VW's Seat brand will launch the Exeo

Seat's new upper-medium car will be called the Exeo.

Seat, Volkswagen's Spanish brand, will launch sales of the Exeo early next year. It will be a competitor to the Ford Mondeo, Renault Laguna and Peugeot 407.

Based on an Audi A4 platform, the Exeo will be built in Seat's factory in Martorell, near Barcelona, Spain.

The Exeo will have sedan and station wagon versions
Seat says it took the name Exeo from the Latin word exire, which means to go beyond or to go further in English.

Seat said the Exeo will not replace its Toledo model.

Saab 9-3 To Be Built In Sweden

Production of the Saab 9-3 will remain in Sweden, a General Motors Europe spokesman said today.

Media reports had suggested that production of the next-generation 9-3 would move to GM Europe's Opel plant in Ruesselsheim, near Frankfurt, Germany, from Saab's Trollhattan, Sweden, factory.

To compensate for not getting the 9-3, GM Europe will add production of the Saab 9-5 and a compact car at Ruesselsheim.

"It is good news that Ruesselsheim will get an extra model, a third shift and that the 9-3 production will remain in Saab's home country," said GM Europe spokesman Joerg Schrott.

GM Europe has not named the compact car that will be built in Ruesselsheim, but company sources say it will be the Opel Astra lower-medium car.
Currently, Ruesselsheim builds the Opel Vectra and Signum. It will build the Insignia, the Vectra successor, later this year.

ZR1 costs $105,000, runs to 205 mph

General Motors said today the new Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 will carry a sticker price of $105,000, including shipping charges and gas-guzzler tax, when it goes on sale this summer. The gas-guzzler tax accounts for $1700 of the price.

There are just two options-$2,000 for chrome wheels, and a $10,000 interior package that includes leather-trimmed sports seats with the ZR1 logo, side air bags, Bose audio and a navigation system.

A General Motors spokeswoman said the short options list is by design, since Chevrolet anticipates many fans will want the base car sans the added weight. A fully optioned ZR1 will total $117,000.

But with GM planning to build just 2,000 ZR1s a year, many Chevrolet dealers are expected to ask for more than the sticker price to part with the car.

GM said the ZR1 will sprint from 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds, edging the Corvette Z06 by three tenths of a second. Stretch that drag race out to 100 mph, and the ZR1 betters its stablemate by nearly a full second, posting a tire-smoking time of 7.0 seconds.

The 6.2 liter, 638-hp LS9 V8 propels the ZR1 to a top speed of 205 mph, giving it the title of fastest Vette ever, and putting it into the rarified exhaust fumes usually emitted only by the Europeans.

Fuel economy: An EPA-estimated 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.

New Fuel Cell System 'Generates Electricity with Only Water, Air'

Genepax Co Ltd explained the technologies used in its new fuel cell system "Water Energy System (WES)," which uses water as a fuel and does not emit CO2.

The system can generate power just by supplying water and air to the fuel and air electrodes, respectively, the company said at the press conference, which took place June 12, 2008, at the Osaka Assembly Hall.

The basic power generation mechanism of the new system is similar to that of a normal fuel cell, which uses hydrogen as a fuel. According to Genepax, the main feature of the new system is that it uses the company's membrane electrode assembly (MEA), which contains a material capable of breaking down water into hydrogen and oxygen through a chemical reaction.

Though the company did not reveal the details, it "succeeded in adopting a well-known process to produce hydrogen from water to the MEA," said Hirasawa Kiyoshi, the company's president. This process is allegedly similar to the mechanism that produces hydrogen by a reaction of metal hydride and water. But compared with the existing method, the new process is expected to produce hydrogen from water for longer time, the company said.

With the new process, the cell needs only water and air, eliminating the need for a hydrogen reformer and high-pressure hydrogen tank. Moreover, the MEA requires no special catalysts, and the required amount of rare metals such as platinum is almost the same as that of existing systems, Genepax said.

Unlike the direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC), which uses methanol as a fuel, the new system does not emit CO2. In addition, it is expected to have a longer life because catalyst degradation (poisoning) caused by CO does not occur on the fuel electrode side. As it has only been slightly more than a year since the company completed the prototype, it plans to collect more data on the product life.

At the conference, Genepax unveiled a fuel cell stack with a rated output of 120W and a fuel cell system with a rated output of 300W. In the demonstration, the 120W fuel cell stack was first supplied with water by using a dry-cell battery operated pump. After power was generated, it was operated as a passive system with the pump turned off.

This time, the voltage of the fuel cell stack was 25-30V. Because the stack is composed of 40 cells connected in series, it is expected that the output per cell is 3W or higher, the voltage is about 0.5-0.7V, and the current is about 6-7A. The power density is likely to be not less than 30mW/cm2 because the reaction area of the cell is 10 x 10 cm.

Meanwhile, the 300W fuel cell system is an active system, which supplies water and air with a pump. In the demonstration, Genepax powered the TV and the lighting equipment with a lead-acid battery charged by using the system. In addition, the 300W system was mounted in the luggage room of a compact electric vehicle "Reva" manufactured by Takeoka Mini Car Products Co Ltd, and the vehicle was actually driven by the system.

Genepax initially planned to develop a 500W system, but failed to procure the materials for MEA in time and ended up in making a 300W system.

For the future, the company intends to provide 1kw-class generation systems for use in electric vehicles and houses. Instead of driving electric vehicles with this system alone, the company expects to use it as a generator to charge the secondary battery used in electric vehicles.

Although the production cost is currently about ¥2,000,000 (US$18,522), it can be reduced to ¥500,000 or lower if Genepax succeeds in mass production. The company believes that its fuel cell system can compete with residential solar cell systems if the cost can be reduced to this level.

New Mondeo Coupé Curves Up A Treat

Can’t afford a Mercedes CLS? Ford has the ideal solution as it takes its family favourite upmarket by offering more style and luxury

Ford is taking the Mondeo to the max, with an all-new coupé version offering Mercedes CLS looks for half the price.

The forthcoming Vauxhall Insignia is set to raise the style stakes in the class, while the Volkswagen Passat CC has proved there really is demand for four-door coupés. So the time is right for the ultimate evolution of Ford’s family car to take a bow.

But the Coupé’s arrival also coincides with the blue oval’s increased European profitability. The company’s formula of good looks and strong driver appeal has been so successful on cars such as the standard Mondeo and S-MAX people carrier that confidence among bosses is currently at an all-time high.

Upcoming products such as the new Fiesta and Ka – plus the Capri (Issue 1,010) – will continue this philosophy. The Mondeo Coupé’s role is to sit at the very top of the range, as a desirable flagship. And it has some talented machinery in its sights, including the likes of the BMW 3-Series and Mercedes C-Class. The foundations have already been laid down by the latest-generation Mondeo, so the Coupé can offer an even more desirable mix of looks, driving dynamics and luxury.

As you can see from these pictures, the newcomer is a leap forward in design terms over the current car. Inspired by the Iosis concept – which previewed the Mondeo back in 2005 – it features a rakish roofline that slopes sharply over the heads of the rear passengers, plus a host of dramatic lines.

Striking details include a larger lower grille with enormous, chrome-ringed triangular air intakes. Bold extended wheelarches and muscular shoulder lines give it an athletic stance.

A full hatchback tailgate ensures practicality is a strength, while inside, the cabin will feature a spacious and luxurious four-seater layout, with twin individual chairs for rear passengers.

Up front, an evolution of the standard Mondeo’s dashboard design is expected, with hi-tech equipment including the latest touchscreen sat-nav package. This comprises programmable driver settings, and will be offered alongside Bluetooth wireless phone technology, a docking station for MP3 players and a keyless go system. Under the skin will be a mildly updated version of the Mondeo’s suspension set-up, with electronically controlled dampers giving the driver the option of Sport and Comfort modes. This will allow the Coupé to combine agile, sporty handling with excellent refinement at cruising speeds.

Engines will be sourced from the top end of the Mondeo line-up, and will include the new 175bhp 2.2-litre diesel from the Titanium X Sport model and a turbocharged 217bhp 2.5-litre petrol five-cylinder.

There is the possibility that the car will get the option of Ford’s new Powershift double-clutch gearbox, in addition to the conventional six-speed manual transmission fitted as standard. Also, there are rumours that, as with the Insignia, the Coupé will be available with a new four-wheel-drive system, as well as stop-start technology to cut CO2 emissions and boost economy. While Ford has yet to confirm the Mondeo Coupé officially, buyers can expect the car to appear in around 2011, with prices from £25,000.

Scolari Striking Out For The Summit

Eliminated Switzerland provide the final first-round opposition for Group A winners Portugal on Sunday but coach Luiz Felipe Scolari allowed himself to look beyond this assignment and admit he dreams of ending his reign as Portugal coach on a high by leading the team to the European title.

Final dream

Speaking for the first time since the announcement he would be leaving his post at the end of UEFA EURO 2008™ to become Chelsea FC manager, Scolari denied that the timing of the news had had a disruptive effect – "no" was the one-word answer – and stressed he was committed "body and soul" to success with Portugal in Austria and Switzerland. "I am completely involved to the end," he said. "I hope we can get to another final. We have only cleared the first round and have to get over two more hurdles to get to the final. I know my players and I believe in them – it would be great if we could get to the final."

Strength in reserve

With tougher tests ahead, the Brazilian said that he would rest a number of players against the co-hosts – with forward Nuno Gomes "99.9 per cent" certain to be one of them. "If we have quality on the bench we should use it in the match. The result will not affect who we play in the next round. We will do what we did in 2006 [against Mexico] – we had a mixture of players who had played and others who had not played – so they can get into a rhythm and be available to play in future matches."

Kuhn praise

Portugal won that FIFA World Cup group match 2-1 against Mexico and Scolari's counterpart Köbi Kuhn believes that whoever starts for the opposition, an "attractive match" beckons. "You can never talk about a Portugal B side," said the Switzerland coach, who believes the Portuguese, impressive winners against Turkey and the Czech Republic, can go far – "maybe even to the final". While Scolari can still hope for a triumphant farewell with Portugal, Kuhn's own dream of a prolonged challenge in his final tournament at the helm died with Wednesday's last-gasp loss to Turkey.

Swiss goal

Despite the pain of elimination, Kuhn insisted Switzerland were determined to sign off in style in front of another full house at St. Jakob-Park. "We feel the same tension we do for any match. The tournament still has 90 minutes to run for us," he said. Without a point, Switzerland are resigned to the wooden spoon in Group A but they do have one tangible goal to aim for: claiming their first win in the UEFA European Championship, having drawn two and lost six of their eight finals matches down the years.

Zuberbühler recall

With Kuhn's seven-year reign as Switzerland coach closing - Ottmar Hitzfeld is waiting in the wings – the 64-year-old admitted that, for once, his selection might be influenced by a touch of sentiment, with a recall "quite possible" for 37-year-old goalkeeper Pascal Zuberbühler among others. Kuhn, though missing Alexander Frei and Marco Streller, does have Eren Deriyok available, the young forward having recovered from a sprained ankle suffered against Turkey.

Brit Gas Flier Blasts In

Beira delivers Porsche pace, but runs on eco-friendly LPG

A new British open-top sports car claims to have Porsche’s 911 firmly in its sights.
Called the Breckland Beira, it has a 400bhp V8 and sprints from 0-60mph in less than five seconds – but can run on green Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG).
Designed and built in Norfolk, under the rakish steel and composite body beats an all-American heart. It’s based on the Pontiac Solstice chassis, while the 6.0-litre LS2 engine is lifted from the Chevrolet Corvette. Inside, buyers can customise the cabin to their own specification, and a 30GB multimedia sat-nav is standard, as is Bluetooth and iPod connectivity. Company bosses say the two-seater will cost around £55,000 when it goes on sale in November.

Fiesta ST 500

Special ST to hit the showrooms

A limited run special Fiesta ST has been announced by Ford. Called the ST 500, conveniently in this case, because only 500 are being made, this special will be identified by unique 'U'-shaped stripes (echoing the livery of the classic Escort RS2000 of the 1980s) and matching side livery. Completing the changes will be 17in 11-spoke black alloys, red brake callipers and carbon fibre pattern interior trim. The interior also features a Sony audio system and ebony leather heated seats.Prices start at £15,000.

New Ford Ka Spotted!

Blue oval city car put through paces - being readied for Paris show debut.

Ford's new baby has taken its first steps! Following our exclusive pictures in Issue 1,014, which revealed the look of the all-new Ka, Auto Express can now bring you spy shots of the model on the road. Wearing only minimal disguise, the second-generation Ka is easily identified by its curvy profile and wheel-at-each-corner stance. And from the rear, the distinctive vertical tailgate and large light units are clear to see.

Underneath the skin lies platform architecture from the Fiat 500. The engine range – comprising 63bhp 1.2-litre and 100bhp 1.4-litre petrols, plus a 1.3-litre Multijet diesel – is also shared with the Italian model.

However, while the two cars have a lot in common, Ford will aim to ensure the Ka is still the best to drive in its class.

Refinement will be greatly improved, and so will the quality and style of the cabin. It will get a host of brightly coloured soft-touch plastics and a design that takes its cues from the new Fiesta. The gearlever sits higher in the centre console, while radio and climate control switches are mounted within easy reach. The finished Ka will debut at October’s Paris Motor Show, with UK sales starting before the end of the year.

We’ve also spied the first prototype of the Fiesta saloon (above), which was revealed in China last year. Aimed at the US, Russia and Far Eastern markets, it’s unlikely to go on sale in Europe, where the three and five-door hatchback range will be available.

iPhone Hype Begins Again

Get ready for iPhone-mania 2.0.

On July 11, Apple will launch a zippier version of the iPhone starting at $199 with a two-year AT&T contract, down from $399. It will have built-in GPS for traffic directions, run on a speedy "3G" wireless network from partner AT&T and offer corporate e-mail support.

"Sales will explode," says Van Baker, an analyst at Gartner.

The iPhone — a combination phone/iPod and Internet device — first began selling last June. "As we arrive at the iPhone's first birthday, we're going to take it to the next level," Apple CEO Steve Jobs said Monday.

The $199 model can hold 8 gigabytes of music, photos and other media. A $299, 16 GB is available in a new color, white.

AT&T will be the exclusive U.S. distributor for another four years. One significant change: With the 3G version, AT&T said Apple will no longer receive a portion of monthly service revenue.

Instead, AT&T will fork out a substantial subsidy to help keep the price low. AT&T is hoping to drive mobile data usage and draw new subscribers.

While the subsidy — which telecom analysts peg in the $200 range — initially will put pressure on AT&T's profit margins, it could help push the iconic iPhone into the mainstream.

Jobs told USA TODAY that current iPhone customers can buy a new one and have their old plan morphed into a new two-year arrangement.

"This is a very positive move for AT&T, and it will gain share from Sprint and Verizon," analyst Tim Horan of Oppenheimer wrote in a note to clients.

While the iPhone has been a critical and consumer hit, Internet speed has been a chief complaint. The new phone uses faster networks that will dramatically improve mobile Web surfing.

Apple said it has sold 6 million iPhones. Tech analysts think it will meet its goal of 10 million by the end of the year. Over the next several months, Apple will roll out official sales in 70 countries, up from six.

In July, the company will launch the iPhone App Store on iPhones and the iPod Touch (like the iPhone, without the phone). It lets users easily download applications.

Getting such access to Apple customers "is phenomenal," says Andrew Erlichson, CEO of photo-sharing site Phanfare, which introduced an iPhone application Monday. "Power is shifting from the wireless carriers to the handset manufacturers."

Apple also introduced a new version of its $99-a-year .Mac backup service. Now called MobileMe, it automatically updates e-mails, contacts and other personal data across a computer and iPhone.