CY-2006 NHTSA Investigation count

Customer & Dealer Incentives - 21 Dec

Credit: AutoNews - Click on image to zoom

Mercedes-Benz Agrees to Pay $1.2 Million Civil Penalty to Settle Clean Air Act Violation

Posted on : Thu, 21 Dec 2006 15:56:01 GMT | Author : U.S. Department of Justice News Category : PressRelease

WASHINGTON, Dec. 21 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Mercedes-Benz USA and its parent corporation, DaimlerChrysler AG (Mercedes), have agreed to pay $1.2 million in civil penalties to resolve allegations that they violated the Clean Air Act by failing to promptly notify the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) about defects in the air pollution controls installed on numerous 1998 to 2006 Mercedes model vehicles, the Justice Department and the EPA announced today.The Clean Air Act requires auto manufacturers to promptly inform the EPA of defects in emission-related components so that the government can consider whether the defect will cause emission standards to be exceeded and whether a recall is necessary. Both the complaint and the settlement were filed in the U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C.

In response to the EPA's investigation into the matter, Mercedes began voluntary recalls for two of the defects at issue and notified owners that it would extend the warranty coverage to address a third defect, at an estimated cost of about $59 million. Under the terms of the consent decree, Mercedes will also be required to improve its emissions defect investigation and reporting system to ensure future compliance, at an estimated cost of approximately $1 million per year."Reliable and effective automobile pollution control systems are essential to protect human health and the environment from harmful automobile emissions," said Sue Ellen Wooldridge, Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department's Environment and Natural Resources Division.

"Mercedes' failure to alert EPA to a number of defects in emission-related components over a multi-year period is a serious violation because it deprived EPA of the opportunity to promptly determine whether emission standards would be exceeded and whether to order a recall of any of these vehicles.""These defect reporting requirements are a critical part of EPA's program to ensure that vehicles on the road comply with the Clean Air Act's emissions standards," said Catherine R. McCabe, Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator for the EPA's Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance.

"This case demonstrates EPA's commitment to ensuring that automobile manufacturers comply with the defect reporting obligations under the Clean Air Act, and take appropriate action to correct any emission-related defects."The vehicles subject to the voluntary recalls and extended warranties have defective catalytic converters or defective air pumps. The voluntary recalls and extended warranty will reduce the emissions of harmful pollutants caused by the defects by over 500 tons cumulatively. These pollutants include nonmethane hydrocarbons (NMHC), nitrogen oxides (NOx) and carbon monoxide (CO). NMHC and NOx are key ingredients in the production of ozone, a major contributor to cancer-causing smog. CO impairs breathing and is especially harmful to children, people with asthma and the elderly.U.S. Department of Justice

JOB OPENING: Corporate Audit

Corporate Audit Location: US-MI-Auburn Hills Position Type: Full Time, Employee

DaimlerChrysler AG is one of the world’s largest auto company with brands that include the Chrysler Group, Freightliner, Detroit Diesel, DaimlerChrysler Financial Services, Mercedes-Benz U.S.A. (MBUSA) and Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, Inc. (MBUSI). Globally, DaimlerChrysler employs approximately 385,000 people in more than 90 countries.

Corporate Audit

Corporate Audit (CA) is an independent and objective corporate assurance and consulting activity designed to support the management in governance and control activities. Its processes are designed to analyze if business procedures are appropriate, adequate, and effective; if measures are taken to protect and preserve corporate assets; and if the processes are consistent with DaimlerChrysler’s strategy and goals. CA supports its’ customers in managing business opportunities and risks. The Vice President of Corporate Audit reports to the Chairman of the Board of Management for DaimlerChrysler AG.

Corporate Audit Americas

With its headquarters in Auburn Hills, MI, Corporate Audit Americas services the Chrysler Group, Freightliner, Detroit Diesel, DaimlerChrysler Financial Services, Mercedes-Benz U.S.A. (MBUSA) and Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, Inc. (MBUSI).

The Position

Reporting to a Senior Manager, the Staff Auditor performs operational and financial audits within various functional areas such as: Manufacturing, Procurement & Supply, Sales & Marketing, Finance & Controlling and Treasury. Responsibilities include:

· Assessing internal controls, determining compliance with policies and procedures, evaluating efficiency and effectiveness of operations, identifying improvement opportunities, and developing corrective actions.

· Communicating findings to Management both written and orally.

· Acting as a business advisor to Management and providing consulting services.

· Supporting Corporate Audit Sarbanes-Oxley compliance activities.

Position requires some travel (possibly 20%- 40%) to various DaimlerChrysler locations and supplier facilities, both domestic and international.

Qualifications

· Must have Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, or related field. Certification as CPA, CIA, CMA, or CFE is strongly preferred. MBA or advanced degree is also preferred.

· A minimum of 2 years general business experience in a finance, accounting or audit related capacity is required. Public Accounting experience is preferred.

· Ability to understand and document complex business processes.

· Must be able to identify risks and offer value added solutions.

· Detail oriented with excellent written / oral communication skills.

· Ability to interface with Management and work well in a team environment.

· Strong personal computer skills.

· Foreign language skills considered a plus.

Compensation

The ideal candidate can anticipate a competitive and attractive salary and benefit package, including participation in the company’s vehicle purchase or lease programs.

Trademark Update: CLC

Mark


(words only): CLC-CLASS

Standard Character claim: Yes

Current Status: Application has been published for opposition.

Date of Status: 2006-12-12

Filing Date: 2006-05-09

The Information will be/was published in the Official Gazette on 2006-12-12

Transformed into a National Application: No

Registration Date: (DATE NOT AVAILABLE)

Register: Principal

Law Office Assigned: LAW OFFICE 103

Attorney Assigned:
GRIFFIN JAMES Employee Location

Current Location: 650 -Publication And Issue Section

Date In Location: 2006-11-08

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LAST APPLICANT(S)/OWNER(S) OF RECORD

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1. DaimlerChrysler AG

Address:
DaimlerChrysler AG
Epplestrasse 225
D-70567 Stuttgart
Fed Rep Germany
Legal Entity Type: Corporation
State or Country of Incorporation: Fed Rep Germany

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GOODS AND/OR SERVICES

---

International Class: 012
Class Status: Active
Automobiles and their structural parts
Basis: 1(b)
First Use Date: (DATE NOT AVAILABLE)
First Use in Commerce Date: (DATE NOT AVAILABLE)

International Class: 028
Class Status: Active
Toy model vehicles
Basis: 1(b)
First Use Date: (DATE NOT AVAILABLE)
First Use in Commerce Date: (DATE NOT AVAILABLE)

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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

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Foreign Application Number: 30606924.5/1
Country: Fed Rep Germany
Foreign Filing Date: 2006-02-01

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MADRID PROTOCOL INFORMATION

---

(NOT AVAILABLE)

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PROSECUTION HISTORY

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2006-12-12 - Published for opposition

Brabus Smart ForTwo Cabrio Spotted

GERMAN AUTO SCENE | WARREN M.

Here’s a hot version of the new Smart. Respected tuner Brabus will be tweaking the ForTwo Cabrio, giving it around 110 bhp. It’ll hit 62 mph in 10 seconds and have a top speed of 100 mph.

The baby Brabus will be available next year and cost around €36,000.

PRODUCTION UPDATE: 21 December

December 21, 2006

2007* DaimlerChrysler Cars RED Indicates changed or new information
The lead time represents the estimated order to delivery period under normal conditions and does not take into consideration holds or delays. Extended lead times (when available) are noted under the Key Production Hold or Delay column. *All models and constraints are for the 2007 MY unless noted otherwise. Due to various assembly plant assignments for specific model lines or ordered options; the DaimlerChrysler constraints listed below may or may not apply at the time an order is placed.
MODEL	ESTIMATED LEAD TIME IN WEEKS	KEY PRODUCTION HOLD OR DELAY

Chrysler 300/300C, Dodge Magnum, Dodge Charger	8-10	300 and 300C models have a 6-8 week lead time The following options have a Job #1 of 1/2/07: (AJM) SRT Design Group (2DZ) Pkg. w/o (XAA) ParkSense (LXCS48) (PW1) Stone White has a fleet Job #1 of 1/8/07 (JHC) Rain sensitive wipers w/ (AFF) Luxury Group and (LMS) Smartbeam headlamps have a Job #1 of 2/1/07 (29R) Heritage Group has a Job #1 of 2/5/07 (LXCS48) (PJV+29R) Cognac Crystal paint with 29R Pkg. has a Job #1 of 2/12/07 (NHP) Adaptive speed control has a Job #1 of 7/21/07 (27P) Pkg. is on hold
Chrysler Pacifica	8-10	AWD models have a 10-12 week lead time (29P) Pkg. has a Job #1 of 2/1/07 (XAC) Parkview rear backup camera w/o (JRC) power liftgate is on hold
Chrysler PT Cruiser	6-8	None
Chrysler Sebring Sedan	18-20	(RER) AM/FM CD MP3 navigation radio has a Job #1 of 1/6/07 (XWS) Driver sunglass holder has a Job #1 of 1/24/07 (PV6) Sunburst Orange paint has a Job #1 of 1/29/07 (XRV) Rear seat video system has a Job #1 of 2/26/07

Dodge Caliber	16-18	Caliber R/T AWD models have a 20-22 week lead time (CJ1) Front seat side airbags have a Job #1of 1/29/07
Jeep Compass	14-16	Compass FWD models have a 16-18 week lead time (ECN) 2.0L 4-cyl engine has a Job #1 of 1/22/07 (MKTL74) (CJ1) Front seat-mounted side airbags have a Job #1 of 1/29/07

2007* DaimlerChrysler Trucks RED Indicates changed or new information
The lead time represents the estimated order to delivery period under normal conditions and does not take into consideration holds or delays. Extended lead times (when available) are noted under the Key Production Hold or Delay column. *All models and constraints are for the 2007 MY unless noted otherwise. Due to various assembly plant assignments for specific model lines or ordered options; the DaimlerChrysler constraints listed below may or may not apply at the time an order is placed.
MODEL	ESTIMATED LEAD TIME IN WEEKS	KEY PRODUCTION HOLD OR DELAY
Chrysler Town & Country Dodge Grand Caravan/Caravan	8-10	None
Dodge Dakota	8-10	(DHV) Shift-on-the-Fly FT transfer has a build out date of 1/31/07 (ASU) R/T Group has a Job #1 of 2/14/07 (DMH) 3.92 rear axle ratio w/o (DSA) limited slip differential has a Job #1 of 2/15/07 (TXV) P265/70R16 AT tires have a Job #1 of 2/16/07 (DHU) Shift-on-the-Fly FT transfer case has a Job #1 of 2/19/07 The following options have a Job #1 of TBD: (PJC) Light Khaki paint (TR2) P255/70R16 AS tires (PBT) Patriot Blue paint
Dodge Durango	8-10	(TVC) P265/50R20 AS tires have a Job #1 of 1/29/07 (TV9) P265/50R20 AS tires are on hold (MRK) Tubular side steps with (2TF) Pkg. are no longer available for ordering
Dodge Aspen	8-10	(TVC) P265/50R20 AS tires have a Job #1 of 1/29/07 (TV9) P265/50R20 AS tires are on hold
Dodge Nitro	6-8	Nitro 4x4 models have a 10-12 week lead time (RER) AM/FM CD MP3 Navigation Radio has a Job #1 of 1/29/07 (DHZ) Full-time 4WD w/ (EGS) 4.0L V6 engine has a Job #1 of 7/10/07 (WP2) 20” Chrome clad aluminum wheels w/o (ASU) R/T Group Job #1 is TBD
Dodge Ram Pickup DR 1500, 2500, 3500 and Mega Cab	8-10	Ram 1500 4x2 and 2500 4x4 models have a 6-8 week lead time (ETJ) 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel engine has a Job #1 of 1/15/07 (ETH) 5.9L HO Cummins Turbo Diesel engine w/(NBA) Underground Calibration has a Job #1 of 2/7/07 (LBN + DG3) Power take off has a Job #1 of 2/12/07 (AR9) Single Rear Wheel Group with (SKS/SKT) heavy duty front springs has a Job #1 of 3/1/07 (ETJ) 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel engine w/ (XBC) pickup box delete has a Job #1 of 3/5/07
Jeep Grand Cherokee	8-10	Grand Cherokee 4x2 models have a 10-12 week lead time (EXL) 3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel engine has a Job #1 of 2/22/07 (PXR) Black paint has a Job #1 of 2/26/07 (TBB) Full-size spare has a Job #1 of 3/8/07 (PX8) Black paint has a Job #1 of TBD
Jeep Commander	8-10	Commander 4x2 models have a 16-18 week lead time (PXR) Black paint has Job #1 of 2/26/07 (WPN) Platinum aluminum wheels have a Job #1 of 3/12/07 (PX8) Black paint has a Job #1 of TBD
Jeep Liberty	6-8	Liberty 4x2 models have an 8-10 week lead time
Jeep Wrangler	12-14	(GWK) Sunrider soft top with 2-Door has a Job #1 of 1/17/07 (GCH) Half Doors have a Job #1 of 1/31/07 (SHG) Electronic front sway bar w/o Rubicon model has a Job #1 of 2/15/07 (DSH) Locker rear axle has a Job #1 of 2/15/07
Jeep Patriot	8-10	None

Dodge Avenger R/T Spied On Michigan Freeway

WINDING ROAD AUTO NEWS | December 21st, 2006 9:15 AM

Before its NAIAS debut in January, Dodge hasn’t been shy about leaving its Dodge Avenger R/T out in the open. We caught this silver, unmasked sedan yesterday on I-275 North in Novi.

With all the hoopla over spy shots and leaked photos as of late, one might even assume that the company is doing it on purpose. We wouldn’t put such double-black secret ops gamesmanship against DCX PR bossman Jason Vines and his crew.

We’ll have more details and specs on the car when its embargo breaks before the auto show.

Written By: Reilly Brennan

2008 Jeep Liberty "UNMASKED"

ALLPAR.COM - - For 2008, the Liberty is moving to a “baby Commander” look, gaining some length and mainly getting the squared-off, Land Rover/Hummer look. The headlights and turn signals are, as with the Commander, separate units behind a rectangular plastic housing. The glass has been trimmed, and it appears that the roof has been lowered; seats seem to be the more comfortable yet thinner new design from the Compass; and the fancy new stereos/nav systems should be available. The cargo area has been expanded. It appears that only the 3.7 liter V6 will be available, and that the four speed automatic will carry forward, so the four cylinder and stick-shift may have been dropped; a diesel is expected to return for late availability. We’re not sure, but the 4-liter V6 may replace the 3.7 or be available as an option. We don’t think the six-speed automatic used on the Pacifica would show up on the Liberty. (The 3.8 engine used on the new Wrangler is also possible.) Any of these engines would last until 2010-2012, when the Phoenix series will replace them.

Overall, the Liberty will incorporate a number of changes and improvements engineered into the Dodge Nitro, while increasing its off-road worthiness. Expected features including an Electronic Stability Program with Electronic Roll Mitigation, hill descent control, the Load ’n Go rear cargo slide out system (also seen in the Nitro), rear DVD video, and remote start installed at the factory.

Glenn Paulina wrote:

We caught the 2008 Jeep Liberty in an unintentional state of undress, revealing the revamped Jeep without camouflage for the very first time. We spotted our first Liberty prototype about one month ago, but it had some fairly thorough disguising covering the front fascia, its front and rear fenders,and its D-pillar. With its camo in place, the Liberty prototype looked a lot like its Dodge Nitro platform-mate, but in this undisguised state, it's clear that the next Liberty's Jeep DNA will show through loud and clear.

We can now see that the Liberty's fender are aggressively flared and appropriately angular (unlike the smoothly rounded wheel arches on the Nitro), in order to look at home alongside its rugged brothers (Wrangler, Commander, etc.). The '08 Liberty's headlights, and front and rear bumpers are very squared-off and chiseled (much like the Commander, though edgier), and the overall look is much more masculine than the softer-edged lines of the current model.

The above comparison was made much easier since a supplier conveniently parked this undisguised prototype nose-to-tail with a current Liberty. The comparative profiles also reveal the new Liberty's upsized stature, both in wheelbase and overall length, benefiting passengers and cargo capacity alike. The extra space has also enabled the next Liberty's undercarriage to be repackaged to make room for a spare tire placed beneath the rear bumper, instead of perched on the tailgate, as it is on the current model. The change allows the '08 model to have a conventional hatchback design instead of the left-hinged, swing-out tailgate that graces today's Liberty.

Brenda Priddy added: The photos above were shot at street level and may have overlooked one of the most interesting features that will be offered on the new Liberty: A huge retractable fabric roof!

When we first started inquiring about the upcoming Liberty, our sources seemed to switch subjects and asked us if we saw the ASC Cosmos Hummer H3 that was shown at the 2006 NAIAS. With that in mind, our focus on a camouflaged Liberty was from above, paying special attention to the roof. And sure enough, the roof had unique camouflage covering what apparently is Jeep’s biggest secret: a fabric roof system, which will put the Liberty in a class of its own.

Although we can’t confirm the designer and supplier of the retractable roof, there is good indication that ASC is involved in the development.

The new Liberty, internally know by the code name KK, will start down the production line in July of 2007. There will be two V6 offerings:

a 3.7-liter as the base engine, and an optional 4.0-liter powerplant, with a new diesel engine available in late in the 2008 model year, or possibly for 2009. The 2008 Liberty will also have the Load N' Go sliding cargo system that debuted in the Dodge Nitro. Also expected are such features as stability control and hill decent assist.

Another major change is the spare tire moving from the tailgate to under the vehicle. It will still have a 2 piece tailgate however, with the glass being able to lift up independently from the gate. And, although we couldn’t get a picture, we saw that the tailgate also lifts up now, instead of to the side.

And although some may think of the new Liberty as Jeep’s version of the Nitro (or vice-versa), the Liberty will prove to be more off-roadcapable than the Nitro, giving it rights to the Jeep nameplate.

Upadate 2: Freightliner plans Mexico factory despite layoffs elsewhere

Bloomberg News | AUBURN HILLS - - DaimlerChrysler's Portland-based Freightliner unit will build a $300 million truck plant in Mexico to meet a surge in long-term demand even as it prepares for as many as 4,000 North America layoffs next year.

The site is in Saltillo, Coahuila, Freightliner said today in a statement. It will be the second Mexico factory for Freightliner, the world's largest truckmaker.

Freightliner is counting on sales to rise after 2007. For next year, company chief Andreas Renschler expects North American truck output may fall 39 percent because 2006 purchases jumped before new U.S. emissions rules boost prices on Jan. 1.

"This news comes as a surprise after their talk about layoffs," said Stephen Pope, a Cantor Fitzgerald analyst in London. "There has to be a major cost advantage or incentive for this plant to get the go-ahead after the layoff. Freightliner may also be easing out of one relatively high-cost area in North America in favor of a lower-cost one."

Freightliner spokeswoman Amy Sills couldn't immediately be reached for comment.

Renschler said last week 800 employees at a St. Thomas, Ontario, plant already had been told they'll be laid off starting in March. The commercial-vehicles unit has about 25,328 employees at 11 plants in North America. Laid-off workers are eligible for recall.

Groundbreaking for the northern Mexico plant will occur in the second quarter of 2007, and production will begin in 2009, Freightliner said. The factory will be able to produce as many as 30,000 trucks annually and employ 1,600 people.

The site is near a Chrysler automotive plant that produces the half-ton and three-quarter-ton Dodge Ram pickups. Chrysler also operates an engine and stamping plant in Saltillo.

U.S. medium- and heavy-duty truck sales rose 8.6 percent through October to 480,608 vehicles, according to Automotive News. Freightliner was the biggest seller, at 103,658.

Detroit Auto Show: 2008 Smart ForTwo gets NA debut in Detroit

AUTOBLOGGREEN| Sam Abuelsamid

The first generation Smart ForTwo has popped up at the Detroit Auto Show several times over the years, mostly on the stands of various parts companies and tuners. However, no Smart has ever been officially available for sale from the manufacturer in the United States. That's all going to change this January though. The recently announced second generation ForTwo will be available in the US market, but not for another year. DaimlerChrysler will have a special stand for Smart opposite the Chrysler and Dodge displays in Cobo Hall next month although the cars on display will be Euro-spec models. The US spec versions will apparently be shown later in the year.

[Source: DaimlerChrysler]
North American International Auto Show in Detroit: Premiere of the new smart fortwo in the USA

Stuttgart, Dec 20, 2006
For the very first time on US soil: the new smart fortwo, celebrating its USA premiere at this year's North American International Auto Show in Detroit (January 7 to 21, 2007). The new smart fortwo will be available in the USA beginning in the first quarter of 2008. The car shown in Detroit is an European version of the new smart fortwo. Model lines to be available in the United States will be announced at later date.

smart, like Mercedes-Benz and Maybach, is part of the Mercedes Car Group. The exhibition stand is directly opposite Chrysler and Dodge in Oakland Hall (inside Cobo Center). Written in large letters on the stand are the words "Coming to the USA in 2008". And right in front of it, a smart fortwo with red bodypanels and a silver tridion safety cell.

The new smart fortwo can do everything that the current model can do - but better. This means that the new smart fortwo is even more comfortable, even more agile, even safer and even more environmentally friendly than its predecessor. And from the first draft it is designed to meet USA customer needs and registration standards.

The right car at the right time

It is time for the smart fortwo to make an appearance in the USA; fuel prices are rising, and city traffic is increasing by the day. In short, the smart fortwo is the right car at the right time.

On the other side of the Atlantic, the two-seater quickly became a popular vehicle following its launch in October 1998. The same is sure to hold true in the USA.

More than 770,000 customers have chosen the first generation of the smart fortwo – often to replace a larger car with the lively two-seater. Because the smart fortwo is something special and stands out from the crowd, and because it is simply fun to drive.

Apart from this, the vehicle concept is also highly practical – especially for people who live in cities or urban areas. On most journeys a car carries just a single occupant, and because people make faster progress through the city in a smart fortwo. And because with a smart fortwo, people can make faster progress through city streets and they do not even need to search for a parking space – the smart fortwo can easily fit between in very limited space – they can find one right away.

As early as 2002, the smart fortwo was included in the permanent collection in New York's Museum of Modern Art – the only vehicle there that is still produced today. The five other models to attain this honor were the Cisitalia, Jaguar E-Type, Willy's Jeep, Ferrari Formula 1 and Volkswagen Beetle.

The right distribution partner

With Roger Penske and UnitedAuto Group, smart has the right distribution partner to bring the smart fortwo to the US market in 2008. smart USA is currently reviewing market data to determine dealership locations – no specific locations have been identified to date. Dealer organizations will be announced during the second half of 2007.

UnitedAuto Group, Inc., headquartered in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, operates 319 dealers with 41 different brands and 27 repair workshops. UAG specializes in the sale of new and pre-owned cars, financing, insurance and supplying spare parts and also offers a maintenance and repair service for all the brands it offers.

CANADIAN TRADE-MARK: Chrysler Nassau

CANADIAN TRADE-MARK DATA
*** Note Data on trade-marks is shown in the official language in which it was submitted.

The database was last updated on: 2006-12-19

APPLICATION NUMBER: 1300665

REGISTRATION NUMBER: not registered

STATUS:	ADVERTISED
FILED:	2006-05-05
FORMALIZED:	2006-05-08
ADVERTISED:	2006-11-22

APPLICANT:
DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION, a Delaware corporation, also trading as DAIMLERCHRYSLER 1000 Chrysler Drive Auburn Hills, Michigan 48326-2766 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
	AGENT:
	PAUL B. BÉLANGER 740, SAINT-MAURICE SUITE 507 MONTREAL QUÉBEC H3C 1L5
	REPRESENTATIVE FOR SERVICE:
	PAUL B. BÉLANGER 740, SAINT-MAURICE SUITE 507 MONTREAL QUÉBEC H3C 1L5

TRADE-MARK:

NASSAU

INDEX HEADINGS:

NASSAU

WARES:

(1) Motor vehicles, namely, cars, trucks and sport utility vehicles.

CLAIMS:

Proposed Use in CANADA.

ACTION	DATE	BF	COMMENTS
Filed	05 May 2006
Created	08 May 2006
Formalized	08 May 2006
Search Recorded	28 September 2006
Approved	24 October 2006
Translation Requested	24 October 2006	15 November 2006	20061109094249
Translation Received	09 November 2006
Extracted for Advertisement	09 November 2006		Vol.53 Issue 2717 2006/11/22
Advertised	22 November 2006		Vol.53 Issue 2717

CANADIAN TRADE-MARK- DODGE DEMON

CANADIAN TRADE-MARK DATA

The database was last updated on: 2006-12-19

APPLICATION NUMBER: 1321126

REGISTRATION NUMBER: not registered

STATUS:	FORMALIZED
FILED:	2006-10-13
FORMALIZED:	2006-11-22

APPLICANT:
DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION, A DELAWARE CORPORATION, also trading as DAIMLERCHRYSLER. 1000 Chrysler Drive Auburn Hills, Michigan 48326-2766 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
	AGENT:
	RIDOUT & MAYBEE LLP ONE QUEEN STREET EAST SUITE 2400 TORONTO ONTARIO M5C 3B1
	REPRESENTATIVE FOR SERVICE:
	RIDOUT & MAYBEE LLP ONE QUEEN STREET EAST SUITE 2400 TORONTO ONTARIO M5C 3B1

TRADE-MARK:

DEMON

INDEX HEADINGS:

DEMON

WARES:

(1) Motor vehicles, namely automobiles.

CLAIMS:

Priority Filing Date: October 11, 2006, Country: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, Application No: 77/018961 in association with the same kind of wares. Proposed Use in CANADA.

ACTION	DATE	BF	COMMENTS
Filed	13 October 2006
Created	23 October 2006
Formalized	22 November 2006

What is the Mercedes CLC-Class?

LEFTLANE NEWS - - Back in May, we uncovered a trademark filing made by DaimlerChrysler for the Mercedes "CLC-Class." The name was registered early that month, and was published for opposition seven days ago — on December 12th, 2006. As expected, the filing covers "automobiles and their structural parts."

It's not clear what the CLC-Class is, or when — if ever — it will come to market, but the name suggests a few different possibilities. The name could conceivably refer to a two-door version of the CLS "coupe," or it could refer to a CL convertible.

A two-door CLS would likely be priced the same as its four-door counterpart — with prices starting around $67,000. That would position between the $47,000 CLK and the $100,000 CL-Class. Alternatively, the CLC might be a drop-top version of the CL-Class coupe. In September, Germany's Auto Motor und Sport reported Mercedes was working on such a car. Stay tuned…

Trademark Update: Approval for latest Dodge frontal Grill

Goods and Services	IC 012. US 019 021 023 031 035 044. G & S: Motor vehicles, namely sport utility vehicles, and structural parts and engines therefor
Mark Drawing Code	(2) DESIGN ONLY
Design Search Code	18.11.25 - Battery carrier trays for automobiles; Belts, safety, vehicle; Brakes (automobile); Car seats, baby; Clutches, vehicles; Gear shifts, vehicle; Grills (automobile); Head lights, vehicle; Hitches, (trailers); Horns (vehicular); Jacks (vehicle); Kick stands (bicycle); License plates; Lights, auto; Lights, bicycle; Mirrors, vehicle; Oars; Paddles, canoe; Pedals (vehicular); Porthole; Racks, (automobile) ; Radiators, vehicle; Sails; Seat belts, vehicle; Stick shifts (automobile); Windshields (vehicular)
Serial Number	78789266
Filing Date	January 11, 2006
Current Filing Basis	1B
Original Filing Basis	1B
Owner	(APPLICANT) DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION CORPORATION DELAWARE CIMS 483-02-19 1000 Chrysler Drive Auburn Hills MICHIGAN 48326
Description of Mark	The mark consists of the three dimensional configuration of the front grille of a sport utility vehicle.
Type of Mark	TRADEMARK
Register	PRINCIPAL
Live/Dead Indicator	LIVE

Trademark Update: HORNET

Mark


(words only): HORNET

Standard Character claim: Yes

Current Status: Final review prior to publication has been completed, application will be published for opposition.

Date of Status: 2006-12-19

Filing Date: 2005-12-23

The Information will be/was published in the Official Gazette on (DATE NOT AVAILABLE)

Transformed into a National Application: No

Registration Date: (DATE NOT AVAILABLE)

Register: Principal

Law Office Assigned: LAW OFFICE 110

Attorney Assigned:
THOMAS SARA NICOLE Employee Location

Current Location: M10 -TMO Law Office 110

Date In Location: 2006-12-19

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LAST APPLICANT(S)/OWNER(S) OF RECORD

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1. DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION

Address:
DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
CIMS 483-02-19 1000 CHRYSLER DRIVE
AUBURN HILLS, MI 48326
United States
Legal Entity Type: Corporation
State or Country of Incorporation: Delaware
Phone Number: 248-944-6527
Fax Number: 248-944-6537

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GOODS AND/OR SERVICES

---

International Class: 012
Class Status: Active
MOTOR VEHICLES, NAMELY PASSENGER CARS
Basis: 1(b)
First Use Date: (DATE NOT AVAILABLE)
First Use in Commerce Date: (DATE NOT AVAILABLE)

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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

---

(NOT AVAILABLE)

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MADRID PROTOCOL INFORMATION

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(NOT AVAILABLE)

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PROSECUTION HISTORY

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2006-12-19 - Law Office Publication Review Completed

2006-12-19 - Approved for Pub - Principal Register (Initial exam)

Trademark Update: AMC

Mark


(words only): AMC

Standard Character claim: No

Current Status: Registered.

Date of Status: 2006-12-19

Filing Date: 2005-02-24

Transformed into a National Application: No

Registration Date: 2006-12-19

Register: Principal

Law Office Assigned: LAW OFFICE 115

If you are the applicant or applicant's attorney and have questions about this file, please contact the Trademark Assistance Center at TrademarkAssistanceCenter@uspto.gov

Current Location: 650 -Publication And Issue Section

Date In Location: 2006-11-13

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LAST APPLICANT(S)/OWNER(S) OF RECORD

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1. DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION

Address:
DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
CIMS 483-02-19 800 CHRYSLER DRIVE
AUBURN HILLS, MI 48326
United States
Legal Entity Type: Corporation
State or Country of Incorporation: Delaware
Phone Number: 248-944-6511
Fax Number: 248-944-6537

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GOODS AND/OR SERVICES

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International Class: 025
Class Status: Active
t-shirts
Basis: 1(a)
First Use Date: 2005-11-00
First Use in Commerce Date: 2005-11-00

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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

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Design Search Code(s):
26.05.13 - Triangles, two or more; Two or more triangles
26.05.21 - Triangles that are completely or partially shaded
26.11.21 - Rectangles that are completely or partially shaded

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MADRID PROTOCOL INFORMATION

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(NOT AVAILABLE)

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PROSECUTION HISTORY

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2006-12-19 - Registered - Principal Register

Report: Chery Automobile to List Shares

© 2006 The Associated Press | SHANGHAI, China — China's Chery Automobile Co. plans dual initial public offerings in Hong Kong and mainland China in 2008, a state-run newspaper reported Wednesday.

The report in the Shanghai Securities News, which is affiliated with the Shanghai Stock Exchange, gave no details about the size of the planned IPO and did not cite sources. However, it follows company officials' comments about a possible share offering.

Germany's DaimlerChrysler AG is in talks with Chery about possible joint production of a subcompact car for the Dodge brand, a step that could bring low-cost Chinese exports to the U.S. market.

Chery, whose best known model is the QQ minicar, is one of at least two major Chinese automakers ramping up production with hopes of launching models in the U.S. and other Western markets.

The company plans to raise its annual capacity to about 600,000 units in 2008 from 350,000 units now, the newspaper said.

However, Chery's original plan to sell Chery model cars in the U.S. by next year in partnership with flamboyant auto entrepreneur Malcolm Bricklin's Visionary Vehicles appears to have stalled.

Bricklin told reporters at the Beijing Auto Show that he did not expect China-made vehicles to succeed in meeting safety requirements and other regulatory standards before the U.S. market before 2009.

Chery, based in the eastern Chinese city of Wuhu, plans to launch sales of the QQ in Indonesia and already exports vehicles or assembly kits to the Middle East and other Asian markets

Freightliner to Build Mexico Truck Plant

Associated Press - - Freightliner LLC, a truckmaking unit of DaimlerChrysler AG, said Wednesday it plans to build a US$300 million (euro228.4 million) factory in Saltillo, northern Mexico.

The new facility is being built to boost capacity ahead of an anticipated upturn in demand in 2009, the company said in a statement

Construction of the new plant confirms "our bullish mid-term outlook for industry recovery post-2007," Freightliner Chief Executive Chris Patterson said.

The Saltillo plant is the second Freightliner manufacturing facility to be located in Mexico, joining the Santiago Tianguistenco plant which produces Freightliner-branded heavy- and medium-duty trucks for domestic Mexico sales as well as export to Latin America, the U.S. and Canada.

Shares in DaimlerChrysler (nyse: DCX - news - people ) rose 1.6 percent to euro46.95 (US$61.67) in Frankfurt trading.

BREAKING NEWS - - Oil prices trim gains after larger-than-expected drop in crude inventories and big increase in gasoline supply.

US: Chrysler adopts new propshaft technology

GKN Driveline's new countertrack PX propshaft technology that provides weight-savings and fuel-efficiency benefits will be added next year as a running change to some versions of the Chrysler Group's 2007 model year Dodge Ram and Dakota ...

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., -- Vehicle makers plan to introduce "breakthrough" technology from GKN Driveline that provides lighter driveshaft components, improved fuel economy and better overall vehicle performance.

"Customers whose cars are equipped with this new technology will notice significant improvements in performance," says Rob Rickell, director of engineering for the GKN Driveline's global driveshaft group.

The technology is scheduled to appear on new models built in the USA next year, followed by European introductions. Compared with current designs, GKN Driveline's new driveshaft components will offer new-car buyers products that are expected to be:

  *  Lighter by 8.8 pounds or more,
*  More fuel efficient by up to .65 gallons per 1,000 miles,
*  Easier to park with turning-circle reductions of one meter or more and
*  Quieter, due to reductions in driveline noise, vibration and harshness.

"Our new designs represent the first major change in constant-velocity joint (CVJ) technology in more than 70 years," says Rickell. "Teamwork played a major role in the development process. Engineering groups working together at company research centers in Germany, Mexico, Spain and the USA were able to develop production-ready components in less than three years."

Driveshafts equipped with the new technology will be manufactured at GKN Driveline facilities around the world. The company is the industry's leading supplier of CVJs designed to help transfer power from a vehicle's engine to its wheels. Car and light-truck drivelines typically are equipped with up to 12 such joints. GKN Driveline currently produces more than 95-million CVJs per year.

With GKN Driveline's new technology, the owner of a mid-sized, front- wheel-drive car equipped with a six-cylinder engine could expect annual fuel- economy savings of $95 or more, according to Rickell.

In addition to various consumer benefits, GKN Driveline's new generation of CVJs also provides vehicle manufacturers with reductions in driveshaft package size up to eight percent or more and improvements in operating efficiency of more than 30 percent. Package-size reductions also can reduce component weight from eight to 15 percent.

The company's patented countertrack(TM) and crosstrack(TM) technologies currently are undergoing further development in collaboration with two European manufacturers, two Japanese carmakers and one in the USA.

"We expect countertrack(TM) and crosstrack(TM) technology to replace designs currently used on an industry-wide basis within a relatively short period of time," Rickell said.

Because of its unique track design, GKN Driveline's countertrack(TM) system balances internal forces within a joint to improve operating efficiency by reducing energy losses due to heat and friction. Another design feature allows engineers to reduce overall package size and increase steering angles to enhance maneuverability.

US: Mercedes-Benz to unveil four-door convertible concept at Detroit motor show

By Automotive World staff writer (ANK)
20 December, 2006
Source: Automotive World

Mercedes-Benz will show a convertible concept version of its four-door S-Class sedan at the Detroit motor show in early January. The 'Ocean Drive' is based on the V12-engined S 600 variant.

The concept features a large grille, LED headlamps and taillights and two-tone paintwork. It also features the AIRSCARF neck-level heating system on all four seats, allowing for top-down driving in colder months. This is already available on the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class coupe/convertible model.

The car is also reported to feature other existing DaimlerChrysler technology such as Brake Assist PLUS, the PRE-SAFE brake system (in combination with radar-based Distronic PLUS) and the PRE-SAFE anticipatory occupant protection system.

Mercedes-Benz is yet to confirm if this convertible concept will enter production. It is the second such topless four-door concept in recent times. US-based roof systems supplier ASC displayed a convertible version of the Chrysler 300, the 'Helios' concept, to demonstrate its engineering abilities at the 2005 Detroit show. This large sedan, like the Ocean Drive, had no window frames or visible rollover protection hoops. It was fitted with a steel bulkhead just behind the car's front seats that was attached to 'half' B-pillars.

ASC noted at the time of the Helios' unveiling that the last four-door convertible anywhere in the world, the Lincoln Continental Convertible, was discontinued in 1967, and that there was an opportunity for an OEM to be first to reintroduce such a model.