All Entries in the "Auto News" Category
Toyota Motions to Dismiss Electronic Throttle Lawsuits
Citing that no defects have ever been found in their electronic throttle systems, Toyota has asked the judge overseeing a nationwide lawsuit to dismiss the case (link). We discussed this lawsuit back in March, citing experts who predicted Toyota would have to pay as much as $10 billion in total damages if they lost this case.
According to Toyota:
Today Is Unofficial “Lobby For The Hobby” Day
I recently became aware of two things:
1. Hot Rod, Motor Trend, Four Wheeler, Off Road, and others (90 web and print properties total) are all owned by one company. I guess I should have paid closer attention.
2. Today, November 1st, 2010, is SEMA’s unofficial “lobby for the hobby” day, where anyone who is an avid automotive enthusiast is encouraged to think about recent regulatory changes that endanger automotive hobbies. For example:
- Changes in off-road access rules for federal lands
- Changes in federal fuel economy and emissions requirements
- Changes in state emissions laws (California, I’m looking at you)
While laws are always changing, the case could be made that the pace and direction of these changes has been “anti-automotive” over the last 2 or so years. SEMA and Source Interlink Media want you to think about these issues today, which just happens to be the day before election day.
Is this a legitimate gripe? Judge for yourself.
Tundra Caters To “Sophisticated” Buyers?
The Truth About Cars (TTAC) usually does a nice job of presenting ideas that aren’t necessarily “main stream” automotive news, and for that they should be recognized. However, their recent blog post The Toyota Tundra: The Quiche Truck is a bit of a blunder. Not only does it mis-represent some key facts about the Tundra, it seems to recycle some commonly held views that don’t match reality. Here’s where it falls apart:
Toyota – Free Maintenance For Two Years or 25k Miles
Toyota just announced that they will be offering free maintenance on all Toyota and Scion models for either two years or 25k miles, whichever comes first. This free two year 25k mile maintenance plan will include:
- As many as 5 oil changes or as few as 2 oil changes (depending on model)
- 5 tire rotations
- 24 hour roadside assistance
- Various chassis inspections and minor maintenance items
Why is Toyota offering free maintenance? Because…
Toyota Building Prius-Flavored Pickup?
This week’s Automotive News breaks down Toyota’s product plans for the next few years, including supposed plans for a Prius branded compact pickup – likely based on the A-Bat concept pictured here:
A truck based on this concept has been rumored for some time – a hybrid version has been hinted at over the last few years, and Scion President Jack Hollis has hinted at a Scion version of the A-BAT concept for a few months now.
Here’s what we think:
