Auto Events

New York, NY – Each day, 600,000 New Yorkers hop in the back of a taxi – the iconic yellow cab that is a symbol of New York City around the world. Starting today, the first full vehicle prototype of the Taxi of Tomorrow can be seen by drivers, passengers and owners. The 2014 Nissan NV200 taxi, New York's Taxi of Tomorrow, will make its global debut tonight at a special event in SoHo with Nissan President and CEO Carlos Ghosn and New York City officials.

Following the event, the Taxi of Tomorrow is headed to the 2012 New York International Auto Show, where it will be on display for New Yorkers and visitors from around the world. The auto show at the Jacob Javits Center is open to the public April 6-15.

"We're proud to introduce a new era of urban mobility to New York with the Nissan NV200 Taxi – New York City's Taxi of Tomorrow," Ghosn said. "The exclusive Taxi of Tomorrow draws on Nissan's global experience in commercial vehicles, as well as insight from New York City taxi drivers and passengers, who helped identify important improvements over today's cabs. The Nissan taxi will deliver unprecedented levels of innovation and comfort to New York's 600,000 daily taxi riders."

After a rigorous, two-year competitive bid selection process, the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) selected the Nissan NV200 Taxi in May 2011 as the exclusive taxi of New York City beginning in late 2013. The Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum, the Design Trust for Public Space and Smart Design also have engaged with Nissan and the TLC in the vehicle's design.

"The Nissan NV 200 unveiled today will be the safest, most comfortable and most convenient taxi the City has ever had," said New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg. "New York City cabs have always been iconic, and now they will set a new standard. The 600,000 passengers who use taxis to get around every day deserve the cutting-edge technology and top-of-the-line safety features that this model delivers."

Designed from the inside out, using input from New York taxi drivers, medallion holders, fleets and passengers, standard interior features and passenger amenities include:

• Ample room for four passengers and their luggage, offering substantial improvements over current taxi models
• Sliding doors with entry step and grab handles, providing easy entry and exit
• Transparent roof panel, presenting unique views of the city
• Opening side windows
• Independently controlled rear air conditioning
• Active Carbon Lined headliner to help neutralize interior odors
• Overhead reading lights for passengers and floor lighting to help locate belongings
• A mobile charging station for passengers, including a 12-volt electrical outlet and two USB ports
• Breathable, antimicrobial, environment-friendly, durable and easy-to-clean seat fabric, simulating the look and feel of leather
• Flat "no hump" passenger floor area for more comfortable ride

Other notable vehicle features are:
• Proven 2.0L 4-cylinder powertrain, engineered to enhance the emission performance and fuel efficiency of the taxi fleet
• 150,000 mile powertrain warranty
• A low-annoyance horn with exterior lights that indicate when the vehicle is honking, so the horn is used less frequently. A 6-way adjustable driver's seat featuring both recline and lumbar adjustments, even with a partition installed
• Unique driver's seat material and stitching to promote improved airflow
• USB Auxiliary audio input and charge port for driver
• Standard navigation system with integrated rearview backup monitor
• Hearing Loop System for the hearing impaired
• Driver and passenger intercom system
• Pre-wiring for taxi T-PEP system

In addition, important safety features of the Taxi of Tomorrow include:
• Only taxi ever to be safety tested and certified with full taxi partition
• Front and rear-seat occupant curtain airbags, and seat-mounted airbags for the front row
• Standard traction control and Vehicle Dynamic Control
• Sliding doors to lessen risk of pedestrians, cyclists and other motorists getting struck by doors opening unexpectedly
• Lights that alert other road users that taxi doors are opening

With more than 13,000 taxis traveling a cumulative 500 million miles per year, building a taxi with the utmost durability is critical to the development process. Drawing on its full range of commercial vehicle experience – including providing taxis for municipalities around the world – Nissan will conduct significant validation testing for the Nissan NV200 Taxi prior to the vehicle going on sale. Additionally, as acknowledged by Mayor Bloomberg during the May 2011 announcement, the Taxi of Tomorrow will be the first New York taxi to be crash-tested with taxi equipment installed, including the partition.

Nissan has also partnered with the Braun Corp., the world leader in automotive mobility products, to develop, engineer and produce a creative solution for a wheelchair-accessible taxi in New York. Drawing on Braun's innovation and experience in the mobility industry, Nissan will offer a mobility solution to New York taxi medallion holders when the taxis go on sale in 2013.

As part of the Taxi of Tomorrow program, Nissan is also working with the City and taxi owners on a pilot program to study the use of zero-emission, electric vehicles as taxis. Nissan will provide six 100-percent electric Nissan LEAFs and three Level 2 charging stations at no charge to taxi owners and New York City to test the electrification of the taxi fleet.

The Nissan NV200 Taxi will be produced in North America at Nissan's manufacturing facility in Cuernavaca, Mexico. Total manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) of the vehicle, with all planned standard features, will be approximately $29,700.

To stay informed on news and events related to Taxi of Tomorrow, follow it on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/taxioftomorrow or visit www.taxioftomorrow.com.

First-ever, Live, Online Streaming Event Featuring the All-New Infiniti JX in a Cirque du Soleil® Performance

MONTREAL - Exemplifying a unique partnership, Cirque du Soleil and luxury auto maker Infiniti are pleased to present the first-ever, live streaming event featuring the all-new Infiniti JX in a Cirque du Soleil performance. Viewable exclusively online at 12pm EDT, Thursday, March 29 on Facebook.com/Infiniti and Facebook.com/CirqueduSoleil, see the versatile Infiniti JX combine with the artistry of Cirque du Soleil…all at gravity challenging heights!

Inspired by the all-new Infiniti JX, Cirque du Soleil's Special Events team has incorporated Infiniti's all-new, 7-passenger luxury crossover into an approximately 11 minute performance, complete with 9 Cirque du Soleil performers - all streamed live from Cirque du Soleil's headquarters in Montreal. And immediately following the performance, stay online for an exclusive, interactive video Q&A where you may have your questions about the performance answered in real-time by Mario D'Amico, Senior Vice President, Cirque du Soleil Corporate Marketing and Wendy Durward, Director, Infiniti Canada.

With a shared commitment to creativity and performance, Infiniti is an Official Sponsor and exclusive Automotive Partner of Cirque du Soleil.

To view a behind-the-scenes video, visit: http://youtu.be/DJ8hJXhSxjI
To access images and additional video clips, please visit the Infiniti Canada media site: media.infiniti.ca

To Learn More and Access the Live Performance

Access to the live-event is no-charge and you may RSVP NOW and/or submit a question for the interactive video Q&A in advance on the 'Events' page at www.facebook.com/infiniti
At 12pm EDT, March 29, 2012, simply visit the 'Infiniti Live' Page on www.facebook.com/infiniti or www.facebook.com/cirquedusoleil

New ILX luxury compact sport sedan features Acura's first hybrid powertrain; RDX features new engine and all-wheel-drive system; NSX Concept represents Acura's vision to create true synergy between man and machine

Acura unveiled three new vehicles that are central to the future direction of Acura. The NSX Concept, a first glimpse at the direction for Acura's next-generation supercar, made its Canadian debut alongside the all-new ILX luxury compact sport sedan, designed as the new "gateway" to the Acura brand for consumers interested in moving up from mass-market vehicles. These two "bookends" of the Acura brand were joined by the totally redesigned 2013 RDX crossover sport utility vehicle.

"Today is an important day for Acura in Canada," said Jerry Chenkin, executive vice president, Honda Canada. "We are introducing two vehicles that will have an immediate impact on the luxury market this spring and one that will redefine what a supercar is. With beautiful designs and innovative technology that will improve the driving experience for everyone, I'm proud to introduce the vehicles that will be the foundation of our next 25 years in Canada."

About the Acura NSX Concept

The dynamically styled NSX Concept gives an indication of the next great performance vehicle from Acura. Making use of lightweight materials and a mid-mounted V-6 engine, the NSX Concept employs several new technologies for Acura, including a new, innovative Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® (Super Handling All Wheel Drive(tm)) hybrid system.

Utilizing a unique two Electric Motor Drive Unit with a bilateral torque adjustable control system, the all-new hybrid all-wheel-drive system can instantly generate negative or positive torque to the front wheels during cornering. Acura anticipates the new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD will deliver handling performance unmatched by previous AWD systems. In addition to the handling benefits of the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system, a powerful next-generation VTEC® V-6 engine with direct injection works in concert with a dual clutch transmission with built-in electric motor to create supercar acceleration while offering outstanding fuel efficiency.

"The new NSX Concept is the ultimate expression of Acura's vision to create a true synergy between driver and machine," said Mr. Chenkin. "With innovative technologies like the new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system, the NSX will make the driver at one with the car to enhance dynamic driving abilities without getting in the way."

While most supercars opt for brute force delivered from a large engine, the NSX Concept champions the true racing philosophy of an extremely favorable power-to-weight ratio.

"Like the original NSX, we will once again achieve high performance through engineering efficiency," added Mr. Chenkin. "We the fun-to-drive spirit of the NSX will be a primary focus; we believe that a supercar must respond positively to environmental responsibilities, too."

The new Acura supercar, expected to debut in the next three years, will be developed by an engineering team led by Honda R&D Americas, Inc., and manufactured in Ohio.

About the 2013 Acura ILX

The 2013 Acura ILX compact sport sedan is an all-new model that is the gateway to the Acura brand. Sleek and sporty, the ILX combines luxury, performance and efficiency while maintaining a strong emphasis on a stylish and aerodynamic exterior design. As a five-passenger luxury sedan, the ILX combines compact proportions with ample cargo space, a spacious passenger interior and a large and airy greenhouse that provides excellent outward visibility.

"We've created the new Acura ILX to provide first-time luxury buyers with the sophistication, exterior styling, affordability and environmental responsibility that they value," said Alexander Roger, assistant vice president, Acura Canada. "Research shows that 80 per cent of new car buyers are contemplating a move into the luxury market but many just don't get there. ILX will finally provide those customers with a true gateway into the luxury market."

The ILX will feature three advanced, sporty and efficient powertrain choices, including Acura's first- gasoline-electric hybrid. The ILX will be powered by a 2.0-litre inline 4-cylinder engine producing 150 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 140 lb.-ft. of torque at 4300 rpm. For those who seek a more dynamic driving experience, the ILX can be equipped with a 2.4-litre engine with an output of 201 horsepower at 7000 rpm and 170 lb.-ft. torque at 4300 rpm.

As Acura's first ever hybrid model, the ILX Hybrid makes use of a 1.5-litre inline engine and an Integrated Motor Assist® electric motor. The hybrid drivetrain uses the gasoline engine as the primary power source, while an electric motor provides additional power when needed. A lithium-ion battery pack is used to capture and store electricity for the 20 horsepower electric motor. Together, the gasoline engine and electric motor produce 111 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 127 lb.-ft. of torque between 1000-3000 rpm. During braking, the gasoline engine deactivates and the electric motor acts as a generator to recharge the battery pack. At a stop, the 1.5-litre engine can enter idle-stop mode to save fuel and reduce emissions. The engine remains off until the brake pedal is released.

The ILX chassis utilizes advanced MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension systems, along with new Amplitude Reactive Dampers. The dampers operate in two distinct performance parameters to simultaneously provide superior ride comfort and precision handling. In addition, Motion Adaptive Electric Power Steering is used for excellent steering feel and improved fuel efficiency. The result is a chassis with a high level of refinement, confident handling and a nimble and sporty driving experience.

Inside, the ILX will feature a high-quality, well-appointed interior that is smart, spacious and sporty.  It will offer a number of new, high-value features including a standard Keyless Access System with smart entry and pushbutton start and SMS text message function for smart connectivity with the world.

As with all Acura models, the ILX will have a long list of standard features, two trim levels -a Premium Package and Technology Package - and excellent standard safety features, including Acura's acclaimed Advanced Compatibility Engineering(tm) (ACE(tm)) body structure, front, side and side-curtain airbags, 4-channel anti-lock brakes and Vehicle Stability Assist(tm) (VSA®). Although yet to be tested, Acura anticipates that the ILX will achieve top crash safety ratings from both the U.S.-based NHTSA and IIHS.

The available Premium Package features leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, an upgraded 360-watt stereo system, a rearview camera and an Active Sound Cancellation system to make for a quieter cabin.

Building on the Premium Package, the available Technology Package adds Acura's award winning ELS Surround® audio system and a complement of relevant technologies, including Acura Navigation System with Bilingual Voice Recognition(tm). The navigation system makes use of a hard disk drive (HDD) with 60 gigabytes of storage capacity, including 15 gigabytes that can be specifically allocated for music storage. With the available Premium or Technology Package, a new multi-view rear camera is used.

The Acura ILX will be manufactured exclusively at the company's state-of-the-art Greensburg, Indiana, plant - one of only three plants worldwide to receive J.D. Power and Associates' 2011 Platinum Award for outstanding product quality, and the top award for any factory in North America.

About the 2013 Acura RDX

The 2013 Acura RDX is the second generation of Acura's five-passenger crossover SUV and features a new engine, transmission and all-wheel-drive system that will up the ante in the compact luxury SUV segment with a new approach to achieving both advanced performance and improved fuel efficiency.

"This RDX has always had the timeless design, luxury detail and functional technology that Acura customers expect," said Alexander Roger, assistant vice president, Acura Canada. "With this next generation though, the already impressive RDX is improved in just about every way - it's more powerful and more fuel efficient, and provides a quieter, roomier and more comfortable ride."

The 2013 RDX rides on a 4-wheel independent suspension with a MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension design. A longer wheelbase, wider track and lower centre of gravity provide the foundation for the new RDX's improved handling and ride quality. New chassis technology for 2013 includes Acura-exclusive Amplitude Reactive Dampers and a new Motion Adaptive Electric Power Steering system that replaces the previous hydraulic steering. The 2013 RDX will come standard with all-wheel-drive.

Standard features for 2013 RDX include bold new 5-spoke 18-inch wheels and improved 4-wheel disc brakes that include an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. Not only do the brakes provide better performance, but they also incorporate improvements to lessen brake drag for reduced rolling resistance and improved fuel economy.

Replacing the turbocharged 2.3-litre inline 4-cylinder used with the previous RDX, the 2013 RDX will now have, as standard equipment, a 3.5-litre V-6 engine that produces 273 horsepower -33 more than the outgoing model. For even higher performance and improved fuel economy, the RDX makes use of an all-new 6-speed automatic transmission with a new lock-up torque converter.

The RDX also gets a new, lighter weight all-wheel-drive system that provides outstanding performance and safety with increased efficiency to achieve higher fuel economy.

The RDX boasts a sleek and more aerodynamic body, evolving RDX from a sporty, compact SUV to a more formal SUV appearance with a longer, sculpted hood and styling that is more elegant and sophisticated to match the Acura philosophy of timeless, beautiful design.

Inside the 2013 RDX, new sweeping shapes, matte surface trim, and generous use of leather combine to give the RDX interior an upscale look and luxury feel that Acura customers have come to expect. An abundant use of sound deadening materials and Active Sound Control provides an exceptionally quiet cabin. Additional interior features, such as larger door openings, more passenger room, increased cargo volume and an available power rear tailgate make the RDX interior even more accommodating and flexible.

The 2013 RDX will receive a host of new technologies including SMS text message feature, a Keyless Access System with smart entry and pushbutton start, and a three-view rear camera. An available Technology Package will provide a full complement of relevant technologies, including an Acura ELS Surround® audio system and Acura Navigation System with Bilingual Voice Recognition(tm). New for 2013, a more advanced navigation system utilizes a hard disk drive (HDD) with 60 gigabytes of storage capacity, including 15 gigabytes that can be allocated for music storage.

CHICAGO, IL – The official launch of SVT came during the 1992 Chicago Auto Show with the unveiling of the 1993 SVT Mustang Cobra and SVT F-150 Lightning. Now Ford returns to Chicago to celebrate its past and look to the future with the 2013 Shelby GT500 convertible.

In honor of SVT’s anniversary, a commemorative lighted sill plate will be used in the 2013 Shelby GT500 to celebrate the many years of performance vehicles. The 1993 SVT Mustang Cobra offered a 235-horsepower 5.0-liter V8 engine, which demonstrates just how far the products have come in 20 years. The 2013 Shelby GT500 with its 650-horsepower V8 marks the latest offering from one of the oldest and most successful automotive performance groups in the world.

“The Shelby GT500 convertible is every bit the performer that the coupe is,” said Kerry Baldori, SVT Global Performance Vehicles chief engineer. “All of the significant changes we made in the program were instrumental in delivering a convertible that could really shine on the track but can still be driven on a daily basis.”

The 2013 Shelby GT500 convertible with the optional Performance Package is faster around a track than the outgoing model. The new convertible shaved nearly 3.5 seconds off its lap time at Sebring International Raceway compared to the 2011 and 2012 models.

Keys to the improved lap times are the power boost from the new 5.8-liter supercharged V8 producing 650 horsepower, as well as the SVT-designed Bilstein electronic adjustable dampers available on the Performance Package and the all-new chassis tuning.

Accessed on the dash with a simple push of a button, normal mode gives customers a more comfortable ride over road irregularities. Sport mode is all about performance, delivering improved response time on the track and less body roll while cornering with reduced pitch under braking. The upgraded dampers allowed SVT engineers to tune the convertible more aggressively for the track, while still being able to maintain desirable on-road manners.

A new Brembo brake system also is a key enabler in boosting the performance of the convertible. The new brakes offer drivers enhanced stopping power to help keep their car under control, while new six-piston calipers in front along with larger front and rear rotors further improve braking performance. More aggressive brake pads also help the car achieve high deceleration and further robustness for more driver confidence.

Similar to the coupe, the convertible will be offered with a Performance Package that also can be upgraded to a Track Package, complete with an external engine oil cooler, rear differential cooler and transmission cooler for further durability.

20 years of high-performance innovation

Each of the more than 210,000 SVT vehicles produced since 1993 has been designed and developed with the four SVT attributes in mind: Performance, Substance, Exclusivity and Value. These hallmarks still guide the brand’s vehicle development today.

“In the past 20 years, SVT has engineered world-class mid-engine supercars, front-wheel-drive performance cars, rear-wheel-drive muscle cars and high-performance on-road and off-road pickup trucks,” said Jamal Hameedi, SVT chief engineer. “There is no other performance house in the world that can match that diverse résumé.”

Since 1993 more than seven different SVT vehicles have been produced, including several versions of the Cobra and Shelby GT500, the F-150 Lightning performance pickup and F-150 SVT Raptor, the SVT Contour sports sedan, plus both three- and five-door versions of the SVT Focus. Special SVT Mustang Cobra R models were made in 1993, 1995 and 2000.

SVT has joined with Team RS in Europe to form the Performance Vehicles Group to devise a strategy for all future global performance Ford cars. The resulting Focus ST is Ford’s first truly global performance car, giving drivers around the world the opportunity to share the exhilarating performance, excellent handling, addictive sound and sporty design Ford’s ST badge represents. The Ford Fiesta ST Concept also signals the next step in Ford’s global performance vehicle strategy and hints at how a future Fiesta ST model might look when it joins the Focus ST in the global small car portfolio.