OLDSMOBILE DEBUTS PROFILE SPORTS SEDAN

"Over the past three years we’ve redefined what Oldsmobile is all about," said Peter Kosak, director of strategic planning. "The Profile concept car evolves and extends Oldsmobile’s design and performance philosophy, leveraging current state-of-art features including all-wheel drive and a supercharged four-valve V6, and a host of electronic convenience features." Beyond refined performance, what makes the Profile unique is its versatility in comfort and functionality. "There’s been a fundamental paradigm shift in the vehicle market to light trucks and sport utilities in the past decade," said Phil Zak, of Oldsmobile Design. "And with that shift, expectations, particularly with regard to functionality, have changed dramatically. No longer is it a matter of car versus truck versus sport utility."

Today, many households own both a sport utility and a car. The opportunity for a multi-purpose sport sedan that combines expressive styling and performance with improved functionality to satisfy the on-the-go family has grown.

"Most people have grown attached to the practical features of their truck or sport utility. The vehicles help to balance the active professional lifestyle of home, work and leisure with a primary vehicle solution," Zak said. "But these vehicles simply don’t have the ride and handling capabilities or levels of refinement that can be found in a sport sedan that we’re looking at with Profile."

Designed strictly as a show vehicle, the Profile builds on the success of recent Oldsmobile models. "This could easily be an aspirational vehicle for today’s Alero buyer," according to Zak. "Much of the technology already exists for Profile and we feel this vehicle could be the next trend for success-oriented, small, young families"

FORD DEMONSTRATES P2000 CONCEPT - POWERED BY BALLARD FUEL CELLS - TO FEDERAL MINISTERS

OTTAWA (May 4, 2000) — Four federal Ministers today got a crystal-ball glimpse of the future and a chance to drive Ford’s 21st century P2000, a hydrogen fuel cell-powered concept car, developed with significant Canadian content. A version of this lightweight family sedan could be in showrooms by 2004. Within sight of the Peace Tower, Ford of Canada President and CEO Bobbie Gaunt briefed the ministers - Ralph Goodale, Natural Resources; John Manley, Industry; David Anderson, Environment; and David Collenette, Transport - on what she termed an "automotive milestone." She then invited the ministers, who have been strong supporters of developing new power sources like the Ballard fuel cell, to take the P2000 for a spin around Parliament Hill.

"Your vision parallels our own: to lead the way in providing the clean automotive technology that will power us into the new millennium," she told them.

"The P2000 embodies that vision beautifully," Gaunt continued. "Its powerplant is truly revolutionary. Many believe it poses the first real challenge to the internal combustion engine, which has propelled our world for nearly a century."

The P2000, which makes extensive use of aluminum, is due in no small part to Canadian ingenuity, she said. Developed by Ballard Power Systems of Vancouver, the fuel cell stacks - together with Ford’s electric powertrain - deliver about 100 horsepower for performance similar to the Ford Taurus. In 1997, the federal government awarded Ballard an $8 million grant to help further the company’s promising fuel cell research efforts.

Ford has invested $600 million in an enterprise that includes Ballard and other automakers. The P2000 is the company’s first drivable prototype to emerge from the partnership.

CITADEL GIVES HYBRID DOUBLE MEANING

Auburn Hills, Mich. - Blend a luxury sport sedan with the brawn and sense of security of a sport-utility vehicle, mix in a futuristic performance powertrain, and you have the inspiration for the Chrysler Citadel concept car. "If you own a luxury sedan or luxury sport-utility vehicle, you may be wondering what your next purchase should be," said Neil Walling, Vice President, Advanced Design and Exterior Large Car, Small Car and Minivan Design.

"We believe we may have just found the answer."

"The Citadel is a hybrid-hybrid, a new breed of crossover vehicle in a category all by itself. It provides the driving passion of the Chrysler 300M with ample cargo room."

While Citadel is a hybrid among market segments, it is also a hybrid of powertrains; that is, it draws power from two different sources.

"It's a performance hybrid," explained Bernard Robertson, Senior Vice President, Engineering Technologies. "The Citadel gives you V-8 power with V-6 fuel economy. A gas engine propels the rear wheels and electricity drives the front wheels. We use the hybrid concept to recover energy normally lost when braking, while providing all-wheel-drive without the complexities of a more conventional parallel hybrid.

"Other hybrids are designed to give maximum fuel economy," Robertson said. "The Citadel is designed to be efficient in how it delivers performance-a four-wheel-drive hybrid for enthusiasts, if you will. If enthusiasts embraced the technology because of what it can do for performance and utility, that would provide a huge boost to hybrid development.

"Consumers want performance in a vehicle without sacrificing fuel economy, and we believe this unique concept offers an innovative way to accomplish that."

The rear wheels move by way of a 3.5-liter, V-6 and the front wheels receive additional power from Siemens Automotive's electric motors, which have been used on electric vehicles, similar to the Dodge Caravan/Plymouth Voyager EPIC electric minivan. The V-6 generates 253 horsepower and the electric motors add another 70 horsepower.

The Citadel is liquid green with a tan and green leather interior. It's built off the Chrysler Concorde floorpan and body-in-white. The concept car is 192 inches long, 75 inches wide and 59 inches tall. It's "cab rearward" and has a relatively long wheelbase for its length-125 inches-because the Citadel is primarily a rear-wheel-drive vehicle.

2002 FORD EXPLORER / MOUNTAINEER DUE OUT IN LATE 4^TH QUARTER 2000.

The all-new 4-door Explorer & Mountaineer are now planned for late 4^th quarter 2000, as a 2002 model. There will be an abbreviated 2001 model year 4-door Explorer & Mountaineer, with production beginning July 17, 2000, and continuing until Job #1 for the all-new 2002 Explorer & Mountaineer. The 2001 model order guide should be available by May 22^nd, and the order bank open for orders on June 1.

The 2001 model will be a carryover product from 2000 with a few modifications:

0. XL (Fleet) series deleted
1. 4.0L SOHC V6 (205 hp) will become the standard engine on all series
2. Manual transmission will not be available
3. Child seat tether anchors will be added for rear seats

If you have any questions, call your Ford or ARI Representative

CV1 EXPLORES INNOVATIVE IDEAS FOR FUTURE SATURN PRODUCTS

As innovative and friendly as the Saturn brand itself, the CV1 explores new vehicle packaging and design features that will play an important role as Saturn grows its lineup. The CV1 – so named because it is Saturn’s first concept vehicle – is an all-wheel-drive, multi-functional vehicle with a space efficient five plus two seating configuration, unique bi-fold doors and a host of passenger accommodations. "The CV1 embodies Saturn’s goal to offer fresh, innovative solutions to our customers’ transportation needs," said Cynthia Trudell, chairman and president of Saturn. "While it was not designed as a prototype of a production vehicle, the CV1 will stimulate dialogue with customers about design elements and features for future Saturn products."

"The Saturn concept vehicle transcends traditional vehicle categories, incorporating characteristics of a sedan, minivan and sport-utility vehicle in an extremely efficient package," said Kate Zak, Saturn brand character design manager.

"The CV1 packs a lot of utility into a relatively small space," Zak said. "Consumer needs prompted the design, not preconceived notions of what a car or truck should be." At 177 inches in length, the CV1 is 1.1 inches shorter than the Saturn SL small sedan. It is also 11.5 inches shorter than the Toyota Camry sedan, 24.2 inches shorter than a Honda Odyssey minivan and 9.6 inches shorter than a Mitsubishi Montero SUV.

Toyota Announces Price of Prius Gas/Electric Hybrid Sedan

NEW YORK, April 19, 2000 - When the five-passenger Toyota Prius gas/electric hybrid sedan goes on sale in the U.S. this summer, it will be priced at $19,995. The price announcement was made today at the 2000 New York Auto Show by Don Esmond, group vice president and general manager of the Toyota Division of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. The Toyota Prius is the world’s first mass-produced gasoline/electric hybrid vehicle. It is a breakthrough in the combination of an efficient, powerful gasoline-fueled internal combustion engine and a clean, quiet electric motor.

Prius has been on sale in Japan since December 1997, and has sold more than 35,000 units. Prius is Latin for "A New Beginning."

Initially offered is a single-spec trim level, all Prius vehicles will feature standard equipment that includes anti-lock brakes, automatic transmission, climate-control air conditioning, power windows, door locks and mirrors, AM/FM/cassette stereo, an eight-year/100,000-mile battery and hybrid system warranty, and free seven-day/24-hour roadside assistance.

Prius’ primary power is provided by an efficient all-aluminum 1.5-liter gasoline engine. Peak power for the engine is 70 horsepower at 4,500 rpm (versus 58 hp at 4,000 rpm for Japan-market Prius vehicles), with peak torque of 82 lb./ft. at 4,200. The engine is equipped with variable valve timing, which helps maximize efficiency across the full rpm range and minimize emissions.

Prius is projected to have an EPA label fuel economy rating of 52 miles per gallon in the city and 45 highway. It also will carry SULEV emissions certification, which is about 90 percent cleaner than ULEV for smog forming exhaust gases.

Production will begin in May with 100 percent of the initial build allocated to a special dealer rental program that begins in June. The program is designed to give consumers the opportunity to live with and evaluate hybrid technology for an extended period of time.

Note to Fleet Accounts: On April 14, 2000, Toyota Fleet announced there is a special "Fleet Vehicle Allocation" set aside on the Prius and orders can be placed in August for this vehicle. Contact your Toyota Regional Fleet Manager for details.

FORD TO BEGIN TESTING PROPANE-POWERED EXCURSION

DEARBORN, Mich., May 5, 2000 -- Ford Motor Company began delivering a propane-powered version of the Ford Excursion to about twenty companies nationwide that will test and evaluate the vehicles for fleet use. Ford produced a fleet of 24 liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) Excursions and is placing them in twenty cities around the country for customers to use for a year. The fleet will help Ford test emission-control technology and determine if there is market demand for the vehicle.

The LPG Excursion is the first propane-powered vehicle to meet California's super ultra low-emission vehicle (SULEV) standard. By pairing the clean-burning characteristics of propane with a Ford-patented advanced catalyst system and Innovative engine control strategy, Ford was able to achieve emissions that are at least 62 percent less than what is required by law. Additionally, the LPG Excursion uses a fast warm-up exhaust system to heat the catalyst - significantly reducing the high level of hydrocarbon emissions produced during the first two minutes from a cold start.

"This demonstration fleet will be a great program," said Dave Tarrant, Alternative Fuel Vehicle and Commercial Truck marketing manager, Ford Motor Company. "We hope that each of our demonstration program participants find a unique way to test this vehicle to make sure it meets the needs of all our North American fleet customers."

2001 CHEVY VENTURE — VERSATILE MINIVAN

DETROIT, April 19, 2000 - Chevrolet’s versatile Venture minivan offers increased convenience and versatility for 2001 as well as a new safety feature and a new exterior look. "Families appreciate Chevy Venture’s versatility–and it just improved," said Michelle Stoutermire, Venture brand team. "For example, for 2001 we have an available third row of seats that easily folds flat to allow families to change from people to cargo situations quickly and easily."

With all seats removed in Chevy Venture extended wheelbase models, consumers can carry 4’ x 8’ sheets of plywood or large pieces of furniture. New flat folding captain’s chairs with cupholders are available in the second row. New for 2001 an optional power sliding door on the driver’s side increases Venture’s versatility.

The instrument panel has a new climate control (HVAC) system, which provides greater interior comfort, a new cupholder and an optional in-dash six-CD changer/player.

Also helpful to families is Venture’s rear parking aid, new for 2001, which promotes family safety. When in reverse, an audio and video signal will alert the driver of the close proximity of an object or person.

A new redesigned front fascia and grille plus a new black exterior color add to Chevy Venture’s new appearance for 2001.

Power comes from the standard and highly dependable 3400 V6 engine with a four-speed automatic transmission. Versatile seating for up to eight passengers can include modular seats with as many as 200 seating configurations.

Because Venture is the minivan families have come to trust, Chevrolet has a host of safety and security features to protect "precious cargo" on the road including; four-wheel anti-lock brakes, driver and front-passenger air bags (with a side-impact air bag for the driver), child security rear door locks, Daytime Running Lamps with Automatic Exterior Lamp Control and available integrated child safety seats.

LEXUS RELEASES PRICE FOR ALL-NEW IS 300 SPORT SEDAN

Torrance, CA., May 8, 2000 - Lexus announced today that the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the all-new 2001 IS 300 sport sedan will be $30,500. The exciting new sedan, which will go on sale at Lexus’ 187 dealerships on June 23, comes standard with many features that are optional on competing models. A single-feed, in-dash six-CD autochanger eliminates the need for a separate CD cartridge, while High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps and 17" high-performance wheels and tires add to the sedan’s sporty appearance.

Also unlike competitive models that offer base and optional powertrains, the IS 300 will come standard with a 215-horsepower, 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that produces 218 lb.-ft of peak torque at 3,800 rpm. The engine, which can also be found in the GS 300 high-performance sport sedan, employs continuously Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) to optimize valve overlap throughout the engine’s speed range. VVT-i eliminates the traditional compromise between low-end torque and high-rpm horsepower, giving the IS 300 the feel of having a larger-displacement engine.

The IS 300 engine will be paired with an electronically controlled five-speed automatic transmission with Formula One-inspired E-shift steering-wheel gear-selection controls.

"We’ve been saying all along that this sporty Lexus will draw an entirely new customer to the Lexus family with its youthful styling and performance orientation," said Bryan Bergsteinsson, Lexus group vice president and general manager. "This sedan offers a great deal of equipment at an outstanding price and will appeal to buyers who value athletic performance and bold design over pure luxury."

Other standard features include traction control (TRAC), automatic climate control, stainless steel sport scuff plates and drilled aluminum sport pedals, shift knob with metallic finish, cruise control, power windows with one-touch up/down for the driver, heated outside mirrors, trunk pass through, alarm with immobilizer and in-key remote control.

Lexus projects that it will sell 25,000 IS 300s annually.

Pricing Summary:

Base MSRP $30,500

Leather/ecasine seats

with programmable garage door opener $1,705

Luxury Leather Package: special interior with

programmable garage door opener $1,805

Moonroof $1,000

Limited slip differential $390

Heated front seats $440

17" graphite polished wheels with summer tires $400

16" wheels with all season tire no charge

Delivery, processing and handling fee $495

2000 SVT MUSTANG COBRA IS CANCELED

Ford expected to build 300 special Mustang Cobra SVT models with a high performance engine in March (See purchasing News # 006, dated March 20, 2000). The orders were never built. Ford’s Special Vehicle Team has been so busy getting its 99-model Cobras up to the advertised 320 hp that there will be no 2000-model.

Production will resume in the fall with 2001 models. In the ’99 model year 8,500 SVT Cobras were built. 6,500 are now in the customer’ hands. Ford is sending out "update kits" to increase horsepower. The kits include a new intake manifold, new mufflers and an engine recalibration.

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