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General Motors Begins Hummer H3 and H3T Production Again
 General Motors began production of the 2010 Hummer H3 again late last week after a short delay earlier this year due to the economy. Just how low was their inventory of Hummer H3 SUV's? Only 1,183 units nation wide with sales down more than 50 percent, a figure that is phenomenal in comparison to just a couple years ago. Hummer fans can find a new biofuel option on the new 2010's, two new colors added, and should see the new H3's arriving at dealerships next month.
[Autoblog]
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2011 GMC Sierra 3500 Heavy Duty Spy Shot
 A new photo of the 2011 GMC Sierra 3500 Heavy Duty has been released on the internet this week, showcasing a new hood with louvers, 6.6 liter Duramax emblems hinting at a new motor, and emblems for Duramax's new 6 speed Allison transmission. You can expect the Chevrolet Silverado HD to receive the same features and upgrades.
[PUT]
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Next Generation 2011 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra HD To Get New Chassis
 GMinsidenews have uncovered details stating that the next generation Silverado and Sierra HD pickup trucks will “have a completely new chassis and a new Duramax diesel with 2010 emissions". Vice President of Chevrolet Global Brand Brent Dewar spilled the details during a recent interview. "We are coming with a next generation Silverado and Sierra HD next year". Brian Goebel, a Chevrolet spokesman also confirmed the news, stating "We will have very significant enhancements, including the chassis, on top of the powertrain changes next year".
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2011 Chevrolet Heavy Duty Duramax Diesel V8 Engine Spyshot
 Pickuptrucks has been busy as usual looking for the latest and the greatest truck photos. This time they've found a spyshot of the 2011 Chevrolet Heavy Duty Duramax Diesel V8. Details about the engine are as follows: “The new Duramax diesels are based on the same engines that have been around since 2001,” said Gary Arvan, a GM diesel powertrain engineering chief. “The 2500 and 3500 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra HD pickups receive the high-power LML motor [replacing the 2007-10 LMM], while the 2500 and 3500 heavy-duty vans receive the lower-rated LGH engine [also replacing the LMM]. Both have iron blocks, aluminum cylinder heads, and their [6.6-liter] bore and stroke are unchanged.”
[Pickuptrucks]
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General Motors To Begin Leasing Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac and Buick Models Again
 General Motors Company announced an expansion of leasing today with enhanced lease programs on select 2009 and 2010 Cadillac, Buick, GMC and Chevrolet models. The leases, offered by U.S. Bank, are part of a pilot program that includes select GM vehicles sold in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Michigan and Ohio. In addition, a lease on the all-new Cadillac SRX will be offered by U.S. Bank nationally. The pilot is currently planned to run through August 31, 2009.Full Story... 
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GM 72 Hour Sale Offers 0 Percent Financing for 72 Months
 General Motors are having a 72 hour sale which began July 1st and runs through July 6th. You can take advantage of 0 percent financing for 72 months on select miles which include the 2009 and 2010 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2009 Hummer H3T and Cadillac Escalade EXT.
Now is the time to buy a truck if you can afford one!
[Pickuptrucks]
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| | | | Ford Expected To Pass GM In Production
 IHS Global Insight are forecasting Ford Motor Company to surpass General Motors in production for 2009 with 1.9 million units to be produced in North America. The IHS ranks Honda in third with 1.1 million units, Toyota in fourth with 904,000 units, and Chrysler taking up the rear with 903,000 units (don't know how that is possible when they're not really selling any vehicles?).
The IHS also predicts North American sale to fall around 8.4 million units, down 156,000 from last month. North American sales are still down 37.8 percent compared to a year before.
Source: Autoblog
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General Motors Drops 6.0 Liter V8, Introduces New 4.8 Liter V8
 General Motors have released their 2010 Fleet Vehicle Guide to dealerships and changes have occurred to their pickup trucks. GM Inside News points out that GM are dropping their 6.0 liter V8 Vortech engine for the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 pickup trucks from normal production but will continue to use the engine for their two mode hybrid pickup trucks. Other engine options for 2010 include a Vortec 4.3 liter V6, Flex Fuel Vortec 4.8 liter V8, Flex Fuel 5.3 liter V8 and a Flex Fuel Vortec 6.2 liter V8. The old 6.0 liter will also be available as a standard option for GM's heavy duty 2500 and 3500 series pickup trucks.
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General Motors Planning Nine-Week Summer Production Shutdowns
 General Motors is hurting bad, real bad and as a reflection of their current state the company is preparing (aside from bankruptcy) a nine week shut down starting in May in order to help "conserve resources" and "clear up any inventory buildups". The shut down has a potential ripple effect on suppliers who rely on them for business and may effect the rest of the industry.
GM is going down the shitter and will soon end up dead just like print media.
Sources: AFP via Autoblog
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Exxon Mobil Earns First Place Fortune 500, Chevron and ConocoPhillips 3rd and 4th
 Good ole' Exxon Mobil earned the first place spot on the Fortune 500 for 2008, achieving $443 billion in sales and $45 billion in revenue, passing Wal-Mart and dropping the giant to second place with only $406 billion for 2008. Not far behind were Chevron and ConocoPhillips in 3rd and 4th place, where ConocoPhillips actually lost $17 billion in 2008 due to money losing oil refineries. Amazingly, Ford Motor Company and General Motors rounded off the 6th and 7th place victories as top companies.
Sources: CNN Money via Autoblog
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General Motors To Be Called ''General Monetized'', Prep for Bankruptcy
 General Motors should soon be called "General Monetized" as the company prepares to declare bankruptcy by June 1st. GM is currently operating under United States' government loans issued late last year. A plan under consideration created by the Obama Administration would "create a new company that would buy the "good" assets of GM after the carmaker files for bankruptcy".
Source: Yahoo
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| Hummer Has 3 Buyers, $200 Million Asking Price
 News across the intarweb is hinting at three new buyers for General Motors' Hummer brand, two from overseas companies and one located in the United States. The bidding price is approximately $100 to $200 million cash which includes a network of 125 dealerships and does not include any advertising needed to help establish the brand once again.
Source: Reuters
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Chevrolet Announces Pricing For The 2010 Equinox
 Chevrolet announced the 2010 Equinox crossover will carry a MSRP of $23,185, including a $745 destination charge, for the FWD LS model. It goes on sale this June. "Offering the fuel economy of a sedan with the functionality of a crossover, the Equinox is a superior value for our customers," said Ed Peper, GM North America vice president, Chevrolet. Chevy expects its Equinox to have best-in-class fuel economy at 30 MPG with its advanced 4-cylinder, direct injected engine. It is available in LS, LT and LTZ trim, with available all-wheel-drive. Two new engines are offered, each with fuel-saving direct injection and variable valve timing technology.Full Story...
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Hummer Sale Saga Continues
 The end of the road for Hummer is starting to get closer with new speculation regarding the sale of Hummer by General Motors. A final answer of fate for the heavily scrutinized SUV company will take place in the next "Few weeks". A spokesperson from GM commented about other companies, stating interest was coming from "all different parts of the world" and that the automaker is "cautiously optimistic" about those potential sales. For now the "Hummer Sale Saga" continues.
Source: Google News
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| | | | GM CEO To Be Replaced, Message from Rick Wagoner
 On Friday I was in Washington for a meeting with Administration officials. In the course of that meeting, they requested that I “step aside” as CEO of GM, and so I have. Fritz Henderson is an excellent choice to be the next CEO of GM. Having worked closely with Fritz for many years, I know that he is the ideal person to lead the company through the completion of our restructuring efforts. His knowledge of the global industry and the company are exceptional, and he has the intellect, energy, and support among GM’ers worldwide to succeed. I wish him well, and I stand ready to support him, and interim Non-Executive Chairman Kent Kresa, in every way possible.Full Story...
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2011 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 Spyshots
 General Motors' Chevrolet Silverado 3500 heavy duty pickup truck has received a minor face lift for the 2011 model year. The grille has been changed up slightly to a mesh style, a new lower valance was added, along with a larger front opening for additional cooling to accompany GM's new diesel Allison transmission.
Source: Pickuptrucks
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General Motors Brings Back 3.7 Liter Inline 5 Engine Production
 General Motors announced earlier this week they will indefinitely be producing the highly anticipated 4.5 liter diesel motor. News has spread now that GM's inline five cylinder gas motor will return to production. Built for the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, Hummer H3T, and Hummer H3 pickup trucks, the 3.7 liter inline 5 will take production this summer.
Source: Pickuptrucks
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General Motors' Statement Regarding the Duramax 4.5L V-8 Diesel
 Given the current economic climate, GM has reviewed and updated its U.S. product portfolio and has decided to place on indefinite hold its previously announced plan to add a Duramax 4.5L V-8 diesel engine in 2010 to its Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra light-duty trucks.
Chevrolet and GMC will continue to offer a heavy duty Duramax 6.6L V-8 diesel, which is class-leading in both horsepower and torque. Light-duty truck customers can also choose from several fuel-efficient gasoline engines with GM’s Active Fuel Management mated to a six-speed transmission or a new 2-Mode hybrid that provides up to 40 percent improved city fuel mileage and 25 percent improvement in overall fuel efficiency. In fact, no other full-size pickup has better fuel economy.
GM remains optimistic that the Duramax 4.5L V-8 diesel may be a viable option in its future portfolio.
Source: GM
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Chevrolet Colorado Light Duty Pickup Keeps V8 Engine
 Despite market conditions, General Motors have not cut the eight cylinder motor production from the Chevrolet Colorado light duty pickup truck. GM has cut its high performance vehicle operations group however. GM spokesperson Kelly Wysocki commented "The V-8 Colorado isn't affected" and "It will continue through its originally planned product lifecycle. Only the development of future (high-performance) vehicles is impacted".
Source: Autoweek Magazine
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Total Automotive Manufacturer Bailout Just Shy Of $100 Billion
 The Detroit Free Press have collected, analyzed, and tallied all of the automotive bailout related items and the total comes in at $97.4 billion dollars. That figure includes the initial $25.4 billion given out to automakers, a $25.5 billion issued from the Federal government for automotive suppliers, and a final $39 billion in loans for General Motors and Chrysler LLC. When you add up all those numbers and if the entire amount is paid out to all of the automotive companies, it has been computed that every single American citizen would have contributed $874 dollars to this clusterfuck bailout plan.
Sources: Detroit Free Press via Autoblog
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General Motors Shipping Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra with 3.73 Rear Axle Option
 Good news for those enthusiasts looking to buy a new pickup truck from General Motors, the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra half ton trucks are now shipping with a 3.73 rear axle option and new 6.2 liter V8 engine. GM spokesperson Kelly Wysocki commented "The first GM full-size pickups with 6.2-liter V-8 engines and 3.73 rear axles started shipping from the factory in late January" and "they should start arriving at dealers very soon. The 3.73 can be ordered as part of the Max Trailering Package option". GM's new 6.2 liter V8 packs 403 horsepower and 417 foot pounds of torque, matched with a six speed automatic transmission, the new motor and axle combination is only available on crew cab configurations. The new 3.73 rear axle option replaces the standard 3.42, which was optimized for fuel economy standards.
Source: Pickuptrucks
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General Motors and Chrysler LLC Request More Bailout Money
 Yesterday morning, General Motors and Chrysler LLC submitted their "Viability" plans to the United States Treasury Department, requesting additional money in bailouts to help sustain their companies further into the year. GM requested an additional $16.6 billion dollars and Chrysler LLC requested an additional $2 billion, both as "immediate requests". GM also addressed the fates of Hummer, Saturn and Saab, three brands they are hoping to sell or phase out by March 31st.
After the requests were made, Chrysler issued comments about their 2010 model line up which includes a redesigned Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV, Dodge Charger, Chrysler 300 sedan, Dodge Durango SUV and a two mode hybrid Dodge Ram.
No official statements have been made yet by the Treasury Department.
Sources: Jalopnik, MSNBC, Autoblog, Yahoo News
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General Motors Expected To Cut 5,000 More White Collar Jobs
 General Motors are planning to cut up to 5,000 additional salaried (white collar) jobs as part of their company wide restructuring plan that is due by February 17 to the Federal Government. GM have also offered their employees buyout packages which include $20,000 cash and $25,000 towards the purchase of a GM vehicle. GM's current workforce stands at 95,000 in North America and are looking to slash that number down to 65,000 within the next three years. More job losses to come.
Sources: Bloomberg via Autoblog, Autonews
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General Motors Offers Buyout Package To Every Employee
 General Motors are now offering buyout packages to every one of its hourly workers which include $20,000 dollars cash and a $25,000 dollar voucher for any General Motors vehicle. The UAW have confirmed the reports stating "the offer will be a one-time cash payout as well as a car-purchase voucher". Employees will have until March 23 to make their decision and until April 1st to officially leave the company.
Sources: Yahoo News, Google News
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General Motors May Sell Medium Truck Business To Isuzu
 News has hit the intarweb that General Motors are seeking Isuzu Motors as the latest buyer for their medium duty truck business. Isuzu is currently the world's largest producer of medium and heavy duty trucks which include commercial vehicles and heavy duty trucks. If the deal goes through, Isuzu would take over production of the GMC TopKick and Chevrolet Kodiak, rebranded as the Isuzu H-Series.
Sources: Michigan Online, MSNBC, Autoblog
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General Motors To Increase Pickup Truck and SUV Production in March
 General Motors have made the executive decision to begin increasing their pickup truck production for the week of March 16 at two plants nationwide. None of the plants have been active since before the end of December and those being activated are Flint, Michigan, Arlington, Texas. Both were producing the Silverado pickup truck, and Tahoe, Yukon and Escalade SUV's. The reasoning for increasing production is that company believes they will receive a "stronger demand during the spring" and that "inventory is way down", noting they are down to a 90 day supply of vehicles.
Sources: Autonews via Autoblog
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Hybrid SUV Sales Drop 10 Percent
 Sales figures from 2008 have come in and hybrid sport utility vehicle purchases have already begun to slow, dropping nearly 10 percent for the year. Toyota ranked number one in hybrid sales for 2008 with 241,000 vehicles sold, Honda as number two with 31,000 vehicles, and Ford in third with 20,000 vehicles sold. Although sales are down, General Motors witnessed a 179 percent growth of their Chevrolet Tahoe and Cadillac Escalade Hybrid SUVs, however no figures were noted by GM.
Source: AutoNews
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Toyota Steals Crown From General Motors After 77 Years
 Toyota Motor Sales, USA are now the king of the castle selling over 600,000 units more than General Motors and have become the world's largest automaker. This is a first for the Japanese automaker who stole the title from General Motors after 77 years since 1931. In 2008 Toyota sold 8.97 million vehicles, slightly more than General Motors' reported 8.35 million.
Sources: CNN Money via Autoblog
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Pontiac G8 ST Uni-Body Pickup Truck Axed From General Motors Lineup
 Sources across the intarweb are stating that General Motors have quietly trashed plans to produce the 2010 Pontiac G8 ST in North America which was set to hit dealer lots later this year. Based off of the Chevrolet El Camino and Ford Ranchero uni-body style pickup trucks from the 1960's and 1970's, the V8 powered G8 ST has encountered its early death because of the expected small niche market the truck would have filled, failing to meet a larger audience and becoming GM's next "cash cow". You can expect more vehicles to be axed from GM's model line up during 2009.
Sources: Pickuptrucks via Autoblog, Jalopnik
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| | GMAC Gets $5 Billion In Aid, Lowers Credit Score Requirement
 GMAC Financing are now approving loans for consumers with credit scores of 621 or higher, a score that was lowered from a previously announced credit score of 700 or higher. The move comes as GMAC received $5 billion dollars in government aid as part of a bailout plan, separate from the additional $13.4 billion GM received from the government to avoid bankruptcy. This means now pretty much anyone can go out and be approved to purchase that new Chevrolet 2500 HD diesel pickup truck they always wanted and still have no means to pay for it. Woohoo!
Sources: Autonews via Autoblog
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General Motors Sends Custom Cars and Trucks To Barrett Jackson Auction
 In an article by Autoweek, General Motors have made the decision to place a large chunk of their custom cars and pickup trucks up for auction at the Barrett Jackson auction in Scottsdale, Arizona next month. GM are sorting through more than 1,000 vehicles that sit at the Heritage Center in Detroit, Michigan, a privately owned special vehicle fleet building. The decision is somewhat sadenning, as the center houses over 100 years of General Motors history. Up for grabs are numerous custom trucks that GM designed and built for the SEMA show over the years, as well as some that are "slightly used at the Heritage Center". If you want to own a little bit of GM's history yourself, head on over to the Barrett Jackson website for more details about their auction next month.
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| 2009 Chevrolet Colorado ZQ8 V8 Pickup Truck Test Driven
 Small pickup truck owners rejoice! General Motors have finally released a V8 motor for the Chevrolet Colorado truck and Pickuptrucks have gotten their hands on the new pickup for a test drive. "From behind the wheel, the ZQ8 Colorado has the heft and ready torque of a full-size truck but one with a performance bent" says John Stewart of PUT. GM added their 5.3 liter V8 motor that produces 300 horsepower and 320 foot pounds of torque, quite some power for the smaller truck and from the sounds of things, it seems like an awesome ride. Click here to read their review of the 2009 Chevrolet Colorado ZQ8.
Sources: Pickuptrucks via Jalopnik
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Breaking News: Automakers Will Get $17.4 Billion Bailout By U.S. Government
 The Bush Administration have announced this morning the approval of a $17.4 billion dollar bailout of the Detroit Big 3, Ford Motor Company, General Motors Corporation and Chrysler LLC. The government will become the stockholder in the companies, much like they are set up with the major banks due to the Wall Street bailout a couple months ago, and will release a second $350 billion hand out some time at the beginning of the year which is being pulled from the financial rescue package. Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson commented to Congress "Tapping the fund for the auto industry basically exhausts the first half of the $700 billion total". President George Bush also made a statement saying "Allowing the auto companies to collapse is not a responsible course of action" and would result in "an unacceptably painful blow to hardworking Americans". An official stated that $13.4 billion will be available this month, $9.4 billion going to General Motors Corporation, and $4 billion to Chrysler LLC. Ford Motor Company have reassured they do not need immediate help and have not accepted any offers as of yet.
Sources: MSNBC via Autoblog, ABC News, Ford, GM, Chrysler
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AM General Joins Changfeng in Joint Partnership to Purchase Hummer Brand
 It looks like General Motors' Hummer brand may finally be bought out after all from AM General and Changfeng in a joint partnership. AM General is the company that created the original United States military HMMWV Humvee back in 1983 and has recently shown interest in buying back the Hummer brand. Changfeng, a China based automotive manufacturer responded with the comment "We never quit talks on acquiring the brand...but now instead of doing it alone, we decide to form partnership with AM General to reduce risk as the global economy falters. We have to always adjust our plan to market conditions".
Sources: Gasgoo via Hummer Guy, Autoblog
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| Canada To Help Detroit Big Three, Gives Aid Money
 Details have come through from the Detroit News that the Canadian and Ontario governments have decided to give Canadian subsidiaries from General Motors Corporation, Chrysler LLC, and Ford Motor Company nearly $3 billion in aid money as they try to maintain operation. The $2.8 billion dollar amount does fall short of the requested $4.8 billion by the automakers but is an accepted amount to prevent further job losses in Canada for Canadian Auto Workers. No further details were reported.
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General Motors Extends Red Tag Savings, Increased Cash Back On Pickup Trucks, SUVs
 General Motors are practically giving away vehicles these days in efforts to make a couple bucks. GM have extended their Red Tag Sale by offering an increase in the amount of cash back on 2008 pickup trucks and SUVs, the companies bread and butter vehicles for the past decade. Rebates are ranging anywhere from $5,000 cash back to up to $10,000 on larger diesel trucks. Check out the list of cash back incentives below, and note the Red Tag Sale prices are not included:
* 2008 Chevrolet Equinox: $5,000 cash back
* 2008 GMC Canyon: $5,000 cash back
* 2008 Pontiac Torrent: $5,000 cash back
* 2008 Cadillac SRX: $6,000 cash back
* 2008 Chevrolet Silverado regular cab, extended cab or crew cab: $6,000-$8,000 cash back
* 2008 GMC Sierra regular cab, extended cab or crew cab: $6,000-$8,000 cash back
* 2008 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra heavy duty: $9,000 cash back
* 2008 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra heavy duty diesel: $10,000
* 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe/Avalanche: $8,000 cash back
* 2008 GMC Yukon: $8,000 cash back
* 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer: $8,000 cash back
* 2008 GMC Envoy: $8,000 cash back
* 2008 Chevrolet Suburban/GMC Yukon XL: $9,000 cash back
* 2008 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT: $10,000 cash back
* 2008 Saab 9-7X: $10,000 cash back
* 2008 Hummer H2: $10,000 cash back
Sources: KickingTires via Autoblog, Yahoo News.
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Detroit Big 3 Bailout Stuck In Senate, United Auto Workers Refuses Wage Cuts
 After being approved by the United States House of Representatives with a vote of 237 to 170 and proceeding to the Senate to be voted on this evening, the Detroit Big 3 bailout collapsed after the United Auto Workers refused to approve wage cuts for employees, halting the bill for desperate automakers General Motors, Chrysler LLC, and Ford Motor Company. Senate Majority Leader, Harry Reid, commented afterward stating he was "terribly disappointed" with the UAW's decision and even hinted at the reaction of the economy tomorrow morning, "I dread looking at Wall Street tomorrow. It's not going to be a pleasant sight". We'll see what happens.
Sources: US House via MSNBC, Yahoo News, Autoblog, Jalopnik.
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Detroit Big 3 Looks At Canada For Remaining $7 Billion Bailout Money Requested
 The Detroit Big 3 have now asked the legislature in Canada, our friends from the north, to chip in $6.8 billion to help bail out their companies since over 100,000 employees, factories, and dealerships reside in Canada. General Motors of Canada has requested $2.4 billion, Chrysler Canada Inc. wants $1.6 billion, and Ford wants a line of credit of $2 billion on "stand by", much like the requested bail out money here in the States. GM asked our friends of the North for an immediate $800 million to "make it through the end of the year". Tony Clement, Federal Industry Minister of Canada, responded with "the Canadian government will have to review the requests before pledging any funds". No further details have been reported.
Sources: The Hamilton Spectator via Autoblog, MotorGears.
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| Detroit Big 3 Bailout Draft Hits The Intarweb
The 31 page draft of Detroit's Big 3 bailout has hit the intarweb, but does not include any provisions added yet by Congress. Details of the report include a federal official who will oversee the distribution of funds for each automaker, requires automakers to submit a restructuring plan of their companies by March 31, 2009, and throws in a small fun fact detail about automakers promising to not vote against California's right to own its own emissions standards and for other states to adopt them.
Sources: Detroit Free Press via CNN Money, Autoblog.
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How The Detroit Big 3 Arrived To Congress On Friday, Not Via Planes
So what exactly did the Detroit Big 3 CEO's ride in to Congress this past Friday to help their bailout convincing? Well, Ford CEO Alan Mulally arrived in an Escape Hybrid SUV, Chrysler's CEO Bob Nardelli showed up in a 2009 Chrysler Aspen Hybrid SUV (which has already been cancelled, by the way), and General Motors' Rick Wagoner rode in an 2009 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid and 2009 Chevrolet Volt test vehicle. Wagoner also had a Cadillac CTS waiting to take him back to his hotel after their hearings. Three cars, one man? What's wrong with that equation. Reported by Jalopnik.
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| Detroit Big 3 Bailout Approved
 According to an article by Reuters, the Detroit Big 3 will receive their bailout loans as Democratic leaders and the White House came to an agreement late Friday afternoon approving $15 billion dollars in bailout aid to Ford Motor Company, General Motors, and Chrysler LLC. The deal, which auto makers hope President George W. Bush signs as early as this week, will help aid the Detroit Big 3 until January 20, 2009 when President Elect Brack Obama takes office and offers a new rescue plan.
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General Motors Requests $12 Billion in Tax Payers Dollars to Survive March 2009
 In an article by MSNBC, General Motors made the request for a total of $12 billion dollars in government aid money to help stay afloat until March of 2009. Their plan includes further eliminating jobs of up to 30,000 workers, vehicle brand reduction such as Saab, Hummer and Saturn, as well as the increased closure of 9 plants by 2012. GM is also requesting an additional $6 billion in the form of a line of credit just in case the market continues to dive. The restructuring of General Motors will focus on their key brands which include Chevrolet, GMC, Buick and Cadillac, as well as an elimination of wage increases for executive employees and grounding any executive flights. No further details have been reported.
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General Motors Sells Two Corporate Jets In Response To Media Flack
 After receiving flack for using corporate jets to fly to Capital Hill amongst the automakers bailout plans with Congress, General Motors Corporation are now selling two of their corporate airplanes in response to the negative commentary from news media. GM spokesman, Tom Wilkinson, informed the media that GM actually "leases the planes and had decided to get rid of two of its five remaining jets before this week's hearings as part of deep cost cutting under way at the company". Wilkinson continued with "GM's top executives are required to use company planes for air travel as part of security requirements set by the company's board of directors. The planes make for expedient, safe travel and also allow executives and their teams to travel to places not easily accessible by commercial airlines". Reported by CNN.
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| | | Congress Places Bailout On Hold Until December, Automakers Plead
 As a follow up to our stories yesterday, Congress have placed the bail out of Detroit's Big Three on hold until after the three automakers can display a time table and plan for their loans. Nancy Pelosi, Speaker, stated "Until they show us the plan, we cannot show them the money". The decision to place the bail out on hold would allow Congress to return in early December to vote on the legislation. General Motors CEO, Chrysler LLC CEO and Ford Motor Company CEO all pleaded for the loans to be approved this week, warning that "their industry might collapse without them". I guess we'll find out next month. Reported by MSNBC.
How do you feel about the bailout of Detroit's Big Three? Do you agree with aid money or disagree? Click here to discuss this in our forums.
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Airaid 2007 to 2009 GM Silverado HD Duramax Diesel Intake
 Airaid received the "Best New Off-Road/4-Wheel Drive Product" award at SEMA earlier this month for their cold air intake system for the 2007 to 2009 GM Silverado HD trucks equipped with the Duramax Diesel. The system itself improves power, performance and economy numbers. It features an Airaid premium filter with SynthaFlow technology and comes with complete hardware and instructions. For more information visit www.airaid.com.
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| | US Senate Cancels Vote On Detroit Big Three Bail Out
The United States Senate have agreed to "call off" their planned vote this week over the $25 billion dollar bail out to Detroit's big three automakers, General Motors, Ford Motor Company and Chrysler LLC. Harry Reid, the Senate's Majority Leader, announced that he wanted to "figure out some way to help Detroit's struggling Big Three" but "efforts to do so had stalled". That stalling came as congressional Republicans rejected the Democrats plan to pull $25 billion from the $700 billion dollar package given to Wall Street for the financial crisis. General Motors Corporation CEO, Rick Wagoner warned the company "could run out of money by early next year" and said the company would need "$10 to $12 billion" in loans. Chrysler LLC CEO Robert Nardelli also pleaded, saying Chrysler "could be dangerously close by the end of this quarter" to being bankrupt and is seeking "full financial transparency with the government". The situation seemed to be slightly different for Ford Motor Company's CEO, Alan Mulally, who said the company "didn't need immediate funds unless the economy turned much worse next year" but was interested in seeking some $7 billion in loans. No further details have been announced. Reported by Detroit News.
How do you feel about the bailout of Detroit's Big Three? Do you agree with aid money or disagree? Click here to discuss this in our forums.
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Chrysler LLC Seeks New Buyer, Forgets GM
 Chrysler LLC has decided to seek a new buyer for their failing company, leaving their talks with General Motors behind. Both companies are facing daunting challenges for recovering their businesses and both keep laying off more workers in addition to closing factories. A merger of the two companies would not benefit either one, except for Cerberus Capital Management and their own finances whom own Chrysler LLC. What may help both of the companies is not the merger itself, but economic help from the United States' Federal Government for a bailout. But that bailout will also come as an expense to the U.S. taxpayer, which is not agreed upon with taxpayers. What will happen is still to come. Reported by Freep.
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Barack Obama Orders Up New Cadillac DTS Presidential Vehicle, Based Off Of GMC TopKick
 Although General Motors are struggling with selling vehicles on dealer lots resulting to their huge third quarter losses, GM is working on a new version of the presidential vehicle called "Cadillac One", a stretched Cadillac DTS for the Presidential-Elect, Barack Obama. Based off of a GMC TopKick heavy duty truck platform, the Cadillac will essentially be transformed into a portal bunker for the new president. The United States Secret Service will not release any specific details about the vehicle, to help protect the future president. Reported by Boston.
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| | Monday Morning Recap: SEMA Insanity, 2010 SVT Raptor F-150, 2009 F-150 Harley Davidson EditionMore in: Roundup, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Hummer, Jeep, MOTORZ TV, New Products, Off-Road, Racing, SEMA, SUV, Toyota, Website | Comments | Permalink | 119,810 Views
 Just in case you crawled under a rock last week and did not get the memo about our SEMA coverage, this weeks "Monday Morning Recap" is comprised of our SEMA coverage from last week including the launch of Ford's SVT Raptor F-150 and sighting of the 2009 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition. MOTORZ also launched their 13th episode, a full how-to installation of an Alpine Electronics stereo system.
For a huge list of all our SEMA blogs from last week, go to live.truckblog.com.
Other Top Stories:
• MOTORZ Episode #13: Alpine Audio Upgrade Installation
• 2009 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition
• Ford Launches New F-150 SVT Raptor Off-Road Pickup Truck
• Ford Motor Company To Add 1,000 New Jobs At F-150 Factory
• Toyota Announces Plans To Export Sequoia And Tundra
• Ford F-150 SVT Raptor R To Race Baja 1000
• Fuel Economy Improvements for 73 percent of 2009 Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep Models
• Chevrolet Suburban and Cadillac Escalade to move to Front Wheel Drive Platform
• HUMMER Racing Poised to Cinch Championships at Baja 1000
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| General Motors To Lay Off 3,600 Early 2009, Temporarily Shut Down 10 Plants
 In an article by the Detroit Free Press, General Motors Corporation will initiate temporary shut downs of plants and "indefinitely" lay off about 3,600 workers beginning early next year in response to the horrible financial reports released on Friday. Production will also be reduced beginning in January or February. General Motors spokesman, Tony Sapienza stated in an interview "the changes are intended to better align production with the recent steep decline in U.S. consumer demand for new vehicles". The plants that are effected by the shut down are the following: Lansing Delta Township, Oshawa, Hamtramck, Wentsville, Bowling Green, Lordstown, Spring Hill, Fairfax, Orion, and Lansing Grand River.
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Monday Morning Recap: SEMA Countdown Begins, Bio Diesel Fuel DIY, MOTORZ TV, and Auto Maker UpdatesMore in: Roundup, Diesel, Dodge, Engine, Ford, Fuel, Hybrid, Jeep, Mobile Electronics, MOTORZ TV, Nissan, SEMA, SUV | Comments | Permalink | 107,349 Views
 The official SEMA 2008 countdown has begun. Exactly one week from today it's going down, Truckblog.com, Las Vegas, right here, right now. A summary of Truckblog's Live Blogging can be found here.
Check out the list below of our top stories from last week:
• Reminder: Truckblog Live Blogging SEMA Show 2008 Begins Nov. 2nd
• Top Gear Season 10 Now on iTunes Along with MOTORZ TV
• AMP Research Product Installation Videos Available on MOTORZ TV
• 2009 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X Offroad Edition Tested
• BioBot Lets You Make Your Own Bio Diesel Fuel
• General Motors' New 4.5 Liter Details Revealed
• SEMA 2008 Preview: Dodge Ram Mopar Street Package
• Sirius XM Radio Inc Dual Radio Receivers To Come In 15 Years
• Maintenance Still Important for Pickup Trucks Driven Less
• 2008 Jeep Patriot Gets Top Crash Test Rating from Auto Safety Group
• Most Powerful Hybrid SUVs Now Offer Best-in-Class Fuel Economy
• 2011 Ford Explorer Spotted, No Longer an SUV
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General Motors' New 4.5 Liter Details Revealed
 Autoblog posted information about General Motors' new 4.5 liter Duramax diesel motor that is promising a near 35 percent increase in fuel economy for their full size pickup truck segment. The new engine design utilizes an aluminum cylinder head exhaust manifold, integral cam cover intake manifold, hollow balance shaft, aluminum upper oil pan, reduction in vibration, crank journal design, and overall uses less parts within the motor. All of this combined, the new 4.5 liter is expected to produce 310 horse power and 525 foot pounds of torque. Look for the new engine next Fall where it is slated for the 2009 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickup trucks.
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Monday Morning Roundup: MOTORZ, SEMA, Fuel Prices, and moreMore in: Roundup, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Diesel, Ford, Fuel, Nissan, Suspension, SUV, Toyota | Comments | Permalink | 98,550 Views
 Our pre-SEMA show coverage continues with four more project vehicles that were added last week including trucks from Chrysler & Dodge and Screet Scene Equipment. A new episode of MOTORZ was uploaded which covered the install of a AMP Research Bed X-Tender on a 2008 GMC pickup truck, a gas station charged only 35 cents causing a fueling frenzy, and General Motors announced more SUV factory closures.
Check out the list of stories below:
• MOTORZ Episode #12 Bed X-Tender Online
• Oil Prices Drop As Fast As Auto Sales, OPEC in 'Crisis Mode', Calls Urgent Meeting
• Toyota Motor Corporation To Export U.S. Built Pickup Truck and SUVs
• General Motors And Chrysler LLC Merger
• Skyjacker Suspension Releases 2 Inch Leveling Kit For GM And Chevrolet Pickup Trucks
• General Motors Closing SUV Factories in Wisconsin and Michigan
• Chryslers Re-Designed 2011 Nissan Titan Revealed
• Gas Station Accidently Charges 35 Cents Per Gallon, Happy Customers!
• GMAC Financing Now Requires Minimum 700 Credit Score for Auto Loans
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General Motors Closing SUV Factories in Wisconsin and Michigan
 CNN Money is reporting that General Motors will be closing two more sport utility vehicle factories in Grand Rapids, Michigan and Janesville, Wisconsin by the end of next year, cutting nearly 3,000 jobs. General Motors spokesman, Chris Lee said the "Janesville plant's 1,200 workers represented by the United Auto Workers were told the factory would be shuttered December 23, earlier than GM had expected". Three other factories that produce pickup truck sand sport utility vehicles are on the chopping block too, set to close by 2010.
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Monday Morning Roundup: More SEMA NewsMore in: Roundup, Diesel, Dodge, Engine, Fuel, GMC, Jeep, Safety, SEMA, SUV, Toyota, Wheels | Comments | Permalink | 108,233 Views
 Last week we bought you two new SEMA project trucks, the Turbonetics 2009 F-150 and ICON's Toyota FJ45 classic pickup truck. The 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab truck was put to the test, as well as Toyota placing the Tundra Heavy Duty under its own tests of whether or not the truck will survive. General Motors and Toyota Motor Corporation both announced huge savings deals on new vehicles, and Ford's new 6.7 liter diesel engine was spotted.
Check out these exciting stories below:
• 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab Put To The Test
• Ford's New 6.7 Liter Scorpion Diesel Engine Spotted
• SEMA 2008 Preview: Turbonetics 2009 Ford F-150
• SEMA 2008 Preview: ICON Toyota FJ45 Classic Pickup Truck
• Mickey Thompson Performance Tires and Wheels Introduces New SideBiter Wheel
• Toyota Announces Zero Percent Financing on 11 Models including Pickup Trucks and SUVs
• Toyota Second Guesses Full Ton Diesel Truck Segment, Tundra Pulls Back Too
• Bush Administration Says it Needs More Time for Roof Strength Rule
• Jeep CJ-7 Transformed Into General Lee
• General Motors Launches 0 Percent Financing for 6 Years or 7K Cash Back
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General Motors Launches 0 Percent Financing for 6 Years or 7K Cash Back
 According to Freep, General Motors Corporation have initiated another a new campaign that offers zero percent financing for up to six years or the option of $7,000 cash back on all 2008 model vehicles. The new campaign expires November 3rd and replaces the current employee discount pricing. GM is also offering free financing for up to 72 months on their popular sport utility vehicles including the Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon, and GMC Yukon XL.
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General Motors to Close Sport Utility Vehicle Factory in Ohio, Plus Three Others
 General Motors Corporation announced Friday afternoon they will shut down their sport utility vehicle plant in Ohio on December 23rd, as the company shifts production over to smaller vehicles. Additional plants also made the list in Janesville, Wisconsin, Oshawa, Ontario and Toluca, Mexico, resulting in a loss of approximately 8,350 jobs by 2010. The decisions were made based off of an "accelerated shutdown" that is related to the company cutting costs. Reported by Detroit News.
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General Motors Drops Out of 2008 Super Bowl Ad Lineup
 General Motors Corporation have decided to drop out of the Super Bowl XLIII advertising lineup in February 2009. The move comes as another cutback for the company in addition to the 2009 Academy Awards. General Motors have spent nearly $78 million over the past 15 years advertising during the Super Bowl, standing in third place for the most spent right behind Anheuser-Busch and Pepsico. GM hopes to cut another $10 billion in their restructuring plan and hope to cut an additional $5 billion through sales and loans. GM spokeswoman, Kelly Cusinato, also noted a reason for pulling out of the Super Bowl lineup was "the automaker did not have a major vehicle to launch coinciding with the game". Reported by Detroit News.
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| | | Monday Morning Roundup: SEMA in the Air, Auto Manufacturers Prep New ModelsMore in: Roundup, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Diesel, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Hummer, Jeep, Nissan, Recall, SEMA, Towing | Comments | Permalink | 119,697 Views
 The 2008 SEMA Show is right around the corner and we at Truckblog are anxiously awaiting it. Last week Performance West Group announced their Ford F-350 Striker pickup truck, which is one wicked ride that takes inspiration from the Shelby GT500KR muscle car. The automotive industry began to pickup again last week with updates coming from Ford, Dodge, Nissan, Jeep, and Chrysler.
Here's the run down from last week:
• SEMA 2008 Preview: Performance West Group Ford F-350 Striker
• Ford F-Series Super Duty Adds New Harley-Davidson and Cabela Editions
• Chrysler Introduces All New 2009 Lone Star Edition Dodge Ram
• 2010 Nissan Heavy Duty Pickup Truck Gets ZF PowerLine Transmission
• Chrysler Launches Jeep Wrangler ''EV'' Electric Vehicle
• 2009 Dodge Ram Tested Against Ford, Chevrolet, GMC, Nissan, and Toyota Pickup Trucks
• Chevrolet Silverado Grabs Top Selling Pickup Truck Spot, Despite Economy
• 2009 Ford F-150 is the Most Pickup Truck For The Money
• General Motors Deletes Heated Windshield Washer Fluid Option
• Three Craftsman Truck Series Ford Engines Stolen, Valued $50k Each
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General Motors Deletes Heated Windshield Washer Fluid Option
 General Motors made the announcement that the company has discontinued the production of their heated windshield washer fluid system on all models including pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles after announcing a recall of over 850,000 pickup truck and sport utility vehicles last month. Any vehicle that was previously ordered with the option will have it removed from the vehicle if already equipped or deleted from the order entirely. Models effected are the following:
Cadillac: CTS, DTS, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT
Chevrolet: Tahoe, Suburban, Avalanche, Silverado, Traverse
GMC: Acadia, Yukon, Denali, Yukon XL, Denali XL, Sierra, Sierra Denali
Hummer: H2
Saturn: Outlook SUV
General Motors Corp is recalling 857,735 vehicles equipped with a heated windshield wiper fluid system for a potential short-circuit problem.Full Story...
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General Motors May Sell Midsize Truck Production to Isuzu Motors
 General Motors Corporation is speaking with Isuzu Motors over the sale of their mid-size truck production, which constitutes most of their truck business, for a reported "tens of billion of yen". Isuzu responded with (they) "would consider an offer positively". Last month GM's tentative agreement with Navistar International Corp had expired, ending without a deal closed between the two companies. In response to GM's offer, Isuzu may also bid on DMX ltd, a diesel engine company in Ohio. No further details have been reported. Referred by Forbes.
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