GM sells more than 2.2 million vehicles from January to April 2007

GM sells more than 2.2 million vehicles from January to April 2007

by Gertrude Sayzer

According to preliminary sales figures released earlier this week, General Motors sold a record of 2.26 million cars and trucks, along with their GM truck accessories, around the world this year from January to April. GM global first quarter sales were up 67,000 vehicles, or 3 percent, compared with sales of 2.19 million in the first quarter of 2006.

GM Vice President John Middlebrook said GM's posted record sales in the first quarter was driven by exceptionally strong demand in emerging markets such as the global sales, service and marketing operations. He further said the company saw more than 20 percent growth in the Asia/Pacific region and had 17 percent growth in the Latin America, Africa and Middle East region. He added that the 6 percent growth in Europe where they sold more than a half-million vehicles and established a new sales record was very significant to them.

Three cars from GM are showing a global success, each showing their most marketable GM truck part: Chevrolet, HUMMER and Cadillac.

A 4 percent increase from last year was seen in the Chevrolet global sales of 1.04 million vehicles. The global increase was attributed to a 33 percent growth in Europe, 12 percent in Asia- Pacific and 19 percent in Latin America, Africa and the Middle East.

GM also retains its strong luxury truck portfolio growth, due to the incomparable GM truck parts, which comprise the vehicle. Evidence is the HUMMER sales that grew 37 percent in the Latin America, Africa and the Middle East region. Around the world, HUMMER recorded 15,000 vehicle sales. With the Hummer H2 mid-cycle enhancement, addition of the V8-powered HUMMER H3 Alpha in North America and start of production of the right hand-drive HUMMER H3 in South Africa, HUMMER products are well-positioned to respond to demanding customers' needs.

Outside North America, Cadillac had a sales increase due to the 89 percent sales growth in Europe, a 55 percent increase in Latin America, Africa and the Middle East and 47 percent growth in Asia/Pacific.

Several GM regional brands also experienced notable growth in the first quarter of 2007.

Opel and Vauxhall, for instance sold 443,000 vehicles for the months January to April this year. Vauxhall was up 6.3 percent and Opel was up about a half percent with 1,200 more vehicles sold this year compared with those sold in the first quarter of 2006. The brands achieved segment leadership with Opel Meriva and Opel Zafira -- in the monocab segment -- and second position with Opel Astra in the popular compact segment.

Largely based on the popularity of the new 2007 Saturn Aura, 2007 Saturn Sky, 2007 Saturn Vue, 2007 Saturn Vue Green Line Hybrid, and 2007 Saturn Outlook crossover utility vehicles, Saturn sales in the United States and Canada were up by 19 percent. Saturn anticipates stronger sales this year as it continues the launch of the Saturn Outlook crossover and welcomes Saturn Astra, the Ion small-car replacement,. Reports say Saturn is undergoing the most extensive product rebirth in its history.

Not minding South Korea's strong market growth on the back of its Winstorm SUV and Tosca medium car, Daewoo sales of 35,000 vehicles were up 31 percent.

GM expects more increased sales these coming years as it continues to innovate what was then already way far from others.

How You Can Save On Auto Insurance

How You Can Save On Auto Insurance

by Ramzes Berezecki

There are several little things that determine the cost of auto insurance. When properly attended to these can significantly reduce the costs associated with insuring the vehicle.

Auto insurance is mandatory and many people treat the paying for it like a utility bill - something that just got to be done and the least bothered with the better. Therefore they just go to the same place year after year to pay for it, perhaps not realizing that significant savings can be realized otherwise.

One of the simplest that can be done is just having a look around for what is available out there. Getting a few quotes from competing insurance companies might take a bit of foot work, driving around or calling. But also with the current proliferation of Internet it is ever so easy to check out everything from the pleasant and easy reach of your computer.

One of the things insurance companies often do in determining the client's cost of the insurance premium is looking up his or her credit history. So having it improved can obviously save money. Credit management is a whole other topic but briefly here - anyone is entitled to free credit score report on oneself up to once every 12 months. Each of the credit reporting agencies being Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion are obligated by law to comply with such request.

How can one improve the credit score? Naturally paying all the bills on time will have the biggest impact. Also each of those reports will contain the positive and negative information determining the overall score. Some of such can be erroneous and if so can be removed by one of the above companies. Also switching to new auto insurance after any particular derogatory remark in the report expires - as these all do - will have a positive impact on the insurance premium paid.

As a side note I will add that, at least for the insurance purposes, the basic credit score from the above agencies is all that is needed. Some other companies can sneak one into paying 'member fees' for a free report or even those ones I mention charge for the report if ordered through internet - but again the cost of a postal stamp is all that is required to get it.

And another thing to observe when shopping for insurance or particularly when buying a new car is that the insuring companies rate different models of vehicles in their own specific ways. For instance cars that have parts which are costly to replace will lean towards having higher insurance premiums. In like manner, autos that show in the stats to be stolen more often will also have their insurance costs going up compared to others.

Auto Experts: Beware of Flood-Damaged Autos

Auto Experts: Beware of Flood-Damaged Autos

by Glady Reign

Looking for a new car involves considering different areas, factors, and features of an automobile. Safety, fuel efficiency, and performance are just some of the things car buyers need to consider to ensure that they will be driving a vehicle that suits them perfectly.

Auto experts though has reported that prospective car buyers should also check for water damage on the car they are planning to buy and they do mean flood water to be exact. After the damaging effects of Hurricane Katrina, car experts fear that the auto market in the United States is proliferated by flood-damaged vehicles. With regards to this, they warn car buyers to avoid buying a car which has suffered the wrath of Hurricane Katrina and other smaller floods across the country.

Bryan Gregory, the Director of Consumer Education for Advanced Auto Parts, has this to say about the influx of flood-damaged vehicles in the United States auto market: "Auto industry experts estimate that as many as 400,000 vehicles may have been damaged by Hurricane Katrina alone. Add to that total the number of vehicles caught in countless smaller floods that occur across the country each year and you have a significant flood-damaged vehicle population that consumers need to be on the lookout for."

Staying way from flood-damaged vehicles needs a thorough inspection of the vehicle on the part of the buyer. Although the tell tale signs of flood damaged is relatively hard to spot, auto experts want to arm car buyers with the proper information to spot these damages. "Flood damage can be hard to spot, unless you know what you're looking for. The time to spot a car that's been in a flood is before you purchase it, because once it's in your driveway and the flood-related mechanical problems start to show up, it's too late for most consumers," says Gregory.

These damages may not show themselves yet right after you buy a car but in the long run, these damages will play a major role in the shortening of a vehicle's lifespan. Since all new vehicles released in the U.S. market are equipped with electronic components, these features should be checked properly before buying a car. The vehicle's onboard computer can be permanently damaged by flood water as well as airbag sensors. That alone poses a very high potential risk to consumers.

If an airbag sensor is damaged, when needed, the airbag can no longer protect the occupants of a vehicle, endangering them of severe injuries or even death. Some other electrical components like Volvo window motors can also be damaged by flood water, but these damages can readily be checked unlike the status of an airbag sensor.

One of the most telling signs that a car is flood-damaged is molds in the vehicle or a musty smell. This, of course, is the effect of the prolonged exposure to dirty flood water. New upholstery and carpets can also mean that these are replaced due to the damage of flood water on the original upholstery or carpets. Rust on the interior of a vehicle is also a sign that the vehicle is flood-damaged.

Auto experts also advise car buyers to inspect the air box for mud or water residue. Consumers can do this by simply removing the air filter of a vehicle. Waterlines on the bulb or lenses of headlamps and taillights are also telltale sign that the car was submerged at one time or another under a flood.

Aside from keeping away from flood-damaged vehicles, Gregory also advises car owners to prevent their cars from being victims of a flood. According to Gregory, "In addition to knowing how to avoid buying a flood-damaged vehicle, drivers should also take steps to prevent their own vehicle from becoming a flood victim. The number one action drivers can take to avoid water damage to their vehicle, and possible personal injury or death, is to never, ever attempt to drive through water that is covering a road, no matter how shallow or slow-moving it appears. Also avoid parking in areas prone to flash flooding and close your vehicle's windows when rain threatens."

Ford Sport Trac Adrenalin Comes Into Focus as Parts Train's Auto Body Parts Supercharge Every Ford Vehicle

Ford Sport Trac Adrenalin Comes Into Focus as Parts Train's Auto Body Parts Supercharge Every Ford Vehicle

The Ford Sport Trac Adrenalin is the world's first high-performance sport-utility truck (SUT). We're looking to take Ford performance to an entirely new market segment with the Sport Trac Adrenalin," says Steve Lyons, vice president, Ford Motor Company and president, Ford Division. "Adrenalin is designed to offer a unique combination of performance and functionality.

Adrenalin has combined the best attributes of two breakthrough Ford vehicles - Ford SVT F-150 Lightning and Ford Explorer Sport Trac. It also offers class-leading technologies, including all-wheel drive, a six-speed automatic transmission and Ford's industry-leading AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™. It offers four full-sized doors, four bolstered bucket seats, and a four-foot composite box with 30 percent more cargo capacity than the current Explorer Sport Trac.

"We have a very clear view of what we want to do to retain Ford's leadership in performance vehicles," says Phil Martens group vice president, Product Creation. "This includes looking beyond traditional SVT products for opportunities with unique performance attributes, such as all-wheel-drive." The Sport Trac Adrenalin delivers searing acceleration with its 4.6-liter, 32-valve DOHC V-8 power train. A Roots-type supercharger and water-to-air intercooler boost output to a whopping 390 horsepower and 390 pounds-feet of torque.

It has a six-speed automatic transmission - the first for any SVT vehicle, which has proven capable of heavy-duty use, contributing to the projected 6000-pound towing capacities of the Sport Trac Adrenalin. "In addition to providing sure footing on slick surfaces, there's a performance advantage to all-wheel drive," says Jay O'Connell, SVT chief vehicle engineer. "A longstanding problem with performance trucks was their inability to 'hook up' from a standing start without excessive wheel spin. This AWD system puts power down through all four tires, helping Adrenalin launch with impressive authority."

With a supercharged, 390-horsepower V-8, the first six-speed automatic ever featured in an SVT vehicle and an SVT-tuned fully independent suspension, Adrenalin promises acceleration, agility and utility. Providing an added measure of safety and control during slippery conditions or emergency maneuvers all-wheel-drive system is paired with Ford's industry-exclusive safety system, AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™.

All these advanced technology in Ford vehicles are maintained to its highest performance level by Parts Train body parts, Replacement Parts, Performance Parts, Aftermarket Parts. Buy top quality discount auto parts from Parts Train's online store for new auto parts, replacement car parts, OEM auto parts, and aftermarket auto parts. Simply click on http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/FORD and browse online inventory of auto parts and accessories for almost all makes and models. Call the customer service toll-free for more information and assistance and an excellent, trouble-free, and satisfying auto parts shopping experience is guaranteed.

About the Author
Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowa and has a knack for research on cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country today.

Nissan To Showcase Altima, Armada, and Maxima at New York by Ryan Thomas

Nissan To Showcase Altima, Armada, and Maxima at New York

by Ryan Thomas

The upcoming New YorkInternational Auto Show (NYIAS) is always known for attracting a huge number of attendees and exhibitors. Recently, Japanese car manufacturer Nissan announced that they will be showcasing their vehicles at the event. These vehicles will showcase the capabilities of Nissan in producing cars in response to the demand of their growing buyer base.

The third biggest Japanese car manufacturer recently announced that among their exhibit at the country's largest motor show will be the Altima, the Armada, and the Maxima. These three are among the lineup of Nissan which the company hopes will help them continue to increase their popularity among American car buyers.

The Nissan Altima, slotted between the Sentra and the Maxima in price range, is a direct descendant of the Nissan Bluebird which was famous during the 1950's. This year's Altima though is far more advanced than its predecessors. Its exterior styling gives it a muscular look. The car looks larger than it actually is thanks to the design concepts used by Nissan in the design of the vehicle. The muscular appeal of the Altima though is not limited to its exterior design.

With an option of either a four-cylinder or a V6 engine, consumers will surely experience the power of the Nissan Altima. Its interior is designed for functionality and gives adequate space for occupants. As far as ride comfort is concerned, its suspension is sport-oriented giving the vehicle good ride comfort and handling. The2.5-liter four-cylinder engine of the Altima can produce as much as 175 horsepower while the 3.5-liter V6 engine can produce as much as 250 horsepower.

Another Nissan model which will be showcased at the motor show is the Armada. Just like the Altima, the Armada packs a lot of power and just by looking at it; one can already see that the full-size sport utility vehicle is muscular. The newest version of the Armada, formerly known as the Pathfinder Armada, is equipped with a new massive engine. Its powerplant, a 5.6-liter double overhead cam, 32-valve V8 engine can provide the Armada with 305 horsepower and 385 lb-ft of torque. The amount of horsepower and torque of the Nissan Armada's engine is one of the highest in its class.

The SUV is also a workhorse with a towing capacity of 9,100 pounds. That towing capacity makes gives the Armada the bragging right to having the highest towing capacity in its class.

The Nissan Maxima will also be showcased at the upcoming motor show. The upscale mid-size sedan will be attracting luxury car buyers. True to Nissan's tradition of manufacturing high quality vehicles, the Maxima combine a good dose of sport car performance and luxurious features. Its interior is characterized by plush and comfortable seats that will come in play especially on extended roar trips. The lush interior complements the performance of the Maxima's engine.

The luxury sedan is powered by a 3.5-liter double overhead cam 24-valve V6 engine supported by a wide array of high performance Nissan Maxima parts produces as much as 265 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque. The engine and the interior features of the Maxima is protected by advanced safety features like the Traction Control System and the Vehicle Dynamic Control technology.

All of these cars will be showcased at the New York International Auto Show which will be held at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York City.

New York Auto Show to Host Nissan Murano, Pathfinder, Quest

New York Auto Show to Host Nissan Murano, Pathfinder, Quest

by Ryan Thomas

The largest motor show in the United States, the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) is just around the corner. The excitement of auto enthusiasts is building as to what cars will be unveiled at the show. Of course, there will be concept vehicles showcased at the motor show.

Aside from concept vehicles, a motor show is also a venue for car makers to showcase their production cars. The New York International Auto Show is no exception since car makers already announced what they will be strutting at the event. Nissan recently announced that they will be unveiling the upgraded versions of their Murano, Pathfinder, and Quest models. These vehicles are part of Nissan's exhibit at the event and are aimed to further increase the popularity of the Nissan brand among Americans.

The Nissan Murano, dubbed as the "Maxima of SUVs", is a crossover sport utility vehicle first introduced in 2003. It was the top-of-the-line SUV for the Japanese brand until the introduction of the Nissan Armada. The Murano which will be showcased at the New York Auto Show combines the versatility of a sport utility vehicle with the handling performance of a sedan.

The new Murano will be an all-wheel drive vehicle which makes it an all-weather vehicle. With the drive wheel configuration, the vehicle supplies traction to all of its wheels making it maneuverable in any road condition. The power supplied to its wheels comes from a 3.5 liter direct overhead cam V6 engine boasting of 245 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque. Fuel efficiency-wise, the Nissan Murano offers a continuously variable transmission - Nissan's Xtronic CVT as it is called. This efficiently transfers power from the engine to the wheels with less waste so that fuel consumption is reduced.

Another Nissan model that will grace the New York Auto Show is the Nissan Pathfinder. The 2008 Pathfinder is designed to look as muscular as its predecessors. Its three-row seating gives the Pathfinder versatility of the SUV that its is. Off-road driving ability is also phenomenal. While the new version of the Pathfinder is built on a longer wheelbase, the short front and rear overhangs gives it the maneuverability that it needs to navigate through city streets or off the road.

The increased wheelbase gives the interior of the SUV good legroom and headspace for its occupants. Powering the Pathfinder is the 4.0-liter version of the brand's award-winning Nissan VQ-Series V6 engine. The 4.0-liter double overhead cam V6 is proven to produce 270 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque. The ratio of horsepower and torque is the highest among its competitor in the mid-size SUV market.

Another Nissan vehicle upgraded for the 2008 model year which will be showcased at the New York Auto Show is the Nissan Quest. This minivan first introduced in 1993 is still setting standards in its class. The Nissan Quest is designed to have that sociable looks common on minivans, from its Nissan mirrors to its side windows, the Quest looks every bit like a family car that it is. The power of the Quest comes from a 3.5 liter double overhead cam 24-valve V6 engine capable of producing 240 horsepower and 242 lb-ft of torque.

Ford to Showcase Limited Edition Vehicles at New York Auto Show

Ford to Showcase Limited Edition Vehicles at New York Auto Show

The upcoming New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) is already creating a huge buzz in the auto market. Different car makers have already announced what they will be exhibiting at the country's largest motor show. The huge number of attendees will surely be treated to a dazzling display of concept, production, and limited edition vehicles.
Ford has already announced that they will be unveiling three limited edition vehicles at the mentioned motor show. These three are the Shelby GT500KR, the F-150 Foose Edition, and the Ford Expedition Funkmaster Flex Edition. These three vehicles will join other production vehicles and concept cars from the Dearborn based outfit's exhibit at the motor show.
The Ford Shelby GT500KR which will be hitting showrooms in spring next year will be powered by a 5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine. This massive engine provides a whole lot of power which when tested goes up to a high 540 horsepower. To control that power, the limited-edition vehicle will be equipped with some 14-inch Brembo front brakes.
To give the vehicle good handling, it is configured for racing. The exterior design of the 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR is characterized by a carbon composite hood and a lowered front air dam. The performance of the muscle car complements the vehicle's aggressive styling. Only a thousand of these vehicles will be produced for the public.
The vehicle will also feature anniversary badges marking the 40th year of the Ford GT500KR in the auto industry.
Aside from the powerful GT500KR, Ford will also be exhibiting the 2008 Ford F-150 Foose Edition. The pick-up designed by the renowned automotive designer Chip Foose. The F-150 limited edition is lowered to give it high aesthetic value. The lowered look of the vehicle is even more enhanced with the 22-inch wheels it features.
The limited edition also sports a new grille and rocker moldings. Headrests and floor mats complement the interior of the pickup truck. What powers these vehicles is a Triton V8 engine. The massive V8 can produce 450 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. That makes the limited edition vehicle the most powerful F-150 since the 2004 version of the F-150 which was then called the Ford SVT Lightning.
While it already produces a huge amount of power, aftermarket parts like a Toucan cold air intake system can significantly enhance the vehicle's performance.
The third limited edition vehicle that Ford will be unveiling at the New York Auto Show is the 2008 Ford Expedition Funkmaster Flex Edition. The shortened version of the Expedition is designed by hip-hop DJ Funkmaster Flex. The design of the limited edition Expedition is characterized by a two-tone paint scheme, special badges, and a custom front fascia. Its integrated fog lamps, side skirts, and 20-inch aluminum wheels adds to the aesthetic value of this eye-catching piece of engineering.