New SKYACTIV Technologies Improve Upon Every Aspect of the Driving Experience -

NEW YORK (April 21, 2011) – Mazda’s new SKYACTIV technologies were developed entirely in-house as part of the company’s “Building Block” strategy, which prioritizes the improvement of basic automotive technologies.  SKYACTIV combines breakthrough innovation and state-of-the-art technology, including gasoline and diesel engines with world-best compression ratios, all-new manual and automatic transmissions as well as all-new body and chassis systems, which are lighter and more responsive.  The introduction of these technologies will result in major reductions in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions for all Mazda models.  In line with Mazda’s Sustainable Zoom-Zoom long-term technology development plan, these technologies will improve the average fuel economy of Mazda vehicles sold globally by 30 percent by 2015 (compared to 2008 figures).

The refreshed 2012 Mazda3 brings the technology to life through a SKYACTIV powertrain (SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter gasoline engine and SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission) mounted onto a current vehicle platform in order to make Mazda’s latest technologies available to customers as quickly as possible.  This is a step toward the full implementation of SKYACTIV technologies into Mazda’s next-generation products.  The Mazda MINAGI Concept is a prelude to the launch of a newly announced vehicle: the Mazda CX-5.  Scheduled to go on sale in early 2012, this compact SUV will be equipped with the full suite of new SKYACTIV technologies and features the new KODO design language.  Both the CX-5 and 2012 Mazda3 demonstrate the ongoing transformation of the Mazda brand in North America.

Improved Efficiency

Mazda’s breakthrough engineering and manufacturing approach to its next generation of vehicles has enabled the brand to solve various conflicting issues simultaneously.  For example, how to increase the compression ratio of a gasoline engine without the risk of a drop in torque due to knocking.  This has led to a number of breakthrough technologies, with the goal to achieve the ideal internal combustion engine.  Combined with a successful lightweight strategy of encompassing next-generation engines, transmissions, vehicle body and chassis technologies which dramatically improve fuel economy and CO₂ emissions, the full suite of SKYACTIV technologies will begin to be deployed on vehicles in the Mazda line-up starting from 2012.

SKYACTIV-G Gasoline Engine – All-new direct-injection gasoline engine

1. Achieves the world’s highest gasoline engine compression ratio for mass production vehicles of up to 14.0:1, which is more than a Formula One race car engine, and without abnormal combustion (knocking)
2. Significantly improved engine efficiency resulting in up to a 15-percent increase in torque and 15 percent less fuel consumption compared to the current MZR 2.0-liter gasoline engine
3. Improved everyday driving thanks to increased torque at low- to mid-engine speeds
4. A 4-2-1 exhaust system, cavity pistons, multi-hole injectors and other innovations enable the high compression ratio

• 1. Weight reduction – the overall engine weight is reduced by 10 percent
  2. Overall engine friction is reduced by 30 percent
  3. Dual S-VT intake with electric sequential valve timing (S-VT) to minimize pumping losses

SKYACTIV-D Diesel Engine – All-new clean diesel engine

1. Meets global emissions regulations (Euro 6 in Europe, Tier2Bin5 in North America and the Post New Long-Term Regulations in Japan) without expensive NO_X after-treatments thanks to the world’s lowest diesel engine compression ratio of 14.0:1
2. Fuel consumption improved by 20 percent compared to the current 2.2-liter diesel
3. A new two-stage turbocharger means smooth and linear response from low to high engine speeds, which boosts low- and high-end torque (up to the 5,200 rpm rev limit)
4. A highly efficient Mazda active ceramic diesel particulate filter (DPF)
5. Weight reduction of 10 percent
6. Reduced friction of 20 percent
7. Variable valve lift for the exhaust valves enable stable combustion after cold start (avoids misfiring)

SKYACTIV-Drive – All-new six-speed automatic transmission

1. Quicker, lighter and more fun to drive
2. Achieves excellent torque transfer efficiency through a wider lock-up range and features the best attributes of all automatic transmission types (conventional automatic transmission, Continuously Variable Transmission and Dual Clutch Transmission), resulting in a connected driving feel similar to a manual transmission
3. Up to a seven percent improvement in fuel economy versus the current five-speed automatic
4. Available for SKYACTIV-D and SKYACTIV-G engines

SKYACTIV-MT – All-new light and compact manual transmission

1. Optimized for a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout, its crisp, short and light shift stroke ensures a shifting feel similar to that of a Mazda MX-5 Miata
2. Significantly reduced size and weight due to a revised structure
3. More efficient vehicle packaging thanks to its compact size
4. Improved fuel economy due to reduced internal friction

SKYACTIV-Body – All-new lightweight, high-rigidity body

1. Outstanding crash safety performance and lightness (meets the top criteria for crash safety assessments in all markets and is eight percent lighter)
2. Weight reduced by optimizing bonding methods and expanding the use of high-tensile steel
3. Each part of the frame is configured to be as straight and linear as possible (“straight structure”), creating 30 percent more rigidity

SKYACTIV-Chassis – All-new high-performance, lightweight chassis

1. Balances precise handling with a comfortable riding feel
2. Newly-developed front strut and rear multi-link suspension ensure high rigidity and lightness
3. The entire chassis will be 14 percent lighter than the previous version
4. Mid-speed agility and high-speed stability
5. Enhanced ride quality at all speeds achieved through a revision of the functional allocation of all the suspension and steering components
6. Realizes “Jinba ittai,” which means “rider and horse as one,” in creating a feeling of oneness between the car and driver

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif. and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers.  Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario; and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.

LINCOLN COMPLIMENTARY MAINTENANCE PROGRAM FURTHER ENHANCES BRAND’S LUXURY IMAGE

• Lincoln Complimentary Maintenance Program builds on brand’s luxury image
• Program offers free maintenance service to all 2011 customers and beyond on a permanent basis
• Lincoln is fully committed to providing consumers with a true luxury experience

DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 11, 2010 – The Lincoln Complimentary Maintenance Program has become a permanent staple for all new Lincoln customers with the beginning of the 2011 model year. First announced last summer as a promotion for select model year 2010 Lincoln lease and retail customers, the program became permanent for all model year 2011 vehicles in fall 2010.

The program is designed to enhance the four-year, 50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper manufacturer’s warranty and is fully transferable to a second owner. Furthermore, the program includes coverage for oil and filter changes, tire rotations and multipoint inspections for up to eight service visits.

“We are redefining the Lincoln customer ownership experience,” said C.J. O’Donnell, Lincoln group marketing manager. “Lincoln Complimentary Maintenance is just one example of Ford Motor Company’s commitment to elevating the Lincoln brand and experience.”

The company also will expand and enhance its Lincoln brand lineup with seven all-new or significantly refreshed vehicles in the next four years as part of an aggressive growth plan focused on standout product design, class-leading technology and new powertrains – all aimed at competing with Cadillac and Lexus in North America.

Lincoln hallmarks will be refined, modern design, the most fuel-efficient premium powertrains and industry-leading technology that create a unique driver experience both in the cabin and on the road.

New products form solid base
The future of Lincoln is building from a strong base that includes the flagship MKS large sedan; MKT seven-passenger crossover; significantly refreshed MKZ midsize sedan; new MKZ Hybrid, the most fuel-efficient luxury sedan at 41 mpg city; and Lincoln MKX crossover, the first vehicle to feature MyLincoln Touch™ driver connect technology.

Plans for Lincoln include:

• First-ever Lincoln C-segment vehicle
• New Lincoln-exclusive powertrains, including an all-new V6 engine and advanced fuel-efficient transmissions
• EcoBoost™ engines available in all Lincoln models – from the Navigator full-size SUV to the new C-segment Lincoln
• Fuel economy leadership with each new vehicle – leading to Lincoln emerging as the most fuel-efficient luxury lineup on the market
• More useful technology and features than any other competitor – with a special focus on comfort and convenience. New advanced features include fully retractable glass roofs; adaptive computer-controlled suspensions; electronic, push-button gear selectors; active noise control and exclusive MyLincoln Touch driver connect technology

Lincoln already is gaining traction. The J.D. Power and Associates 2010 Initial Quality Study showed Lincoln had moved into the top 10 among all automotive brands in the U.S. Lincoln was in the eighth spot, up from the 26th position a year ago – the largest jump of any brand.

The J.D. Power and Associates 2010 Initial Quality Study is based on responses from more than 82,000 new 2010 model year vehicle owners after they have driven their new vehicles for three months. It measures problems per 100 vehicles and was based on November through February registrations.

Also, Lincoln placed second behind Porsche in the 2010 J.D. Power and Associates Vehicle Dependability Study, ahead of several luxury brands including Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Acura and Cadillac. This study examines long-term durability of vehicles sold in the U.S.

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2011 Chevrolet Volt Reinvents Automotive Transportation In A Complete, No-Compromises Electric Package

1. World’s first mass-produced, plug-in electric vehicle with a range-extending onboard engine
2. Revolutionary Voltec propulsion system delivers between 25 and 50 miles of electric driving (depending on terrain, driving techniques and temperature) with a long-life, 16-kW lithium-ion battery and 111-kW (149-hp) electric drive unit; and up to 310 miles of extended range with an onboard 1.4L engine
3. Eight-year/100,000-mile warranty on lithium-ion battery pack
4. Vehicle dynamics, upscale materials, refinement and spirited performance of a premium sports sedan in an ultra-efficient package
5. Extensive use of high-strength steel and full suite of vehicle safety technologies provide occupant protection before, during and after a crash
6. Easy-to-use technologies such as configurable displays, Chevrolet Mobile App powered by OnStar MyLink, and MyVolt.com web portal enhance owner experience
7. Five years of OnStar Directions and Connections service, including Automatic Crash Response, stolen vehicle assistance and connected navigation

DETROIT – Chevrolet today introduced the all-new, 2011 Volt electric vehicle with extended range, establishing an entirely new segment in the global automotive market. The five-door, four-passenger Volt is designed to provide the benefits of an electric vehicle without the range limitations associated with other electric vehicles in the market.

“The Chevrolet Volt can be the only car you own,” said Mark Reuss, president, GM North America. “The Volt delivers it all: a revolutionary propulsion system, progressive styling, industry-leading safety, premium amenities and user-friendly technologies, and spirited driving dynamics.”

Designed, engineered, built and delivered to customers in 29 months, the Volt will go on sale at Chevrolet dealers before the end of 2010. It is offered in one very well-equipped standard trim level, along with two option packages: a Premium Trim Package and a Rear Camera and Park Assist Package.

The Volt is in a class by itself

The Chevrolet Volt is not a hybrid. It is a one-of-a-kind, all-electrically driven vehicle designed and engineered to operate in all climates. Powered by GM’s revolutionary Voltec propulsion system, it consists of a 16-kWh lithium-ion battery pack and electric drive unit that provide pure electric range between 25 and 50 miles, depending on terrain, driving techniques and temperature. A 1.4L gasoline-powered engine extends the range up to an additional 310 miles on a full tank of fuel by operating the vehicle’s electric drive system until the car can be plugged in and recharged or refueled. This distinguishes the Volt from electric-only vehicles, which cannot be operated when recharging is not immediately available – such as during a power interruption or on a long-distance trip.

“The Chevrolet Volt makes the electric driving experience as productive, efficient, intuitive, safe and fun as any premium vehicle its size in the market today,” said Doug Parks, Volt global vehicle line executive.

Every major element of the Volt was designed and analyzed for efficiency, including its highly aerodynamic exterior, lightweight wheels, specially designed tires, energy-saving premium stereo system, and more. This attention to detail makes the Volt one of the most aerodynamic and energy-efficient vehicles in the market.

The Volt redefines electric drive

The heart of the Chevrolet Volt is its Voltec propulsion system, which combines pure electric drive and an efficient, range-extending engine, giving to the Volt up to 350 total miles of range.

The Volt’s long-life battery consists of a 5.5-foot, 435-pound (198.1 kg) T-shaped, 16-kWh lithium-ion battery pack manufactured in Brownstown Township, Mich. It supplies energy to an advanced, 111-kW (149-hp) electric drive unit to propel the vehicle. Using only the energy stored in the battery, the Volt delivers between 25 and 50 miles of fuel- and tailpipe emissions-free electric driving, depending on terrain, driving techniques and temperature.

The Volt battery is designed to deliver value, safety, quality, performance, durability and reliability. It is covered by an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty. Since 2007, GM engineers have completed more than one million miles and four million hours of validation testing of Volt battery packs, as well as each pack’s nine modules and 288 prismatic cells. The development, validation and test teams have met thousands of specifications and validated each of the Volt battery’s 161 components, 95 percent of which GM designed and engineered.

“Our customers are making a commitment to technology that will help reduce our dependence on petroleum,” said Micky Bly, GM executive director, global electrical systems. “In turn, we commit to deliver the highest standards for value, safety, quality, performance and reliability to our customers.”

When the battery energy is depleted, the Volt seamlessly transitions to extended-range mode. Power is inverted from a technically advanced, 1.4L 63-kW (84-hp) gasoline-powered onboard engine to the electric drive unit to provide up to 310 additional miles of range.

The Volt proves electric driving can be spirited. Not only does the Volt reach a top speed of 100 mph, the electric drive unit’s excellent low speed torque of 273 lb.-ft. (368 Nm) takes it from 0 to 60 mph in less than 9.0 seconds and the quarter mile in less than 17.0 seconds.

Charging the Volt’s battery is simple and intuitive, and can be done through 120V conventional household electrical outlets, or through a dedicated 240V charging station. The vehicle is completely rechargeable in about four hours using a 240V outlet and 10 to 12 hours in a 120V outlet. Once the vehicle is plugged in, owners can schedule either immediate or delayed charges, even coordinating charging according to departure time or when electricity rates are lower. Owners also can manage and monitor the Volt remotely via computer on MyVolt.com; or an exclusive smart phone application, Chevrolet Mobile App powered by OnStar MyLink.

The Volt is designed and refined to impress

The Chevrolet Volt’s bold, sleek, performance-oriented stance conveys its electrically driven capabilities, and looks like an upscale, midsize sport sedan. This is made possible by its wide front and rear tracks (61.2 / 62.1 inches [1556 / 1578 mm]), 105.7-inch (2685 mm) wheelbase, wheels-out stance, sculpted belt line and premium execution.

“The Volt is a revolutionary car, and we wanted the design to make as sleek and dynamic a statement as possible,” said Bob Boniface, director of design. “When you look at this car, it’s very technical and refined in its execution, with lots of interrelating surfaces that bring clean, crisp edges and creases.”

Working closely with aerodynamicists in GM’s own wind tunnel to shape the Volt, design and engineering teams developed the most aerodynamic vehicle in Chevrolet’s history. By reducing the energy needed to overcome air resistance, Volt aerodynamicists contributed an estimated eight miles of electric range, and 50 miles of extended range.

The Volt’s rounded and flush front fascia, tapered corners and grille enable air to move easily around the car to reduce drag. In the rear, sharp edges and a carefully designed spoiler control air flow. An aggressive rake on the windshield and back glass also helps reduce turbulence and drag.

Inside and out, element-to-element gap and flush relationships are as good or better than any in the segment. Even the underhood compartment is not overlooked: All components are held to a high standard of appearance that harmonizes with the rest of the car, using similarly grained surfaces and colors.

The distinctive, gloss black rear liftgate appliqué carries the Chevrolet bowtie and one of two Volt insignias; the other is found on the forward quarter panel. Six exterior colors are offered on the Volt, including Viridian Joule Tricoat, the winning name chosen in a national contest held last year. The others are Silver Ice Metallic, Black and Cyber Gray Metallic, Crystal Red Metallic Tintcoat and White Diamond Tricoat.

Inside, the Volt offers the space, comfort, convenience and safety features that customers expect in a premium five-door sedan –  including storage compartments and 40/40 rear-folding seats. It also delivers them in a variety of interior color, lighting and trim options unlike any offered before on a Chevrolet sedan, but with Chevrolet’s signature dual cockpit design.

Two, seven-inch, high-resolution full-color screens are featured: One is a reconfigurable graphic cluster display and the other, in the center stack, features a  touch screen display, touch-control switches and integrated shifter.

The graphics in the instrument panel and door inserts are repeated in the premium cloth or available leather-appointed seats. Bright silver appointments appear around the door switches, center cup holders, door pulls, centerstack switches and climate control outlets. Standard infotainment features include:

1. Navigation radio with 60-GB (30 GB for music storage) hard disc drive, AM/FM/DVD-Rom/MP3 playback capability, voice recognition, Radio Data System, Bluetooth and pause-and-play radio functions
2. XM Satellite Radio with XM NavTraffic/Weather, one of the industry’s most advanced, real-time information systems
3. Premium, energy-saving Bose audio system with six speakers and subwoofer
4. Five years of OnStar Directions and Connections service.

In addition to enhancing safety and solidity, the Volt’s stiff structure accommodates features that help to isolate engine and wind noise for a whisper-quiet cabin.

The Volt features excellent driving dynamics

Great driving dynamics begin with a solid body-frame-integral structure that enables optimal tuning and provides drivers with an enhanced sense of stability, solidity and confident road manners.

The Volt’s MacPherson strut-type suspension, sophisticated compound crank rear axle and quick-reacting, rack-mounted electric power steering system with ZF steering gear – a feature commonly found on premium sport sedans – have been tuned to deliver a smooth, refined ride with responsive handling and solid, on-center feel. A low center of gravity combines with the wider track and long wheelbase for balanced performance, and front and rear hydraulic ride bushings, another premium addition, help eliminate road harshness.

The electro-hydraulic regenerative brake system captures energy up to 0.2g for transfer back to the battery. The friction braking system features large rotors with a special finishing process that protects against corrosion and promotes longer life.

The Volt rides on lightweight aluminum wheels that weigh only 17.8 pounds (8.1 kg) each, compared to 24.2 pounds (11 kg) for typical 17-inch wheels. They’re wrapped in Goodyear Fuel Max all-season, low-rolling resistance tires optimized for electric vehicle range, noise, feel and performance.

The Volt features Chevrolet’s continuous safety

Like all Chevrolet vehicles, the Volt helps protect occupants before, during and – thanks to OnStar – after a crash. Crash-avoidance features include standard anti-lock brakes with traction control, StabiliTrak electronic stability control and advanced, LED daytime running lamps that make the Volt more visible to other motorists and pedestrians.

Occupant protection continues with a strong structure, and the Chevrolet Volt’s body-frame-integral structure strategically blends advanced steels to help ensure crashworthiness and stiffness. Nearly 80 percent of the Volt’s overall structure consists either of high-strength, advanced high-strength or ultra high-strength steel. Active occupant protection features include eight standard air bags and safety belts with dual pretensioners to help reduce the risk of injury.

After a crash, the Chevrolet Volt offers the security of OnStar, which uses built-in vehicle sensors to automatically alert an OnStar advisor in certain types of collisions. The advisor is immediately connected to the vehicle and can request that emergency help be sent to its location.

Because the Volt operates so quietly in all-electric mode, a driver-activated feature sounds a noise to alert pedestrians, particularly those with visual impairments, in an intersection. The alert was developed in conjunction with the American Federation of the Blind.

The Volt connects with owners 24/7

There is much more technology inside the Volt than its electric propulsion system. Intuitive features such as high-resolution displays, connectivity and the ability to monitor and control vehicle functions remotely redefine how owners interface with their vehicles.

Key technologies include:

1. Touch-control switch system on the center console
2. High-resolution, seven-inch, full-color LCD reconfigurable Driver Information Center display. The display shows electric-only range, fuel economy, , extended-range, trip information, tire pressure information and other key vehicle messages.
3. High-resolution, seven-inch, full-color, center stack-mounted touch screen display that serves as the interface for infotainment and cabin climate controls. An Efficiency (Leaf) switch accesses energy usage, power flow and charging screens – all easy to use and understand.
4. Charge modes are customizable according to need and electricity rates for efficient programming and lower costs.
5. A key fob that allows drivers to remotely start the vehicle and precondition the cabin based on outside temperatures
6. An exclusive mobile app, powered by OnStar MyLink, that enables owners to engage with the Volt functions using a smart phone.

Volt warranties bring value and peace of mind

Volt owners receive outstanding battery and vehicle limited warranty coverage. In addition to the eight-year/100,000-mile limited warranty on the Volt’s 16-kWh lithium-ion battery, Chevrolet will provide:

1. Three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper coverage
2. Five-year/100,000-mile roadside assistance and courtesy transportation
3. Five-year/100,000-mile limited gas engine coverage
4. Six-year/100,000-mile corrosion protection coverage.

Chevrolet is a global automotive brand, with annual sales of about 3.5 million vehicles in more than 130 countries. Chevrolet provides consumers with fuel-efficient, safe and reliable vehicles that deliver high quality, expressive design, spirited performance and value. In the U.S., the Chevrolet portfolio includes: iconic performance cars, such as Corvette and Camaro; dependable, long-lasting pickups and SUVs, such as Silverado and Suburban; and award-winning passenger cars and crossovers, such as Malibu, Equinox and Traverse. Chevrolet also offers “gas-friendly to gas-free” solutions including the Cruze Eco and Volt, both arriving in late 2010. Cruze Eco will offer up to 40 mpg highway while the Chevrolet Volt will offer 25-50 miles of electric, gas-free driving and an additional 310 miles of extended range (based on GM testing; official EPA estimates not yet available). Most new Chevrolet models offer OnStar safety, security, and convenience technologies including OnStar Hands-Free Calling, Automatic Crash Response, and Stolen Vehicle Slowdown. More information regarding Chevrolet models, fuel solutions, and OnStar availability can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

ALL-NEW FORD FOCUS LAUNCHES EXCLUSIVE AIRBAG TECHNOLOGIES THAT ENHANCE CRASH PROTECTION

• All-new 2012 Ford Focus will offer an exclusive suite of innovative airbags that help customize protection in the most common frontal and side crashes
• Focus is launching Ford’s next-generation driver-front airbag with enhanced chest protection technology designed to help reduce chest and rib injuries
• Innovative side airbags help enhance chest protection for front seat occupants with shoulder vents that deliver varying levels of pressure based on the size of the occupant and how much of their shoulder blocks the vent
• Focus will be Ford’s first car ever with a front passenger airbag with adaptive venting designed to help enhance head and neck protection by better matching deployment force with occupant size
• The next-generation airbags will debut as standard equipment on the all-new Ford Focus on sale early in 2011 in North America. The new airbags will roll out on other Ford vehicles in the next few years

DEARBORN, Mich., Sept. 16, 2010 – The all-new 2012 Ford Focus will launch exclusive airbag technologies that enhance protection for front seat occupants in the most common frontal and side crashes.