Web of Virginia

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif., March 25 /PRNewswire/ — The auto industry has undergone a major transformation during the past two years. More automakers are trying to become global at a time when some of the largest countries are struggling with their economy and worldwide new-vehicle sales are down. In addition, some of the largest automakers are facing financial and quality challenges. Where is the global auto industry headed? John Humphrey, senior vice president of global automotive operations for J.D. Power and Associates, provides an interesting perspective on the industry. Humphrey has spent more than 20 years tracking the automotive market, with half of that time spent focusing on markets in Asia Pacific and India. He recently spent nearly two years living in China, where he was immersed in one of the auto industry’s fastest-growing markets. Read the rest of this entry »

NEW YORK, March 25 /PRNewswire/ — As New York becomes the center of the automotive universe for the 10-day run of the New York International Automobile Show, it’s time to celebrate our area’s love of the car. For starters, there are the press conferences where thousands of journalists from all over the world come to see the latest unveilings from the automakers. Then, just two days later, the Show opens to the public for its annual automobile extravaganza where in addition to the world and North American debuts, we’ve assembled a host of other scorching-hot new 2011 vehicles that are just a few weeks away from hitting the new car showrooms. Read the rest of this entry »

–Only Dedicated Hybrid Vehicle in the Premium Compact Segment –Expected to Lead the Class in Fuel Economy Numbers –Standard Safety Features Include Eight Airbags

NEW YORK, March 22 /PRNewswire/ — Lexus announced today that the all-new CT 200h premium compact hybrid will go on sale in the U.S. in early 2011 as the first dedicated hybrid vehicle in the premium compact segment.

The sporty five-door will be on display March 31 through April 11 at the 2010 New York International Auto Show. The new CT 200h debuted at the 2010 Geneva Auto Show in early March and will join the HS 250h as Lexus’ second dedicated hybrid. Read the rest of this entry »