Hyundai introduced its seventh-generation 2015 Sonata mid-size sedan at the New York International Auto Show. The new generation offers a more refined look through a new Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design language, stiffer body structure, better ride quality, reduced noise, vibration and harshness and advanced safety and convenience features.
BMW dealers with Product Geniuses boost profit and customer satisfaction
BMW dealers in Europe taking part in the automaker’s Product Genius program are getting a financial boost. The tech-savvy employees’ no-pressure explanation of the features available in BMW’s vehicles has boosted the purchase of high-margin options by 10 percent to 15 percent, the company said.
The Product Geniuses are part of a comprehensive new program called Future Retail that BMW started rolling out at all of its 3,250 dealerships worldwide this year. The total number of Product Geniuses will rise to 2,000 in early 2015 from about 1,000 now, Ian Robertson, BMW board member for sales and marketing told Automotive News Europe at the Geneva auto show last month.
Toyota adds muscle with fuel-cell launch
In 1997, Toyota caught its competitors by surprise with the revolutionary Prius, the first commercially successful gasoline-electric hybrid car. Now, the Japanese firm is trying to do the same with a technology that seems straight out of science fiction.
Mercedes-Benz’ anticipatory energy management system for hybrids
Mercedes-Benz has developed an intelligent energy management system for hybrid vehicles that assesses the road ahead and takes it into account. The objectives of the “Intelligent HYBRID” system are to maximize the benefit of recuperation energy and to provide driving pleasure through the boost effect of the electric motor.
Maserati to consider new sports car after orders triple
Maserati will probably increase production and add the Alfieri sports car to its lineup after orders at the upscale Italian brand have almost tripled compared with 2013, people familiar with the matter said.
