell 22 184 units. Yet according to prediction Gaikindo, Toyota's markets are predicted to decline by 8%.
Toyota Yaris with Yaris TRD ver.2 is new products are provided for young people sold 1373 units in May 2010 an increase of 5% of sales in April 2010.
Toyota Vios belonging to the sedan class booked a sales increase of 2% or 426 units sold. Corolla Altis is a product of Toyota that has great contribution in maintaining sales position with sales growth reached 40% or 197 units sold in May.
Toyota Dyna experienced a significant increase in sales by successfully sold 1164 units or 20% from the previous month.
Toyota has seized a total of about 39% market share in the auto industry and stated as a market leader. Cumulatively, in May 2010 Toyota managed to sell 112 480 units or an increase of 0.6% from the previous month.
"The success of Toyota's achievement as maintaining the national market leader of car automotive in Indonesua amid the market correction is a good achievement. Hopefully this can become leaders in our passion to continue to provide best products and services for customers. Thank you for the trust for this to Toyota customers. " Said Johnny Darmawan, President Director of PT. Toyota Astra Motor.
High Demand
Toyota Avanza, best-selling car in Indonesia still continues to lead the class Low MPV with sales amounting to 11 013 units. Innova Kijang Innova car while the Indonesia family choices also remains a market leader with a successful print Medium MPV sales figures for 3911 units throughout the month of May 2010. Both models had even managed to score high enough demand recorded, Avanza and Kijang Innova DSS scored in consecutive digits of 13 595 units and 4163 units.
"Demand for the Toyota Avanza and Kijang Innova is very high, thank you for the trust customers chose Toyota's products, we promise to meet the demand of customers who still pending as soon as possible, we hope that next month could meet all these demands", cover Johnny Darmawan.
Gunadi Sindhuwinata, Chairman of the Indonesian Motorcycle Association said motorcycle is most choice of personal transportation for Indonesian society. This is because the cost is affordable.
"The market this year motors can penetrate 6.8 million to 7 million units even if the situation remains stable." Gunadi said.
Gunadi added on the basis that its largest segment is the lower middle class, the AISI has decided not to participate in the Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS) in 2010 who fronted the car industry.
"Market segment different cars and motorcycles, even more time adjacent to the Jakarta Fair (PRJ)," he said.
PRJ was assessed by Gunadi as media promotion and marketing of motorcycles, because the segment of visitors is relatively the same. Nevertheless, he admits will not prevent if there is still following AISI member IIMS.
