motor

Toyota today announced manufacturer�s suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser sport utility vehicle (SUV), and the Highlander and Highlander Hybrid SUV. Also announced was a price increase for the Land Cruiser full-size SUV and an increase in the delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee for Scion models.

The Highlander and Highlander Hybrid carry over with no new features for 2012 yet retain their excellent value as the MSRP for all models remain unchanged. The base MSRP for the gas Highlander ranges from $28,090 for the Base 2WDfour-cylinder with a six-speed automatic transmission to $37,045 for the Limited grade V6 with a five-speed automatic. Highlander Hybrid prices range from $38,140 for the Base 4WD to $43,795 for the Limited 4WD.



The FJ Cruiser carries over virtually unchanged for 2012. It will have an MSRP ranging from $25,990 for the 4x2 equipped with a five-speed automatic transmission to $27,580 for the 4x4 V6 automatic reflecting an increase of $200, or 0.7 percent.

The MSRP for the 2011 Land Cruiser has increased to $69,120 reflecting an increase of $200, or 0.3 percent. The MSRPs for the gas and hybrid Highlanders, FJ Cruiser and 2011 Land Cruiser do not include a delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee of $810. The DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.

Prices for 2012 gas Highlander, FJ Cruiser and the 2011 Land Cruiser will begin with the start of August production. The prices for the 2012 Highlander Hybrid began with July 20 start of production.

| Toyota

The BMW Group is in agreement with the direction outlined today by President Obama and his Administration on proposed new fuel economy standards for the period 2017 � 2025. The proposal is a result of extensive negotiations between the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Department of Transportation�s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and will result in one national standard for regulating future greenhouse gas emissions and fuel economy.

Josef Kerscher, President, BMW Manufacturing:
�Regulatory consistency is critical to synchronize product development with government rules. This way, companies have the time necessary to develop technologies that fulfill the requirements while remaining profitable and sustainable. The path from 2017 to 2021 is now clearly marked and we are ready for the challenge.�


The BMW Group supports the approach the US Government has taken, integrating the potential of numerous technologies to play a role in reducing GHG emissions, thus providing flexibility to achieve the ambitious targets that have been proposed. All implications of the upcoming regulation can be assessed only when all the details of the regulatory framework are finalized.

The BMW Group can build upon its extensive technological expertise and innovative know-how in developing new environmentally friendly technologies such as those that have already enabled the company to reduce its carbon output and increase fuel efficiency over the past several years.

In Europe, the BMW Group has achieved a CO2 reduction of 30% between 1995 and 2010. That reduction is the largest among premium auto manufacturer. Such achievements have enabled the BMW Group to be ranked as the most sustainable automotive company in the world for the past six consecutive years in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes.

The BMW Group has achieved these impressive results through its longstanding EfficientDynamics principles. EfficientDynamics applies to every model within the company�s worldwide fleet. Since 1995, EfficientDynamics has introduced many industry-leading technologies such as Valvetronic throttle-less engine control, on-demand coolant and hydraulic pumps for reduced parasitic losses, and High-Precision Direct Injection. In 2009, BMW added two 50-state BMW Advanced Diesel models for an unprecedented combination of performance and low emissions. In some 2010 and 2011 models, BMW introduced Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Start-Stop technology and two BMW ActiveHybrid models. This fall, BMW will introduce a new generation four-cylinder engine to the US market in several models. This innovative engine promises to increase performance over the six-cylinder engine it replaces while reducing CO2 and fuel consumption by 20%.

In addition to these efforts, the BMW Group has completed a two year consumer test with 450 electric MINI E vehicles both on the East and West coast of the US in order to gain valuable insight and experience for the next steps in electric mobility. Coincidently, earlier today in Frankfurt, BMW unveiled concepts of the BMW i3 and i8 that will start series production in 2013 and 2014 under the new BMW i brand. This clearly demonstrates that electric mobility will be an integral part of the BMW Group�s drive towards of the CO2 reduction strategy and will help the US Government in its commitment towards a cleaner environment.

| BMW

In the aftermath following the tornados that struck parts of the southern United States earlier this spring, Toyota�s Japan employees asked how they could reciprocate the gesture of giving to those in need.

Today, Toyota and its Japan employees announced a $330,000 donation to the tornado relief efforts to be evenly distributed between the disaster relief programs in Alabama and Mississippi.


Commenting on the new donation, Steve St. Angelo, executive vice president of Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc., said, �We are grateful to our colleagues in Japan for their generosity to the tornado relief efforts particularly during their own difficult time following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami. Many of our Japanese colleagues and their families have worked and lived in parts of the U.S. where the tornados struck and many more regularly work with affected manufacturing plants, suppliers and dealerships in the region. They wanted to help and their donation demonstrates the true human spirit of reaching out to those in need. We deeply appreciate their thoughtfulness.�

Toyota and its North American employees in May donated $1 million dollars to the American Red Cross for tornado relief efforts in all affected states and regions across the country.

| Toyota

The return of the heralded Audi RS line to the American performance car scene officially launched when Forth Worth Audi in Texas delivered the first 2012 Audi TT RS in the U.S. to veteran race car driver Don Istook.

Last year, Istook was one of more than 11,500 fans to sign the Audi TT RS Facebook petition drive, which helped convince Audi to introduce the 360-hp coupe in the U.S. But Istook�s connection to Audi and to the TT performance car line runs far deeper. The Fort Worth native was one of the first drivers to race an Audi Quattro in the U.S. in 1985 and he drove Audi S4 models in the Motorola Cup, which became the Grand-Am Cup. More recently he has raced Audi TT quattro coupes.


"Having raced at almost every major track in the U.S. and Canada, I've pushed the limits in many cars in my 34 years as a race car driver,� Istook said. �I like my street car to give me some of that thrill. With my new Audi TT RS, I not only get that thrill, but I also get that 'race car' sound.�

The 2012 Audi TT RS stands as the pinnacle of the TT model line, representative of the highest performance category for Audi vehicles. The Audi TT RS, powered by the award-winning 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder TFSI engine, generates 360 hp between 5,500 and 6,700 rpm, and 343 lb-ft of torque between 1,650 and 5,400 rpm for power on demand. With aluminum and steel hybrid ASF� technology and standard quattro� all-wheel drive, the TT RS offers excellent aerodynamics and increased rigidity and safety.

The 2012 Audi TT RS is priced at $56,850 (excluding $875 destination charges, taxes, title, options and dealer charges).

The newest Audi for the U.S. market truly showcases the performance engineering of the RS line of sports cars produced by quattro GmbH in Neckarsulm, Germany. The RS line has given Audi a special element of sports appeal, individuality and exclusivity.

�The technical capabilities of the Audi brand are perfectly distilled in the RS models developed by quattro GmbH,� said Johan de Nysschen, President, Audi of America. �For the past few years, American sports car enthusiasts have pleaded with us to make the marquee available here. With the TT RS we are now furthering the Audi performance story that includes models from the Audi S4 to the new Audi R8 GT.�

Audi has announced plans to follow up with the U.S. introduction of the Audi RS 5 coupe next year. Audi dealers expect keen interest in the RS line.

�Interest in the return of the RS marquee has been so strong that Mr. Istook is allowing us to keep his TT RS at the dealership longer to show Audi fans and customers,� said Bobby Baillargeon, owner of Forth Worth Audi.

The Audi TT RS features exclusive design elements denoting its special place at the top of the TT model line, including high gloss black diamond-patterned Singleframe� grille and large front air inlets, fixed rear wing spoiler, oval exhaust pipes, rear diffuser, unique 19-inch rotor wheels and more. It comes exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission, and available adaptive headlights. The interior also features RS-exclusive appointments, such as the contoured three-spoke sport multifunction steering wheel, aluminum door sills with the RS logo, and RS-specific interior door handles.

The Audi TT RS offers electronic features one expects from Audi, including Audi concert radio with single CD player and MP3 reading capability, and a complimentary three-month subscription to SiriusXM� Satellite Radio. Available advanced electronics offer an increased level of sophistication for the premium sports car, including technologies like Audi navigation plus with real time traffic, MMI� inspired controls, a BOSE� sound system, and Audi music interface.

But the specific appeal of the Audi TT RS � and the rest of the Audi RS line � is performance and handling.

�Superb brakes and handling go right along with the magnificent power from the 2.5-liter turbo, especially the low end torque,� Istook noted. �It reminds me of the mid 80's when we raced the original 5 cylinder turbo Audi Quattro. What is great, though, is that I get all of that, yet I have the refinement, sophistication and technology of a truly modern sports car."

| Audi

Ryder System, Inc., a leader in commercial transportation and supply chain management solutions, today announced that it has launched a new alternative fuels website at www.ryder.com/alternativefuels to help customers and fleet owners better understand how they can reduce transportation costs, while meeting sustainability objectives.

With just a few clicks, businesses can get all the information they need about the financial, environmental, and long-term advantages of natural gas, hybrid, and electric vehicle technologies. In addition to explaining the various fleet technologies, the site provides one-stop access to the latest news on Ryder alternative fuel products, programs, and initiatives.

�This new online resource is part of Ryder�s ongoing effort to drive innovation across the industry and extend our leadership in alternative fuels,� said John Diez, Senior Vice President of Asset Management, Fleet Management Solutions for Ryder.


As the cost of diesel fuel continues to rise and fluctuate, businesses are looking for more affordable and predictable price solutions. Alternative fuel technologies, such as natural gas, electric, and hybrid vehicle options, can deliver this kind of cost advantage, while helping companies reduce their vehicle-generated emissions. Regardless of fleet size or delivery application, Ryder can help businesses determine the best alternative fuel solutions to meet their needs. Businesses looking to get started can now visit www.ryder.com/alternativefuels to begin evaluating Ryder�s offerings and to initiate contact with a Ryder alternative fuels expert.

�We continue to see substantial interest in the marketplace for natural gas vehicles and other alternative fuel technologies,� continues Mr. Diez. �Ryder�s new alternative fuels website helps to make all of our knowledge, expertise, and experience easily accessible to fleet managers who want to learn more about the benefits of new, cleaner and more efficient commercial vehicle technologies.�

Ryder is the leader in alternative fuels for the commercial truck leasing and rental industry. In 2010, The San Bernardino Associated Governments (SANBAG) selected Ryder as its fleet partner in a ground-breaking natural gas project in Southern California � the first of its kind to deploy natural gas vehicles into a large commercial truck leasing and rental operation. The $38.7 million project is being funded as part of a joint public/private industry partnership between the U.S. Department of Energy, the California Energy Commission, and Ryder. The project includes 202 heavy duty natural gas vehicles and three strategically located maintenance shops in Rancho Dominguez, Orange, and Fontana. When fully implemented, the project will displace more than 1.5 million gallons of diesel annually with 100 percent domestically produced low-carbon natural gas.

Scion announced that its 2012 iQ premium micro-subcompact will begin arriving in dealerships this October. The Scion iQ is only 10 feet long yet seats four people, making it the world�s smallest four-seater.

�Scion prides itself on being an innovative brand with a lineup of iconic vehicles that set automotive trends,� said Jack Hollis, vice president of Scion. �The iQ is the fourth vehicle in the family, and it will define the premium micro-subcompact segment as the choice for new urbanites who want clever transportation without a sacrifice in style or new features.�



Meeting the needs of a new trendsetting generation of urban drivers, the iQ succeeds at taking big ideas and concentrating them into a small package. Made possible by intelligent and functional packaging, the iQ is a small car that offers the functionality and comfort that drivers expect from a car twice its size.

Intelligent Design, Not Sacrifice
Instead of sacrificing features or comfort to reduce its footprint, the iQ relies on intelligent design. Six engineering innovations are responsible for the iQ�s ability to be small in size, but large in capability. A compact front-mounted differential, high-mount steering rack with electronic power-steering, and a compact air-conditioning unit all amount to significant decreases in front-end length. In addition, the iQ is equipped with a flat gas tank housed beneath the floor that reduces rear overhang. Slim-back front seats optimize rear legroom, while the �3+1� offset seating arrangement allows one adult to sit behind the front passenger and a child or small package behind the driver.

Driving Performance of a Larger Car
With a 78.7-inch wheelbase and a unique suspension design � consisting of MacPherson struts up front, and a compact torsion beam rear suspension � the three-door hatchback can deftly maneuver through city traffic. In addition, its overall length of only 120.1-inches, and short front and rear overhangs allows the iQ to fit into virtually any urban parking scenario. Although short in length, the iQ has a wide stance at 66.1-inches, giving it a confident stance that handles like a much larger car.


Smooth Drivetrain and Better Fuel Efficiency
The 2012 iQ is equipped with a 1.3-liter, four-cylinder engine that produces 94 horsepower and 89 lb.-ft of torque. It features the latest dual VVT-i, which allows the engine to be efficient, providing a broader powerband yet requiring less fuel and generating fewer emissions.

The engine is paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that helps deliver smooth acceleration and excellent fuel efficiency. The iQ is rated an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV-II) and achieves an EPA-estimated combined fuel economy rating of 37 miles per gallon, comparable to similar vehicles of its size.

Small in Size but Big on Safety
In order to be considered a premium micro-subcompact, the iQ comes standard with safety features that drivers expect and demand. The iQ is packed with an industry leading 11 standard airbags, including the world�s first rear window airbag. Other airbags include driver- and front-passenger airbags; driver- and front-passenger seatmounted side airbags; side curtain airbags; driver- and front-passenger knee airbags; and a Scion-first driver- and front-passenger seat-cushion airbags.

All iQs will come standard with the Star Safety SystemTM, which includes antilock Brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TRAC), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Smart Stop Technology brake-override. A tire-pressure monitoring system is also standard equipment.


Iconic Styling
The iQ�s profile, defined by a strong and high beltline, glides from the large, stout headlamps, up the A-pillar, across the roof and wraps around the rear, emphasizing the iQ�s geometric shape. Side mirrors with integrated turn signals accent the clean design and give it a premium look.

The rear emphasizes the vehicle�s modern style. Trapezoidal lines run toward the wheels, from the hatch to the bumper�s rear diffuser-like accent, creating a substantial presence.

The iQ will be available in seven exterior colors, including Blizzard Pearl, Classic Silver Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Black Sand Pearl, Hot Lava, Pacific Blue Metallic and Black Currant Metallic.

High-Tech Interior
The iQ�s functional �3+1� seating equates to the world�s smallest four-passenger vehicle. The four-seat configuration is made possible because the driver and frontpassenger seats are slightly off set.

The rear seats are extremely versatile, featuring a 50/50 split and the ability to fold flat, creating enough storage to accommodate large suitcases. The iQ comes standard with a leather-wrapped steering wheel with red stitching, and features a flat bottom that provides additional thigh room. The steering wheel incorporates audio controls to manage the iQ's impressive sound system.

The iQ comes standard with a Scion Drive Monitor that displays information like outside temperature, average MPG and an ECO-drive indicator that helps the driver maximize the iQ�s fuel efficiency.


Impressive Audio with Standard Bluetooth� and HD Radio� Technology
The iQ truly focuses on youth with its all-new standard AM/FM/CD/HD/USB 160-watt maximum output Pioneer� audio system. Standard features for all 2012 Scions include Bluetooth connectivity, which allows both hands-free phone connection and streaming audio capability, and HD Radio technology. Streaming audio allows compatible phone or personal media devices to pair with the audio system and deliver music through the vehicles sound system. The audio system also features an organic electroluminescent (OEL) screen with a personalized welcome screen, iPod�/USB connectivity, Advanced Sound Retriever (ASR), and a subwoofer RCA output. The USB port and universal auxiliary (AUX) port are located on the center console, which allows users to listen to their portable music collection through the iQ�s four Pioneer speakers.

The optional 200-watt maximum output Pioneer Premium audio system has the same features as the standard Pioneer audio, but it is enhanced with a 5.8-inch LCD touch-screen display, features iTunes� tagging, Pandora� internet radio connected through iPhone�, and six RCA outputs to add external amplifiers.

A Scion Navigation audio system is also available for urban drivers who would like the added convenience of easily finding their way around the city. The 200-watt SNS 200 system has all of the features of the standard and premium audio systems but it adds a navigation system and DVD player that are accessible through an easy-to-use seven-inch touch-screen LCD display. Navigation functions include a Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) system with comprehensive U.S. and Canada map coverage, plus guidance to millions of points of interest.

All three of the audio systems retain key Scion audio system features such as Scion Sound Processing� (SSP), where listeners can choose from three pre-set equalizer settings, satellite radio compatibility and MP3 and WMA capability. In addition, all units have the capability to adjust the volume control based on driving speed.

Pricing
The 2012 Scion iQ will begin arriving at dealerships on the west coast starting this October. The car will be available in other regions of the country beginning in early 2012. The Manufacturer�s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2012 iQ is $15,265. The delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee for all Scion models is $730 and is not included in the MSRP. DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.

Warranty and Complimentary Scion Service Boost
Like all Scion models, the iQ is covered by a 3-year/36,000-mile comprehensive warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The iQ will also come standard with Scion Service Boost, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles whichever comes first, and three years of 24-hour roadside assistance.

| Scion

Audi of America, Inc. today introduced its 2012 model year lineup led by five new models.

Following the launch of the award-winning Audi A8 flagship model, the brand introduces the pinnacle of the A8 model line with the new A8 L W12. The powerful 12-cylinder engine accelerates with ease and offers incredible refinement. The interior provides an unmistakable experience for rear-seat passengers through executive seating and impressive technology for the progressive business owner or executive.

The all-new, beautifully designed A7 defines a new category of luxury vehicle through its coupe roofline and functional rear hatch. The distinctive design, technology and balanced performance of the new A6 invigorates the mid-sized luxury sedan segment. The Audi A8 and Q7 are updated with the available Audi connect system, which provides the 3D terrain and topology of Google Earth�, Google� Local Search and a Wi-Fi� hotspot for up to eight passenger devices. The arrival of the unmistakable Audi TT RS signifies the re-launch of RS performance models for the Audi brand in the U.S., while the R8 GT captivates collectors and enthusiasts alike. Several other models have received option package changes designed to provide greater value.

| Audi

Audi of America joined San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee and formally opened Powell Street Promenade � a new and innovative pedestrian space in the heart of San Francisco�s downtown as part of a partnership between the City & County of San Francisco, and the Union Square Business Improvement District (BID).

The Powell Street Promenade has transformed two blocks between Ellis and Geary Streets, along the famed Powell Street cable car line, addressing overcrowding by creating an enjoyable public space to eat, chat and relax. It also provides visitors and residents with a comfortable place to plan their visit out of the bustle of the corridor. This vibrant pedestrian corridor is one of the busiest in the nation and is typically traveled by more than 100,000 people on an average weekend. The Powell Street Promenade is the largest �Parklet� installation in the City.



�Audi is taking its passion for efficiency and sustainability even further with its involvement in the revitalization of Powell Street in San Francisco,� said Scott Keogh, Chief Marketing Officer for Audi of America. �This is an exciting and important project for the people of San Francisco and as a global hub of art and aesthetic, it seemed only natural that Audi � who remains steadfast in its commitment to progressive design and innovation � partner with the City of San Francisco to re-imagine this iconic area.�

Audi of America partnered with the City & County of San Francisco and the Union Square BID to provide the necessary funds and guidance on the cutting-edge and modern design of the Powell Street Promenade. Designed by Walter Hood of Hood Design Studio, the overall aesthetic of the promenade is guided by a forward-thinking, people-friendly, environmentally-conscious philosophy. By repurposing the on-street loading lanes along these two blocks of Powell Street, the Promenade provides six additional feet of continuous pedestrian space and adds amenities such as custom designed aluminum benches, planters, tables, rails, landscaping, bike parking, and other pedestrian-friendly features. Low-energy Light Emitting Diodes (LED) lights will illuminate the space through power collected from solar panels. All landscaping is drought tolerant and materials used are designed to be long-lasting and reusable. People utilizing this Promenade will also have access to free Wi-Fi; which was installed as part of the project. Audi used the same principles that define the brand�s innovative approach to car making throughout this process. The Union Square BID will maintain the Promenade and keep it clean and activated.

Additional details can be found at www.progressonpowell.com. Audi and its San Francisco advertising agency Venables Bell & Partners worked closely to bring the project to life.

| Audi

Today TomTom launches Custom Area Analysis, an important historical traffic product which gives customers access to highly granular speed and bottleneck information for road networks around the world. The product supports traffic modeling and analysis of road conditions and traffic performance. By providing a complete view of what is happening across the global road network, Custom Area Analysis enables enterprises and governments to better understand and more efficiently manage their local areas.

TomTom is continuously proving its ability to innovate and the most recent example is the addition of Custom Area Analysis to our traffic portfolio,� said Dan Adams, Vice President of Product Development for TomTom Licensing. �By providing actual driven travel times and speeds for roads globally, Custom Area Analysis supports government and enterprise partners as they develop solutions that help optimize performance on road networks.�


Leveraging TomTom�s ever-expanding database of more than 4 trillion anonymously collected data points, the Custom Area Analysis product features include:

- Broad coverage: Actual speed and travel time information available for highways and secondary roads globally
- Detailed granularity: Road segments ranging from a few meters to several kilometers, at any hour of the day and any period of time
- Significant sample size: Reliable data leads to confident decisions
- Easy to access: Access data and run reports via the Traffic Stats web portal, reducing the need for additional equipment or field surveys.

Custom Area Analysis joins a robust and innovative suite of traffic products designed to enable customers in enterprise, government, hardware and wireless markets develop solutions to make better use of road networks worldwide. Key TomTom traffic products include Custom Travel Times, Enterprise Traffic, HD Flow, HD Route Times and Speed Profiles*.

TomTom plans to expand its traffic product portfolio with new historical traffic products and new geographic coverage available for real time traffic products. These advancements will underscore the company�s commitment to delivering value to its industry partners.

Availability
Custom Area Analysis offers global coverage and is accessible via the TomTom Traffic Stats web portal at http://trafficstats.tomtom.com. For further information about TomTom traffic products for industry partners, visit: http://www.tomtom.com/landing_pages/traffic_solutions/web/index.php

| TomTom | Image: Jaguar

Scania has signed an agreement with the Swedish Metal Workers� Union at Scania as part of the company�s efforts to boost flexibility at the production units in Sweden. The agreement regulates flexible working time and flexible staffing so that Scania can adapt human resources to fluctuations in demand. Both Scania and the Swedish Metal Workers� Union at Scania are in agreement that a long-term sustainable solution is required in order to ensure flexibility.

�The agreement will play an important part in our future ability to meet rapid changes in demand. It enhances our long-term ability to retain core competence at our production units,� says Anders Nielsen, Executive Vice President and Head of Production and Logistics at Scania.


For a long time, Scania has worked on boosting flexibility in production by using various methods. The new agreement means that the time bank system will continue in essentially the same way. The time bank system enables compensation to an employee to be held at a stable level, while he or she works more hours when demand is high and fewer hours when demand is low.

Scania also ensures flexibility through agreements on fixed term temporary employment. Current fixed term temporary contracts will remain in force under the existing agreement. After these contracts have expired, the new agreement aims to ensure that the bulk of flexible staffing will consist of personnel from staffing companies. The parties agree that the proportion of flexible staffing should not exceed 30 percent of the total number of production employees.

�My view is that Scania�s employees will gain greater security in the long run if everyone has permanent employment. We are also adding rules and regulations relating to flexible staffing. In addition, extra personnel on hire will gain a good pathway into Scania, since we will primarily use staffing companies to fill our vacancies,� says Johan J�rvklo, Chairman of the Swedish Metal Workers� Union at Scania in S�dert�lje.

The agreement enters into force on 1 September 2011 and replaces the existing agreements on flexible working hours at Scania (SFW) and temporary employment. It does not cover employees working today under fixed term temporary contracts at Scania � instead their agreements will remain in force as previously.

| Scania