GM, FORD, CHRYSLER STRIKE DEADLINE

At 12:01 a.m. on September 15, 1999, one of the "big three" auto manufacturers could be facing a strike by the United Autoworkers Union.

No one can predict which company will be the target for a strike. This information is generally held in close confidence by the union. A settlement could be reached before this deadline and it could be back to "business as usual." However, if any one of these companies does become "struck" all orders in their order bank become frozen and cannot be canceled or changed until work resumes at the plant.

A recent announcement from the UAW that Ford autoworkers agreed to allow the union to call a strike is just a formality and does not mean that Ford will be the "target" this year.

GM ANNOUNCES "DUAL-FAN" REQUIREMENT

General Motors announced on August 20, 1999, the dual-fan system would start on October 4, 1999.

This means that if your orders are processed by ARI, General Motors will require your FAN (Fleet Account Number), in addition to ARI's on each order submitted.

ARI has already applied for FAN codes for all of its customers. GM expects to give them to ARI in sufficient time for ARI to load them into their data base prior to the start-date.

ARI will report to each client the assigned number when it is received. Currently no action is required by ARI's customers.

TOYOTA ANNOUNCES PRICES ON 2000 MODEL YEAR TRUCKS AND SUV's

TORRANCE, Calif., Aug. 27 – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., released manufacturers suggested retail prices (MSRP) today on all 2000 model trucks and sport utility vehicles (SUV).

For 2000, the RAV4 SUV adopts the All Weather Guard Package as standard equipment. In addition, silver painted bumpers and side cladding are now available in the RAV4 value package. The overall MSRP for the 2000 RAV4 increases by $250, or 1.4 percent with a minimal comparably equipped price (CEP) increase of $180, or 1.0 percent.

The popular 4Runner SUV adds more standard equipment on all three grades. In addition to a standard-equipped All Weather Guard Package on all grades, the base grade 4Runner also receives a digital clock and rear window wiper/defogger as standard equipment. Limited and SR5 grade 4Runners are now standard-equipped with daytime running lights and audio upgrades. On average, the 4Runner received an overall price increase of 2.0 percent, or $581. However, the CEP of the 2000 model year 4Runner increased a modest 1.0 percent, or $291.

The legendary Land Cruiser full-size SUV receives additional safety and convenience features for 2000 that include four-wheel traction control, Vehicle Skid Control, Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Distribution and six-disc, in-dash CD changer. In addition, leather-trim seats and power moonroof, previously available as options, are now standard equipment. Although the MSRP of the Land Cruiser has increased 9.0 percent, or $4,210, the CEP has risen only 1.5 percent, or $695.

All Tacoma compact pickup Xtracab models now have standard-equipped All Weather Guard Packages and all Limited grades now include a Deluxe 3-in-1 AM/FM/Cassette/CD audio system with four speakers as standard equipment. In order to simplify the buying process for consumers, Value Package pricing has been restructured and offset by a MSRP reduction, averaging 6.5 percent, or $1,148.

Prices for the 2000 Tundra full-size pickup were announced in May and remain unchanged.

Excluding some new vehicles whose prices have not been announced yet, the overall sales weighted CEP for Toyota division carryover vehicles has increased an estimated 0.7 percent.

TOYOTA ANNOUNCES 2000 PRICES ON SELECTED MODELS

TORRANCE, CA , July 30, 1999 –Toyota Motor Sales (TMs), USA, Inc., released manufacturers suggested retail prices (MSRP) today on selected 2000 models - - Camry mid-size sedan, Camry Solara sport coupe, Corolla compact sedan and Sienna minivan.

The best-selling Camry sedan will feature numerous enhancements and additional standard equipment for the 2000 model year. Camry upgrades include a new front grille and bumper fascia design, rear lamp and bumper design, multi-reflector headlamps and new wheel cover designs. Interior enhancements include new audio systems, an outside temperature feature and new fabric trim on LE grade models. Mechanically, Camry sedan receives new hood struts with dampers, the 2.2-liter twin cam four-cylinder engine will generate 136-horsepower, three more than last year's model, and new wheel and tire upgrades on LE four-cylinder and XLE V6 models. On average, the comparably equipped price (CEP) of the 2000 model year Camry will increase $104, or 0.5 percent, with an overall average price increase of $441, or 2.2 percent.

All-new in 1999, the 2000 model year Camry Solara sport coupe's price increases slightly to reflect added standard equipment. The new equipment includes a Deluxe 3-in-1 AM/FM/Cassette/CD audio system on SE grades, JBL 3-in-1 audio on SLE grades, and a new climate control panel. Prices for the Camry Solara on average increase by 1.7 percent, or $376, with a CEP increase of 0.5 percent, or $100.

The Corolla compact sedan receives a minimal average price increase of 1.2 percent, or $160, with a CEP increase of 0.5 percent, or $70. For 2000, Corolla's 1.8-liter engine adopts variable valve timing technology (VVT-i) that delivers five additional horsepower without sacrificing fuel economy and classifies Corolla as an EPA-certified Low Emission Vehicle (LEV).

The Sienna minivan MSRP is increased an average of 1.7 percent, or $424, with a CEP increase of $360, or 1.5 percent. A Deluxe AM/FM/Cassette/CD audio system, previously standard-equipped on the XLE grade, is now standard-equipment on all Sienna grades. Sienna will also offer two new exterior colors.

LEXUS ANNOUNCES 2000 PRICES

TORRANCE, CA - August 20, 1999 –The Lexus Division of Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc., today announced manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP) for certain model-year 2000 cars and sport utility vehicles (SUVs). Increases on the models reflect performance improvements and the addition of standard features.

The ES 300 entry-luxury sedan receives a multitude of safety, design and luxury refinements for 2000. Additions include electrochromatic rearview and driver's side mirrors, a child seat tether anchor, additional wood trim, automatic sound leveling in the audio system and redesigned front fascia and rear taillights. The 2000 ES 300 MSRP is $31,405, an increase of $500, or 1.6 percent. On a comparably equipped basis, there is no price increase from 1999 to 2000.

The 2000 GS 300 and GS 400 high-performance sport sedans receive a child seat tether anchor and Brake Assist. Brake Assist interprets a quick push of the brake pedal as emergency braking and, if the driver has not stepped hard enough on the brake pedal, the system supplements the applied braking power. The GS 300 carries an MSRP of $37,605, up 0.8 percent, or $300, and the GS 400 is priced at $46,005, an increase of 1.1 percent, or $500.

MSRP for the 2000 SC 400 luxury sport coupe is $55,905, an increase of 1.1 percent, or $600. The SC 300 is priced at $43,405, an increase of 0.9 percent, or $400.

The Lexus RX 300 midsize luxury SUV MSRP has increased $500. The four-wheel drive version is $33,905, a 1.5 percent increase, while the front-wheel drive model is priced at $32,505, a 1.6 percent increase.

The 2000 LX 470 receives new standard features including Vehicle Skid Control with Off-Road TRAC (traction Control) and Brake Assist, and remote unlock illuminated entry. New for 2000, the popular moonroof becomes standard. MSRP for the LX 470 increases 5.0 percent, or $2,800 , to $59,005. Taking into account the addition of standard features, the comparably equipped price increases $805, or 1.4 percent.

Destination and freight charges remain unchanged at $495.

DODGE TRUCK/JEEP PASSENGER AIRBAG DISABLE SWITCH

INVOLVED VEHICLES:

The above noted vehicles incorporate a redesigned passenger airbag disable switch. The new switch provides the same function as the previous model but are now equipped with a redesigned key actuator. The new key actuator is designed so that the key can be inserted into the actuator far enough to fully depress a spring-loaded locking plunger, then rotated to the desired position. The key will not insert all the way into the actuator, and the spring-loaded locking plunger prevents the user from leaving the key in the actuator.

DaimlerChrysler dealers have been advised of this new device and have been given the following instructions:

"The passenger airbag disable switch should never be replaced for issues regarding not able to install the key completely into the passenger airbag switch key cylinder or the key pops out of the switch key cylinder when the key is left in the cylinder. Refer to the appropriate 2000 Service Manual, Group 8M for more information regarding the passenger airbag disable switch."

2000 FORD WINDSTAR ORDERING CHANGES

"Free" 4th door Available
Windstar's "Free" 4th door is available to Fleet customers on the Base model (A50). This is a $425 retail value and provides increased flexibility, versatility and better resale value. Production of the Base model is scheduled to begin on September 7, 1999.

Ordering Guide Correction
Ordering guide correction: Floor mats, previously stated as standard on Base and LX model Windstar, are optional for 2000MY.

Adjustable Pedals Delayed
The Introduction of the adjustable pedals on the Windstar has been delayed until March of 2000. Adjustable pedals will be available on LX, SE and SEL models.

Family Entertainment System
Windstar's Family Entertainment System will be launched on October 4, 1999. FES will be available on LX, SE and SEL models and comes with a unique floor console which contains a VCR, LCD screen, video/audio input jacks (for Nintendo/Sega, DVD players, etc.) and headphone jacks. The system allows the passengers to listen to the sound over the vehicle speakers or through headphones (while the front seat listens to the stereo).

FORD BEGINS PRODUCTION OF LOW EMMISSION (LEV) PICKUPS

Kansas City, August 24, 1999 – Ford Motor Company's Kansas City Assembly Plant today began production of the 2000 model F-Series LEV pickup, five years in advance of any government regulation.

In May, Ford President and CEO Jac Nasser announced that all pickup trucks sold in the U.S. and Canada would be Low Emission Vehicles (LEV), well ahead of proposed government regulation and with no additional cost to customers.

Beginning with the 2000 model year the F-Series pickup fleet will average smog-forming emission levels 43 percent cleaner than before it was classified as a LEV.

The combined effect of Ford's emissions actions on SUVs and full-size trucks is equivalent to eliminating smog forming emissions from 350,000 full-size trucks on the road today.

CADILLAC'S REDESIGNED
WREATH AND CREST

PEBBLE BEACH, CA, August 27, 1999 - Emblematic of the dramatic changes taking place at Cadillac, executives unveiled the next phase of its art and science vision - a redesigned wreath and crest logo - at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance today.

The new wreath and crest depicts a forward-looking and youthful image while maintaining distinctiveness and a sense of prestige," said John F. Smith, Cadillac general manager.

The redesigned wreath and crest will start to appear in catalogs in early September of this year, followed by Cadillac advertising and marketing communications in November.

Cadillac's 2002 model year vehicles will begin donning the new wreath and crest, coinciding with the celebration of Cadillac's centennial. The division will incorporate the art and science look and feel into its dealership facilities during the same timeframe.

NISSAN'S 2000 4-DOOR
FRONTIER CREW CAB

GARDENA, CA Ð Nissan North America, Inc.'s latest truck, the Frontier Crew Cab is the first compact truck with four full-size forward-hinged doors offered for sale in the United States. It went on sale in May of 1999 as a year 2000 model at Nissan dealerships nationwide.

The Frontier Crew Cab is the flagship of the already extensive Nissan Frontier product lineup, including the Frontier 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive, four- and six-cylinder, regular and King Cab models. The Frontier is the third-generation of trucks produced at the award-winning Nissan Motor Manufacturing Corporation USA (NMMC) manufacturing facility in Smyrna, Tennessee.

Four full-size doors allow up to five passengers to enter the vehicle with ease. The bed is about 18 inches smaller than the standard Frontier, but only 9 percent smaller in volume than many competitive extended cab model beds. The double-wall bed features inner bed rope hooks, single handle rear gate operation, partition loading and a removable tailgate.

Standard equipment on Frontier Crew Cab is Nissan's proven 3.3-liter V6 engine, with 170 hp and 200 ft-lbs of torque. The engine was specifically developed to have a broad, flat torque curve, developing 90 percent of its maximum torque at 1,500 rpm – where it is most useful for off-roading and towing.

Standard safety equipment offered on Frontier Crew Cab includes second generation front supplemental air bags, energy-absorbing steering column, front seat belts with adjustable shoulder belt anchors and pretensioners, three rear seat belts, pipe-style steel side-door guard beams and on manual transmission models, a clutch interlock.

All Nissan models are covered by comprehensive New Vehicle Limited Warranties including 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper basic coverage, 5-year/60,000-mile Powertrain Coverage, 5-year/60,000-mile Unlimited-Mileage Corrosion Coverage and a Lifetime Limited Seat Belt Warranty.

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2000 Model Year Order Dates

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DAIMLERCHRYSLER 2000 MODEL YEAR PURCHASE ALLOWANCES

FORD 2000 MODEL YEAR NATIONAL FLEET INCENTIVES

GENERAL MOTORS 2000 MODEL YEAR NATIONAL FLEET PURCHASE PROGRAM

MAZDA 2000 MODEL YEAR COMMERCIAL FLEET PROGRAM

NISSAN 2000 MODEL YEAR FLEET PROGRAMS

SUBARU 2000 MODEL YEAR FLEET INCENTIVE PROGRAM

TOYOTA 2000 MODEL YEAR COMMERCIAL FLEET INCENTIVE INVOICE CREDIT PROGRAM

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2000 Model Year Fleet Programs: Ford * General Motors * Mazda * Nissan * Subaru * Toyota

Ford Motor Company - National Fleet Incentives

On July 2, 1999, Ford announced the following National Fleet Incentives for the 2000 model year cars and trucks. Ford is combining the National Fleet Incentives with the Fleet Marketing Credits for a "Total Fleet Discount" for each vehicle line. This is to provide an accurate comparison between Ford vehicles and the facing GM products for the 2000 model year. Their national incentives have been increased to compensate for the elimination of marketing credits to fleet customers for 2000. The "Total Fleet Incentive" should avoid confusion that may exist due to the GM fleet program change.

2000 Model Year Fleet Programs: Daimlerchrysler * General Motors * Mazda * Nissan * Subaru * Toyota

2000 Model Year Fleet Programs: Daimlerchrysler * Ford * Mazda * Nissan * Subaru * Toyota

2000 Model Year Fleet Programs: Daimlerchrysler * Ford * General Motors * Nissan * Toyota * Subaru

2000 Model Year Fleet Programs: Diamlerchrysler * Ford * General Motors * Mazda * Subaru * Toyota

2000 Model Year Fleet Programs: Daimlerchrysler * Ford * General Motors * Mazda * Nissan * Toyota

2000 Model Year Fleet Programs: Daimlerchrysler * Ford * General Motors * Mazda * Nissan * Subaru