All Entries in the "Auto News" Category
Ford, Ram, and Now GM Bringing 8 Speeds to 2013/2014 Trucks – Will Toyota Follow?
Automotive News is reporting that the next generation of GM pickup trucks will feature at least one 8 speed automatic transmission, the goal of course being to reduce fuel economy in order to meet federal fuel economy regulations. It’s estimated that going from 6 speeds to 8 speeds can increase fuel economy 3-6% (likely closer to the higher number in a pickup), and that combined with other fuel-saving technologies, the next generation of trucks coming out in 2013/2014 could see 10-20% fuel economy improvements right away.
Wear and Tear Lease Protection Policy? Toyota Financial Thinks So
Toyota Financial Services (TFS) will introduce a wear and tear lease protection policy in the first quarter of 2012. The move is part of a larger plan to increase the popularity of leasing of Toyota products. There has been confirmation the policy is being developed and there is no precise timetable for its release.
Toyota Financial is working on a new wear and tear lease protection policy to increase leasing sales in the 2012.
Toyota’s Credit Rating Cut by Moody’s
Moody’s Investors Service has cut the credit outlook rating for Toyota Motor Corporation and its affiliates, citing dependence on the yen currency, low sales, and a drop in stock value for 2011. This credit outlook reduction dropped Toyota from a stable status to a negative one, and may mean that the company’s credit rating will be reduced if more measures are not implemented to increase sales and profits for the next fiscal year.
Moody's Investors Service has cut Toyota's Credit Rating due to a variety of factors.
Toyota Could Trim Production, Still Set New Record
According to recent reports, Toyota Motor Corporation is expected to manufacture fewer vehicles in 2012 due to a struggling European market. This follows a company statement to suppliers in August that the Japanese automaker would produce 8.9 million vehicles in the coming year. Nevertheless, the estimated target of 8.65 million units will still set a new record, outpacing the previous mark of 8.53 million automobiles in 2007.
Despite cutting back production, Toyota Motor Corporation will still set new record.
New Toyota Supra Price Concern
The next-gen Supra is on the drafting board waiting for a green light but that, contrary to a recent Motor Trend report, the hesitation has less to do with FT-86 sales and more to do with sales.
If a new Toyota Supra is developed rumor has it it will look a lot like this Toyota FT-HS concept.
