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The days for lawful texting while driving are numbered, with several government and academic studies exposing the extreme dangers of this popular distraction. Ahead of a Department of Transportation-led safety conference in Washington, D.C., next week, the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers (AAM) has announced its support for banning text messaging using a hand-held device or calling using a hand-held device while driving a motor vehicle. The AAM is an 11-member industry group consisting of BMW Group, Chrysler Group LLC, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Jaguar Land Rover, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi Motors, Porsche, Toyota, and Volkswagen. Several AAM members are developing solutions to facilitate text-based communication, all offer Bluetooth connectivity to allow hands-free phone operation. There is general consensus on the problem and the risks, with some studies equating texting to drunk driving, or worse. However, the debate continues on how to reduce those risks, through legislation and/or technology. (Read “ Cell Phones Quadruple Chance of Crash .”) AAM has come forward with the strong statement: …"texting on a hand-held device while driving is challenging the ability...
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J.D. Power and Associates released its annual Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) study revealing the owner satisfaction with 2009 cars, trucks, and SUVs. Seven all-new and redesigned models rank highest in their respective segments, including the Dodge Challenger , Ford F-150 (in a tie), Ford Flex , Hyundai Genesis , Nissan Maxima , Volkswagen CC , and Volkswagen Tiguan . (Click links for AutoMedia reviews .) Based on the first 90 days of ownership, the APEAL study examines how gratifying a new vehicle is to own and drive, based on owner evaluations of more than 90 vehicle attributes. The comprehensive research is based on responses more than 80,900 purchasers and lessees of new 2009 model-year vehicles. Luxury nameplates dominated the top brands: Porsche , Jaguar , Cadillac , Audi , BMW , Mercedes-Benz , Lexus , Infiniti , Land Rover , and Lincoln . The bottom brands were largely value-focused car lines, though Subaru and Toyota were in the lowest six. (Click links for the new car buyer's guide .) The results can help shoppers gauge the satisfaction from other consumers, though ultimately the real use for the survey is to help manufacturers understand how their...
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Today, Jaguar introduced its new flagship model, the all-new XJ sedan. Carrying forward the design language from the XK and XF , the XJ looks very contemporary and it completes a modern makeover for the storied brand. (See our Jaguar XF review .) Further, it gives confidence in Jaguar's future under Tata's tutelage. The new XJ will be available in both standard and long wheelbase models, starting at $72,500. The long wheelbase adds five inches of legroom. Features such as air suspension, Adaptive Dynamics (continuously variable damping), Active Differential Control (on Supercharged and Supersport), and quick-ratio power steering promise both a luxurious and entertaining ride. Three engines will be offered in the United States: a 5.0-liter, 385-hp naturally aspirated V-8; 5.0-liter, 470-hp supercharged V-8; and a 5.0-liter, 510hp supercharged V-8. With the XJ, high performance meets high tech, with a rich roster of luxury amenities such as a CD/DVD player, HD radio, and a Sirius satellite radio receiver. In addition, the Media Hub provides flexible connectivity through two USB ports, Bluetooth audio streaming, and an auxiliary audio input. A 12.3-inch high-definition screen provides...
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Ford Motor Company has been making aggressive moves to put the automotive giant on more solid footing, with none more shocking than rumors it would part with brands. Just a few short years ago, FoMoCo built itself into a global powerhouse by building a portfolio of luxury brands to augment its own Lincoln. Now, the Premium Automotive Group (PAG) is in active retreat, with its uppercrust British brands Jaguar and Land Rover widely reported to be sold for $2 billion to India-based Tata Motors Ltd., part of the massive Tata Group conglomerate. “Ford acquired Jaguar for $2.5 billion in 1989 and Land Rover for $2.75 billion in 2000,” reports the Wall Street Journal . WSJ cites that Ford spent more than a combined $5 billion to purchase the two brands originally. As part of the deal expected to be announced Wednesday, Reuters reports that Ford will provide about $600 million to seed the pension fund for Jaguar and Land Rover employees. Tata will retain the 15,300-strong British work force, according to Business Week . Ford will be a supplier to Tata, providing powerplants and other components for Jaguar and Land Rover models, opening a new revenue stream for the smaller, leaner automaker...
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