Thursday 30 January 2014

Toyota has released a new teaser image of the 4Runner TRD Pro - Al Ain Japan

Toyota has released a new teaser image of the 4Runner TRD Pro.

 2014 Toyota 4Runner pricing announced (US)

Set to be unveiled on February 6th, the model has been equipped with black accents, TRD Pro badging and black alloy wheels with off-road tires. Little else is known about the SUV but a previous teaser video showed the TRD Pro lineup will adopt a revised grille with black accents.

Toyota didn't have much to say about the model but confirmed it will be unveiled alongside the Tundra and Tacoma TRD Pro variants. The company also hinted "Let's conquer the great outdoors."

Toyota has remained quiet about the models but they have likely been equipped with an off-road package that includes styling and performance tweaks. There's no word on when they will be unveiled but we'll likely find out shortly.

while under the hood will be the V6 4.0-liter engine outputting 270 bhp (201 kW) and 278 lb-ft (376 Nm) linked to a 5-speed ECT-I automatic transmission.

Toyota says the 2014 4Runner can return an EPA-estimated 17 mpg city / 23 mpg highway for the 4x2 variant and 17 mpg city / 22 mpg highway for the 4x4 model. It has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and all models benefit from an integrated tow-hitch receiver and wiring harness.
Compared to the outgoing model, the 2014MY brings an updated interior cabin with a multi-information display, new Optitron gauges and a few modifications in terms of trim. Other goodies include the firm's Entune infotainment and an in-glass antenna which replaces the old mast unit. For more money clients can opt for a 7-inch display part of the navigation system.

The base SR5 model comes as standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, Entune infotainment system and fabric seats, but for an extra 1,875 USD it can have auto-dimming mirrors, sunroof, navigation, SofTex faux leather seats and power passenger seat. Four-wheel drive is an optional 2,920 USD

SR5 and Limited versions are available with third-row seating, while the former gets as standard an 8-way power driver seat. Limited model has a leather-trimmed interior with ventilated driver/front passenger seats which are also 8-way power-adjustable for the driver and 4-way for the front passenger. The second row of seats has a 40/20/40 configuration and a one-touch walk-in function which grants easier access to the third row.

Source : Al Ain Japan

Wednesday 29 January 2014

BMW i3 - Al Ain Japan

Rumors about a BMW i3 have been swirling for years but BMW's production boss has revealed the company won't introduce any new i models until they have a better grasp on demand.

 BMW to delay future i models until they can better anticipate demand - report

While the i3 is off to a successful start, Harald Krueger told Al Ain Japan "We need to see how demand for the cars develops." There's no word on when a determination will be made but it will likely come after the model has been launched in key markets like the United States.

While the i3 is four meters long, the i3 is believed to receive a 150mm stretched rear overhang and will offer an additional 100mm of rear legroom. It won't be a very complex and expensive procedure to develop the i5 since the i3 has a separate chassis so lengthening the car would basically require just extending the chassis' longitudinal aluminum extrusions.

Notable styling highlights include a distinctive grille, U-shaped LED headlights and a “black belt” that runs from the hood to the tailgate. The model also has rearward opening “coach” doors, “stream flow” side contours and 19- or 20-inch forged light-alloy wheels.

There are no details right now about the possibility of installing a more powerful powertrain in the i5 but it should happen taking into account the car will not only be larger, but it will also have to carry more cargo. As a reminder, the i3 offers 170 HP (125 kW) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) from an electric motor working together with a 22 kWh lithium-ion battery.

As we have previously reported, the i3 was launched in Germany last November. Since then, the company has received more than 11,000 orders which has resulted in a waiting list of up to six month.

The 2014 BMW i3 will be priced from €34,950 in Germany, £25,680 (after a £5,000 government grant) in the U.K. and $41,350 - excluding a $925 destination & handling fee - in the United States.

Source : Al Ain Japan

Tuesday 28 January 2014

Lexus Car - Al Ain Japan(Japanese Car Dealers)

According to reports out of Japan, Lexus could offer a new IS F.

 Lexus IS F could still be in the works - report

Details are limited but the model would be heavily influenced by the RC F Coupe which recently debuted at the North American International Auto Show. This means the sedan could come equipped with an aggressive body kit, a sport-tuned suspension and a Torque Vectoring Differential with three different modes.

Power would likely be provided by a 5.0-liter V8 engine that develops more than 450 bhp (335 kW) and 383 lb-ft (518 Nm) of torque. In the RC F, it enables the coupe to accelerate from 0-60 mph in less than 4.6 seconds and hit an estimated top speed of 168 mph (270 km/h).

While Lexus on coy on specifics, the RC F has been equipped with an aerodynamic body kit that includes aggressive bumpers, ventilated front fenders and revised side skirts. The car also has a bulging hood, a revised grille and 19-inch forged aluminum wheels which are available in three different designs.

If that's not impressive enough, the RC F can be ordered with carbon fiber components and an active rear spoiler that deploys at approximately 50 mph (80 km/h) and retracts at speeds less than 25 mph (40 km/h).

The interior echoes the standard RC but has been equipped with sport seats, revised instrumentation, alloy pedals and an "elliptical cross-section thick grip steering wheel."

Source: Al Ain Japan



Monday 27 January 2014

Al AIn Japan

TOKYO -- General Motors has done surprisingly well in Japan's shrinking market, notching three straight years of rising sales. But a dearth of right-hand-drive vehicles stymies hopes for higher volume.

The redesigned Cadillac CTS and Chevrolet Corvette go on sale next year, promising another sales boost. But because both are left-hand drive, their arrival means there will be only two nameplates in GM's eight-model lineup with the steering wheel on the correct side for Japan, where cars drive on the left side of the road.

The outgoing CTS is one of the three current right-hand-drive models.

"To get to the next level, we really need a right-hand-drive portfolio, like BMW, Mercedes, Audi," Gregg Sedewitz, GM Japan sales and marketing director, said last week at the launch event for the CTS and Corvette in Tokyo.

"It's going to require somebody special to say, 'I love this brand. It doesn't matter.'"

After the redesigned CTS comes in April, GM's only right-hand-drive offerings here will be the Chevy Sonic small car and Captiva compact crossover.

Failing to configure American cars for Japanese roads is a stumbling block for Detroit brands trying to break into this notoriously finicky market. It's often a turnoff for Japanese, who can choose from a large selection of right-handers from European companies.

Yet for the Americans it's a chicken-and-egg problem. It's often not worthwhile to introduce a right-hand-drive version because sales are so low. And sales are so low in part because there are no right-handers.

Sedewitz said more right-hand-drive offerings are needed to break out of the niche level; GM sells barely 2,000 vehicles a year in the world's third-largest auto market.

But left-hand drive isn't always a deal breaker.

The current Cadillac SRX cross-over, also offered only in left-hand drive, replaced an outgoing version offered with right. But sales of that nameplate grew anyway.

"The product was so much better executed," Sedewitz said. "The ATS is left-hand-drive only. It's our No. 1 selling Cadillac. Yes, there's a limit to what we can do with left-hand drive. But it's a good foundation to take it to the next level at some point."

Japan's domestic auto market has been in steady decline for nearly two decades. Through October, 2013 light-vehicle sales fell 3 percent to 4,368,131.

Meanwhile, import sales are at record levels. Last year foreign car registrations reached 300,594, and through October sales rose 16 percent to 224,497.

GM Japan sales grew in 2010, 2011 and 2012. But so far this year sales of Cadillac and Chevrolet, the only two brands GM offers in Japan, are virtually flat at 2,241, according to the Japan Automobile Importers Association.

GM's sales are way below their peak of the mid-1990s, when the company was selling 50,000 cars a year, most of them Opels. But in 2006 Opel decided to stop selling in Japan and other non-European markets as part of a refocusing of the brand on Europe.

The 2009 bankruptcy further dented GM's Japan presence. GM has been a no-show for the past three Tokyo Motor Shows.

GM is banking on better products and a refined marketing strategy to build sales slowly.

The company is focusing on regional auto shows in such places as Nagoya and Osaka, instead of Tokyo. And it is revamping dealerships across the country.

GM has only 33 outlets, compared with more than 180 for BMW. But the eight-model GM lineup has been expanded from just four in 2010.

"We're in it for the long term," Sedewitz said. "It's not going to be an overnight process.

Source : Al Ain Japan

Thursday 23 January 2014

2014 Toyota Highlander Hybrid unveiled - Al Ain Japan

Toyota has announced the 2014 Highlander will be priced from $29,215 when it goes on sale in the United States in February.

 2014 Toyota Highlander Hybrid unveiled, returns 28 mpg city

The entry-level model comes sparsely equipped but features an eight seat interior, a backup camera, an Entune audio system and 18-inch alloy wheels.

The LE Plus adds an eight-way power driver seat, an upgraded audio system, a tri-zone automatic climate control system and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The model also has fog lights and a power liftgate.

Moving up to the XLE rewards owners with heated leather front seats, a moonroof and a premium audio system with GPS navigation and an 8-inch display.

Inside, the cabin comes nicely equipped with perforated leather seats, second row captain's chairs and a third row bench that can accommodate up three passengers. The model is also has wood grain trim, a JBL audio system, an En-tune infotainment system and a 4.2-inch Multi-Information Display that has an energy monitor

The range-topping Limited boasts perforated leather seats, heated / cooled front seats and a variety of safety systems. The model also has LED daytime running lights and 19-inch alloy wheels.

Depending on which model is selected, options include a heated steering wheel, second row captain chairs, ambient interior lighting and a Blu-ray entertainment system. The crossover can also be equipped with automatic high beam headlights, a dynamic radar cruise control system and a Smart Key system.

Under the hood, three different engines are available including:
  • A 2.7-liter four-cylinder with 185 bhp (138 kW)
  • A 3.5-liter V6 with 270 bhp (201 kW) and 248 lb-ft (335 Nm) of torque
  • A hybridized 3.5-liter V6 with a combined maximum output of 280 bhp (209 kW)
 Motivation is provided by a Hybrid Synergy Drive system that consists of a 3.5-liter V6 engine and an electric motor-generator. It is connected to an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission and an electronic on-demand all-wheel drive system. This setup enables the crossover to produce a combined maximum output of 280 bhp (209 kW) and return an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city / 28 mpg highway / 28 mpg combined (US).
Source: Al Ain Japan

Wednesday 22 January 2014

Al Ain japan

Mitsubishi has taken the wraps off the Mirage G4 Sedan at the 2014 Montreal Auto Show (Jan 17-26), following an announcement made earlier this month.

 2014 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 sedan teased ahead of Montreal Auto Show reveal

Last April we saw Mitsubishi's G4 Compact Sedan at Auto Shanghai and now the Japanese automaker has revealed the production version in the form of the Mirage G4 Sedan. Essentially a sedan variant of the Mirage hatchback, the new model comes with a longer rear overhang, oval taillights and a tall trunk lid with a lip spoiler.

On the styling front, the car features a prominent grille, sweptback headlights and chrome accents. We can also see small alloy wheels, an upward sweeping character line and side mirrors with integrated turn signals.

Interior pictures were not released but Mitsubishi says the car has "generous rear seat leg space" and "large door openings" for easy entry and egress.

It looks virtually the same as the Mitsubishi Attrage available in Thailand and is currently being exhibited at the Montreal Auto Show with a 3-cylinder, 1.2-liter gasoline engine with 79 bhp (59 kW) and 78 lb-ft (106 Nm) sent to the front axle through a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Mitsubishi hasn't decided yet whether the Mirage G4 Sedan will be sold in Canada but they will make a decision based on the received feedback. Expect the car to be exhibited in April at the New York Auto Show in United States, followed shortly by a market launch.


Source : Al Ain Japan

Tuesday 21 January 2014

Nissan Used car in japan - Al ain Japan

Tokyo-based aftermarket specialist Impul has released a tuning kit for the Nissan March/Micra.

The facelifted March/Micra is not the type of car you would normally imagine going through the garage of a tuner but it happened in Tokyo where Impul created a wide body kit for the petite Japanese city car. Showcased earlier this month at Tokyo Auto Salon, the vehicle received a redesigned front bumper with a large spoiler lip along with bigger side skirts and a new rear bumper.

 Japanese tuner Impul releases beefed up Nissan Micra/March

The most noticeable exterior modification is without any doubt the added rear wing but there's nothing going on in the engine department to match the aggressive looks. Other changes include vertical strips of LED daytime running lights sitting next to the fog lights in the lower front grille, as well as the tuner's RS S-05 alloy wheel set.

The base Visia model has electric front windows, remote central locking, ABS, ESP, several airbags, power steering and CD/AUX/USB. Acenta rides on 15-inch rims and comes with additional equipment such as automatic lights and wipers, Bluetooth, front fog lights and several cosmetic tweaks. The range-topping Tekna has 16-inch wheels, park assist, parking sensors, climate control, panoramic glass roof, new paint hues, keyless start, folding door mirrors and 5.8-inch touchscreen Nissan Connect media/sat-nav system.

Engine lineup includes the same 3-cylinder, 1.2-liter gasoline mill and a supercharged 1.2-liter DIG-S gasoline engine which can do 57.3 mpg US (68.9 mpg UK or 4.1 liters / 100 km) and has CO2 emissions of 95 g/km. These are mated to a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional CVT.

It should be noted Nissan is offering hotter Nismo and Nismo S versions of the March in Japan, with the latter providing 116 HP (85 kW) and 115 lb-ft (156 Nm) from a 1.5-liter engine mated to a five-speed manual gearbox.

Source:Al Ain Japan

Monday 20 January 2014

015 Toyota Camry to have 'more emotional, more impactful design' - Al Ain Japan

The President of Toyota's Calty Design Research has revealed some new details about the facelited Camry.

 2015 Toyota Camry to have more emotional, more impactful design - report

Speaking to Al Ain Japan, Kevin Hunter said the model will have a “more emotional, more impactful design." When went on to say the “Camry’s taken some hits on styling" but "we need to create better design for Camry in the future.”

Despite the bold promises, we shouldn't expect anything too radical as the Camry is a strong seller and the company doesn't want to mess with success. As Toyota Motor Sales USA President and CEO Kazuo Ohara explained, “I would not go so far as saying we could be adventurous, but at least more aggressive." He added they were "probably a little bit too conservative" when designing the current model.

Source: Al Ain Japan

Sunday 19 January 2014

Redesigned Toyota 'Harrier' Crossover SUV to Launch in Japan


Toyota Motor Corporation will launch the redesigned "Harrier" crossover SUV in Japan on December 2, with a hybrid model scheduled for release on January 15 next year.  The new Harrier, with its distinctive design and innovative new features, aims to exceed even the high expectations built up by previous models

For those who didn’t know, the Toyota Harrier is the father of the Lexus RX, with the latter being almost the same vehicle, except some design details and interior features. The Harrier is also known for its advanced technological features, being the first vehicle to use Toyota’s proprietary Pre-collision System


Redesigned Toyota Harrier Launching in Japan [Photo Gallery]

 Since its debut in 1997, the Harrier has built a strong brand image while pioneering the high-end crossover SUV genre.  In keeping with this legacy, Toyota has made some of its most advanced proprietary safety technologies available on the new Harrier.

The cabin is quiet, as befits a high-end vehicle, while enhanced suspension and aerodynamic performance deliver a comfortable ride and superior driving stability.  With an elegant, streamlined exterior and an interior that balances fine craftsmanship with modern utility, the Harrier's styling is innovative and distinctive.

The new Harrier comes with an improved, more elegant exterior and quieter interior, while an enhanced suspension and aerodynamic performance delivers a comfortable ride and driving stability.

Offered in four grades, the Harrier can also be had with one of the two engine choices - a 2-liter 3ZR-FAE engine mated to a Super CVT-i sending 151 PS and 193 Nm to either two or all four wheels; and a 2.5-liter Toyota Hybrid System II totaling 197 PS which are sent to all four wheels.
 
The hybrid model, powered by a 2.5-liter engine and hybrid system, retains the characteristic power of an SUV while achieving class-leading environmental performance and fuel efficiency of 21.8 km/L2.

 

Source: Al Ain Japan

For Buying Used Car - Harrier - visit us

Acura Concept SUV-X arrives in Shanghai

According to a recent report, Acura is considering an entry-level crossover which could be based on the Honda Fit.

 Acura considering a new entry-level crossover - report 
 
Details are limited but speculation suggests the company could offer the production version of the SUV-X concept in North America. The model was designed primarily for China but Honda spokeswoman Yuka Abe told  Al Ain Japan the company is considering additional markets for the vehicle.

The Japanese marque announced at the beginning of the month a new concept for the Chinese auto show and we assumed it was a crossover. We were right as the Concept SUV-X is a small SUV which was designed specifically for the local market. It represents Acura's first ever concept to be unveiled outside of North America.

It has been confirmed a production version will go on sale in China in approximately three years from now. The concept is being characterized as offering "emotional and sharp styling and driving performance" along with "environmental performance" and the utility you normally get in an SUV. Unfortunately, Acura did not release any details about what powers the Concept SUV-X but most likely some form of hybrid tech is included.

Honda Vezel powertrain chief engineer Naohisa Morishita went one step further and told the publication "There is a market for it worldwide, not just in China." He went on to say "Personally, I think Acura needs it."

It remains unclear when the model could arrive but the production version of the SUV-X concept is slated to go on sale in China in 2016.

Source: Al Ain Japan

Thursday 16 January 2014

Toyota Car Exporters in Japan

The Tokyo Auto Salon continues as Toyota has taken the wraps off the Vitz RS G Sports concept.
Looking instantly recognizable, the concept has a sport-tuned suspension, beefier brakes and 17-inch aluminum wheels with Bridgestone Potenza RE050 tires. The model also has side stripes and a larger rear spoiler.

 2012 Toyota Yaris / Vitz first details released

Interior changes are limited but include sports seats, revised trim and updated instrumentation.Interior pictures haven't been released, but Toyota says they have made significant improvements to the cabin. Notable changes include improved seats, higher quality materials, and premium options such as HDD navigation.

Overall, the car measures 3,885mm long and rides a wheelbase that has been stretched by 50mm.
 
Under the hood, three petrol engines will be offered: a 68 hp (51 kW /69 PS) 1.0-liter, a 93 hp (69 kW / 94 PS) 1.3-liter, and a 107 hp (80 kW / 108 PS) 1.5-liter. Detailed specifications haven't been released, but the 1.3-liter features Dual VVT-i (Dual Variable Valve Timing-intelligent) and stop/start technology which enables it to get a class-leading fuel economy rating of 3.8 L/100km (62 mpg US). A continuously variable transmission (CVT) will be standard on most models (in Japan), but a five-speed manual is also available.

Source: Al Ain Japan

Friday 10 January 2014

GRMN 86 concept unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon

Gazoo Racing has officially unveiled the GRMN 86 concept at the Tokyo Auto Salon.

  GRMN 86 concept unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon

Looking bold an aggressive, the concept "incorporates the technical expertise gained through the 24 Hours Nürburgring endurance race." As a result, Toyota says it has a lower center of gravity, an enhanced powertrain and improved rigidity.

Starting with the exterior, the model has been equipped with a number of carbon fiber components including the roof, hood and trunk. The coupe also has polycarbonate windows to reduce weight.

Detailed performance specifications were not released but the concept has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces at least 200 HP (147 kW) and 205 Nm (151 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a six-speed manual transmission which should ensure the 1,200 kg (2645 lb) coupe is relatively quick.

Speaking of performance, the concept also has a sport-tuned suspension, carbon ceramic brakes and a mechanical differential.

Source: Toyota (Al Ain Japan)

Thursday 9 January 2014

Japanese Car Mazda - Al Ain Japan

Mazda's upcoming entry-level model has received the speculative digital treatment from Theophilus Chin.
 2014 Mazda2 speculatively rendered

The Japanese marque will utilize a downsized version of its Kodo design language to create the Mazda2 set to come out later this year, possibly in the fall. We don't expect any major styling changes as the model will look a lot like a smaller Mazda3 hatchback and that's not necessarily a bad thing since the “3” is an appealing compact offering in both hatchback and sedan forms.

Mazda has already announced the new "2" / Demio will mainly target a female audience and rumors are indicating the vehicle will utilize a shorter version of CX-5's platform that will also underpin a compact crossover. The supermini is expected to grow in size and will utilize the now familiar Skyactiv engines so it should turn out to be a very frugal car.

Wednesday 8 January 2014

Japanese Used Car Dealer in Japan - Al Ain Japan

The first allegedly official images of the 2015 Subaru WRX STI have been published online, ahead of a confirmed NAIAS debut later this month.

 Allegedly official 2015 Subaru WRX STI images hit the web

Subaru introduced the 2015 WRX back in November at the Los Angeles Auto Show and now we catch a first glimpse at the hotter STI variant which adopts a more aggressive body kit painted in Subaru's traditional World Rally Blue matched with 17-inch golden alloy wheels. Despite this, Subaru points out the bumpers, hood, front fenders, rear doors, headlights and taillight clusters are all unique to the model. Apparently this finish will be reserved initially for a first edition which is likely to come with other enhancements.


The cabin is heavily influenced by the Impreza but it comes nicely equipped with fabric sport seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel and soft-touch materials. Other highlights include a new instrument cluster, a 4.3-inch multi-information display and automatic climate control. Options include leather seats, heated front seats, GPS navigation and a 440-watt harman /kardon audio system.

Power is provided by a turbocharged 2.0-liter boxer four-cylinder engine that develops 268 bhp (200 kW) and 258 lb-ft (349 Nm) of torque. It can be connected to a six-speed manual transmission or a newly optional Sport Lineartronic CVT that has a Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE) system with three different modes: Intelligent, Sport and Sport Sharp. When equipped with the latter transmission, the WRX comes with a new Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system with Variable Torque Distribution technology. It has a 45:55 rear-bias (as opposed to the traditional 50:50 split) but "continually optimizes torque distribution in response to driving conditions and input from steering wheel angle, yaw and lateral g-force sensors."

 2015 Subaru WRX STI confirmed for Detroit debut
Already teased, Subaru will unveil its “iconic performance flagship model” later this January in Detroit.

Source: Al Ain Japan

Tuesday 7 January 2014

Japanese Car

We haven't heard much about the Ford Fiesta RS lately but a new report is indicating it is still under consideration.

 Ford Fiesta RS still under consideration, could have 230 bhp - report

According to Al Ain Japan, the high-performance Fiesta is being developed alongside the Focus RS but the company is still working on a business case for the model.

Despite being in limbo, the car will reportedly have an aggressive body kit with bulging wheel arches. We can also expect a number of performance tweaks including a sport-tuned suspension, beefier brakes and a limited-slip differential.

Power could be provided by a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that develops approximately 230 bhp (171 kW).

If everything pans out, the Fiesta RS could be launched in 2015 and cost approximately £23,000.

Source: Al Ain Japan

Monday 6 January 2014

Japanese Car Dealer - Al Ain Japan

The five-door MINI will likely be introduced this fall. MINI's ever-expanding lineup is about to gain another addition as our spies have snapped photos of a five-door Cooper.

 2014 MINI rendered as a five-door hatchback

The 2015 MINI hatchback has been caught on camera without any camouflage, ahead of an official launch programmed for later this year.

To make room for the rear doors MINI had to shorten the front ones and as seen in these spy photos the rear doors are very small so access to the backseat will not be ideal but should remain functional. Al Ain Japan reports rear legroom will be expanded by 5cm in comparison to the regular MINI and the backseat will have enough room for three passengers.

The model will ride on the UKL platform which will also underpin the production version of the BMW Concept Active Tourer. It has a modular design and the five-door Cooper appears to ride on an extended-length version of the architecture.

Essentially a more practical version of the Clubman, the five-door Cooper has a familiar design with a prominent grille and rounded headlights. We can also see a tailgate-mounted spoiler, seven-spoke alloy wheels and a center-mounted dual exhaust system which implies this prototype is an "S" variant.

Engine options remain unconfirmed, but we can expect the model will be offered with the new 1.5-liter three-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine. BMW has previously said the petrol variants will have outputs ranging from 122-224 HP (90-165 kW) while the diesel will develop between 82-184 PS (60-135 kW).

Source: Al Ain Japan

Sunday 5 January 2014

Toyota and BMW officially join

Toyota and BMW have officially confirmed they plan on co-developing a new sports car.

Aside from working on this interesting project, both parties have agreed to jointly develop a fuel cell system for cars by 2020. The agreement was made official today, following last year's tie-up announcement. They will also work together in developing lightweight technologies and conduct research into next-gen lithium-based batteries.

Toyota and BMW will develop a feasibility study to create the support for a mid-sized sports car, aiming to finish the study by late 2013. They will also focus on reinforced composites and carbon fiber materials which will be used not only for the sports car but also for their own models.

The co-developed hydrogen fuel cell tech will have an emphasis on hydrogen tanks, fuel cell stacks, motors and batteries. In addition, both of them will study what has to be done to prepare the infrastructure for rolling out hydrogen-fueled cars. Also part of the plan is to research lithium-air batteries.

According to reports out of Germany, BMW and Toyota have finally agreed on a joint sports car platform.

Details are limited but BMW development boss Dr. Herbert Diess told Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung "We have agreed on a joint architecture for a sports car. What is important is that there will be two different vehicles that are authentic to the two brands."

That's a little vague but the companies appear to have selected one particular model from the "four, five or six" different proposals that were under consideration.

There's no word on what type of car will be produced but the rumor mill has indicated it could be anything from a BMW Z4 successor to a Lexus LFA successor.

Source: Al Ain Japan

Friday 3 January 2014

Japanese Car Dealer

Besides the Sport Sedan concept, Nissan will showcase the IDx Freeflow and IDx NISMO concepts which recently debuted at the Tokyo Auto Show.

 Alain Japan

The concept is described as a "stunning" model that "offers an advanced look at a future production sports sedan."


Nissan didn't have much to say about the model but is a stylish four-door coupe with a roofline that echoes the GT-R. The concept also has a prominent grille, "boomerang" headlights and blacked out A-pillars.

Nothing is official but speculation suggests the concept could preview the next-generation Maxima which should arrive as a 2015 model.

The cars will be officially unveiled on January 13th, so stay tuned for full details.

Source: Al Ain Japan


Thursday 2 January 2014

Toyota Car Exporters

Toyota Motor Corporation is a Japanese automaker headquartered in Toyota, Aichi, Japan. In 2013 the multinational corporation consisted of 333,498 employees worldwide and, as of March 2013, is the thirteenth-largest company in the world by revenue. Toyota was the largest automobile manufacturer in 2012 (by production), and in July of that year, the company reported the production of its 200-millionth vehicle. As of November 2013, it is also the largest listed company in Japan by market capitalization and by revenue.

The company was founded by Kiichiro Toyoda in 1937 as a spinoff from his father's company Toyota Industries to create automobiles. Three years earlier, in 1934, while still a department of Toyota Industries, it created its first product, the Type A engine, and, in 1936, its first passenger car, the Toyota AA. Toyota Motor Corporation group companies are Toyota (including the Scion brand), Lexus, Daihatsu, and Hino Motors, along with several "nonautomotive" companies. TMC is part of the Toyota Group, one of the largest conglomerates in the world

WorldWide Presence

Toyota has factories in most parts of the world, manufacturing or assembling vehicles for local markets. Toyota has manufacturing or assembly plants in Japan, Australia, India, Sri Lanka, Canada, Indonesia, Poland, South Africa, Turkey, Colombia, the United Kingdom, the United States, France, Brazil, Portugal, and more recently, Argentina, Czech Republic, Mexico, Malaysia, Thailand, Pakistan, Egypt, China, Vietnam, Venezuela, the Philippines, and Russia.


Source:

Japanese Used Car Dealer - Al Ain Japan

Subaru has announced plans to launch the production version of the Levorg concept in May.
Set to be unveiled on New Year's Day, the production model will closely echo the concept that was introduced at the Tokyo Motor Show last month.

Described as a "sports tourer", the LEVORG is basically a wagon with a stylish design wearing a Metallic Blue Grey Steel or a Pearl Crystal White paint that has never been seen on a production Subaru before. The vehicle is 4690mm long, 1780mm wide and 1485mm tall, with a 2650mm wheelbase and a curb weight of 1,504 kg (3,315 lbs).

Inside the cabin it gets various piano black finishes. metallic accents, as well as dual 3.5-inch full-color LEDs. It comes with a wide range of safety technologies such as pre-collision braking control, lane keeping assist, pre-collision reverse throttle management and active lane keep system
 Subaru Levorg to be unveiled on New Years Day, will be launched in May



Subaru is keeping details a closely guarded secret but they confirmed the model will be available with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 170 HP (125 kW) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. The model will also be available with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that develops 300 HP (221 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. Regardless of which engine is selected, both will be will connected a continuously variable transmission and an all-wheel drive system.

The Subaru LEVORG prototype comes with a strut front suspension and a rear double wishbone arrangement. The 1.6-powered model sits on 17-inch alloys shod in 215/50 R17 tires whereas the 2.0 model is fitted with 18-inch wheels wrapped around in 225/45 R18 rubbers.

In Japan, the entry-level 1.6 GT model will cost ¥2,667,600 while the range-topping 2.0 GT-S EyeSight will retail for ¥3,564,000 (both prices including an 8% consumption tax).

Source:Al Ain Japan

Wednesday 1 January 2014

Chevrolet Volt should have been a truck

Former GM vice chairman Bob Lutz declared in an interview the Chevrolet Volt should have been a truck, not a sedan.

 Chevrolet Volt should have been a truck, says Bob Lutz

The Chevrolet Volt was GM's response to the Toyota Prius but Bob Lutz - who at that point was the company's vice president – mentions the car should have been a truck, not a sedan. He motivated his answer by saying small sedans are already some of the most economical cars out there and benefits of a hybridized model are minimal. He added it would have been a lot better to implement hybrid technology in a truck which has low fuel efficiency and big CO2 emissions as the gains would have been a lot more significant.

Bob Lutz is now on the board of VIA Motors, a company which is specialized in creating hybrid electric trucks. One of their developments is the X-Truck which is essentially a 2013 Chevrolet Silverado with a 5.3-liter V8 and a 24 kWh lithium-ion battery enabling the vehicle to return more than 100 mpg and do 35 miles (56 km) on electric power.

A production model from VIA Motors is expected several months from now with a hybrid setup encompassing a 4.3-liter V6 gasoline engine and an electric motor to provide a combined output of 402 bhp (300 kW).

Source: Al Ain Japan