Toyota Motor Europe announced today the recall of 8 Toyota models in Europe, to solve a potential accelerator pedal issue. The involved models and production periods are as follows:

• AYGO (Feb 2005 – Aug 2009)
• iQ (Nov 2008 – Nov 2009)
• Yaris (Nov 2005 – Sep 2009)
• Auris (Oct 2006 – 5 Jan 2010)
• Corolla (Oct 2006 – Dec 2009)
• Verso (Feb 2009 – 5 Jan 2010)
• Avensis (Nov 2008 – Dec 2009)
• RAV4 (Nov 2005 – Nov 2009)

The precise number of involved units is still under investigation, but may reach up to 1.8 million vehicles. No Lexus models and no other Toyota models are affected.

“Toyota’s policy is to put its customers first, in all circumstances”, said Tadashi Arashima, President and CEO of Toyota Motor Europe. “We understand that the current situation is creating concerns, and we deeply regret it. We would also like to reassure customers: the potential accelerator pedal issue only occurs in very rare circumstances. The announced action is a preventive measure aimed to guarantee the highest safety standards to all customers.”

For subject vehicles, there is a possibility that certain accelerator pedal mechanisms may, in rare instances, mechanically stick in a partially depressed position or return slowly to the idle position. Read the rest of this entry »

General Motors and Spyker Cars NV today confirmed that they have reached a binding agreement on the purchase of Saab Automobile AB.

“Today´s announcement is great news for Saab employees, dealers and suppliers, great news for millions of Saab customers and fans worldwide, and great news for GM,” said John Smith, GM vice president for corporate planning and alliances.

“General Motors, Spyker Cars, and the Swedish government worked very hard and creatively for a deal that would secure a sustainable future for this unique and iconic brand, and we’re all happy for the positive outcome,” Smith said.

As part of the agreement, Spyker intends to form a new company, Saab Spyker Automobiles, which will carry the Saab brand forward. The sale will be subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of applicable regulatory, governmental and court approvals. Other terms and conditions specific to the sale will be disclosed in due time. Read the rest of this entry »

One hundred Alfa Romeo MiTos, produced exclusively for Maserati’s service network will soon be circulating on roads throughout Europe. For Maserati, the Alfa Romeo MiTo is the perfect “Courtesy Car” for customers who clearly appreciate Italian style and unique products.

The special MiTos will be marked out by their Maserati Ocean Blue body colour, and will be equipped with the most powerful engine in the entire MiTo range – the very lively, 170 HP, 1.4 MultiAir Turbo petrol engine.

In addition to their special body colour, the MiTos will feature another two exclusive details: a ‘Limited Edition’ plate on the air conditioning system and special aluminium kick plates bearing the words “Alfa Romeo for Maserati”. Read the rest of this entry »

The second-generation Opel Movano grows in size and range coverage, thereby raising the bar in the European light commercial vehicle segment with a new large van platform. It introduces a host of innovative technologies, a superbly comfortable and practical interior, competitively low fuel consumption and best-in-class operating costs. The practical multi-talented van’s design clearly identifies it as a member of the new, highly decorated Opel product generation that includes the Insignia and Astra. The new Movano will be launched across Europe this spring.

The new Opel Movano provides a wider selection of body variants than most of the competition, offering a model for nearly every customer-specific utility profile. The range includes panel vans, available in four vehicle lengths and three roof heights, platform, chassis, crew cabs and combi versions. The modular platform, developed jointly with Renault, comes with either front- or rear-wheel drive. Rear-wheel drive variants can be ordered with dual rear wheels. The gross vehicle weight range has been increased to up to 4,5t with payloads up to 2.5t. Opel is also working with a wide range of approved conversion specialists to provide even more options through Opel Commercial Vehicle Dealerships. Read the rest of this entry »

Mazda Motor Corporation has commenced sales of the facelifted Mazda Atenza (known overseas as the Mazda6) for the Japanese market. Available in three body styles — Sedan, Sport (five-door hatchback) and Sport Wagon — Mazda’s globally acclaimed mid-size car has been refined and evolved, and it goes on sale today at all Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealerships throughout Japan.

The Mazda Atenza has attracted a wide range of customers with its sporty styling and exceptional driving performance. The enhancements for the freshened Mazda Atenza are based on the Zoom-Zoom evolution development concept, and include improvements to its environmental and safety attributes, driving performance, interior and exterior design, and quality levels. Read the rest of this entry »

A decisive step in the Lion’s offensive on the world’s foremost automobile market. Presented today, as a world premier on the Chinese market, to around 300 Chinese journalists and more than 700 network representatives by Jean-Marc Gales the Marque’s Managing Director, the new Peugeot 408 marks a further step in the Marque’s offensive on the world’s foremost automobile market. Read the rest of this entry »

After a successful career spanning more than 12 years, with more than one million units sold in 45 markets worldwide, Renault is renewing its Master range. New Master is due to go on sale in April 2010. New Renault Master’s assertive styling previews the new design trend for Renault vans.

The cab offers the market’s most comprehensive range of practical stowage solutions. Shaped around the specific requirements of business users and the equipment they need for their everyday work, these stowage solutions are both user-friendly and perfectly integrated into the design of the cab. New Renault Master aims to become the segment’s benchmark for comfort thanks to a complete reappraisal of the driving position and controls, enhanced visibility and the availability of a raft of comfort-enhancing features normally associated with passenger cars. Read the rest of this entry »

As Opel moves quickly on its way towards a viable future, the company announced today the intent to wind down its manufacturing plant in Antwerp, Belgium in the course of 2010.

Opel will continue to engage in the official information and consultation process with employee representatives regarding the envisaged restructuring.

“We fully understand the effect this announcement has on the Antwerp employees and their families and we sympathise with them,” said Opel CEO Nick Reilly. “Many have been dedicated to the plant over generations and have done an excellent job producing great quality cars. The decision to announce this today was not taken lightly; instead, it is the unfortunate result of the current business reality. We must make this announcement now so that we can secure a viable future for the entire Opel and Vauxhall operations.” Read the rest of this entry »