EarthShell Dinnerware Coming Soon to Additional New Retailers; Company Launches EarthShell ''Smart Car'' Promotion

BALTIMORE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--- EarthShell(R) Corporation (OTCBB:ERTH), innovators of environmentally preferable foodservice disposables made from corn, potatoes and limestone, announced today, with its licensee ReNewable Products, Inc., (RPI) that EarthShell Dinnerware plates and bowls will be selling at two additional retail grocery chains. Additionally, the Company is launching the EarthShell "Smart Car" promotion to introduce retail consumers to the EarthShell Dinnerware brand.

In addition to its current distribution, EarthShell plates and bowls will now be on the shelves at Acme Markets during the first week of August. Acme operates 133 supermarkets in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, and New Jersey and recently became part of the SUPERVALU family, a leader in the grocery and retailing industry for 135 years. Additionally, EarthShell Dinnerware will soon be available at Demoulas Super Markets, Inc. Founded in 1954, Demoulas Super Markets, Inc. operates 60 stores under the names Demoulas Super Markets and Market Basket in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Today's news brings the total number of retail locations already selling EarthShell Dinnerware, together with those customers finalizing product orders, to over 2,000 stores nationwide.

To raise retail consumers' awareness of the many environmental and performance benefits of the EarthShell Dinnerware brand, a special and unique promotion has been launched. A DaimlerChrysler Smart Car, "wrapped" in EarthShell colors, logo, product and ingredient graphics, is appearing at select retailers including Schnucks supermarkets and Sam's Clubs throughout the Midwest. Highly popular in Europe and just making its U.S. debut, the 8-foot long Smart Car draws strong and enthusiastic attention, allowing an EarthShell representative to introduce EarthShell plates and bowls to consumers as they enter the store. The Smart Car, engineered to be highly fuel efficient, minimize energy used in production, and maximize use of recycled materials, is an excellent fit with the EarthShell brand.

"Every week EarthShell Dinnerware is becoming available to more consumers and businesses throughout the country," said Vincent J. Truant, chairman and chief executive officer of EarthShell Corporation. "EarthShell is building a broader and stronger foundation of business and we will continue to keep our investors informed about other key developments to include new business and new product introductions."

The Company further stated that EarthShell plates and bowls are also available online through its website and institutional customers can contact EarthShell directly.

EarthShell Corporation is engaged in the licensing and commercialization of proprietary composite material technology for the manufacture of foodservice disposable packaging, such as plates, bowls and cups. In addition to certain environmental characteristics, EarthShell Packaging is designed to be cost and performance competitive compared to other foodservice packaging materials.

EarthShell foodservice disposable packaging is designed with the environment in mind. Developed over many years using a "life cycle inventory" and in consultation with leading environmental experts, EarthShell products reduce the environmental burdens of rigid food service packaging through the careful selection of raw materials, processes and suppliers. The products are made primarily from natural limestone and starch from potatoes, wheat or corn. The new packaging poses substantially fewer risks to wildlife than polystyrene foam packaging because it biodegrades when exposed to moisture in nature, physically disintegrates in water when crushed or broken, and can be composted in a commercial facility, where available, or in your backyard.

For more information, please visit our web site at www.earthshell.com.

2008 Dodge Viper ZB-700 Vert Production Test Vehicle

Photo Credit: DodgeForum.Com

HEMISPERICAL BLOG, AUBURN HILLS MI - - Taken beyond the fence, here is the 2008 Dodge Viper ZB-700 tester vehicle that reveals minor changes to bulging hood, side pipes, and rear bumper diffuser.

2008 Dodge Viper ZB-700

Photo Credit: [Shown in image]

HEMISPERICAL BLOG, AUBURN HILLS MI - - Here is the latest spy image of the 8.4-Liter [dynoed over 700-HP] V-10 Magnum engine that will reside in the next 2008 Dodge Viper, shoehorned in the refreshed ZB platform. This picture was doctored to protect those who currently worked for DaimlerChrysler.

Taken by insiders, we come to find out that not only it is above the Internet media prediction of 650-Horsepower, we see it is a reality and plus some, that other goodies like VVT is currently being worked on, next intake is equippped with ten-throttle bodies assemblies covered by a intake manifold shield, and a bigger and better freeflowing exhaust system.

According to the insider, the new engine will be connected with the latest updated drivetrain, new HO coolant system, updated Brembo Braking, and possible active suspension system for controllability.

Though a short life platform, the GTS coupe version will follow six months after the release of the vert version and then 12-months, the Viper will shed its snakeskin for the generation Viper that will include the latest engineering marvel from the ME Four-Twelve program. Sleeker, meaner, and just plain bad boy, this new ZCC platform car will inherit three other halo vehicles to save cost across both side of the ocean.

Sheduled to be shown at the next Viper Membership meeting called VOI in Las Vegas next month.

Lakewood resident competes for $1 million contract

Contributed by: Ryan Barry on 8/7/2006 - - Derel Cianfrance, of Lakewood, is one of five finalists who is still in the running to win a $1 million production and distribution deal for his own original feature film. Hoping to win a ticket to the big screen, Cianfrance was chosen as a finalist in the Chrysler Film Project from more than 550 nationwide entries, based on his work and potential as a talented emerging filmmaker.

As the next step in the process, Cianfrance and four other finalists will be challenged to create a three to five-minute short film showcasing the 2007 Chrysler Aspen and Chrysler Sebring vehicles, the newest in the Chrysler lineup. The five participants will be judged on the quality and production viability of the screenplay and the grand prize winner will be announced in September.

In addition to the Chrysler Film Project, Cianfrance attended the University of Colorado where he studied under avant-garde film legends Stan Brakhage and Phil Solomon. Cianfrance's first three films all took the University's top prize for student film work three years in a row. Serving as director of photography, Derek revealed teen racing and Hispanic subculture in "Streets of Legend" for which he won best cinematographer at Sundance 2003. Ryan Barry works for Clear!Blue, a communications and marketing company.

Chrysler delays small-car plan

Harald Hamprecht Automobilwoche / August 7, 2006 - 6:00 am LONDON -- The Chrysler group is giving itself more time to find a partner for a new entry-level Dodge to be sold in the United States and Europe."At the start of the fourth quarter, at the latest, we will announce who we will build the new Dodge model with," Chrysler CEO Tom LaSorda told Automobilwoche.

Frank Klegon, Chrysler's development chief, said in January that the decision would be made during the first half of 2006.

In addition to Volkswagen, Hyundai Motor Co. and Mitsubishi Motor Corp., Chrysler is talking "with yet another European (manufacturer) as well as a Chinese manufacturer," LaSorda said.

Discussions with a Chinese automaker involve Chery, industry sources said.

LaSorda said he had no quality concerns about working with the Chinese. VW is seeking the business because it would be able to build a five-door, front-wheel-drive car on the same platform as the next Polo, thereby reducing costs.

By producing a new small car, Chrysler is responding to the trend toward small fuel-efficient cars. The Dodge vehicle may be called the Hornet. "We will also sell this model in Europe," LaSorda said.In contrast, Chrysler sees "insufficient demand" for sporty cars such as the Dodge Challenger and Charger in Europe, said Joe Eberhardt, the Chrysler group's sales and marketing chief.

And Chrysler "doesn't want to unnecessarily distract" dealers as it pushes to increase European sales, he said. "We have to cut back on the pace of our new introductions, since our sales training and showroom capacities are limited."his model in Europe," LaSorda said.

In contrast, Chrysler sees "insufficient demand" for sporty cars such as the Dodge Challenger and Charger in Europe, said Joe Eberhardt, the Chrysler group's sales and marketing chief.And Chrysler "doesn't want to unnecessarily distract" dealers as it pushes to increase European sales, he said. "We have to cut back on the pace of our new introductions, since our sales training and showroom capacities are limited."

Chrysler’s newest sedan is the front-drive 2007 Sebring.

FUTURE PRODUCTS -- CHRYSLER GROUP

2007 Sebring highlights innovation inside and out

Bradford Wernle Automotive News / August 7, 2006 - 6:00 am - - Chrysler group executives hope that distinctive styling and innovative features will set the 2007 Chrysler Sebring apart from the competition. Chrysler is positioning the Sebring as a "clear alternative to European and Japanese competition," Trevor Creed, the Chrysler group's senior vice president of design, said in a statement.

Chrysler executives say the real targets are the perennial leaders of the medium segment - the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. The current Sebring and its sibling, the Dodge Stratus, are also-rans to their Japanese competitors.

The new Sebring's most striking styling feature is the grooved hood, borrowed from the Chrysler Crossfire. Additionally, the car's silhouette presents an almost hatchbacklike profile even though it is a four-door sedan.

Chrysler executives see the interior as the place where the battle for customers' hearts and wallets can be won. One high-tech option is the Harman/Kardon information, entertainment and navigation system. Music and pictures can be downloaded to the system's 20-gigabyte hard drive. The system features what the manufacturer calls a "Thin Film Transistor" display that can support 65,000 colors, providing a 3-D appearance to graphics along with animation capability. The screen can play movies when the vehicle is stopped.Another feature is the front cupholder, which can heat a beverage to 140 degrees or cool it to nearly freezing - 35 degrees.

Also available are a remote start and an express window feature that permits lowering of the front windows by pushing a button on the key fob. Standard Sebring safety features include front airbags, side head curtain airbags and front-seat-mounted side airbags. Electronic stability control and antilock brakes are optional.Three engines are offered: a 172-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder; a 2.7-liter, 190-hp V-6; and a 3.5-liter, 235-hp V-6. The four-cylinder engine is part of Chrysler's World Engine family, co-engineered with Hyundai and Mitsubishi. The engine is assembled in Dundee, Mich.

This Day in Auto History: 07 AUGUST

8.7.1909 Alice Huyler Ramsey arrives in San Francisco, CA in her Maxwell Model 30, completing the first trans-United States automobile trip by a woman driver

8.7.1922 The Barley, named for Albert C. Barley of the Roamer Motor Car Company, is introduced in Kalamazoo, MI

8.7.1927 Giulio Ramponi competes in his first major racing event, finishing third in the Cuneo-Colle della Maddelena Hillclimb in an Alfa Romeo

8.7.1935 The 1,000,000th 1935 General Motors vehicle, a Chevrolet, is produced

8.7.1939 The last races are held at Brooklands - the Third August Outer-Circuit Handicap is won by G. L. Baker in a Graham-Paige, the Mountain Handicap is won by band leader Billy Cotton in an E.R.A., and the Campbell Circuit Race is won by Raymond Mays in an E.R.A.

Source: Automobile History Day By Day, by Douglas A. Wick
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Dodge Caliber receives High Marks for frontal and poor for side-impacts

AP, WASHINGTON -[Insurance Institute for Highway Safety]The 2006 Kia Optima and 2007 Dodge Caliber also earned top scores in frontal tests, but the Caliber had the second-to-lowest score of marginal in side tests. The Optima was not tested on side protection.

The Caliber was an improvement upon its past version, the Dodge Neon sedan, providing protection to the heads of both dummies through side curtain air bags. In past tests, the Neon was rated poor in side-impact tests.

Max Gates, a spokesman for DaimlerChrysler AG, said the automaker will be adding optional side air bags in the Caliber to protect the torso later in the 2007 model year.

Gates said the vehicle has performed well in crash tests and noted that it received the government's highest rating, five stars, for frontal and side impact crash protection

2006-08-06 18:16 (Mw 5.8) BONIN ISLANDS, JAPAN REGION 26.1 144.1

== PRELIMINARY EARTHQUAKE REPORT ==

Region: BONIN ISLANDS, JAPAN REGION
Geographic coordinates: 26.063N, 144.058E
Magnitude: 5.8 Mw
Depth: 21 km
Universal Time (UTC): 6 Aug 2006 18:16:40
Time near the Epicenter: 7 Aug 2006 04:16:40
Local time in your area: 6 Aug 2006 19:16:40
Location with respect to nearby cities:
215 km (134 miles) ESE (121 degrees) of Chichi-shima, Bonin Islands, Japan 310 km (193 miles) ENE (62 degrees) of Iwo-jima, Volcano Islands, Japan 1130 km (702 miles) SSE (150 degrees) of Shizuoka, Honshu, Japan
1144 km (711 miles) SSE (158 degrees) of TOKYO, Japan

ADDITIONAL EARTHQUAKE PARAMETERS
________________________________
event ID : US rbax
This event has been reviewed by a seismologist at NEIC For subsequent updates, maps, and technical information, see:
http://earthquake.usgs.gov/eqcenter/recenteqsww/Quakes/usrbax.php

2006-08-05 14:03 (Mb 5.9) MENDOZA, ARGENTINA -33.0 -68.7

== PRELIMINARY EARTHQUAKE REPORT ==

Region: MENDOZA, ARGENTINA
Geographic coordinates: 33.023S, 68.699W
Magnitude: 5.9 Mb
Depth: 22 km
Universal Time (UTC): 5 Aug 2006 14:03:44
Time near the Epicenter: 5 Aug 2006 11:03:44
Local time in your area: 5 Aug 2006 15:03:44
Location with respect to nearby cities:
19 km (12 miles) SE (145 degrees) of Mendoza, Argentina
165 km (102 miles) S (186 degrees) of San Juan, Argentina 190 km (118 miles) ENE (74 degrees) of SANTIAGO, Chile

ADDITIONAL EARTHQUAKE PARAMETERS
________________________________
event ID : US raau
This event has been reviewed by a seismologist at NEIC For subsequent updates, maps, and technical information, see:
http://earthquake.usgs.gov/eqcenter/recenteqsww/Quakes/usraau.php

JALOPNICK AUTO BLOG - - Engine geeks, get out your PDAs and start scribbling. Automotive News reports today on Chrysler's new surfeit of powertrains in the pipeline. Some we've known, some we're just wrapping our little gearheads around.

As we've noted previously, the 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee will get Merc's E320 mill -- the 3.0-liter common rail turbodiesel V6 that made Neiman Marcus milfs love the smell of truckers in the morning.

For the Ram-sized iron, a larger Cummins inline six diesel will make the options list for Ram 2500 and 3500 pickups, with an additional Cummins 4.2-liter V6 (190 hp) -- likely for the Durango -- and 5.6-liter V8 (260 hp) -- for the Ram 1500 -- coming in 2010. Next, a new family of gas-fired V6s is in the works for 2010 model year -- they'll be modular, making it easier for Chrysler and Mercedes to share parts, if not applications.

Also, the company's first application of a hybrid-drive system developed with GM and BMW will appear in the 2009 Dodge Durango, which will also get Chrysler's cylinder deactivation tech. A front-drive hybrid will also go into production subsequently.

Toyota, Chrysler won't pull ads from 'Rescue Me'Carmakers brush off complaints from Parents Television Council

Jean Halliday Advertising Age / August 4, 2006 - 10:35 am DETROIT -- Neither Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. Inc. nor the Chrysler group is buckling under pressure from the Parents Television Council to pull their advertising from FX Networks' "Rescue Me.

"The group sent letters to both advertisers asking them to withdraw from the show about New York City firefighters, said Melissa Caldwell, senior director of programs.When the automakers refused to pull their ads, the group issued press releases on July 24 and Thursday, Aug. 3, criticizing Toyota and Chrysler, respectively. The group called the show "cultural sewage" in the wake of recent episodes depicting graphic rape and brutal violence.

Chrysler response
A Chrysler group spokeswoman said Jason Vines, the company's vice president of communications, faxed a letter to the group on Monday, July 31, saying the show was part of the automaker's broad media buys to reach diverse audiences. She said Dodge and Jeep have advertised during the show, but the program is not on either brand's current media schedule.

Vines' letter went on to say the Chrysler group planned to continue advertising on a diverse range of programming.

"We do this not with the intent to offend but with an appreciation for diversity in consumer viewing preferences," he wrote. "It is also important to remember that the American consumer has the ability to turn on or off TV shows, as do PTC members."Turning off a show isn't the solution, Caldwell said.A Toyota spokeswoman said Lexus' media flight on the show has ended, but the Toyota brand continues as an advertiser.

Group turns to its membersNeither carmaker gave the group the response it had hoped for, so the group said it plans to contact its 1 million-plus members, hoping to galvanize them to blitz the advertisers with complaints.The group sends letters to all the show's advertisers asking them to withdraw, Caldwell said. The group won't issue releases about other marketers until they've had a chance to respond. When asked if not responding is an advertiser's best move, Caldwell said, "Not necessarily. We'll probably step up our efforts.

"Dairy Queen and Alltel ended their ad support for "Rescue Me" after being contacted by the PTC, a group spokeswoman said.The group "was founded in 1995 to ensure that children are not constantly assaulted by sex, violence and profanity on television and in other media," according to the Chrysler group release.

'Advertisers have an obligation'Citing Nielsen data, Caldwell said more than 130,000 people under the age of 18 typically watch "Rescue Me," and children as young as 2 are viewers."We're not saying parents have no obligation. But advertisers have an obligation," she said. "If a line is to be drawn in the sand, it will be by advertisers," because the program won't air without ads.

An FX spokesman said he knew about the group's Toyota release but was unaware of the Chrysler group release. FX plans to issue a statement as soon as today.

The PTC isn't the first group to target "Rescue Me."T-Mobile said it would pull its ads from the show and FX sibling "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia" after Don Wildmon and his American Family Association bombarded CEO Robert Dotson's inbox with e-mails complaining about the programming, Advertising Age reported on July 24.

Fuel sipping all the rage, but more hp never goes out of style

Edward Lapham Automotive News, DETROIT - - As the price of gasoline bounces past $3 a gallon in more and more areas, consumers are beginning to think small. They're shopping for smaller trucks, smaller SUVs and even smaller cars.For their part, automakers are bringing smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles to market as quickly as they can.

For example, Toyota has its Yaris. Nissan has the Versa. General Motors' ace in the hole could be Daewoo.Meanwhile, the Chrysler group is close to working out a deal to have either Volkswagen or China's Chery build a small car that could be sold in North America as a Dodge.

But not everybody is in panic mode trying to promote their fuel sippers. For example, BMW has a couple of new small cars that boast more horsepower.

The new Mini has a new four-cylinder engine that will develop 175 hp in the hot Cooper S version while getting about 34 mpg. The 2007 model goes on sale after the first of the year -- and BMW has even upsized the car, adding 2.76 inches in length.

BMW's 1 series, which isn't sold in North America yet, gets a new model that makes more than 300 hp.It just shows that being small doesn't mean you can't still pack a punch … and be proud of it.

BP closes Prudhoe Bay Oil Fields, Alaska

OIL UP
By 0931 GMT, the pan-European FTSEurofirst 300 index <.FTEU3> was 1.1 percent lower at 1,330.5 points, while the Nikkei average <.N225> ended down 2.2 percent at 15,154 points.
The spike in oil prices also weighed on stock markets, as London Brent crude oil jumped more than 2 percent to a peak of $77.73 a barrel.

Oil producer BP Plc began shutting down its Prudhoe Bay oil field in Alaska, cutting production by 400,000 barrels per day (bpd), or 8 percent of U.S. domestic oil output.
BP shares led declines in Europe, falling 2 percent.

"The BP field is a sizable stream ... The world is already concerned about supplies and this is just adding to concerns," said Tony Nunan, a risk manager at Mitsubishi Corp. in Tokyo.

Spied in America: Smart ForTwo

Leftlane News reader Gerhard Rivera snapped some great photos of the forthcoming 2008 Smart ForTwo in testing in the United States. Spotted at a gas station in the Colorado Rockies, the car is one of the first Smart prototypes we've heard of being in America. In late June, DaimlerChrysler announced it would bring the Smart brand to the United States in 2008. These photos confirm that the ForTwo will get a new headlight design to reflect the change at sister company Mercedes from dual-oval headlamps to sleeker one-piece lights.

## Source: Left Lane News ##

Mercedes-Benz S 500: Mercedes-Benz S-Class Makes Film Debut Alongside Meryl Streep

AUTO SPECTATOR Stuttgart, Aug 02, 2006 -- The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is set to premiere in the “The Devil Wears Prada”, the eagerly awaited film out this autumn. The lead and Oscar winner Meryl Streep plays the high-powered, revered editor-in-chief of the world’s most respected fashion magazine in this potential blockbuster, chauffeured in the Mercedes-Benz top-of-the-line model from meeting to meeting with fashion’s crème de la crème in New York and Paris. Because like her, the Mercedes-Benz luxury saloon with its refined style, self-confident elegance and innovative ideas is in a class of its own.Miranda Priestly, editor-in-chief of Runway magazine, is the most powerful woman in fashion.

In the film “The Devil Wears Prada”, due for release in German cinemas in October, two-time Oscar winner Meryl Streep (including “Out of Africa”) manages her fashion empire with a carefully manicured yet uncompromisingly firm hand. The story revolves around the tyrannical fashion editor Miranda, who fills her employees with terror and awe, and her new assistant Andy Sachs (played by Anne Hathaway – “Brokeback Mountain”), fresh out of university who dreams of being anything but a fashion girl. Unlike her predecessors, she however refuses to let her boss’s impossible demands demoralize her and tries to see the fashion world through Miranda's eyes, keeping her feet still firmly on the ground.

Whenever the two are dashing to business meetings and events, the Mercedes Benz S-Class makes its grand entrance. According to director David Frankel (“Sex in the City”), the S 500 is perfect for the role. After all, the Mercedes-Benz luxury saloon and Meryl Streep in her role as businesswoman Miranda Priestly share the same qualities, whether it is the style and absolute perfection or the flawless beauty, to quote the Los Angeles Times review of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Meryl Streep herself sees Miranda and the S-Class as the “trendsetter and good taste icon”.

In fact the S-Class, which celebrated its premiere in autumn 2005, is the world's best-selling luxury saloon and enjoys an exceptional status in the luxury segment – just as the predecessor models have done for decades. The current Mercedes top-of-the-line model is the role model in the field of car development. Outstanding long-distant comfort is ensured thanks to the chassis with standard-fit AIRMATIC air suspension and the dynamic multicontour seat with massage function. The Active Body Control suspension system represents another milestone in car engineering. Ultimately, this luxury saloon opens up new dimensions in dynamic handling while offering its passengers outstanding ride comfort.

The S-Class also offers as standard around a dozen technical innovations, which no other manufacturer in the world can match. These include safety features such as Brake Assist PLUS with radar sensors, PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection, night view assist with infrared technology and the brand-new PRE SAFE® brakes. This unique system can help to automatically reduce the speed of the car before an imminent head-to-tail collision.

All those involved with the film expect “The Devil Wears Prada” is a tremendous success in the US and made so far over $ 100 Million Dollar at the box office only domestically with most of the international territories opening this fall 2006. The excellent cast will be just one element in ensuring the film’s success: the film is based on the Lauren Weisberger bestseller of the same name, which has been translated into 27 languages, and critically acclaimed by Publisher Weekly as a “comic novel that manages to rise to the upper echelons of the chick-lit genre” and by the Detroit Free Press as “devilicous and hilarious”Source: DaimlerChrysler

Pending NHTSA Investigation: Dodge 2002-2003

NHTSA Action Number : PE06028

NHTSA Recall Campaign Number :

N/AMake / Models : Model/Build Years: DODGE / NEON 2002-2003

Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION

Component : EXTERIOR LIGHTING:FOG LIGHTSEXTERIOR LIGHTING:FOG LIGHTS:SWITCHEXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTSEXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS:SWITCHDate Investigation Opened : July 28, 2006Date

Investigation Closed :

Open Summary: ODI HAS RECEIVED 10 CONSUMER REPORTS ALLEGING A LOSS OF HEADLIGHT FUNCTION. SOME OF THE COMPLAINANTS REPORT SEEING SMOKE COMING FROM THE STEERING COLUMN AREA. REMEDY REPAIRS HAVE INCLUDED REPLACEMENT OF THE MULTI FUNCTION SWITCH, ITS WIRING HARNESS, AND/OR THE HARNESS CONNECTOR. ODI HAS OPENED THIS INVESTIGATION TO FURTHER EXAMINE THE ISSUE.

2006-08-02 WISH UPON A THREE-POINTED STAR THIS HOLIDAY!

500SEC.COM NEWS - - MERCEDES-BENZ TO DEBUT EXCLUSIVE SIGNATURE EDITION OF ALL-NEW 2007 CL-CLASS FLAGSHIP COUPE IN SAKS FIFTH AVENUE HOLIDAY CATALOG· Pioneering technology meets bespoke luxury in limited edition of the world’s most desirable and highly anticipated super coupeMontvale, Montvale, NJ – Mercedes-Benz USA and Saks Fifth Avenue come together to offer the Signature Edition of the all-new flagship 2007 CL-Class coupe. Just 20 Signature Edition CL600 luxury coupes will be offered exclusively through Saks Fifth Avenue’s annual “The Gift” holiday catalog which mails to customers mid-October 2006. Last year’s 2005 “The Gift” catalog featured 20 examples of a specially equipped S600 flagship sedan – priced at $145,775 – which sold out in a staggering seven minutes.Widely recognized as the world’s benchmark luxury coupe, the Mercedes-Benz CL-Class can trace its history back to the grand 300 S coupe in 1952. Today it continues to define the pinnacle of automotive innovation and design. The all-new 2007 CL-Class pairs its commanding presence on the road with revolutionary technology including Night View infra-red driving assistance, parking guidance system, PRE-SAFE brakes, Distronic PLUS and COMAND Plus, the intuitively centralized entertainment interface.The eagerly awaited new CL-Class will make its official US debut at the Miami Auto Show this October and is expected to arrive in US showrooms in early 2006. The Signature Edition CL600, built exclusively for Saks Fifth Avenue, offers elegance in abundance, with an exclusive color palette that suits the season – the exterior is Mystic White, paired with Porcelain Nappa leather interior and Piano Lacquer Black wood-trim. It also features 5-spoke 18” wheels and high-performance tires. Under the hood is a twin-turbo V12 that boasts a whopping 510 horsepower and 612 lb.-ft. of torque, propelling the grand coupe from 0-60 in 4.5 seconds. Pricing for this special-edition super coupe has yet to be announced.

Mercedes-Benz Introduces Two New V8 Engines To The CLK-Class Range

• CLK 63 AMG Coupe and Cabriolet • CLK 500 Coupe and Cabriolet

MILTON KEYNES, UK - August 2, 2006: Mercedes-Benz is set to create an unforgettable driving experience with the launch of the exclusive CLK 63 AMG Coupe and Cabriolet; the new top-of-the-range V8 performance models.

Designed for high performance, the newly developed AMG 6208cc V8 naturally aspirated engine replaces the CLK 55 AMG and offers outstanding performance enhancements over the previous engine. The CLK 63 AMG boasts an output of 481 hp and 630 Nm, making it one of the most powerful engines in its class. With exhilarating high-revving flexibility accompanied by high pulling power at low engine speeds, the new AMG V8 delivers 500 Nm of torque to the crankshaft as low down as 2000 rpm, while the maximum of 630 Nm is on tap at 5000 rpm. The new AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC transmission is the perfect complement to the dynamic power delivery and can be operated using the shift paddles on the new AMG sports steering wheel.

Equipped with re-tuned AMG sports suspension and AMG 18-inch light-alloy wheels with new five spoke styling and a new AMG high-performance composite brake system ensures this particular top athlete has just what it takes to deliver sporty handling and is equally adept when coming to a halt.

The dynamic AMG body styling, featuring a new, more distinctively contoured front apron with side air vents and spoiler lip on boot lid, reinforces the CLK 63 AMG’s position as a sporty flagship model combining dynamism with exclusiveness. These qualities extend to the interior, which includes the new AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel with shift paddles, multi-contour AMG sports seats and exclusive Nappa leather upholstery.

The new CLK 63 AMG is available to order now and includes an impressive range of standard equipment.

This Day in Auto History: 02 AUGUST

8.3.1917 The original General Motors Company founded as a New Jersey firm in 1908 is legally dissolved after all of its stock had been acquired by the newly formed General Motors Corporation

8.3.1938 Samuel L. Davis is elected President of Hupmobile

8.3.1955 The American Automobile Association abolishes its Contest Board, leaving United States car racing without a governing body

8.3.1964 Racer Carel de Beaufort dies at age 30 three days after his Porsche had crashed at the Nurburgring circuit during a practice run for the German Grand Prix

Source: Automobile History Day By Day, by Douglas A. Wick
Photo Credit:

Tokyo Auto Gallery: Jeep Scrambler Redux

AUTOBLOG.COM NEWS - - Posted Aug 2nd 2006 5:28PM by Alex NunezAre you pining for a production version of the Jeep Gladiator concept? If so, you'll probably wish you could have a crack at the vehicle above, as well.Tiger Auto of Japan created a special Wrangler pickup for the Tokyo Auto Gallery, and it looks just fine to us.

The boys at Tiger took a standard Jeep TJ, stretched the wheelbase 600mm (23.6 in) and then custom-fabricated the rear cab enclosure and the pickup bed. They documented the whole build in a series of photoessays on their website.

(Look for the links labeled "Lung Ra" pickup.)The result is a very well-finished neo-Scrambler whose overall length matches that of a new Commander. A modest 2" lift, custom convertible top, Recaros, and wheel/tire upgrade add the finishing touches. We're big fans of the old-school embossed Jeep logo on the tailgate, too.

This one-off by Tiger is much more appealing than the Scrambler concept shown at the 2005 NADA meeting. The NADA Scrambler was oddly-proportioned and pretty strange-looking.We'd love for DaimlerChrysler to greenlight a production version of the Gladiator, but in lieu of that, we'd happily take Tiger Auto's Wrangler pickup. It may be the best Scrambler on the road today. Pity there's only one of them. (Rear shot after the jump)[Source: Tiger Auto via Response.jp]

M 4.7 EQ NEAR GLEN ELLEN, CA

== PRELIMINARY EARTHQUAKE REPORT ==

California Integrated Seismic Network
http://www.cisn.org

USGS/Caltech/CGS/UCB/UCSD/UNR
Version 2: This report supersedes any earlier reports about this event.
This is a computer-generated message and has not yet been reviewed by a seismologist.
PRINCIPAL EARTHQUAKE PARAMETERS
_______________________________
Magnitude : 4.72 ML (A light quake)
Event Date & Time : 08/02/2006 08:08:13 PM PDT
08/03/2006 03:08:12 UTC
Coordinates : 38.3632 N, 122.5893 W
: (38 deg. 21.79 min. N, 122 deg. 35.36 min. W)
Depth : 5.7 miles ( 9.1 km)
Location Quality : Good
5 km ( 3 miles) W (268 degrees) of Glen Ellen, CA
9 km ( 6 miles) E ( 79 degrees) of Rohnert Park, CA
11 km ( 7 miles) ENE ( 69 degrees) of Cotati, CA
11 km ( 7 miles) NW (309 degrees) of El Verano, CA
11 km ( 7 miles) WNW (302 degrees) of Boyes Hot Springs, CA
14 km ( 9 miles) SE (133 degrees) of Santa Rosa, CA
More Information about this event and other earthquakes is available at http://quake.wr.usgs.gov/recenteqs/latestfault.htm
ADDITIONAL EARTHQUAKE PARAMETERS
________________________________
number of phases : 250
rms misfit : 0.15 seconds
horizontal location error : 0.2 km
vertical location error : 0.3 km
maximum azimuthal gap : 37 degrees
distance to nearest station : 2. km
event ID: 40187964
SOURCE OF INFORMATION/CONTACTS
________________________________

2006-08-02 14:45 (Mb 5.9) SOUTH OF LOMBOK, INDONESIA -11.2 116.8

= PRELIMINARY EARTHQUAKE REPORT ==

Region: SOUTH OF LOMBOK, INDONESIA
Geographic coordinates: 11.163S, 116.778E
Magnitude: 5.9 Mb
Depth: 10 km
Universal Time (UTC): 2 Aug 2006 14:45:04
Time near the Epicenter: 2 Aug 2006 22:45:04
Local time in your area: 2 Aug 2006 15:45:04
Location with respect to nearby cities:
206 km (128 miles) SSE (159 degrees) of Mataram, Lombok, Indonesia
325 km (202 miles) SSE (149 degrees) of Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
371 km (231 miles) SW (215 degrees) of Raba, Sumbawa, Indonesia
1006 km (625 miles) WSW (253 degrees) of DILI, East Timor

ADDITIONAL EARTHQUAKE PARAMETERS
________________________________
event ID : US qxay
This event has been reviewed by a seismologist at NEIC For subsequent updates, maps, and technical information, see:
http://earthquake.usgs.gov/eqcenter/recenteqsww/Quakes/usqxay.php
or
http://earthquake.usgs.gov/

AUTOBLOG NEWS - - Bob Johnson's 1971 Plymouth Barracuda, dubbed G-Force, created quite a stir when it was unveiled earlier in the year, and now the groundbreaking g-machine has earned itself the prestigious Goodguys' 2006 Street Machine of the Year award. Johnson's evil fish took the crown last month - yeah, we're a bit late on this one - by beating out four machines from the Bowtie camp.

Built by Johnson's Rod Shop (supposedly no relation) in Alabama, the award caps a challenging three years of fabrication. The project was motivated by Bob's desire to capture the top spot in the judging after a Top 5 finish with his Camaro back in 2002.

This ground-breaking machine makes liberal use of high-tech materials stretched around a huge Hemi to provide a stunning 3.2 lb/HP power-to-weight ratio. With that sort of power, the high-tech independent suspension at each corner, huge brakes, and even bigger wheels and tires, we're pretty sure that this would excel at any sort of on-pavement use - if indeed the desire existed to thrash what's likely a seven-figure piece of art.
[Source: Goodguys]

JEEP Recalls 800,000

AUTOBLOG NEWS , NHSTA, WASHINGTON- - Poor Chrysler. The American half of DaimlerChrysler has issued a recall on all MY 2002-2006 Liberty SUVs, affecting more than 800,000 of the manufacturer's "Trail Rated" SUVs.

According to the automaker, a front suspension lower ball joint can separate under excessive use. The problem has already received over a 100 complaints with three injuries possibly attributed to the problem.

This is not the first time Chrysler has issued a recall on the Liberty or its ball joints. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration launched an investigation this year on the 2004 Liberty after receiving complaints. And, in 2003, the automaker recalled over 300,000 Liberty SUVs with, you guessed it, problems with the ball joint.

That issue, though, was attributed to shipping and installation problems and not the part itself. Chrysler will repair the recalled part at no cost.

This Day in Auto History: 02 AUGUST

8.2.1900 Horace Elgin Dodge Jr. is born in Detroit, MI

8.2.1917 A special Chalmers Speedster driven by Joe Dawson and Joe Gardham at the Sheepshead Bay Speedway in New York City completes a 24-hour run that set 15 speed and endurance records for stock cars

8.2.1943 William Grover-Williams, a British secret agent who raced as “Williams”, is arrested in France by the Gestapo - the two-time winner of the French Grand Prix would be executed in Paris later in the year

8.2.1950 The Ford Motor Company creates the Defense Products Division to hand government contracts related to Korean War material

8.2.1971 The 1972 Mercedes-Benz models are introduced to the United States market

Source: Automobile History Day By Day, by Douglas A. Wick

Ford Joins DaimlerChrysler and GM with SAE Standards for Engine Rating

To: National Desk, Transportation Reporter
Contact: Nancy Lewis or Shawn Andreassi, 248-273-4092, or email pr@sae.org

WARRENDALE, Pa., Aug. 1 /U.S. Newswire/ -- Ford Motor Company now has two engines that have been tested and certified through SAE International's J1349 Certified Power Standard. One version of the 3.5 liter V-6 engine will be used in the 2007 Lincoln MKZ and the other version will be used in the 2007 Ford Edge and the 2007 Lincoln MKX.

Each of the three domestic OEM's -- Ford, DaimlerChrysler, General Motors and -- now has engines certified through the program.

Engine certification is based on a series of self- certification tests conducted by the manufacturer that are witnessed and verified by an SAE-qualified observer. The procedure for certification is outlined in SAE's standard J2723; the actual horsepower testing procedure is described in J1349. Engine manufacturers are free to cite power and torque figures derived from testing conducted outside the scope of the SAE standards, but in those cases they may not claim those figures are "SAE J1349 Certified Power."

More than 30 engines have been certified under SAE J1349, including the 2006 Chevrolet Corvette Z06, the 2006 Dodge Viper, the 2006 Cadillac XLR-V, and the 2006 Pontiac G6. The full list of certified engines can be accessed by visiting http://releases.usnewswire.com/redir.asp?ReleaseID=70104&Link=http://www.sae.org/certifiedpower.

Dodge to launch crossover next year

4CHANNEL AUTO NEWS UK - - Chrysler's Dodge division is to launch a new midsize crossover SUV-MPV late next year, according to Automotive News. The new vehicle will be based on the Chrysler Sebring/Dodge Avenger platform and will be built in Mexico. Although it is probably going to be primarily aimed at the US market, where it will take on the upcoming Ford Edge, Mazda CX-9 and suchlike, this crossover - currently codenamed JC49 - could well come to Europe and the UK as part of Chrysler's plans to offer a full Dodge range over here. It would also offer an alternative to the Jeep Grand Cherokee, which is falling out of favour as buyers increasingly turn to more economical, car-like 4x4s. Production is set to start in late 2007 with sales beginning early 2008; a Chrysler-branded JZ49 sister model is expected to follow in late 2009/early 2010.

Decision on Dodge small car will come in the fallVW, Chery among potential partners for entry-level model

Harald Hamprecht Automobilwoche / August 1, 2006 - 6:00 am LONDON -- The Chrysler group is giving itself more time to find a partner for a new entry-level model for its Dodge division."

At the start of the fourth quarter, at the latest, we will announce who we will build the new Dodge model with," Chrysler CEO Tom LaSorda told Automobilwoche, a sister publication of Automotive News.

Frank Klegon, Chrysler's development chief, announced in January that the decision would be made in the first half of this year.

Besides Volkswagen AG, Hyundai Motor Co. and Mitsubishi Motor Corp., Chrysler is also talking "with yet another European (manufacturer) as well as a Chinese manufacturer," LaSorda said. Discussions with a Chinese manufacturer involve Chery, industry sources said.

LaSorda said he had no quality concerns about working with the Chinese. A decision in Chery's favor would be a setback for VW, since the German automaker would be able to build a five-door, front-wheel-drive car on the same platform as the next Polo, thereby reducing costs.

By producing a new small car, Chrysler is responding to the trend toward small, fuel-efficient cars. The Dodge vehicle may bear the name Hornet. "We will also sell this model in Europe," LaSorda said.In contrast, Chrysler sees "insufficient demand" for sporty cars such as the Dodge Challenger and Charger in Europe, said Joe Eberhardt, the Chrysler group's sales and marketing chief.

Moreover, Chrysler "doesn't want to unnecessarily distract" dealers, he said. "We have to cut back on the pace of our new introductions, since our sales training and showroom capacities are limited."Due to increased competition in the United States, the Chrysler group is intensifying its international expansion. Eight new Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge models are arriving in European dealerships in the second half of this year.

Chrysler group sales outside the United States are expected to climb from 185,000 units to more than 200,000 units in 2006. They are expected to reach 340,000 units by 2009. At that point, Chrysler's market share in Europe is expected to have doubled to 1.4 percent.So far, 60 percent of the 970 Chrysler and Jeep outlets in Europe have picked up the Dodge brand, which was introduced in June.Compared to the corresponding period last year, the profit margin for European dealers has doubled over the first six months of 2006 to 1.0 percent."In the middle term, I see it at 1.5 percent here," Eberhardt said.

BREAKING NEWS - - DaimlerChrysler says U.S. sales skid 34% in July, Reuters reports. Details soon.

Update on the Mercedes-Benz F600 Hygenius Concepts

AUTOBLOG GREEN NEWS Joel Arellano - - Last year sib blog Autoblog posted on the F600 Hygenius, a fuel-cell concept by Mercedes-Benz. FuelCellWorks has provided the following updates:

More hydrogen storage. The new F600 Hygenius has doubled the bar amount from 350 to 700 enabling it store over eight pounds of hydrogen and travel over 240 miles on one tank of fuel.

New membrane and humidification technologies make it easy to start the vehicle at minus 13 degrees Fahrenheit.

A new lithium ion battery which generates twice the power from the previous generation. Additional details can be found at the article. No additional news if the concept will ever go into production is provided though the automaker most likely will incorporate many of the technologies in its production vehicles. [Source: FuelCellWorks]

Smart times: up onto the winners' rostrum by airbrush

PR-INSIDE, GERMANY - - Monika Wolfenstädter has been 'infected' only recently, but the fever she has caught is even more intense for all that. The German is not ill, rather more addicted - in the most positive sense of the word: since this year in June she can proudly call herself the owner of a smart.

Originally she did not care much for the tiny racer, but when it was time to buy a new city car, there was no way around the offspring of the DaimlerChrysler subsidiary. 'It is simply much racier than any other small car.' Now she can hardly live without her pocket-size racer.

The smart has become her passion practically over night.As a real smart fan, Monika Wolfenstädter is naturally going to attend the legendary smart times from 25th to 27 August, the official international smart meeting in the 'Europa-Sportregion Zell am See-Kaprun'. And she can already find her way to Pinzgau in her sleep: 'For the last six years we have regularly gone to the 'Europa-Sportregion', usually even several times a year.

We know our way around.' As passionate skiers, the family are enthusiastic about the winter sports facilities first of all. But they also think that Zell am See and Kaprun are ideal for relaxation in summer. 'The countryside is simply wonderful.'During their next visit to the region, however, Wolfenstädter will not find much time to relax. 'There will be much too much action for a real holiday', she says. For: together with her smart Passion she will be at the centre of everyone's attention.

When the craziest of all the tiny racers is chosen in the craziest smart voting, the members of the jury will also be able to cast their vote in favour of Wolfenstädter's smart, which sports an airbrush style. Initially the family had resprayed the car mainly in order to advertise their own business. It has therefore been given the pet name of 'Advertising Space'. The car body was painstakingly treated to a new paint coat. Now the smart shines in a skilful imitation of steel and chrome, which has won it one of the much sought-after places in the field for the craziest smart voting.

There is a lot of competition: participants from all over Europe are going to pour into Zell am See and Kaprun to present their unique darlings there. 'In the end the tuned up smarts will probably be the winners', thinks Wolfenstädter. But thanks to the unique paint coat of her car, she, too, might have a chance of success.Whatever the outcome will be: the smart community is going to have a big party. Live music by the successful Latvian band 'Brainstorm', test drives of the latest models, or disco nights with culinary specialities will make the weekend pass in a flash.

'My personal highlight will be the car procession when more than a thousand smarts drive through the region', Wolfenstädter is looking forward to the event. Small wonder if her fever were to increase by some degrees after that.You can find more information on the 'smart times 2006' at http://www.pr-inside.com/cc~http://www.mysmart.at__13538.htm on the Internet. Details about the 'Europa-Sportregion Zell am See-Kaprun' are available at http://www.pr-inside.com/cc~http://www.europasportregion.info__13538.htm

Boss gives Dodge UK deadline

Caliber has only just arrived – but sales chief Eberhardt says Dodge must
achieve success in Britain quickly

AUTOEXPRESS, Chris Thorp, UK - - It's only just been launched in the UK, but the clock is already ticking for Dodge. In an exclusive interview, Chrysler Group boss Joe Eberhardt has revealed to Auto Express that the famous US marque has only until 2009 to prove it can be a success in Britain. And if it doesn't make the grade, the company could call time.

International sales chief Eberhardt said that, after three years, top brass would be able to "judge whether Dodge had reached its objectives". And while he refused to discuss sales targets, he claimed he'd be asking major questions, including "Have we established the brand?" and "Have we attracted enough customers?"Now officially on sale, the model spearheading Dodge's UK return is the Caliber. It aims to offer a distinctive alternative to Ford's Focus, and represent "Dodge attitude".

However, many enthusiasts will agree that the reborn Challenger muscle car would make a bigger splash - only that machine won't go on sale in Europe. Instead, the next addition to Dodge's UK line-up will be the Toyota RAV4-rivalling Nitro SUV, due in summer 2007. This will be followed towards the end of next year by a Vauxhall Vectra-sized car, which will share its platform with Chrysler's fresh Sebring. The maker is also trying to find a base for the Hornet supermini.

The MINI rival was unveiled as a concept at last year's Geneva Motor Show, but is too short and wide to fit on a DaimlerChrysler platform, so bosses are searching for a partner company.

American-Style Ridgeline - Dodge Rampage

ANDREW LUU AutoWeek Published 08/01/06, 9:03 am et - - The Dodge Rampage is a truck for nontraditional truck buyers, an idea already taken advantage of by the Honda Ridgeline. Though Rampage is a styling and parts exercise at this point, if the Honda ever becomes the truck of the masses, at least Dodge will have some precedent.

The Dakota-sized Rampage features a Chevrolet Avalanche-style midgate with flat-folding passenger and rear benchseats, plus a cargo bed that not only extends, but acts as a ramp as well.Dodge says the shapes and fabrics of the Rampage’s spacious interior are influenced by dirt bikes and athletic gear. It’s possible Rampage’s shifter-less push-button gearbox and floating center stack will see application in other future products. The stack pulls out and pivots left and right for easy access to the navigation and audio features.

A 5.7-liter Hemi V8 powers Rampage’s front wheels. Yes, front wheels. But remember: Rampage is aimed at the nontraditional truck buyer. Should the truck ever hit the market, Dodge says it will offer all-wheel drive.

One Step Closer to the Dodge Hornet Production

AUTOWEEK, DETROIT MI ANDREW LUU - - The spunky little Dodge Hornet took home our Best Concept award at the Geneva motor show last March (“Swiss Spotlight,” March 13) because, well, it’s so cool Dodge would be dumb not to build it. The Hornet breathes excitement into the economy B-segment with its imposing, hunkered-down stance and a supercharged 170-hp inline-four.

The car’s stylish and super-functional interior is equally impressive. That Dodge allowed a Hornet test drive in Detroit indicates a likelihood of production, though honchos will not confirm that. Instead, top brass like Tom Tremont, vice president of advanced design and strategy, allowed, “Right now we don’t have a small car like the Hornet, and if the market continues the way it is, we’ll have to consider smaller cars in the very near term.

”That’s obvious. The B-segment is filling with newcomers like the Honda Fit and Nissan Versa, and gas prices are not falling. If the Hornet dies, Dodge could be way late to this small-car game. Hornet designer Mark Moushegian wants to see the car built.

“When I was designing the Hornet, I kept in mind this car had the potential for production,” Moushegian said. “That’s why I added wipers, which is rare for a concept. I did that to add more realism, to help drive the message home to build it.”

Other real-world features include a higher seating position to reduce the small-car feel, and rear seats that track back 8.8 inches to provide limo-like legroom. There is in fact such an abundance of room in Hornet’s aftermarket-style interior (think headrest TVs and a bin to house a PlayStation) that the car is more C- than B-segment. The passenger and back seats fold flat into the floor, making for a ton of cargo capacity.

A short drive in the Hornet was not enough to exercise the supercharged engine; as a concept, it drives like a life-sized Power Wheels car: It doesn’t handle and it is slow—around 25-mph slow. But the exhaust emits a raspy note befitting Hornet’s group-B rally-car inspiration, and it’s the kind of affordable transportation that “doesn’t feel like a car you have to drive,” said Tremont.

Dodge will need assistance if it builds the Hornet, and Mitsubishi and Volkswagen are prime candidates to help offset costs. “The B-segment hasn’t been very big here, and the cars are from companies that have already been making them elsewhere,” Tremont said. “These are not high-profit-per-unit cars, and it’s better if we can spread the costs around with a partner.”

All signs point to the Hornet hitting a production line before 2009, ahead of a European debut that will help Dodge establish an international portfolio. Expect the car to then set course for North America. n

This Day in Auto History: 01 AUGUST

8.1.1894 Piston ring manufacturer Allen Waller Morton is born in Richmond, VA

8.1.1910 New York state-issued license plates are introduced

8.1.1915 The Ford Motor Company announces that Model T sales for the previous twelve months were 308,213 units, and that they will honor their rebate offer by mailing $50 “Profit Sharing” checks to each buyer for a total payout of $15,410,650

8.1.1919 The 1920 Winton Model 24 and Model 25 are introduced, the marque’s first totally redesigned cars since 1916 8.1.1923 Alexander Y. Malcomson, Treasurer 1903-1906 and a cofounder of the Ford Motor Company, dies in Ann Arbor, MI at age 58

Source: Automobile History Day By Day, by Douglas A. Wic
Photp Credit: http://www.museum.com/jb/IN/images/dgfx/1787.jpeg

Q&A: Chrysler Designer Tom Tremont

Q&A: Chrysler Designer Tom Tremont
Detroit concepts hit the road.

THE CAR CONNECTION, Paul A. Eisenstein (7/31/2006) - - And predict big--correction, fast--things for 2009.They've been called "fantasies in chrome," and for good reason. Concept cars traditionally give designers a reason to stretch their imagination, and automakers the opportunity to push the limits of their brand - think of the bubble-domed, turbine-powered Firebird III.

Few automakers have used concept vehicles more effectively than Chrysler. Over the years, the automaker has put out some pretty wild show cars, like the ME412 sports car, and a Viper V-10-powered motorcycle. But for the past two decades, Chrysler has emphasized a different approach, using most of its concept vehicles to telegraph its design strategy - and then gauge the market's response.

Prototypes like the Portofino and Eagle Optima gave the world its first glance at the striking midsize sedans of the early 1990s, collectively known as the LH cars. They helped position Chrysler as one of the industry's acknowledged design leaders.

On a hot and muggy morning, last week, the U.S. side of DaimlerChrysler AG brought a handful of its latest concept vehicles, including the Dodge Rampage truck, Hornet minicar, and Challenger coupe, over to the trendy Detroit suburb of Royal Oak . For a handful of automotive journalists, it offered an opportunity to not only see and drive the prototypes in a real-world environment, but to chat with the man who oversaw their development, Tom Tremont, Chrysler's director of advanced design.

TheCarConnection.com chatted with the affable stylist about the various models on display - and the logic of risking hand-built, one-off concept vehicles - typically worth $250,000 or more - in urban traffic.


TCC: Why would you take these unique concept vehicles and let us drive them on the road?

TREMONT: It's something we like doing because people usually see concept cars on the show stand, a surreal situation. We need to see a car in traffic, a real-world experience for you guys, and for us, too. We get a lot out of our concepts. We get to try out our long-range plans, try out ideas, put them out there and see for ourselves what they look like…in the real world.


TCC: People often think of concept vehicles as, essentially, just some wild-eyed fantasy with little practical purpose. Do you agree?

TREMONT: Actually, concepts tend to fall into two different camps. The Akino, which we revealed in Tokyo last year, is one (that is) clearly blue-sky, aimed at looking 15 or 20 years into the future. Then there's the Challenger. When we did the concept, it wasn't an approved program, but in our heart-of-hearts, we hoped it would go into production.


TCC: In years past, you'd go to an auto show, and they'd lift the covers to reveal the concept vehicle. I've noticed that's usually not how Chrysler does things.

TREMONT: We often do concepts on a running platform. (So it can drive onto the stage.) But that can be a matter of convenience because it costs a lot to do the floor stampings and the like. It's actually cheaper to (borrow a real car's platform) and do a drivable concept.


TCC: I notice that with concept vehicles like the Dodge Rampage pickup, the emphasis is not just on the fancy exterior.

TREMONT: We try things out, look at different kinds of features and innovations, like seating and storage. With the Rampage, we may pick up some of those things and use them in other products, even if they aren't trucks, like the movable center storage and flexible seating and armrests that can be used for storage or moved out of the way.




TCC: May we look at some of the concept vehicles you've brought here today?

TREMONT: Sure. Let's start with the Firepower. It was actually a concept we introduced (in 2005). If we're going to do a high-end Chrysler sports car, but not a $300,000 product like the ME412, this might be what it would look like.


TCC: And the Challenger?

TREMONT: When we did it, we realized we had this terrific platform (the LX, shared by vehicles like the Chrysler 300C and Dodge Charger). We looked at our heritage and said we just have to have a muscle coupe again. It's about being true to peoples' memories, rather than going out and doing something futuristic.


TCC: If there's any criticism, it's that the design of the Challenger was too literal, too retro.

TREMONT: I think it's satisfying as done. And there's lots of illusion here. It's actually bigger than the original was. It's not the same car. It's miles different, but we were able to create a careful illusion of the '71 Challenger by controlling lines and proportions.


TCC: How about the little Hornet minicar?

TREMONT: When we launched the Hornet in Geneva, earlier this year, we wanted to do a small, B-segment car that Dodge could bring to Europe, but also something that we could offer in a growing segment in the U.S. It's not your typical B-car. It's tall, small, yet it doesn't shrink in traffic. The design is optimistic and exciting, has presence, with a Dodge attitude to it.


TCC: The U.S. automotive market has shifted a lot since that concept debuted, what with gas prices running at record levels. There's now more interest in small cars. Any plans for producing the Hornet?

TREMONT: We've made the statement that we're looking at it (ed: the automaker is seeking a potential partner, such as Volkswagen, who might build the Hornet for Chrysler). If we did decide we were going into production, this would be the kind of shape, and type of car, we could do for Dodge.


TCC: Then there's the Imperial, which a lot of folks say reminds them of a Rolls-Royce.

TREMONT: Yes, people talk about that, and that perception is driven by the verticalness of the front end, it's that uprightness that people connect with. It's actually the same height, and the same seating package, as in the Pacifica . You slide in and out. Our goal was to give the driver a command of the road, not to create a Rolls. And, actually, elements of the design hearken back to the Chronos (concept of the 1990s), and even the Ghia concept of the '50s.


TCC: Any production plans for Imperial?

TREMONT: When we were told to do the car, we were asked to see what would go above the 300 (currently Chrysler's top model), but for now, I can't say whether there's a business case.

Import firm dreams big about the future of tiny cars

Business & Economy Business & Technology By CLINT SWETT - - In a window-clad showroom on a busy downtown corner here, the future of U.S. motoring could be on display.
Scattered across the polished linoleum floor of the ZAP auto distributorship are brightly painted "micro-cars" with names like Smart, Obvio! and Xebra.

All carry two people, get extraordinary mileage and park in spaces not much bigger than a desk.
Steve Schneider, who broke into the auto industry while working at a Renault dealership two decades ago, is chief executive of ZAP (Zero Air Pollution), a publicly traded company that imports these pint-size cars into the United States.

He's convinced a confluence of events _ soaring gas prices, unrelenting turmoil in the Middle East and increasing fears of global warming _ means Americans are ready for the miniature, environmentally friendly runabouts.

Micro-cars, which are generally half the length of a beefy Chevy Tahoe SUV, are ubiquitous in Europe and Asia, where stratospheric gas prices and crowded streets make them highly practical.

But among American drivers, with access to relatively cheap gas and a love for brawny vehicles and the open road, the tiny cars have never caught on.

That could change soon, experts say. The Smart car, for one, could become a big U.S. seller when its manufacturer, DaimlerChrysler, begins importing it in 2008 at a price expected to be less than $15,000.

"It appears there's a significant market for micro-cars," said Philip Reed, consumer editor for the automotive Web site Edmunds.com. "People are really frustrated with high gas prices."
David Anderson of El Cerrito, Calif., recently bought a Smart car from a Nevada dealership after seeing one on a trip to Europe. He said the parking, fuel economy and handling make it well worth the $25,000 he paid.

"It's (made by Mercedes) so it drives a lot better than we expected," said the law-enforcement retiree. "Everywhere we go, people see it and they just love it."

Anticipating reactions like Anderson's, ZAP brought its first Smart cars into the United States in 2002 and spent $10 million developing ways to modify them to meet U.S. safety and air pollution standards.

Like other micro-cars, the Smart car is so compact it can park head-on to a curb and not stick out into traffic. It boasts gas mileage that ranges from 40 to 75 mpg.

And to meet safety concerns, it's built with an internal roll cage similar to those found in NASCAR race cars, designed to protect passengers in case of a crash.

ZAP says it sells every Smart car it brings into the country, even at $25,000 each. About 280 have gone to dealers in other states, and another 350 are awaiting safety and emissions modifications for the American market. ZAP said it is currently seeking authorization from California regulators to sell the cars there.

Within 90 days of exhibiting a U.S.-ready Smart car at a National Automobile Dealers Association show in early 2005, ZAP said it received more than $2.2 billion in purchase orders from dealers around the country.

"You would have thought we were passing out $100 bills at our booth," Schneider said of the attention the Smart car drew at the show.

But when ZAP officials met with DaimlerChrysler in March 2005 to explain their marketing strategy and the modifications they're doing for the U.S. market, things turned ugly, according to a suit ZAP filed against DaimlerChrysler last October.

According to the suit, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, ZAP announced it would place a purchase order with DaimlerChrysler to bring more than 76,000 Smart cars into the United States.

Shortly afterward, according to the suit, DaimlerChrysler officials said publicly they knew nothing about such an order and questioned ZAP's financing, as well as the safety of its modifications _ even though the cars had already passed muster with all federal and most state regulators.

Its credibility questioned, ZAP saw its stock plunge from $5 a share in late 2004 to $1 a share in May 2005, and as low as 25 cents by the end of last year. It has since rebounded to about 70 cents a share.

The suit hasn't yet gone to trial, and DaimlerChrysler spokeswoman Bettina Singhartinger declined to comment, citing the pending litigation.

Last month DaimlerChrysler announced its own plans to sell the Smart car in the United States at a price that could be $10,000 below what ZAP charges.

Meanwhile ZAP continues to buy Smart cars through independent brokers in Europe and then modifies them to meet U.S. standards at a plant in Southern California.
Despite the high price, ZAP says demand is relentless.

Tom Day, an auto dealer in Scottsdale, Ariz., said he's sold more than 30 Smart cars since March, at about $28,000 each.

"I have everyone from teenagers to (rock star) Alice Cooper buying them," he said. His customers like the the car's look and its high gas mileage, which some buyers have told him tops 70 miles to the gallon. He compares the car to the Mini Cooper, a car with such a high "cool"-quotient that it sells briskly despite a price that can exceed $30,000.

Even if its Smart car business is eclipsed by DaimlerChrysler's expected leap into the U.S. market, ZAP has alternatives waiting in the wings.

One is the Xebra, a Chinese-built three-wheel electric car, which costs less than $10,000 and has a range of up to 40 miles between charges.

Larry Dye, who owns Electric Wheels Inc. in Salem, Ore., said he's taken delivery of 11 Xebras and sold them all, mainly for getting to and from work, he said.

ZAP is also preparing to import the Brazilian-made Obvio!, a flashy 175-hp rocket with Maserati-style doors that open like butterfly wings. Schneider said ZAP could bring Obvio!s into the market by 2007 and sell them for as little as $14,000.

Chrysler could turn to Chinese for Hornet partner

LEFTLANE NEWS - - For nearly a year, Chrysler has been rumored to be seeking a partner to build a $10,000 compact Dodge for the U.S. and other markets. In February, the automaker unveiled the Dodge Hornet Concept — believed to be the basis for the new b-segment vehicle. Chrysler's most serious talks have been with Volkswagen, which could offer the Jetta or Polo architecture for the car. However, Germany's Automobilwoche is now reporting that Chrysler is looking to other potential partners to make the low-cost car a reality. A new frontrunner could be China's Chery Automobile, which specializes in compact cars. While no final decision has been made, it's clear Chrysler is serious about making the Hornet as inexpensive as possible.

Spuy Video - 2008 Dodge Viper video in hot weather testing

http://videos.streetfire.net/video/125b3d63-2a12-4aed-86c8-980b0045160c.htm

Spy Video: 2008 New 650hp "Diamondback" Viper caught hot weather testing.

Chrysler's 'Dr. Z' campaign fails to halt sales slump

Buyers unswayed by $225 million worth of ads starring Chairman Dieter Zetsche

Jean Halliday Advertising Age / DETROIT -- Dr. Z can't give 'em away.

Despite reviving the blistering employee-discount program slammed as "marketing crack," the Chrysler group's U.S. sales are expected to be down 17 percent in July compared with last year. And, although the $225 million ad barrage featuring DaimlerChrysler Chairman Dieter Zetsche was impossible to escape, it did little to lure prospective buyers.Consumers unmovedNot only did some consumers fail to note the employee-discounting message that accompanied most advertising, they were also unmoved by the German-engineering positioning or the DaimlerChrysler chairman, whom they overwhelmingly believed was a fictional character.Auto experts predict the Chrysler group will be forced to crank out a new promotion."We clearly are not doing what we did last July," said a Chrysler group dealer in the Northeast. A dealer in the West said late last week that this month he had sold only about 30 percent of what he had in July 2005.The automaker will report July sales on Tuesday, Aug. 1. But auto-information web site Edmunds.com forecasts the Chrysler group's U.S. sales will slide 17 percent vs. July 2005. The drop reflects one fewer selling day than last year.There are other reasons why the employee-discount program, which moved tons of metal last time, isn't cutting it now.Jesse Toprak, executive director of industry analyst at Edmunds.com, said history has shown that incentives don't work well the second time around. He noted that consumers may have figured out that 0 percentfinancing is actually a better deal than employee discounts because of high interest rates on new-vehicle loans.Others fault rising gasoline prices, which are taking a toll on the entire industry.But some of the blame must be left at the feet of the bespectacled Dr. Z.Art Spinella, president of CNW Marketing Research, said the spots just aren't what the doctor ordered: Eighty percent of new-car intenders thought Dr. Z was a fictional character.Instead of luring buyers who intended to buy competitive brands, CNW found the employee-discount ads pulled ahead sales from people who had planned on buying a Chrysler group product later in the year.And while the German-engineering pitch made more potential buyers consider Chrysler group products in the Northeast, if failed to sway them in the South and Southern California.German accent difficultiesThe commercials have been panned as silly by critics. But one Chrysler dealer said his research found seven out of 10 customers liked them. Only half, however, were as fond of the radio commercials; the remainder said they had a hard time understanding Zetsche's German accent.The automaker might bid auf Wiedersehen to Dr. Z's ads, but can ill afford to drop metal-moving promotions.Even though it's more financially robust than its Detroit rivals, the Chrysler group's second-quarter operating profit plummeted 90 percent to $65 million from $695 million a year ago. The unit's revenue fell to $15.9 billion from $16.7 billion in the second quarter of 2005, and the automaker said the Chrysler group could lose as much as $639 million from July to September.In order to end the year in the black, as Zetsche promised analysts, the company will have to unload more vehicles. It was sitting on a 91-day supply at the end of June, according to a spokesman, 16 days more than the same period a year ago and "a little higher than we'd like." A 60-day supply is the considered ideal. He declined to discuss the supply and whether the employee discounts were working.Overall industry sales off 11 percentTo be sure, Chrysler isn't alone: The entire U.S. industry's sales will be off 11 percent from July 2005 to 1.54 million units, Edmunds.com predicts. But that is compared with record-setting sales in July 2005 fueled by employee price incentive programs.The Chrysler group has had its inventory gathering dust longer than General Motors or Ford Motor Co. every month this year, said Tom Libby, senior director of the Power Information Network. In July, it took the Chrysler group 85 days "to turn" compared with 83 for GM and 81 for Ford, PIN data found. Still, that's an improvement: In June, the Chrysler group had a 93 day-to-turn rate, compared with 73 for GM and 74 for Ford.John Plecha, director of Jeep marketing and global communications, told Advertising Age on July 21 that the employee-discount promotion was generating sales beyond that brand's projections."We do most of our business during the last five days of the month," he noted.But Toprak said Edmunds' projections take those month-end sales pushes into account. He projected the Chrysler group would sell more cars and trucks in July, 191,000, but that's only 4 percent more than it did in June, translating to a slight market-share bump to 12.5 percent from 12.4 percent.

this Day in Auto History: 31 JULY

7.31.1902 The Circuit des Ardennes staged near Bastogne, Belgium and often cited as the first true circuit race is won by Charles Jarrott in a Panhard et Levassor

7.31.1922 Wolfgang Klemperer publishes test results showing the advantages of Paul Jaray’s aerodynamic automobile bodies

7.31.1936 The last 1936 Pontiac Deluxe Eight is produced

7.31.1954 Onofre Marimon is killed at age 30 when his Maserati 250F crashes during a practice run for the German Grand Prix at the Nurburgring

7.31.1972 Ferrari announces its withdrawal from racing

Source: Automobile History Day By Day, by Douglas A. Wick

Dodge crossover coming in '08

Bradford Wernle Automotive News / July 31, 2006 - 6:00 am - -Dodge dealers will get a new mid-range crossover vehicle in early 2008 to compete with the likes of Ford's upcoming Edge and the Toyota Highlander.

The model, called JC49 internally, will be built at Chrysler's Toluca, Mexico, factory starting in December 2007.

The Dodge crossover will be built on the same platform as the new Chrysler Sebring sedan. Sources say DaimlerChrysler estimates volumes of 150,000 a year. Industry analysts forecast an entry-level price of about $20,000.Chrysler has kept the JC49 under wraps, but a company official confirmed plans for the vehicle. Chrysler is calling it a "new concept crossover," trying to set it apart from other entries in an increasingly crowded segment.In March, Chrysler said it will spend $1 billion to increase flexibility at Toluca so that it could make various derivatives on a single line. The investment includes two new supplier parks. Toluca last year turned out 177,370 PT Cruisers and PT Cruiser convertibles.A Chrysler version may arrive in 2010, says Erich Merkle, director of forecasting for IRN Inc. in Grand Rapids, Mich. That vehicle is code-named JZ49. The Chrysler official would not confirm the JZ49 plans.Merkle expects the Dodge crossover to bear the same relationship to the Dodge Avenger sedan that the Ford Edge has to the Fusion sedan on which it is based. The Avenger is the Sebring's Dodge twin, due late in 2007 as a 2008 model.Suppliers say the JC49 also will be assembled in the east China province of Fujian, where DaimlerChrysler has several van assembly plants through a joint venture and a licensing agreement.Supplier sources say the start of production in China for the JC49 is scheduled for mid-2008.Alysha Webb contributed to this report

We Drive Dodge's Challenger And predict big--correction, fast--things for 2009.

The Car Connection Auto News, Paul A. Eisenstein, Arburn Hills, MI -- Expect Hemi power, says Chrysler's number-two executive, Eric Ridenour, starting with the standard, 5.7-liter version of the V-8. During a recent interview, Ridenour demurred when asked whether there'll also be a high-performance SRT version. The answer, we are told, is a tire-spinning yes, with horsepower likely to reach well above 400. Considering the competition, such as Ford's 500-hp Mustang Shelby GT500, that would seem an obvious necessity.

There's a beautifully dressed, 6.1-liter version of the Hemi under the hood of the show car, but while this is a "runner," it's not designed for burnouts. Even if I took advantage of the massive V-8, I'd wind up leaving the low-slung, cobbled-together rear suspension on the first pothole.

So I gingerly steer it down Main Street, in Royal Oak, Michigan, a trendy community that attracts precisely the sort of gearheads who'd be the prime market for Challenger in '08.

Even on this blustery hot mid-week morning, there are plenty of folks wandering around, and the show car is drawing lots of attention. A kid in a Mustang drives by, toots his horn and gives the thumbs-up. A young woman on the sidewalk nudges her boyfriend, who turns and stares at the bright orange coupe.Expect Hemi power, says Chrysler's number-two executive, Eric Ridenour, starting with the standard, 5.7-liter version of the V-8. During a recent interview, Ridenour demurred when asked whether there'll also be a high-performance SRT version. The answer, we are told, is a tire-spinning yes, with horsepower likely to reach well above 400. Considering the competition, such as Ford's 500-hp Mustang Shelby GT500, that would seem an obvious necessity.

There's a beautifully dressed, 6.1-liter version of the Hemi under the hood of the show car, but while this is a "runner," it's not designed for burnouts. Even if I took advantage of the massive V-8, I'd wind up leaving the low-slung, cobbled-together rear suspension on the first pothole.

So I gingerly steer it down Main Street, in Royal Oak, Michigan, a trendy community that attracts precisely the sort of gearheads who'd be the prime market for Challenger in '08.

Even on this blustery hot mid-week morning, there are plenty of folks wandering around, and the show car is drawing lots of attention. A kid in a Mustang drives by, toots his horn and gives the thumbs-up. A young woman on the sidewalk nudges her boyfriend, who turns and stares at the bright orange coupe.

It's hard to say what the U.S. new-car market will look like by 2008. Some "experts" are predicting oil prices of $100 a barrel and $4 or more a gallon. Whether there'll be any market left for muscle cars is far from certain, but barring that sort of fuel crisis, the initial reaction to driving the iconic Challenger concept can only be described as positive. It's the sort of design you want to see and be seen in.The strongly retro look of the Challenger concept proved controversial when it was unveiled last January. It's Chrysler's style to go for the polarizing exterior design; you love it or leave. But the striking interior gets kudos across the board. Let's be honest, current Dodge products are pretty basic, with far too much Kmart-class plastic. The prototype Challenger is richly appointed with just the right amount of chrome and a set of eye-pleasing gauges.

According to Tremont, the production car will be "very close" in appearance. We just hope that is true both inside and out.

It's hard to say what the U.S. new-car market will look like by 2008. Some "experts" are predicting oil prices of $100 a barrel and $4 or more a gallon. Whether there'll be any market left for muscle cars is far from certain, but barring that sort of fuel crisis, the initial reaction to driving the iconic Challenger concept can only be described as positive. It's the sort of design you want to see and be seen in.

2006-07-30 01:28 (Mw 5.5) NIAS REGION, INDONESIA 1.6 97.3

== PRELIMINARY EARTHQUAKE REPORT ==

Region: NIAS REGION, INDONESIA
Geographic coordinates: 1.590N, 97.262E
Magnitude: 5.5 Mw
Depth: 30 km
Universal Time (UTC): 30 Jul 2006 01:28:15
Time near the Epicenter: 30 Jul 2006 08:28:15
Local time in your area: 30 Jul 2006 02:28:15
Location with respect to nearby cities:
171 km (106 miles) W (266 degrees) of Sibolga, Sumatra, Indonesia 270 km (168 miles) SW (215 degrees) of Medan, Sumatra, Indonesia
445 km (276 miles) NW (309 degrees) of Padang, Sumatra, Indonesia
522 km (324 miles) WSW (251 degrees) of KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia

ADDITIONAL EARTHQUAKE PARAMETERS
________________________________
event ID : US quac
This event has been reviewed by a seismologist at NEIC For subsequent updates, maps, and technical information, see:
http://earthquake.usgs.gov/eqcenter/recenteqsww/Quakes/usquac.php

2006-07-29 19:53 (Mb 5.5) NORTH ATLANTIC OCEAN 23.7 -63.8

== PRELIMINARY EARTHQUAKE REPORT ==

Region: NORTH ATLANTIC OCEAN
Geographic coordinates: 23.677N, 63.829W
Magnitude: 5.5 Mb
Depth: 10 km
Universal Time (UTC): 29 Jul 2006 19:53:43
Time near the Epicenter: 29 Jul 2006 15:53:43
Local time in your area: 29 Jul 2006 20:53:43
Location with respect to nearby cities:
587 km (365 miles) N (8 degrees) of ROAD TOWN, British Virgin Islands
625 km (388 miles) NNE (22 degrees) of SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico

ADDITIONAL EARTHQUAKE PARAMETERS
________________________________
event ID : US qtbw
This event has been reviewed by a seismologist at NEIC For subsequent updates, maps, and technical information, see:
http://earthquake.usgs.gov/eqcenter/recenteqsww/Quakes/usqtbw.php
or

2007 Mercedes-Benz GL450 - Seven in luxury

By Ron Amadon, MarketWatchDARNESTOWN, Md. (MarketWatch) -- The new GL was supposed to replace the famed square-box G-wagen that took German military personnel over hill and bog in a minimum of comfort.

But Mercedes has had a change of heart, deciding that both the G-Wagen and the new GL450 can co-exist. And from that perspective, they couldn't be more different.

The GL is pure luxury in a sport utility, with lots of extras and refinements that will make the well-heeled feel right at home (their offspring too, come to think of it, with headrest-mounted DVD screens).

There are multiple adjustments for the front seats, an electric motor that lowers the third row seats at the touch of a button, three-zone climate control, leather seats (of course) -- and one of Mercedes' less-than-brilliant ideas, the Command system. With an operating manual totaling 238 pages along as well as a 587-page operator's manual, it seemingly runs everything shy of your checking account. Boys and girls, to our mind, when it takes 825 pages to explain how the vehicle works, something, somewhere has gone haywire.

Out on the road, the GL450's a nice ride. See slide show.

The 4.7-liter, 285-cubic inch V8 is as smooth as it gets, seldom heard from and matched nicely with a seven-speed automatic. The rather hefty 5,249-pound SUV can reach 60 mph in about 6.8 seconds, reflecting the engine's 335 horsepower, and will tow up to 7,500 pounds. We got about 15 miles per gallon of premium on country roads and interstates.

Handling, given the weight of the vehicle, was better than one might expect. Our test vehicle had permanent four-wheel drive, an electronic stability program and electronic traction system along with a 24-hour roadside assistance program if all comes to grief.

Inside, our test vehicle was bright and attractive. It was a comfortable place to be, but the light-colored carpeting soon showed the dirt during rainy weather. And for the life of us, we simply can't figure out why in this day and age Mercedes continues to put the CD player in the glove box.

Access to the second row of seats is good; they fold down to allow fairly good access to the third row. Believe it or not, adults could sit back there for a bit and be comfortable. But there's very little storage space to be had between the rear door and the raised third-row seats. Put the third row down and there's good cargo room; put the second row down, and that long-delayed trip to the antique shop becomes practical.

With its good power and handling, luxury flourishes and, of course, the three-pointed star on the grill, Mercedes has touched all the buttons in a big Alabama-made SUV that cost $68,075 as tested.

If a luxury sport utility is still on your shopping list, this is a good one to check out.

Chrysler Extends Employee Discounts

The Daily Auto Insider Friday - - Chrysler, which is already offering the general public employee-style discounts on cars and trucks, is now sweetening the deal for its actual employees, the Detroit News reported.

The automaker is offering its workers another $500 to $1,000 on select models.

Current deal: Employee discount with zero-percent financing or cash rebates of up to $3,500, depending on model. A 30-day refund guaranteed if customer's unhappy with purchase.

New bonus cash for employees: An extra $500 to $1,000 — up to $2,500 total — on select 2006 model year Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles.

Customer rebate total: $2,500 on short-wheel based Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan, $4,000 on Dodge Durango and $3,000 to $3,500 Chrysler Pacifica.

Now, Chrysler is offering an additional $500 to $1,000 in rebates on select 2006 model Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles. The price adjustments mean Chrysler workers will have up to $2,500 in bonus cash on top of their employee discount