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Spyker signs CPP Global Holdings deal for sportscar arm

发表者 ddgg 2/23/11

Spyker Cars is selling off its sports-car unit to a Russian businessman so that it can concentrate on the operation of Saab Automobile, purchased just one year ago from General Motors.

Antonov, a former Spyker chairman and shareholder, will pay 15 million euros ($21 million) for the maker of the C8 Aileron and other supercar models that retail for more than $200,000, the Zeewolde, Netherlands-based company said today. In addition, Antonov would pay as much as 17 million euros over six years depending on the unit’s future profits.

Antonov used to own part of Spyker, but was forced out as a condition by General Motors to agree to sell the Saab brand in January 2010. At the time, tiny Spyker took out loans to buy it for $74 million in cash.

Press Release

SPYKER CARS N.V. IN NEGOTIATIONS TO SELL THE SPYKER SPORTSCAR BUSINESS IN ORDER TO FOCUS ON SAAB AUTOMOBILE

Spyker Cars N.V.– the EURONEXT-listed holding company which operates the Spyker and Saab Automobile premium car brands – has signed a Memorandum of Understanding to sell the assets of its Spyker sportscar business (the “Spyker Business”) to a private UK holding company, CPP Global Holdings Limited, which is owned by Vladimir Antonov.
Indicative terms include a purchase price of 15 million Euros plus a 17 million Euros earn-out. The proceeds will be used to reduce Spyker Cars N.V.’s debt.
Within 6 months of completion of the sale and subject to certain conditions, it is envisaged that Tenaci Capital B.V. would convert the 9.5 million Euro Convertible Loan at 3.75 Euros per share and 7.5 million Euros of its loans at 5.50 Euros per share to further reduce debt and interest.
This transaction would allow Spyker Cars N.V., which will change its name shortly, to exclusively focus on the Saab Automobile business while reducing debt and improving operating results through reduced interest expenses and removing the operating losses related to the Spyker Business.

Zeewolde, The Netherlands, 24 February 2011 – Spyker Cars N.V. has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with CPP Global Holdings Limited, a UK-based company owned by Vladimir Antonov, concerning a potential sale of the Spyker sportscar business.

The transaction would be structured as an asset purchase of virtually all assets related to the Spyker Business, including the Spyker trademarks and other intellectual property rights, and would be subject to several conditions precedent, including the outcome of Purchaser's due diligence. If completed, the proceeds of the purchase price will be used to reduce Spyker Cars N.V. indebtedness to Tenaci Capital B.V., an investment company controlled by Spyker Cars N.V. CEO, Victor Muller, thereby reducing its interest burden going forward. The indicative purchase price would consist of two elements: 15 million Euros due on closing and a maximum of 17 million Euros payable in instalments over the period 2011-2016 from the Spyker Business’ Earnings Before Taxes.

To further reduce Spyker Cars N.V.’s debt, it is envisaged that within 6 months of completion of the sale Tenaci Capital B.V. would convert its Convertible Loan for the amount of 9.5 million Euros at 3.75 Euro per share as well as convert an additional amount of 7.5 million Euros at 5.50 Euros per share subject to completion of the sale and certain conditions.

Hans Hugenholtz, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Spyker Cars N.V., said: “This transaction will allow Spyker Cars N.V. to focus on the Saab Automobile business exclusively, will eliminate the requirement for us to make further capital investment in the Spyker Business, and will reduce our debt.

“The Spyker Business will benefit from a focused and independent management team to progress the business from a commercial and technological point of view. Victor Muller will continue as CEO of the Spyker Business until a successor is appointed, at which time he will become its non-executive chairman. Mr. Muller remains fully engaged as CEO of Spyker Cars N.V. and Chairman of the Board of Saab Automobile AB.

Victor Muller, CEO of Spyker Cars N.V. and Chairman of the Board of Saab Automobile AB, said: “Without Spyker we would not have been able to acquire Saab Automobile last year but the Spyker Business soon became a small fish in a large pond as a result. In terms of the overall results of Spyker Cars N.V., the Spyker Business had become immaterial, but to develop its business going forward, its cash needs are relatively significant. Therefore the decision to separate the Spyker Business and Saab Automobile from a capital structure point of view is a good one.”

Vladimir Antonov, chairman of Convers Group said: "Having created an automotive portfolio over the past two years consisting of premium, world-class companies and brands, we are convinced that Spyker will flourish within the CPP Group and become profitable as planned.”

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Porsche Celebrates 60 Years In America

发表者 ddgg 3/26/10

Porsche had its beginnings in the U.S. on May 25 back in 1950 and now, all these years later, the sports car company is celebrating the 60th anniversary of its decision to bring cars Stateside. But the story of Porsche in the U.S. is really the story of the common vision of three men--FerryPorsche, Max Hoffman and Johnny von Neumann.

Way back in 1950, Ferry Porsche wanted his company to expand to the States to generate more revenue. He teamed up with Max Hoffman, an Austrian living in NYC who was earning a living importing European cars Stateside.

In the fall of 1950, Hoffman took delivery of two 1.1-liter coupes and put them on display at his 430 Park Avenue showroom in New York. While the 356 had only 44 horsepower and cost as much as a Cadillacconvertible, he thought this little Porsche deserved a chance.

That took care of the eastern half of the United States, leaving the lucrative California market to be ably handled by von Neumann, who bought one of Hoffman's Porsches in New York in 1951 and drove it back to California. The rest, as they say, is history – the Far Left State would go on to become Porsche's largest single market and those early pioneers would prove to be a stepping stone to much greater things with a sportscar heritage that continues down to this day.

Since then, Porsche Cars North America was created, eventually employing 180 people. The company's cars are sold in 200 dealerships across the region. You can read more about Porsche's U.S. history in the press release below.

Press Release

Porsche Marks 60 Years of Selling Performance in America

The love affair between Porsche and U.S. motoring enthusiasts began in New York in 1950, and that passionate relationship stands the test of time

ATLANTA, March 25 - This year marks the 60th anniversary of one of the most fateful and successful decisions in the annals of automotive history -- Porsche's decision to market cars in the United States. But the story of Porsche in America is really the story of the common vision of three men -- Ferry Porsche, Max Hoffman and Johnny von Neumann.

From the beginning, Dr. Ferry Porsche saw the limitations of selling his 356 sports car in the Western European markets. He knew in order to sustain and grow his dream, Porsche would have to export its products to larger, more affluent markets like the United States, which had been virtually untouched by World War II.

This grand show opens in New York City

Enter Austrian ex-patriot and adoptive New Yorker Max Hoffman. Hoffman had already made a name for himself introducing exciting European cars to eager Americans. With the demand for cars running at a fever pitch after the sparse war years' production, Hoffman scoured the continent for marketable products. He knew many returning G.I.s had developed a taste and a romantic fondness for the nimble, fun-to-drive cars they had been introduced to while stationed in Europe.

Hoffman, at the urging of Swiss journalist Max Troesch, accepted the Porsche franchise in the early autumn of 1950. Max caught the Porsche bug, declaring, "I was very excited. This was something completely new, out of this world. I was not 100 percent for Porsches. I was 1,000 percent for Porsches." When Ferry Porsche said he hoped Max could find five American buyers a year, he responded, "If I can't sell five a week, I'm not interested."

In the fall of 1950, Hoffman took delivery of two 1.1-liter coupes and put them on display at his 430 Park Avenue showroom in New York City. While the 356 had only 44 horsepower and cost as much as a Cadillac convertible, he thought this little Porsche deserved a chance.

His faith in Porsche was justified. He imported 32 cars in 1951, and by 1954 he was marketing 11 Porsches a week, or 30 percent of Porsche's production. At its peak, the United States would absorb up to 70 percent of Porsche's yearly production.

Hoffman was also an astute marketer. In 1952 while dining in a New York restaurant, Max told Dr. Ferry Porsche all cars of some standing in the world have a crest. "Why not Porsche, too?" he asked. "If all you need is a badge, we can give you one, too!"

Ferry then grabbed a napkin and began to draw the crest for the state of Baden-Wurtenberg with its curved stag horns. He added a black prancing horse from Stuttgart's coat of arms and the word PORSCHE across the top and handed it back to Max asking, "How about something like that?" With a bit of refinement and color, the famed Porsche Crest was born and today remains true to Ferry's original sketch more than half a century ago.

Porsche and the Hollywood connection

While New York would prove to be central to Porsche's U.S. success, California, even in the early 1950s, was considered the 'Car Mecca of the New World.' The Porsche foothold on the West Coast was established by another Austrian expat named Johnny von Neumann. Von Neumann was the scion of a well-known Viennese doctor and had emigrated to the United States in 1947 and had begun selling cars in the Los Angeles area.

In 1948, he opened up his own shop, Competition Motors in North Hollywood. The name was reflective of von Neumann's primary interest, racing. While most of his business was focused on the repair and maintenance of sports cars, he eventually sold cars, as well.

On a 1951 vacation to New York, von Neumann decided to see his fellow Viennese Hoffman, whom he knew from before the war. "I stopped to say hello and being a 'salesman's salesman,' he asked me to take the car for a ride," von Neumann recalled to a journalist. "I thought the car was way ahead of its time, so I bought one and drove it back to California." It was the first Porsche ever West of the Mississippi.

After selling that first Porsche, von Neumann bought several more, firmly established Porsche's West Coast beachhead, and continued to cater to the famous, the rich and the infamous. It was from von Neumann's Competition Motors shop that James Dean purchased his first Porsche, a 356 Speedster with which he won his first serious amateur race. He then traded that Speedster for the Porsche 550 Spyder in which he famously lost his life while en-route to his first race in the car in Salinas, Calif.

California would become Porsche's single largest market and, if broken out separately from all other U.S. sales territories, would rank as one of the largest markets for Porsche worldwide.

Porsche of America Corp. is born

By 1956, it became increasingly evident Max Hoffman's focus on Porsche had shifted. In addition to Porsche, Hoffman was now importing a sizable portfolio of brands under the Hoffman Motor Cars umbrella. Because of this diversification, it was difficult for Porsche to maintain the support and distribution standards Porsche felt were critical for the growth of the Porsche brand in the United States. This was to be a recurring concern during the history of Porsche in America.

In response to this need, Porsche of America Corporation (PoAC) was established. With headquarters in Teaneck, N.J., PoAC took over and improved and expanded Porsche's distribution network.

The Volkswagen years

For many years Dr. Ferry Porsche felt the only way to sustain the company in the long run and for it to remain an independent entity was for Porsche to develop a lower cost, higher volume model. While Porsche toyed with the idea of a less expensive 911 -- the 912 was one such short-lived attempt -- Dr. Ferry Porsche saw this could diminish the stature of the flagship 911.

In partnership with Volkswagen AG, Porsche developed the 914, a mid-engined, two-seat Targa-type sports car available in two configurations -- the Porsche powered six-cylinder 914/6 and the less expensive and higher volume VW powered 914/4.

But the increased volume these two new cars were intended to generate could not be handled through the existing PoAC channel. And, as the volume 914/4 was to be powered by the flat four from the Volkswagen 411 and utilized many shared components, it made perfect sense to team up with Volkswagen of America (VoA). In addition, the Porsche family had long and close ties with Volkswagen, and in fact had used VoA's distribution chain elsewhere for many years.

During the partnership, VoA and Porsche sold more than 250,000 Porsches in the United States.

The birth of PCNA

In January 1984, the 323 U.S. Porsche-Audi dealers were notified after August 31 they would no longer be receiving Porsche cars, parts or support from Volkswagen of America, but from a new entity, Porsche Cars North America (PCNA).

With the establishment of its plant in New Stanton, Pa., Porsche felt VoA, as a U.S. auto manufacturer, would be more focused on increasing volume of the VW model line-up. The new Porsche sales chief, M. J. Nedelcu stated, "the quality of the marketing organization could no longer develop in sufficient measure to suit our exclusive automobiles."

With the termination of the distribution agreement, PCNA set up its operation in Reno, Nev. in September of 1984 to oversee all of the importation and distribution tasks formerly handled by Volkswagen of America. PCNA remained in Reno until March 10, 1998 when it relocated to its current home in Atlanta.

Today, PCNA is the exclusive importer of Porsche vehicles for the United States. It is a wholly owned, indirect subsidiary of Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG. PCNA employs approximately 180 people who provide Porsche vehicles, parts, service, marketing and training for its 200 dealers. The dealers, in turn, provide Porsche owners with best-in-class service.

PCNA, which imports the iconic 911 series, the highly acclaimed Boxster and Cayman mid-engine sports cars, high-end Cayenne sport utility vehicles and the four-passenger Panamera Gran Turismos, strives to maintain a standard of excellence, commitment and distinction synonymous with its brand.

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Smart Launches New Styling Accessories for Fortwo

发表者 ddgg 3/19/10

[765005_1395357_2667_1937_10C251_06.jpg]

Smart has released a new set of accessories for the Smart and Brabus ForTwo.

The Brabus components for the interior include: trims and covers for the dashboard instruments, instrument cluster, steering-column stalk, door handles and centre console. The LED lamps are available in chrome or in black. The stickers come in blue, orange and white or vibrant red with stylistic elements in black, silver and white.

The Smart Fortwo styling accessories also include BRABUS LED daytime running lights priced at 549 Euro while the 6 exterior motifs that are designed to suit different tastes (from sporty to elegant or urban) are available at smart dealers carrying a 250 Euro price tag.

New Styling Accessories For Smart Fortwo

Press Release

New ways to an individual look: Bright colours and eye-catching
motifs

Stuttgart - Sassy spring fashion for the smart: the new
smart art stickers give the coupé and cabrio a personal touch. Customers
have a choice of six colourful motifs. The adhesive foil stickers are
applied to the tridion safety cell. And further new accessories for the
smart are also available: BRABUS interior contrast components in carbon look
and BRABUS LED daytime driving lights.

The new smart art stickers make every smart unique. From sporty to
elegant or urban - the six motifs have something to suit every taste. The
high quality adhesive foil stickers are applied to the tridion safety cell
and provide an attractive contrast to the other body parts. The designs were
developed by artist Timo Wuerz in cooperation with Mercedes-Benz Accessories
GmbH. The different designs in the smart collection provided inspiration for
the colourful smart art stickers.

The art stickers based on the passion product line feature skyscrapers
and illuminated windows, skyline prints and yellow colour accents. The pulse
product line is also reflected in the stickers with brown and orange
colouring and a line pattern. The art sticker with flowers will transport
you to sunny climes. The pattern with light orange and brightly coloured
Hibiscus petals evokes a tropical feeling and is sure to put a smile on your
face. The classic black, white and blue racing pattern is no less striking.
It expresses the agility of the smart. The art sticker with birds' wings and
stars could be the right choice for adventurers with a yearning for freedom.
In addition to the unusual presentation of the elements of the motif, this
smart art sticker boasts an intensive play of colours in blue, orange and
white. The range of smart art stickers is completed by a design in a vibrant
red with stylistic elements in black, silver and white.

When applied correctly the smart art stickers last for approximately five
years. However, they can be removed again at any time without leaving any
traces. The smart art stickers are available from smart dealers at a price
of €250 (recommended retail price incl. VAT) and can be affixed by the
dealer on request.

New accessories are now also available to customise and upgrade the smart
interior. BRABUS interior contrast components in carbon look create a sporty
and exclusive ambience. The eight-part set (RRP: €299) consists of trims and
covers for the dashboard instruments, instrument cluster, steering-column
stalk, door handles and centre console. The interior contrast components can
be ordered from and fitted by smart dealers.

The new retrofittable BRABUS LED daytime driving lights not only look
good, they also improve safety. Perfectly tailored to the silhouette of the
smart fortwo, the BRABUS LED daytime driving lights (€549) can be combined
with all standard main headlights. smart drivers can choose between two
versions: with LED lamps in chrome or in black. The trendy lighting
technology can also be retrofitted at the rear as the BRABUS third LED brake
light is now available for the coupé and cabrio. The LED brake light (€129)
is integrated in the separation edge.

The smart accessories range now comprises more than 90 products for
customisation of both the exterior and the interior. These products are sold
via Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH. This 100% subsidiary of Daimler AG is
responsible for the development, selection and marketing of genuine
accessories and collection products for the brands Mercedes-Benz, Maybach
and smart. The company has more than 200 employees and is based in
Stuttgart-Vaihingen.

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2011 Nissan NV

发表者 ddgg 3/11/10

Nissan has introduced its 2011 Nissan NV, a set of three CV vans for the commercial vehicle market in North America.

The Nissan NV will be available in three models: the NV1500 half-ton, NV2500 HD three-quarter-ton and NV3500 HD one-ton. There’s one 146.1-inch wheelbase.

2011 Nissan NV

The cargo area of the NV will be 120.7 inches long (306 cm) and 70.3 inches (179 cm) wide. The Standard Roof variant will have 55.4 inches (140 cm) of cargo height while the High Roof model will measure 76.5 inches (194 cm) in cargo space height.

2011 Nissan NV

Although Nissan previously announced that it’s partnering with contract diesel engine manufacturer Cummins and German supplier ZF to develop and build two diesel engines and a six-speed automatic transmission, the oil burning powertrains won’t be available when the vans first arrive. Two gas engines will be the initial choices. There’s a 4.0-liter V-6 that’s shared with the Nissan Frontier midsize pickup and a 5.6-liter V-8 that’s shared with the Nissan Titan. A five-speed automatic transmission will be the only gearbox.

2011 Nissan NV

The Nissan NV lineup will be the first Nissan commercial vehicles made in the United States for the North American market. The NV will be built at the Nissan plant in Canton, Mississippi.

The NV vans will go on sale later this year through a select group of Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealers across North America. Nissan says more details will follow later.
Source:Nissan via world car fans More Photos

2011 Nissan NV

Press Release

2011 Nissan NV Debuts at NTEA Work Truck Show; Breakthrough Design
Brings New Thinking to CV Van Segment

Nissan Enters North
American Commercial Vehicle Market with Innovative Standard and High Roof
Vans Designed to "Help Businesses Run Better"

As Nissan finalizes plans to bring its first production commercial
vehicle (CV) to the North American market in late 2010, it is starting with
a truly ground up design - from its rugged ladder frame to the roof rack
mounting brackets on the top of the innovatively conceived and styled body.
Yet the all-new Nissan NV (Nissan Van) also has the advantage of Nissan's
exceptional commercial vehicle heritage, covering 75 years and more than 75
percent of the global CV market.

"The new kid on the block, as it turns out, is also a long-time player in
the global commercial vehicle market. As the first non-domestic nameplate to
design, manufacture and sell CVs in the United States, we bring a more than
seven-decade tradition of durability, quality and reliability to our
products," said Joe Castelli, vice president, Commercial Vehicles and Fleet,
Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA). "At the same time, we've taken a fresh
look at every aspect of the CV business - including styling, powertrain,
interiors, cost of operation and ownership, dealership sales and service
operations and, most importantly, real world customer needs."

The first production models in Nissan's new North American CV lineup are
the 2011 Nissan NV1500, NV2500 HD and NV3500 HD. They will be available with
a choice of 4.0-liter V6 and 5.6-liter V8 engines and in two body styles,
Standard Roof (all models) and High Roof (NV2500 HD and NV3500 HD only) -
with High Roof models offering stand-up walkthrough/work cargo area
capability.

"It's been too many years since any manufacturer in this segment has
taken a 'clean sheet' look at the needs of owners and operators in the CV
segment," said Castelli. "We've invested more than five years researching
the comfort, style and smart functionality demands that will enable business
owners to accomplish more throughout their day. We plan on coming out of the
box with segment-busting vehicles, so customer input was essential."

The NV planning team employed a wide range of innovative customer
research methodologies, including focus groups, on-site visits and concept
reviews. The quantitative and qualitative research took place all across
America - Los Angeles, Chicago, New Jersey, Dallas, Detroit, New York,
Minnesota, Arizona and other markets. The team met with large fleet owners
and managers, small business owners, aftermarket suppliers and converters
and rode along with owners of competitive vehicles.

"The NV is one of the most researched projects ever in the history of
Nissan. We touched the market at every point possible, with the findings
reflected in every aspect of the final NV design," added Castelli.

Comfortable Seating and Standing

Research showed that commercial van owners are the least satisfied of any
vehicle segment, with many van owners disposing of their vehicles in favor
of light duty trucks despite the compromise of convenience and utility. In
developing the new Nissan NV, one of the overarching goals was to combine
pickup truck-like comfort, interior amenities and drivability with a cargo
van's capacity and security.

"Looking at the CV market in recent years, there's been a migration of
van users to light-duty pickups due to the lack of comfort, image and
dependability of the current outdated van platforms," explained Castelli.
"Yet many of these truck owners admit they need a van for weather
protection, security and the convenience of a tall roof van to carry large
items or equipment. With the Nissan NV, we're giving them the best of both
worlds."

Answering one of the major unmet owner needs - driver comfort and
roominess - the Nissan NV interior starts with wide front doors for easy
ingress and egress, supportive bucket seating with extensive adjustability,
large armrests and a truck-like driving position with ample legroom and foot
room. The available center console (removable) provides a range of
integrated storage features, while the fold-down passenger seat - which is
unique to the segment - adds worktable functionality and enhances the cab's
feeling of openness.

Another major contributor to the pickup-like cab is the absence of the
traditional CV engine "doghouse" that intrudes into the cab due to the
setback engine placement. The Nissan NV utilizes a conventional truck engine
layout with the engine and transmission located ahead of the
firewall/A-pillar. This not only frees up space under the instrument panel
and between the seats, it also provides easy under-hood access to the entire
engine for routine service and maintenance.

"From the seats forward the NV looks, acts and feels like a pickup. You
don't have to take apart the interior to access the engine and you don't
have to worry about tucking your work boots into a cramped footwell," said
Castelli. "But, make no mistake, behind the seats the NV is pure, practical
van."

The NV's ample cargo area offers a 120.7-inch cargo floor length and
70.3-inch maximum cargo floor width. NV Standard Roof models offer a maximum
55.4 cargo area height, among the tallest in class. The NV High Roof
provides a maximum 76.5-inches of cargo room height - enough for most users
to move about the cargo area while standing up straight.

"Standard Roof NV models are designed to fit in most garages or go
through most car washes and fast food drive-through lanes - along with
offering easier reach to access roof racks," said Castelli. "But for so many
businesses, the added cargo capacity and the ability to stand up and work
inside the High Roof NV will be a priceless enhancement to their everyday
operations and productivity."

Smart Functionality and Flexible Layout

Inspired by customer needs and usage, the Nissan NV offers an amazing array
of smart functionality features, including storage pockets, spaces and
compartments designed to provide secure access to the typical commercial
customers' everyday use objects. An under seat drawer, for example, fits
small tools, stationary or first aid kits, while the deep door pockets fit
flashlights, legal-size binders and clipboards. High Roof models offer an
available overhead console designed to hold work gloves, legal size binders,
safety glasses and system books. The available center console (removable)
fits letter size files and laptop computers - and includes a computer or
mobile phone charging point.

"A commercial van must serve many more functions today, including acting
as a mobile office for time spent on the road or at a job site," said
Castelli. "We've made storage and productivity items integral to the design,
rather than tacked-on afterthoughts. The result is a clean, practical and
comfortable workspace for a wide variety of professions and businesses."

Along with being conceived as a "mobile office," the Nissan NV is
designed to function as a "mobile workshop" - thanks to its simple, flexible
cargo area layout. Along with offering wide door openings, the NV offers
room between the wheelhouses to accommodate standard plywood or drywall
sheets or pallets. There are also a range of cargo area tie-down rings and
ample cargo area lighting.

The new Nissan NV was also designed to accommodate aftermarket outfitting
and modifications. For example, the roof rack mounting brackets are designed
for various rack systems without piercing holes in the roof, which can lead
to corrosion and water leaks. The available "upfitter pre-wiring" allows
easy access into the electrical system.

The NV also offers a full-length cargo area inner panel to protect the
outer walls from dents and dings from the inside, and there are multiple
weld-nut attachment points for shelving and racks - again requiring no sheet
metal drilling. In addition, the NV's nearly vertical sidewalls maximize the
usable cargo space, accommodating common aftermarket storage systems, as
well as a bulkhead behind the driver.

Three Well-Equipped Models

Cost of ownership and operation is a critical factor in the CV segment,
whether for major fleet operations or individual business owners. "From the
rugged fully boxed all-steel frame to the body-on-chassis construction, the
NV is designed to the highest Nissan standards of durability, quality and
reliability," said Castelli. "The NV is designed to be affordable and to
stand up to the abuse that real work trucks face everyday."

The new Nissan NV will launch with a choice of two engines - a powerful
yet fuel efficient 4.0-liter V6 or a powerful, torquey 5.6-liter V8. Both
engines will be matched to a standard 5-speed automatic.

Safety systems include the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (includes
dual-stage front supplemental air bags with seat belt sensors), 3-point
front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, available
supplemental front seat-mounted side-impact air bags and roof-mounted
supplemental curtain air bags.

The 2011 Nissan NV will be offered in three well-equipped models, the
NV1500, NV2500 HD and NV3500 HD. All three models will be available with the
Standard Roof, while the High Roof body will be offered in the NV2500 HD and
NV3500 HD models only. Additional information regarding standard features,
trim levels and optional equipment will be provided later.

The new Nissan NV will be manufactured in Canton, Mississippi and
available through a select network of authorized Nissan Commercial Vehicle
dealers nationwide. For updates and more information, please go to
www.nissancommercialvehicles.com.

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SPYKER SECURES FURTHER FINANCING OF SAAB DEAL

发表者 ddgg 2/10/10

Spyker Cars N.V. announces today that Spyker has entered into a USD 25 million convertible loan agreement with an investment company owned by Heerema Holding Company Inc.

The USD 25 million loan has a 2 year term, an interest of Euribor + 10% and is convertible into shares at EUR 4 each. This loan secures the funding necessary to close the Saab transaction as the first USD 25 million has already been paid to GM on January 26, 2010. The convertible loan is conditional on SAAB receiving the EIB loan. On July 15 of this year a final payment of USD 24 million is due to GM. Spyker is confident that it will secure the funding for this second installment.

The European Commission approved the Swedish state guarantee for Saab. With respect to the approval of the Swedish state guarantee, competition commissioner Neelie Kroes said: "The state guarantee will contribute to the implementation of Saab's business plan without giving rise to any undue distortions of competition".

Victor Muller, Spyker's CEO said: "We are delighted that Heerema has decided to become an investor in our company. I had the privilege to work for Pieter Heerema from 1984 through 1991, initially as his counsel, later as Director of Corporate Affairs, and we have come to know each other very well as a result. It is the intention to nominate a representative of Heerema as a member of the Supervisory Board".

"The positive decision of the European Commission to approve the Swedish state guarantee is another major step towards closing of the Saab acquisition. We are grateful to the Commission of their willingness to work so hard on this decision within the limited time available."

Pieter Heerema added: "Although providing convertible loans such as this one is not in the ordinary course of our business, the positive developments of the past few months involving the SAAB brand and its sympathetic connotation, together with the worldwide support of loyal customers, dealers, employees, suppliers and other stakeholders represents a unique value. This value represents much more than money alone. We are confident that when the company's management gets the opportunity to implement the business plan we will see a good financial return on our investment as well".
Source: Spyker

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Chavez Threatens to Expel Toyota

发表者 ddgg 12/28/09

2007 Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series: (L-R) LC78 Troop Carrier GXL and LC79 Cab Chassis GXL

Toyota responded by saying the automaker had already requested permission to import the Land Cruiser well before Chavez' comments. The company says the Venezuelan government has not yet ruled on the import license application. Venezuelan production of the Land Cruiser 70 halted in 2007, and the government had been informed in advance of the model's cancellation.

Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series with GXL cab-chassis

Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series with GXL cab-chassis

President of Venezuela, Hugo Chavez, has announced that Toyota could be kicked out of that country if the Japanese automaker persists in not building a replacement to the Land Cruiser 70 4x4 in Venezuela. Chavez believes the all-terrain vehicle is critical for providing transportation in less-developed parts of the country.

2007 Toyota LandCruiser 78 Troop Carrier Workmate

2007 Toyota LandCruiser 78 Troop Carrier Workmate

If Toyota were kicked out, Chavez would likely authorize the confiscation of Toyota factories in Venezuela, possibly using the facilities to create a new national automaker. Since Chavez became president in 1999 he has nationalized the domestic energy and oil industries.

2007 Toyota LandCruiser 76 Wagon Workmate

2007 Toyota LandCruiser 76 Wagon Workmate

Chavez made the threatening comments last Wednesday at an event in Caracas. Believing that his government must force Toyota to produce "rustic" models, he said, "And if they don't, then they should leave and we'll bring another company in. The Chinese want to come and they make 'rustic' models," according to published reports.

2007 Toyota LandCruiser 76 Wagon GXL

"Companies who come here to set up must be ready to transfer technology to us," Chavez said.

"If they don't want to, they should go away. I invite them to pick up their things and go."

2007 Toyota LandCruiser 78 Troop Carrier Workmate

Toyota has asked for diplomatic assistance from the Japanese government, saying Chavez' office never once contacted the automaker to discuss the issue.

2007 Toyota LandCruiser 76 Wagon GXL interior

2007 Toyota LandCruiser 76 Wagon GXL interior

2007 Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series 4.5-litre V8 turbo-diesel engine

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WCF's Top 10 Concept Cars of 2009

发表者 ddgg 12/23/09

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept

2009 is coming to a close and top 10 lists from the world's media are flowing like a slit wrist. For this year's WCF Top 10 Concept Cars list we decided to take a slightly different approach. Instead of fabricating an opinion list, we decided to base it on popularity as measured by WCF user visits (in a two week period). Hardly creative, we know, but it's somewhat scientific and if you don't like the list, then too bad.

Infiniti Essence Concept

Judging by the majority of vehicles in the list being German in origin, it seems our readers from the old GermanCarFans.com days are in full force. Is this an accurate reflection of our audience's preferences, or perhaps, a reflection of which car manufacturers are making news/cars that appeal most to enthusiasts?

Mini Coupe Concept - 1280

Hopefully, as the global economic crisis thaws over 2010 and beyond, makers will realize there are a lot more car enthusiasts out there than they think. They just haven't been converted yet with exhilarating yet affordable cars. Nonetheless, it all starts with a concept, and with this year's Top10 list we recognize the concept cars that you paid attention to the most.

Audi Q5 Custom Concept - Worthersee Tour 2009
…continue reading

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Decision on production of next-generation C-Class will improve competitiveness

发表者 ddgg 12/10/09

Production of the C-Class as of 2014 in Bremen and the USA will secure
growth opportunities and increase profitability

Attractive job possibilities for the employees affected at the
Sindelfingen plant

Next generation of E- and S-Class to remain in Sindelfingen

Management and Labor Council share clear goal of further efficiency
improvements

Resulting possibility to do without layoffs for operating reasons in
Sindelfingen until 2020

The Board of Management and the General Labor Council of Daimler AG have
agreed on the details of a personnel concept for the Sindelfingen plant in
connection with the reorganization of the worldwide Mercedes-Benz production
network. As of 2014, production of the C-Class will be concentrated at the
Bremen plant with additional production in the United States for the local
market. This will allow the Daimler Group to increase its competitiveness and to
profit optimally from growth opportunities.

Due to attractive job possibilities for the employees affected in
Sindelfingen and the decision to produce the next generation of the E-Class and
the S-Class in Sindelfingen, it will be possible to do without layoffs for
operating reasons at the Sindelfingen plant until December 31, 2019. At the same
time, the Board of Management and the Labor Council affirm their commitment to
continuously improving the plant's competitiveness and efficiency.

Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and
Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars: "With the decision on our new plant for compact cars
in Hungary, the reorganization of C-Class production as of 2014, and the
production commitment for the E-Class and the S-Class, we have set the course
for the future of our key models. This long-term strategic planning will give us
additional growth opportunities and will make a significant contribution towards
improving our competitiveness." Zetsche added: "This is the best way to protect
jobs in Germany over the long term."

As part of the "Sifi 2020" personnel concept, the Board of Management and the
Labor Council have also specified the details of alternative job opportunities
for the employees affected by the discontinuation of C-Class production in 2014.
As previously announced, the assembly of the SL premium roadster will be
transferred from Bremen to Sindelfingen. This will already offset a large part
of the job reduction.

Approximately 2,000 attractive new jobs

As the result of various additional actions, approximately 2,000 attractive
new jobs will be defined, reflecting the employees' differing qualifications.
Among other measures to be taken, Daimler will increase the depth of production
in Sindelfingen, bring new technologies to the plant, and create jobs in
research and development.

The actions decided upon also include additional assembly work with the
integration of hybrid drives into vehicles and the construction of test
vehicles, as well as an increased number of employees in the tooling shop for
the production of machine tools. With regard to new technologies for example,
Daimler will concentrate its activities in the area of lightweight technology at
the Sindelfingen plant.

In order to ensure that the plant steadily improves its efficiency and makes
the adjustments required to remain competitive also during the period of the
agreement, Daimler will continue to make use of natural staff fluctuation and
also of voluntary instruments such as early retirement and preretirement
part-time work.

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Mercedes Considering U.S. Built C-Class

发表者 ddgg 11/13/09

According to a recent report, Mercedes is considering building the C-Class in the United States.

The move would protect the sedan from future currency fluctuations, and put an end to declining profitability on C-Class sales because of the weak US dollar.
more detail. ...

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Range Rover

Spyker signs CPP Global Holdings deal for sportscar arm

Porsche Celebrates 60 Years In America

Smart Launches New Styling Accessories for Fortwo

2011 Nissan NV

SPYKER SECURES FURTHER FINANCING OF SAAB DEAL

Chavez Threatens to Expel Toyota

WCF's Top 10 Concept Cars of 2009

Decision on production of next-generation C-Class will improve competitiveness

Mercedes Considering U.S. Built C-Class

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