Ford Announces Global Mustang GT3 Factory Drivers

Posted on 16 December 2023 by Ken Zino
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In an unusual Saturday release, Ford Performance (NYSE: F) said today it is expanding its sports car factory driver lineup to nine for its global GT3 race programs. Ben Barker, Chris Mies, Dennis Olsen, Andy Priaulx and Frédéric Vervisch join previously announced drivers Joey Hand, Dirk Müller, Harry Tincknell and Mike Rockenfeller on the Ford Performance Mustang GT3 team in 2024. Daytona in January is the  sports car racing debut for the new Ford Mustang GT3. The Mustang will compete on six of seven continents of the world at tracks such as Le Mans and Interlagos. In AutoInformed’s view this is a crafty way of helping customer teams with proven drivers that can be employed when needed.*

“To take an icon like Mustang racing, we need a line-up of the best and most experienced GT racers, and our nine sports car factory drivers represent just that,” said Mark Rushbrook, Global Director of Ford Performance Motorsports. (See the surprisingly good: New Ford Mustang GT3 Racing Documentary Starts Next Week) Continue reading →

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Ford Credit to Regroup Next March

Posted on 15 December 2023 by Ken Zino

Ford Motor (NYSE: F) said today that Marion Harris will retire on 1 March 2024 as president and CEO of Ford Credit. Replacing him will be Cathy O’Callaghan, Ford’s vice president, controller, and chief accounting officer since June 2018. Mark Kosman will become chief accounting officer. The new jobs for O’Callaghan and Kosman are effective 12 February, after Ford has reported its Q4 and full-year 2023 financial results. O’Callaghan and Kosman will report to CFO John Lawler. (AutoInformed: Follow The Leader – Ford Reinstates Earnings Guidance)

“Under Marion, Ford Credit was a source of strength through the global pandemic and now is remaking itself to support customers, dealers and Ford in an entirely new era of transportation and software-enabled services,” Lawler said. “Cathy is exceptionally well prepared to help complete that transition and grow the business, with her comprehensive global knowledge about Ford and an attention to customers that’s vital to winning over the long haul.” Continue reading →

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Ford Mustang Endurance Racing Docuseries Starts Tonight

Posted on 15 December 2023 by Ken Zino
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The Mustang GT3 team has been preparing for the first substantial endurance race of 2024, the Rolex 24 at Daytona. The cameras have had full access behind the scenes throughout to capture the effort. A documentary series is the result, dubbed ‘Mustang Endurance.’ (AutoInformed: New Ford Mustang GT3 Racing Documentary Starts Next Week)

“We go racing for many reasons, not least of which is to win important races and championships and to drive brand value back to our business,” said Mark Rushbrook, global director, Ford Performance Motorsports. “This is Mustang’s 60th anniversary in 2024, and I can think of no better way to celebrate this global performance icon than to put it to the test in the harshest environments. I am proud of the incredible team who have made this happen and this documentary celebrates their dedication and hard work to get us on the grid in January.” Continue reading →

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Fossil Fuel Phase Out or Cop Out at COP28?

Posted on 15 December 2023 by Ken Zino

Nations at the COP28 United Nations Climate Conference in Dubai approved this week a roadmap for “transitioning away from fossil fuels,” a first for a UN conference. However, the agreement is without any apparent way to enforce it. Worse, in the view of the many, many critics of the United Nations actions or lack thereof on planet-killing Climate Change, it did not clearly call for an end of using oil, coal and gas, which are the root of the problem.

The latest edition of the annual UN climate conference had been running in Dubai, the largest city in the United Arab Emirates, since 30 November. UAE of course is a major producer of fossil fuels and used the conference lobbying among attending countries to further its own self-interests, according to critics. Clearly we need to do better, much better.
 Continue reading →

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November Global Light Vehicle Sales at 94,000,000 Annually

Posted on 14 December 2023 by Ken Zino

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The Global Light Vehicle (LV) selling rate for November 2023 was 94 million annually, slightly lower than the upwardly revised October figure of 95 million units/year, according to an analysis just released by the respected GlobalData consultancy.* The market was up 14% year-over-year (YoY), with year-to-date (YTD) at 82 million vehicles registered, 11% higher than YTD Nov 2022.

“US sales were helped by agreements being settled between the Detroit 3 OEMs and the UAW, ending the strikes, along with increased incentives during Thanksgiving and Black Friday. China’s market in November also benefited from heavy incentives and discounts by OEMs and dealerships. Meanwhile, European regions continued their recovery. With supply constraints fading, adverse macroeconomic headwinds are a concern heading into 2024,” according to the GlobalData Light Vehicle Sales Forecasting Team. Continue reading →

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Tesla Recalls 2,031,220 Autopilot Equipped Vehicles

Posted on 14 December 2023 by Ken Zino

Tesla (Nasdaq: TSLA) is recalling 2,031,220 vehicles with Autopilot. Included are 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2023 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3 and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles equipped with all versions of Autopilot with Autosteer leading up to the versions that contain the recall remedy, according to documents released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration yesterday.

“In certain circumstances when Autosteer is engaged, the prominence and scope of the feature’s controls may not be sufficient to prevent driver misuse of the SAE Level 2 advanced driver-assistance feature,” Tesla said in the required NHTSA filing. Continue reading →

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Cadillac VISTIQ Three Row SUV to Join EV Lineup

Posted on 14 December 2023 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Cadillac VISTIQ Three Row SUV to Join EV Lineup

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Cadillac (NYSE: GM) said today that another electric vehicle, the VISTIQ will join the luxury brand as a 2026 model. The three-row SUV is positioned between the LYRIQ mid-size crossover, (base price of ~$59,000). and ESCALADE IQ (~$130,000+). Cadillac as part of GM’s EV strategy aspires to be an all-EV brand by ~2030-2035. VISTIQ is positioned below the Lyriq mid-size crossover. It joins the expensive ~$300,000+ Celestiq sedan and what will soon be an all-electric version of the Escalade SUV (~ $130,000.)

“VISTIQ adds another compelling EV to the Cadillac lineup, reinforcing our commitment to an electric future,” said John Roth, vice president of Global Cadillac. “Our brand now has an EV entry in most luxury segments, offering customers a range of choices, and Cadillac EVs will cover most luxury SUV segments across critical global markets in the next two years.”

Last month, Cadillac confirmed the compact 2025 OPTIQ SUV, which will act as the entry point for the brand’s EV lineup in North America. It will also be available globally.

Additional VISTIQ details, including available features and pricing, will be released next year. Additional OPTIQ details will also be revealed next year.

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First Look – 2024 Lexus GX Luxury SUV

Posted on 13 December 2023 by Ken Zino
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More details about the 2024 Lexus GX (NYSE: TM) were released today from Texas. The all-new GX SUV has an entry level MSRP of $64,250 going up to $81,250. GX is expected to arrive at Lexus dealerships in early 2024 after it starts production at the Tahara plant in Japan.

The 2024 GX is offered in six grades: Premium, Premium+, Luxury, Luxury+, and in a first for Lexus, Overtrail and Overtrail+. A 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 produces 349 horsepower and 479 lb.-ft. of torque with a 10-speed Direct Shift Automatic Transmission. This results in an slightly improved EPA-estimated highway fuel economy rating of 21 MPG. Towing capacity has increased to 8,000 lbs. for Premium, Premium+ and Overtrail grades with the standard tow hitch. A hybrid powertrain will be introduced in the US. at a later date. Continue reading →

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Sumitomo Rubber Recalls Light Truck Tires for Air Loss

Posted on 13 December 2023 by Ken Zino

Sumitomo Rubber USA (Sumitomo) is recalling Falken Wildpeak AT3W tires with size 265/70R17 115T and Wildpeak HT02 with size LT235/85R16 120/116S. Due to a manufacturing error, the light truck tires may have a puncture in the sidewall and leak air.

A broken component of the curing press could potentially puncture tires at exit from curing press. The curing press has been repaired. Vehicles with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) may detect loss of tire air pressure, Sumitomo said in the required filing that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration made public today. Continue reading →

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EPA Fines Calumet Montana Refining for Chemical Abuses

Posted on 13 December 2023 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on EPA Fines Calumet Montana Refining for Chemical Abuses

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The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as entered into a Clean Air Act settlement where Calumet Montana Refining will pay a $385,000 penalty and address violations of Risk Management Program (RMP) requirements at its petroleum refining facility in Great Falls, Montana.

“Facilities must properly handle hazardous substances to prevent dangerous chemical accidents and follow reporting requirements when releases occur,” said Suzanne Bohan, director of EPA Region 8’s Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division. “If they don’t, EPA will hold them accountable. We are pleased that Calumet Montana Refining is implementing critical safety measures to protect workers and the community.” Continue reading →

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Happy New Year! GM Reorganizes Regions and PD

Posted on 13 December 2023 by Ken Zino

General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) said today that is making changes to its product development team and creating a new role to oversee its global regions. This reorganization is partially the result of the retirement of Doug Parks, GM executive vice president of Global Product Development, Purchasing and Supply Chain, after a ~40-year career at the company. All changes take effect on 2 January 2024.

“We’ve spent years preparing GM to transition to an all-electric future, and Doug’s leadership has been pivotal. We are grateful for his many contributions to GM’s success,” said GM Chair and CEO Mary Barra. “The changes we are announcing today will continue to drive technical excellence and deliver groundbreaking vehicles to our customers around the world.” Continue reading →

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Ford Recalls F-150s, Mustangs for Software, Hardware Defects

Posted on 12 December 2023 by Ken Zino

Ford Motor Company is recalling late model F-150s, F-150 Lightnings and Mustangs for various safety defects that involve bad programing and improper assembly, according to documents made public this week by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Ford does not publicly release its safety recalls.  

On 2022-2023 F-150 Lightning pickups, the SYNC software may fail to activate the electronic stability control (ESC) system at the beginning of each ignition cycle. These vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 126, “Electronic Stability Control Systems.” The NHTSA Campaign Number is 23V801. Ford’s number for this recall is 23C38. Continue reading →

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GM and Komatsu Deal on Fuel-Cell Powered Mining Truck

Posted on 12 December 2023 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on GM and Komatsu Deal on Fuel-Cell Powered Mining Truck

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General Motors (NYSE: GM) and Komatsu (TSE: 6301) will co-develop a hydrogen fuel-cell power module for Komatsu’s 930E electric drive mining truck the companies said today. The deal on the world’s best-selling ultra-class haul truck will see GM hydrogen fuel cell technology used by Komatsu, a global manufacturer of mining and construction equipment.

“Finding new ways to power the equipment our customers need to do the vital work of mining and construction is a critical part of our commitment to supporting a more sustainable future,” said Dan Funcannon, vice president of North America engineering and development for Komatsu. “This is essential work that requires cross-industry collaboration, and we are excited to be working with GM on this important solution for a haulage offering without tailpipe emissions.” Continue reading →

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Electric Trucks Can Drive Us Toward Environmental Justice

Posted on 11 December 2023 by Ken Zino

The growing market for electric trucks will eventually eliminate their emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and fine particulate matter, which adversely affect human health. (AutoInformed: EPA Final Heavy-Duty Truck Standards Released, Well, Finally; NADA, American Truck Dealers Oppose Cleaner Trucks)

“Recent and pending regulations could boost this transition dramatically, particularly if the proposed EPA truck emissions rule is strengthened. While the greenhouse gas reduction benefits of electric trucks are substantial, an array of recent studies shines new light on the health and environmental justice benefits,” said Steven Nadel, of The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE).* Replacing diesel trucks with electric trucks will be most significant where truck routes are commonly situated – in neighborhoods with people of color and low-income residents. Continue reading →

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Hyundai Motor Signs Hydrogen Development Multilateral Deal

Posted on 11 December 2023 by Ken Zino

Hyundai Motor Company said today it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to promote the development of the global hydrogen ecosystem. The signing took place with South Korea’s Ministry of Environment, Korea Water Resources Corp., Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) and SK E&S at the Dubai Expo during the COP28 World Climate Summit.*

“The agreement aims to rapidly grow the global hydrogen ecosystem and respond more actively to climate change by sharing leading examples of hydrogen ecosystem development currently underway in Korea with the international community. To this end, Hyundai Motor and its Korean partners will provide case studies and consultation on hydrogen projects and GGGI will publish an evaluation report based on the case studies for international sharing,” Hyundai said. Continue reading →

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