Competitive Connection

October 1, 2007

Around the globe
Models growing everywhere
In 1965 in the U.S., there were 96 models on the market. In 2006, that number jumped to 340. Think that this is just a U.S. trend? Think again . . .

	1995	2006	2011 Forecast
Australia	142	217	266
China	79	231	352
India	19	53	96
Malaysia	71	112	155
South Korea	50	92	108

Source: GMIA

 

A look at the competition
NHTSA takes “unusual step” on Toyota recall
Toyota will recall floor mats from 55,000 Camry and Lexus ES 350 models due to complaints of unintended acceleration caused by the mats sticking underneath the accelerator pedal, federal safety officials and the automaker said.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration took the unusual step of highlighting Toyota's recall announcement, advising owners of other Toyota models – including the Prius hybrid and Avalon sedans – to ensure their floor mats are properly installed.

"We have also received complaints about the RAV 4" crossover "and Tacoma" pickup, said Rae Tyson, a spokesman for NHTSA. "We will continue to monitor all of the other Toyota vehicles not involved in the recall."

NHTSA had opened an investigation into the floor mats after amassing 40 reports of unintended acceleration in 2007 Lexus ES 350 sedans, including eight crashes and 12 injuries.–Source: Detroit Free Press, September 27, 2007

 

What others are saying . . .
New hybrid SUVs match Camry
The hybrid versions of the full-sized 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon SUVs will deliver fuel economy gains of 50 percent in the city over the standard, non-hybrid models.

General Motors announced the EPA fuel economy estimates of 21 mpg city and 22 mpg highway for the two-wheel drive versions of the Tahoe and Yukon hybrids.

Those fuel economy ratings are expected to give GM best-in-class fuel economy for large SUVs. The ratings also rival those of many midsize and large cars. For example, the 2WD Tahoe and Yukon match the four-cylinder Toyota Camry's 21 mpg city rating and beat the V-6 Camry's city rating by 2 mpg.–Source: autonews.com, September 26, 2007