The Auto Channel
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
Official Website of the New Car Buyer

April 2005

Select Another Month

Thursday, April 21, 2005

Here We Go! - DaimlerChrysler May Export Chrysler Cars to U.S. From China

Here We Go! - DaimlerChrysler May Export Chrysler Cars to U.S. From China

April 21, 2005; Bret Okeson writing for Bloomberg reported that DaimlerChrysler AG, the first overseas company to make vehicles in China, plans to build Chrysler compact cars in the country to export to the U.S., taking advantage of wages one-18th those of U.S. workers. DaimlerChrysler, the world's fifth-largest vehicl ... Continue reading

Nissan Displays Full Lineup at Auto Shanghai 2005

Nissan Displays Full Lineup at Auto Shanghai 2005

Shanghai, China, Apr 21, 2005 - (JCN Newswire) - Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. (TOKYO: 7201; NASDAQ: NSANY), is displaying a full lineup of vehicles at the 11th Shanghai International Auto Show, a demonstration of the company's commitment to the growing Chinese automobile market. The lineup includes the new TIIDA compact vehi ... Continue reading

Mazda to Launch RX-8 in China

Mazda to Launch RX-8 in China

Tokyo (JCNN) - Mazda Motor announced on April 20 that four models will be newly introduced to the Chinese market to enhance the variety of the RX-8 vehicle available to local consumers. The RX-8 sports car, Mazda6 Hatchback, Mazda6 wagon and Tribute SUV models will initially be added to Mazda’s product line in Ch ... Continue reading

Nissan SHIFT_Launches Five New Models in Shanghai

Nissan SHIFT_Launches Five New Models in Shanghai

Tokyo (JCNN) - On April 19, Nissan Motor revealed five new products to be introduced in the Chinese market at a unique SHIFT_launch event in Shanghai. The five models shown are the Fuga luxury sedan, 350Z sports coupe, Tiida compact sedan, Tiida hatchback and Quest minivan. Sales of the Tiida compact sedan began on the ... Continue reading

ABI Research: Automotive Safety the Next Major Battleground for Automakers

ABI Research: Automotive Safety the Next Major Battleground for Automakers

OYSTER BAY, N.Y.--April 21, 2005--According to findings from international market research firm ABI Research, a new war among automakers is on the verge of breaking out. The main focus of this battle will be centered on safety as the key differentiator for vehicle lines. "There are a host of cutting-edge safety systems ... Continue reading

Honda Announces Introduction of Natural Gas-Powered Vehicle with Home Refueling Device to California Consumers - Conference Call at 1:30PM ET Today

Honda Announces Introduction of Natural Gas-Powered Vehicle with Home Refueling Device to California Consumers - Conference Call at 1:30PM ET Today

What: American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is announcing that it has begun limited retail sales in California of its natural gas-powered Civic GX sedan paired with a revolutionary new home-refueling appliance called Phill, made by Toronto-based FuelMaker Corp., giving California consumers the opportunity to say "goodbye" to ... Continue reading

PRIMEDIA Expands Magazine Distribution Inks Deals With CSK, Blockbuster and Fred's Dollar Store

PRIMEDIA Expands Magazine Distribution Inks Deals With CSK, Blockbuster and Fred's Dollar Store

MIDDLEBURY, Vt.--April 21, 2005--RetailVision, the largest magazine distributor to specialty retailers in the U.S. and a PRIMEDIA company, today announced new distribution agreements with leading independent and chain retailers including CSK, Blockbuster and Fred's Dollar Store. The addition of CSK adds more than 1,100 ... Continue reading

Armor Holdings, Inc. Reports Record Revenues and 1st Quarter Results

Armor Holdings, Inc. Reports Record Revenues and 1st Quarter Results

- 1st Quarter Earnings Per Share Increase 107.1% to $0.87 Per Diluted Share vs. Prior Year $0.42 Per Diluted Share - - Revises FY05 Guidance to $3.30 to $3.60 Per Diluted Share After $0.06 to $0.07 Anticipated Integration and Other Charges- - Initiates Preliminary, FY06 Guidance of at least $3.00 Per Diluted Share Befo ... Continue reading

ASV Schedules 1st Quarter Earnings Release and Conference Call

ASV Schedules 1st Quarter Earnings Release and Conference Call

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn.--April 21, 2005--ASV, Inc. announced today it will release financial results for its first quarter ended March 31, 2005 the morning of Thursday, April 28, 2005. The Company has scheduled a conference call to discuss its first quarter 2005 financial results for 9:00 a.m. Central time on the same day. ... Continue reading

Audi and AFI FEST Announce 'Step Ahead with Audi A3: Personal Journeys With AFI Fest Filmmakers'

Audi and AFI FEST Announce 'Step Ahead with Audi A3: Personal Journeys With AFI Fest Filmmakers'

Three Filmmakers, Three Weeks, Three Distinct Journeys to be Documented as Part of Unique Film Competition AUBURN HILLS, Mich., April 21 -- Audi of America, Inc. and AFI FEST announced today a challenging three-week, cross-country competition involving three rising directors assigned to capture emerging trends across t ... Continue reading

Autologica Software Revolutionizes Mexican Automotive Industry

Autologica Software Revolutionizes Mexican Automotive Industry

ROSARIO, Argentina--April 21, 2005--Starting in May, Mexican automotive dealers will have access to a software solution specifically designed for their business needs. The product is called Autologica and is used in diverse countries around the world by vehicle dealers from the automotive, trucking, construction equipm ... Continue reading

Auto Shanghai 2005: High-End Luxury Brand Celebrates Asia Premiere of New Maybach 57 S

Auto Shanghai 2005: High-End Luxury Brand Celebrates Asia Premiere of New Maybach 57 S

SHANGHAI, April 21 -- Picture is available under http://www.presseportal.de/story.htx?firmaid=57925 At the first press day of Auto Shanghai 2005 the new Maybach 57 S celebrates its Asia Premiere. "China is one of this region's key markets. This is why we strive to continuously expand the Maybach brand's presence in thi ... Continue reading

CORRECTING and REPLACING Mattel Debuts Ultra-Hip Dropstars Custom Cars In Many Sizes with Authentic Designs; Fleet of Stylish Die-Cast Cars and Slick Remote Control Vehicles to Roll out Yearlong

CORRECTING and REPLACING Mattel Debuts Ultra-Hip Dropstars Custom Cars In Many Sizes with Authentic Designs; Fleet of Stylish Die-Cast Cars and Slick Remote Control Vehicles to Roll out Yearlong

EL SEGUNDO, Calif.--April 21, 2005--Please note that the Mattel, Inc. boilerplate at the end of the release has been amended. The corrected release reads: MATTEL DEBUTS ULTRA-HIP DROPSTARS CUSTOM CARS IN MANY SIZES WITH AUTHENTIC DESIGNS; FLEET OF STYLISH DIE-CAST CARS AND SLICK REMOTE CONTROL VEHICLES TO ROLL OUT YEAR ... Continue reading

Doug Smith Opens 2005 Cooper Tire Zetec Championship at Road Atlanta

Doug Smith Opens 2005 Cooper Tire Zetec Championship at Road Atlanta

Doug Smith Opens 2005 Cooper Tires Zetec Championship at Road Atlanta BRASELTON, Ga., April 21, 2005 - Doug Smith entered the first round of the Formula Ford Zetec Cooper Tire Championship with an eye towards getting to know his new No. 35 Packers of Indian River LTD/Wirewheel Sportscars/Race-Sport.net Van Diemen. The ... Continue reading

Drew Industries Announces Webcast of First Quarter Conference Call on April 29

Drew Industries Announces Webcast of First Quarter Conference Call on April 29

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y., April 21 -- Drew Industries Incorporated , a White Plains, NY-based manufacturer of components for the recreational vehicle and manufactured housing industries, today announced it plans to release its first quarter 2005 financial results after the market closes on Thursday, April 28, 2005. The Compa ... Continue reading

Polaris Declares Regular Cash Dividend

Polaris Declares Regular Cash Dividend

MINNEAPOLIS--April 21, 2005--Polaris Industries Inc. today announced the declaration of a regular quarterly $0.28 per share cash dividend payable on May 16, 2005 to shareholders of record at the close of business on May 2, 2005. About Polaris Information about the complete line of Polaris products is available from aut ... Continue reading

PPG's Adjusted Net Earnings Grow 56 Percent in First Quarter on 10-Percent Stronger Sales

PPG's Adjusted Net Earnings Grow 56 Percent in First Quarter on 10-Percent Stronger Sales

PITTSBURGH--April 21, 2005--PPG Industries reported today first-quarter net income of $95 million, or 55 cents a share, including aftertax charges of $91 million, or 52 cents a share, for a legal settlement in connection with an adverse ruling last month; and $5 million, or 3 cents a share, to reflect the net increase ... Continue reading

Research and Markets: Private Car Sales in Beijing Declining as Nationwide Car Sales Increase in China

Research and Markets: Private Car Sales in Beijing Declining as Nationwide Car Sales Increase in China

DUBLIN, Ireland, April 21 -- Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/c16132 ) has announced the addition of China Automobile Industry Newsletters 2004 to their offering. (Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20040820/RESEARCH ) According to the statistics, China's car output amounted to 2,0 ... Continue reading

WallSt.net Airing Exclusive Audio Interviews With CBAI, NWAU, TRPS and RICK

WallSt.net Airing Exclusive Audio Interviews With CBAI, NWAU, TRPS and RICK

WallSt.net is Also Featuring an In-Depth Article Based on a Recent Interview With ASTM NEW YORK, April 21 -- Matt Schissler, Chairman and CEO of Cord Blood America, Inc. (BULLETIN BOARD: CBAI) recently granted Wall Street Network an exclusive audio interview profiling the company. Interview highlights include discussio ... Continue reading

Say Goodbye to the Gasoline Pump: California Consumers Can Now Get a Full Service Fill at Home

Say Goodbye to the Gasoline Pump: California Consumers Can Now Get a Full Service Fill at Home

SATELLITE FEEDS: Thursday, April 21st, 2005 Friday, April 22nd, 2005 1:45PM - 2:00PM ET 1:15PM - 1:30PM ET IA 5 IA 5 C-Band C-Band Transponder 15 Transponder 15 Downlink Freq: 4000 Vertical Downlink Freq: 4000 Vertical Preview and access this video on Pathfire DMG: 21451 Search within the PR Newswire or MultiVu section ... Continue reading

ABB-Powered Electric Car Attempts to Break Land Speed Record in United States

ABB-Powered Electric Car Attempts to Break Land Speed Record in United States

ABB e=motion team confident of success in Nevada on May 5 NORWALK, Conn., April 21 -- A high-speed electrical car, powered by ABB motors and drives, will attempt to break the land speed record for an electrical vehicle on May 5 in Nevada, U.S. (Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050421/CLTH002 ) The 32-foot (1 ... Continue reading

Transportation Secretary Mineta Calls Highway Fatalities an Epidemic, Nation Should Prevent Traffic Deaths Like Any Other Disease

Transportation Secretary Mineta Calls Highway Fatalities an Epidemic, Nation Should Prevent Traffic Deaths Like Any Other Disease

Washington D.C. April 21, 2005; U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Y. Mineta today called the problem of highway traffic deaths a "national epidemic" and encouraged Americans to view wearing safety belts as a form of preventative medicine. Mineta directed attention to his concern for traffic safety as he announced mi ... Continue reading

Nissan Donates Xterra Fuel Cell Vehicle to Petersen Automotive Museum

Nissan Donates Xterra Fuel Cell Vehicle to Petersen Automotive Museum

GARDENA, Calif.--April 21, 2005--Commemorating Earth Day and supporting a worthy automotive institution, Nissan today donated a display version of its Xterra Fuel Cell Vehicle (FCV) to the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles. The body of the vehicle mock-up is raised up, revealing the fuel cell technology underne ... Continue reading

Revolutionary Design for Electric Cars Developed by SaVi Media

Revolutionary Design for Electric Cars Developed by SaVi Media

ANAHEIM, Calif.--April 21, 2005--SaVi Media Group, Inc. (OTCBB:SVMI) today announced that the Company has recently developed technology for an Electro-Magnetic True Positioning Coil (EMTCP) engineered to power an electric or hybrid car. This EMTCP design, when fully completed, is set to power a car that runs solely on ... Continue reading

Honda Begins Limited Retail Sales of Natural Gas-Powered Civic GX With Phill Home-Refueling Appliance in California

Honda Begins Limited Retail Sales of Natural Gas-Powered Civic GX With Phill Home-Refueling Appliance in California

- Home-refueling appliance liberates drivers from the gas pump - Civic GX is cleanest, most economical car you can drive - Drivers benefit from HOV lane access and tax benefits TORRANCE, Calif., April 21 -- Offering some California consumers the opportunity to say "goodbye" to gasoline, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., ... Continue reading

Tenneco Automotive Reports Record First Quarter Revenues and Net Income

Tenneco Automotive Reports Record First Quarter Revenues and Net Income

- Twelfth consecutive quarter of year-over-year revenue growth - Net income of $7 million; EPS of 16-cents versus year earlier loss - EBIT up 35%; EBITDA up 16% LAKE FOREST, Ill., April 21 -- Tenneco Automotive reported improved first quarter net income of $7 million, or 16-cents per diluted share, compared with a net ... Continue reading

Walter P. Chrysler Museum's 'Dodge Legends' Exhibit Celebrates the All-New Charger's Bold Heritage

Walter P. Chrysler Museum's 'Dodge Legends' Exhibit Celebrates the All-New Charger's Bold Heritage

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., April 21 -- The bold automotive heritage that was launched with the Dodge Brothers first touring car in 1915, and lives on in the all-new 2006 Dodge Charger, is showcased in "Dodge Legends," a special exhibition running May 24 - Aug. 21 at the Walter P. Chrysler Museum in Auburn Hills, Mich. Celebr ... Continue reading

Daniel P. Kuhnert Joins Mitsubishi Motors North America as Senior Vice President of Sales

Daniel P. Kuhnert Joins Mitsubishi Motors North America as Senior Vice President of Sales

CYPRESS, Calif., April 21 -- Industry veteran Daniel P. Kuhnert today joins Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) as senior vice president of sales. Kuhnert replaces Michael Tocci, who is relocating to the east coast to pursue other interests. In his new position, Kuhnert will be responsible for U.S. sales opera ... Continue reading

Alps' New Waterproof Detector Switch ''SPVQ4 Series'' Has High-Contact-Reliability Detector Switch with Long Stroke

Alps' New Waterproof Detector Switch ''SPVQ4 Series'' Has High-Contact-Reliability Detector Switch with Long Stroke

TOKYO--April 21, 2005--Alps Electric Co., Ltd. (Pink Sheets:APELY) has developed the SPVQ4 Series, which are waterproof, high-contact-reliability detector switches that have a long stroke and can withstand severe conditions. Sample shipments will begin in the first part of May 2005. Today, with the increase in onboard ... Continue reading

ArvinMeritor Declares Quarterly Dividend on Common Stock

ArvinMeritor Declares Quarterly Dividend on Common Stock

TROY, Mich., April 21 -- The ArvinMeritor, Inc. Board of Directors at a meeting held today at corporate headquarters in Troy, Mich., declared a quarterly dividend of 10 cents ($0.10) per share on the common stock of ArvinMeritor, payable June 13, 2005, to holders of record at the close of business on May 23, 2005. (Log ... Continue reading

Ballard Power Systems Announces First Quarter 2005 Conference Call

Ballard Power Systems Announces First Quarter 2005 Conference Call

VANCOUVER, British Columbia--April 21, 2005--Ballard Power Systems Inc. (TSX:BLD) will hold a conference call to discuss its first quarter results and goals going forward Wednesday April 27, 2005 at 10:00 a.m. PST (1:00 p.m. EST). Access to the call may be obtained by calling the operator at 416-640-4127 before the sch ... Continue reading

Briggs & Stratton Corporation Reports Earnings for the Third Quarter of Fiscal 2005

Briggs & Stratton Corporation Reports Earnings for the Third Quarter of Fiscal 2005

MILWAUKEE, April 21 -- Briggs & Stratton Corporation -- Briggs & Stratton today announced fiscal 2005 third quarter consolidated net sales of $840.5 million and consolidated net income of $80.6 million or $1.56 per diluted share. The third quarter of fiscal 2004 had consolidated net sales of $654.7 million and consolid ... Continue reading

Brilliance China Automotive Holdings Limited Announcement

Brilliance China Automotive Holdings Limited Announcement

HONG KONG, April 21 /Xinhua-PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The following was released today by Brilliance China Automotive Holdings Limited : BRILLIANCE CHINA AUTOMOTIVE HOLDINGS LIMITED* (Incorporated in Bermuda with limited liability) (Stock Code: 1114) ANNOUNCEMENT The Company has obtained a 3-year conditional Waiver from ... Continue reading

CLARIFICATION of Cummins Inc. Earnings Release

CLARIFICATION of Cummins Inc. Earnings Release

COLUMBUS, Ind.--April 21, 2005--Cummins Inc. wishes to issue the following clarification to its earnings release BW5367 (IN-CUMMINS) "Cummins Inc. Cummins Reports Sharply Higher Net Income for First Quarter; Raises 2005 Earnings Guidance" issued earlier Thursday: Cummins first quarter earnings teleconference will begin ... Continue reading

Colfax International Announces New Class of Professional Workstations and Servers -- Dual-Core AMD Opteron Processor Solutions

Colfax International Announces New Class of Professional Workstations and Servers -- Dual-Core AMD Opteron Processor Solutions

SUNNYVALE, Calif.--April 21, 2005--Colfax International today announced the new class of world class workstation and server offerings, which coincide with the second anniversary of the AMD64 platform and the AMD Opteron(TM) processor. Real-time customization of the new family of Dual Core Opteron workstation solutions ... Continue reading

Commercial Vehicle Group Reports First Quarter 2005 Results

Commercial Vehicle Group Reports First Quarter 2005 Results

NEW ALBANY, Ohio, April 21 -- Commercial Vehicle Group, Inc. , today reported revenues of $152.4 million for the first quarter ended March 31, 2005, up 77 percent compared to $86.0 million in the prior-year period. Operating income for the first quarter was $16.7 million, a 110 percent increase, compared to $8.0 millio ... Continue reading

Cummins Inc. Cummins Reports Sharply Higher Net Income for First Quarter; Raises 2005 Earnings Guidance

Cummins Inc. Cummins Reports Sharply Higher Net Income for First Quarter; Raises 2005 Earnings Guidance

COLUMBUS, Ind.--April 21, 2005--Cummins Inc. today reported sharply higher earnings for the first quarter as a result of better margins, strong joint venture performance and increased sales in each of its business units. For the three months ending March 27, Cummins posted net income of $97 million, or $1.96 a share on ... Continue reading

Dodge Announces 12 Finalists in Search for Dodge Dakota Ultimate Guy

Dodge Announces 12 Finalists in Search for Dodge Dakota Ultimate Guy

* Consumers invited to vote online for their favorite Dodge Dakota Ultimate Guy finalist * Dodge Dakota Ultimate Guy wins 2005 Dodge Dakota and a dream sports day with friends; Eleven finalists win ultimate tailgating package AUBURN HILLS, Mich., April 21 -- The Dodge brand announced the 12 finalists in the national se ... Continue reading

Esuvee Safety Campaign Develops New Web Game to Further Promote Safety Messages

Esuvee Safety Campaign Develops New Web Game to Further Promote Safety Messages

NEW YORK, April 21 -- The Esuvee Safety Campaign, a $27 million yearlong national education program designed to reduce sport utility vehicle (SUV) rollovers, today announced the launch of The Esuvee Challenge Course, a new Web-based video game promoting SUV safety. The game, which is played via the campaign Web site (h ... Continue reading

Fitch Rates Rental Car Finance Corp.'s Asset-Backed Notes

Fitch Rates Rental Car Finance Corp.'s Asset-Backed Notes

NEW YORK--April 21, 2005--Fitch rates Rental Car Finance Corp. rental car asset-backed notes, series 2005-1, as follows: -- $290,000,000 floating rate class A-1 notes; -- $110,000,000 4.59% class A-2 notes. The class A notes were issued with a revolving period and a six-month controlled amortization period. This transa ... Continue reading

Four New Companies Join the Suppliers Partnership for the Environment

Four New Companies Join the Suppliers Partnership for the Environment

WASHINGTON, April 21 -- The Suppliers Partnership for the Environment (SP) today announced that four new companies have become members of SP. These new members include: Enviroplas, Inc.; Mobile Fluid Recovery, Inc.; Principal Manufacturing Corporation; and Remy International, Inc. "The Suppliers Partnership is pleased ... Continue reading

GKN Plans Further Automotive Expansion in China

GKN Plans Further Automotive Expansion in China

SHANGHAI, China, April 21 -- GKN plans to further expand its automotive presence in China this year with a new joint venture to produce engine components in Henan province. When fully operational, GKN Zhongyuan Cylinder Liners in Mengzhou City will manufacture more than three-million cylinder liners annually for trucks ... Continue reading

Honda Honors Hayes Lemmerz with Supplier Award

Honda Honors Hayes Lemmerz with Supplier Award

NORTHVILLE, Mich., April 21 -- Hayes Lemmerz International, Inc. announced today that its Dello, Italy operations recently received the Supplier Award 2005 from Honda UK Manufacturing for its supply of aluminum wheels to the Honda Civic and CR-V. The award is to honor a supplier's performance in the key categories of c ... Continue reading

Image Sensing Systems Announces First Quarter Financial Results

Image Sensing Systems Announces First Quarter Financial Results

SAINT PAUL, Minn., April 21 -- Image Sensing Systems, Inc. (ISS) , announced today financial results for its first quarter ended March 31, 2005, marking the twelfth consecutive quarter with net income exceeding net income reported for the comparable quarter of the previous year. Net income for the quarter increased 24. ... Continue reading

Industrial Enterprises of America, Inc. to Acquire Automotive Aftermarket Supplier

Industrial Enterprises of America, Inc. to Acquire Automotive Aftermarket Supplier

HOUSTON--April 21, 2005--Industrial Enterprises of America, Inc. (Pink Sheets: ILNP.PK) announced today that management has agreed in principal to acquire 100% ownership of a leading manufacturer and seller of automotive chemicals and additives. The acquisition of this private company will result in the acquired compan ... Continue reading

Iteris Secures Two Major Contracts with International Commercial Truck Manufacturers; Two of the World's Largest Commercial Truck OEMs to Offer Iteris' Lane Departure Warning Technology

Iteris Secures Two Major Contracts with International Commercial Truck Manufacturers; Two of the World's Largest Commercial Truck OEMs to Offer Iteris' Lane Departure Warning Technology

ANAHEIM, Calif.--April 21, 2005--Iteris Inc. (AMEX:ITI), the leader in the development of vision-based technology that enhances driver safety, today announced that two more of the world's largest manufacturers of commercial trucks will offer its Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system in their heavy commercial trucks. A ne ... Continue reading

J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. Announces Stock Split, Quarterly Dividend and Share Repurchase

J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. Announces Stock Split, Quarterly Dividend and Share Repurchase

LOWELL, Ark.--April 21, 2005--J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. revealed today that the Board of Directors has announced the following decisions: Two-for-One Stock Split The Board has announced a two-for-one stock split on its common stock, payable May 23, 2005 to stockholders of record on May 2, 2005. Dividend Declar ... Continue reading

KVH Announces Results for First Quarter

KVH Announces Results for First Quarter

MIDDLETOWN, R.I.--April 21, 2005--KVH Industries, Inc., : -- Quarterly Revenue of $17.9 Million -- Profit of $0.02 Per Share KVH Industries, Inc., , a leading provider of mobile satellite communications products and defense-related navigation and guidance systems, today reported its results for the first quarter ended ... Continue reading

Mattel Debuts Ultra-Hip Dropstars Custom Cars In Many Sizes with Authentic Designs; Fleet of Stylish Die-Cast Cars and Slick Remote Control Vehicles to Roll out Yearlong

Mattel Debuts Ultra-Hip Dropstars Custom Cars In Many Sizes with Authentic Designs; Fleet of Stylish Die-Cast Cars and Slick Remote Control Vehicles to Roll out Yearlong

EL SEGUNDO, Calif.--April 21, 2005--Mattel, Inc. today announced the launch of Dropstars(TM) -- a hot new line of custom Hot Wheels(R) die-cast vehicles and Tyco(R) R/C remote control cars that reflect today's coolest vehicles. The Dropstars(TM) line builds upon Mattel's portfolio of vehicles that capture what's curren ... Continue reading

MicroTRAK Inc. Not Wasting Any Time, Shaking Hands with IrisDirect LLC

MicroTRAK Inc. Not Wasting Any Time, Shaking Hands with IrisDirect LLC

DALLAS--April 21, 2005--Effective as of April 20, 2005, MicroTRAK Inc. (Pink Sheets:MIOK), www.microtrakgps.com, (formerly Explore Energy Corp.), a Nevada Corporation, a parent of MicroTRAKgps Inc., also a Nevada Corporation, which is in the business of installing Global Positioning tracking devices in automobiles, mot ... Continue reading

National Atlantic Holdings Corporation Announces Pricing of IPO

National Atlantic Holdings Corporation Announces Pricing of IPO

FREEHOLD, N.J.--April 21, 2005--National Atlantic Holdings Corporation (NAHC) announced today that its initial public offering (IPO) of 6,650,000 shares of common stock was priced at $12.00 per share. NAHC will sell 5,985,000 shares in the IPO, while The Ohio Casualty Insurance Company (Ohio Casualty), as selling share ... Continue reading

North West Company Hit by Rover Crisis

North West Company Hit by Rover Crisis

LONDON, April 21 -- ATTN: North West News Desks A Lancashire company, which manufactures switches and wiring for MG Rover announced 47 job losses yesterday (Wednesday 20th April). Amicus Britain's largest private sector union will meet with managers at TRW Automotive on Wednesday 27th April to discuss the proposed 47 j ... Continue reading

OEConnection Launches Latest Parts Productivity Tool

OEConnection Launches Latest Parts Productivity Tool

- Streamlined Solution Matches Buyers and Sellers for Increased Profitability - RICHFIELD, Ohio, April 21 -- OEConnection LLC, an industry leader offering web-based solutions that facilitate the marketing, management, and movement of original equipment automotive parts, announced today the addition of a new and robust ... Continue reading

Petit Le Mans Charity Ride

Petit Le Mans Charity Ride

ROAD ATLANTA ANNOUNCED AS SPONSOR OF 2005 POST PETIT LE MANS CHARITY MOTORCYCLE RIDE. April 11, 2005. Jim Osborn, President of Chili Pepper Racing LLC, announced today that Road Atlanta has joined Trenton Forging as sponsors of the 2005 Post Petit Le Mans Motorcycle Charity Ride to benefit The Lighthouse Family Retreat ... Continue reading

Pioneer's Spring Marketing Campaign Revs up with Celeb Event and Cross-Country Mobile Tour; Campaign for Automotive Navigation Systems Proves ''It Knows'' How to Help Today's Commuters

Pioneer's Spring Marketing Campaign Revs up with Celeb Event and Cross-Country Mobile Tour; Campaign for Automotive Navigation Systems Proves ''It Knows'' How to Help Today's Commuters

LONG BEACH--April 21, 2005--Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. today launches its multi-million dollar marketing campaign for automotive navigation systems designed by BBDO West and The Elevation Group of Companies with a celebrity-studded product launch followed by a cross-country marketing tour and heavy print advertisin ... Continue reading

ProQuest Company Announces Q1'05 Earnings Conference Call

ProQuest Company Announces Q1'05 Earnings Conference Call

ANN ARBOR, Mich.--April 21, 2005--ProQuest Company, , a leading electronic publisher of information solutions for the education and automotive markets, will hold a conference call to discuss first quarter 2005 results on Thursday, April 28, 2005 at 5:00 pm Eastern Time. This call is being webcast by CCBN and can be acc ... Continue reading

Sparta Launches Private Label Financing and Leasing Programs; Offering End-to-End Underwriting Solutions

Sparta Launches Private Label Financing and Leasing Programs; Offering End-to-End Underwriting Solutions

NEW YORK--April 21, 2005--Sparta Commercial Services, Inc. (OTC BB: SRCO), an internet-based sales finance and leasing company dedicated exclusively to the powersports industry, announced today the formal launching of four exclusive private label financing and leasing programs targeting the motor scooter and ATV segmen ... Continue reading

SPEED World Challenge Mid-Ohio MEDIA ALERT

SPEED World Challenge Mid-Ohio MEDIA ALERT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: John Thawley Eamil: johnt@c2group.com TRENTON FORGING SPONSORS SPEED WORLD CHALLENGE EVENT SPEED World Challenge Weekend presented by Trenton Forging Quality Formed Solutions at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. Detroit – April 11 2005 – Trenton Forging “Quality Formed Solut ... Continue reading

Stoneridge Shareholders Elect Jeffrey P. Draime to Board of Directors

Stoneridge Shareholders Elect Jeffrey P. Draime to Board of Directors

WARREN, Ohio, April 21 -- Stoneridge, Inc. announced today that Jeffrey P. Draime was newly elected to the Company's Board of Directors at its annual meeting of shareholders on April 18, 2005. Jeffrey Draime, 38, is the son of D.M. Draime, the Company's chairman. Jeffrey Draime is owner of Silent Productions, a concert ... Continue reading

Supreme Industries, Inc. Announces First-Quarter 2005 Earnings Release and Conference Call

Supreme Industries, Inc. Announces First-Quarter 2005 Earnings Release and Conference Call

GOSHEN, Ind.--April 21, 2005--Supreme Industries, Inc. (AMEX: STS), announced that it will release first-quarter 2005 financial results on Thursday, April 28, 2005, before the market opens publicly. Supreme has scheduled a webcast to discuss financial results for 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time, Thursday, April 28, 2005. The li ... Continue reading

Thor Leads Industry Group in Return on Assets, E.P.S Growth, Increase in Employees

Thor Leads Industry Group in Return on Assets, E.P.S Growth, Increase in Employees

JACKSON CENTER, Ohio, April 21 -- Thor Industries, Inc. was ranked by Fortune (April 18, 2005) in the Motor Vehicles and Parts category as the leader in return on assets, earnings per share growth, and having the largest percentage increase in employees in 2004. Thor's profits as a percent of assets of 14% was easily t ... Continue reading

Toyota Recognizes Johnson Controls and Its Joint-Venture Company for Outstanding Quality, Delivery and Supplier Diversity During 2004

Toyota Recognizes Johnson Controls and Its Joint-Venture Company for Outstanding Quality, Delivery and Supplier Diversity During 2004

PLYMOUTH, Mich., April 21 -- Toyota Motor Manufacturing North America has recognized auto interior supplier Johnson Controls -- and one of its joint-venture companies, Trim Masters, Inc. (TMI) -- for outstanding performance during 2004. (Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20030423/JCILOGO ) Toyota recently honor ... Continue reading

USA Truck, Inc. Announces Record Quarterly Revenues

USA Truck, Inc. Announces Record Quarterly Revenues

VAN BUREN, Ark.--April 21, 2005--USA Truck, Inc. today announced record quarterly revenues, before fuel surcharge, of $90.4 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2005, an increase of 13.8% from $79.5 million for the same quarter of 2004. Net income increased 174.2% from $1.0 million for the quarter ended March 31, 20 ... Continue reading

With Problematic Car Thefts Increasing, MicroTRAK's AutoTRAK GPS Will Be the Solution

With Problematic Car Thefts Increasing, MicroTRAK's AutoTRAK GPS Will Be the Solution

DALLAS--April 21, 2005--Every 27 seconds, a motor vehicle is stolen in the United States and more than 200,000 auto theft vehicles are exported illegally from the United States every year. MicroTRAK Inc. (MIOK) (Pink Sheets:MIOK), www.microtrakgps.com, has produced an automotive tracking device(AutoTRAK GPS), which pro ... Continue reading

ZAP Names Health Media Professional and Marketing Entrepreneur Dr. Charles Gross to Advisory Board of Directors; Prominent Los Angeles Area Television and Radio Host Also Chaired Statewide Health Initiatives

ZAP Names Health Media Professional and Marketing Entrepreneur Dr. Charles Gross to Advisory Board of Directors; Prominent Los Angeles Area Television and Radio Host Also Chaired Statewide Health Initiatives

SANTA ROSA, Calif.--April 21, 2005--ZAP (OTCBB:ZAPZ), pioneering the next generation of advanced transportation and energy technologies, announced today that Dr. Charles Gross, a prominent Los Angeles area businessman, health-oriented media figure and entrepreneur, has been named to the ZAP Advisory Board of Directors. ... Continue reading

CruiseCam Has the Only Integrated Video Recording System Technology That Meets Federal Standards

CruiseCam Has the Only Integrated Video Recording System Technology That Meets Federal Standards

DALLAS--April 21, 2005--CruiseCam's (Pink Sheets:CCMJ) integrated video recording system is the only known technology that meets or exceeds the Federal Motor Vehicle standard (49 CFR part 571) MVSS201 occupant protection in interior impact. To view footage of the crash test, results of the test, as well as other video ... Continue reading

Reynolds and Reynolds Reports Second Quarter Results

Reynolds and Reynolds Reports Second Quarter Results

Live Webcast at 11:00 a.m. ET. Conference call and replay available at reyrey.com DAYTON, Ohio, April 21 -- The Reynolds and Reynolds Company today announced that revenues of $251 million for the second fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2005 were slightly higher than a year ago. Net income of $23 million and earnings per ... Continue reading

Coolest Cars Under $18,000 Named By Kelley Blue Book

Coolest Cars Under $18,000 Named By Kelley Blue Book

Editors of Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com Reveal Top 10 Affordable Cool Vehicles IRVINE, Calif., April 21 -- Despite incentives (or maybe because of them), "sticker shock" continues to plague new-car buyers. Vehicle equipment levels keep getting more extensive, and vehicle suggested list prices continue to go higher. But d ... Continue reading

Valeo Signs Ninth Joint Venture in China, With FAW, and Announces a Series of Development Plans

Valeo Signs Ninth Joint Venture in China, With FAW, and Announces a Series of Development Plans

BEIJING, China, April 21 -- - World Leading French Automotive Supplier Reaffirms Commitment to China's Automotive Industry Valeo, a global leader in the automotive components industry, today announced the signing of a new joint venture with FAW, China's largest automaker. The agreement was signed by Valeo Chairman & CE ... Continue reading

Auto Shanghai 2005: Mercedes-Benz Celebrates Asia Premiere of Four New Models

Auto Shanghai 2005: Mercedes-Benz Celebrates Asia Premiere of Four New Models

SHANGHAI, April 21 -- - Picture is available under http://www.presseportal.de/story.htx?firmaid=28486 The German Luxury Brand presents four new Models at this year's International Auto Show in Shanghai and announces local production of C- and E-Class in China in the second half of 2005. The star of Mercedes-Benz's pres ... Continue reading

Auto Shanghai 2005: High-End Luxury Brand Celebrates Asia Premiere of New Maybach 57 S

Auto Shanghai 2005: High-End Luxury Brand Celebrates Asia Premiere of New Maybach 57 S

SHANGHAI, April 21 -- Picture is available under http://www.presseportal.de/story.htx?firmaid=57925 At the first press day of Auto Shanghai 2005 the new Maybach 57 S celebrates its Asia Premiere. "China is one of this region's key markets. This is why we strive to continuously expand the Maybach brand's presence in thi ... Continue reading

News: Kia Cerato makes Chinese debut at Auto Shanghai 2005

News: Kia Cerato makes Chinese debut at Auto Shanghai 2005

News FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Michael Choo ( <mailto:cdore@kia.co.kr> mjc@kia.co.kr), International Communications Manager, Kia Motors Corporation, Tel: +82-2- 3464-6574, Fax: +82-2-3464-6845 Kia Cerato makes Chinese debut at Auto Shanghai 2005 - Second Chinese manufacturing facility set for completion at end of ... Continue reading

Pep Boys Participates in National Tire Safety Week; Offers Free Air Pressure Checks to Drivers

Pep Boys Participates in National Tire Safety Week; Offers Free Air Pressure Checks to Drivers

PHILADELPHIA--April 20, 2005--The Pep Boys - Manny, Moe & Jack , the nation's leading automotive aftermarket retail and service chain, announced that it will partner with the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) to promote National Tire Safety Week April 24-30. During this time, Pep Boys will continue to offer driver ... Continue reading

CallSource Sponsors NASCAR Driver Deborah Renshaw, BHR2 Racing Team

CallSource Sponsors NASCAR Driver Deborah Renshaw, BHR2 Racing Team

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif.--April 20, 2005--CallSource announced today its sponsorship of NASCAR(R) driver Deborah Renshaw and her BHR2 racing team. CallSource (www.callsource.com), which provides call tracking, performance analysis and employee training services, will be an associate sponsor for the remainder of the 200 ... Continue reading

Mitsubishi Research and Design America Invites the Public to MOD '05

Mitsubishi Research and Design America Invites the Public to MOD '05

Mitsubishi Owners Day (MOD) 2005 Highlights New, Classic and Never-Before-Seen Mitsubishi Models For Saturday, April 23, 2005, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Event: Mitsubishi Research and Design America (MRDA) presents MOD '05 in appreciation of all loyal Mitsubishi enthusiasts and owners. Come check out the latest and greatest M ... Continue reading

DaimlerChrysler Services Employees Transfer Financial Knowledge to Pontiac Students

DaimlerChrysler Services Employees Transfer Financial Knowledge to Pontiac Students

FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich., April 20 -- DaimlerChrysler Services, the financing unit of DaimlerChrysler, has partnered with the Pontiac School District to institute a unique Financial Health Workshop for 11th and 12th grade Pontiac students to strengthen financial literacy. To reach young people at a critical age -- prior ... Continue reading

Goodyear and Pilot Announce Agreement

Goodyear and Pilot Announce Agreement

AKRON, Ohio, April 20 -- The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company announced today that Wingfoot Commercial Tire Systems LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary with 171 commercial tire sales, service and retread facilities nationwide, has signed an agreement to assume operation of eight Pilot Truck Care Centers in five states. (Logo: ... Continue reading

Simko Steers Towards Career Finish In Salem

Simko Steers Towards Career Finish In Salem

Simko Steers Towards Career Finish In Salem Salem, Indiana - - If there is one track where Michael Simko is waiting to return, itâ&#8364;&#8482;s Salem. The second-generation driver returns to the Indiana based track looking for vengeance after a powerful start to his last trip to the track last fall ended with a poor ... Continue reading

Noble International Reports First Quarter 2005 Diluted EPS of $0.41

Noble International Reports First Quarter 2005 Diluted EPS of $0.41

WARREN, Mich., April 20 -- Noble International, Ltd. ("Noble" or the "Company") reported diluted earnings per share of $0.41 for the first quarter of 2005, which ended March 31. In the first quarter of 2004, the Company posted diluted earnings per share of $0.36. First Quarter Results Revenue grew to $86.8 million in t ... Continue reading

Universal Automotive Announces Delisting Notice

Universal Automotive Announces Delisting Notice

ALSIP, Ill., April 20 -- Universal Automotive Industries, Inc. today announced that it has received a letter dated April 19, 2005 from the Nasdaq Stock Market, Inc. advising that due to failure to file its Form 10-K on a timely basis the character "e" will be appended to the trading symbol for the Company's securities ... Continue reading

Dana Corporation to Debut Automotive Technologies in China at Auto Shanghai 2005

Dana Corporation to Debut Automotive Technologies in China at Auto Shanghai 2005

SHANGHAI, China, April 20 -- Dana Corporation announced today that it will showcase its full automotive product line for the first time in China at the Auto Shanghai 2005 trade show, April 21-28. (Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/19990903/DANA ) "To be competitive in today's marketplace, automotive suppliers m ... Continue reading

Search The Auto Channel

The Auto Channel content library (since 1996) has grown to become the world’s most extensive and complete interactive archive of automotive centric news, articles, reviews and intense event coverage, presented to viewers as Text, Video and Images.

The Auto Channel Content by Topic

Vehicle manufacturers and alt fuels.