Automotive

Report: Class action lawsuit filed against Ford for overheating Shelby GT350 transmissions

Report: Class action lawsuit filed against Ford for overheating Shelby GT350 transmissions Ford’s in hot water (no pun intended) for overheating transmissions and differentials at high speeds, particularly during track use.
What’s going on?
Fords are finding themselves dead on the road? You don’t say!
Well, more specifically, owners of the latest Shelby GT350 have gathered the pick axes and joined arms to file a class-action lawsuit against Dearborn for overheating drivetrain issues. Most of the cases involved GT350s serving track duty, where drivers said the transmission and differential would overheat, throwing the car into “limp home mode.”
Click here for more news on the Shelby GT350.
Not exactly the sort of experience you pay for when owning a brand-new GT350, a car specifically designed for that purpose. So this obviously has owners pissed off.

As a result, a 71-page lawsuit was filed this past Wednesday, focusing on the GT350’s optional Tech Package. Four plaintiffs representing some potentially 4,000 GT350 owners suggested such equipped cars don’t have transmission or differential coolers. And yet, Ford addressed the issue on 2017MY cars. The issue affects 2016 models and Ford supposedly told those owners to fix it themselves. However, such a suggestion puts forces the owner to conduct a repair that voids the car’s warranty. So basically, owners are in between a rock and a hard place.
So, what’s going to happen?
The lawsuit was filed Wednesday and at the helm is the Hagens Berman law firm. That means the case is currently under litigation and thus, comments about what’s happening are being kept to a minimum.
“We believe that Ford induced purchasers with its ‘track-ready’ marketing, when in fact it knew that this defect would ultimately bar these Mustangs from ever being the hotrod consumers paid for,” said Steve Berman, the managing partner of Hagens Berman.
– By: Chris Chin
Source: AutomotiveNews, Jalopnik
Click to view slideshow.
The post Report: Class action lawsuit filed against Ford for overheating Shelby GT350 transmissions appeared first on egmCarTech.

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New Chevy Medium Duty Commercial Truck To Feature Duramax Engine

New Chevy Medium Duty Commercial Truck To Feature Duramax Engine

Ah, fleet sales. If you’re not making bread and butter money from selling millions of hatchbacks in a week, then the real gravy is in commercial sales. Taxis, delivery trucks, cop cars, city motor pool cars, stuff like that. Cars and trucks that are rode hard, put away wet, have the oil changed twice a week, the engines replaced twice a year, and three to five years from the date of purchase, they’re all used up.
Joint Ventures
Chevy, who already makes serious bank from fleet sales, announced they will now offer an entirely new Duramax diesel medium duty truck for fleet sales. Chevrolet made the announcement at this year’s edition of The Work Truck Show, which is kind of amusing – of course, there has to be a Work Truck Show. I wonder if they have an entire aisle dedicated to one-size-fits-all mesh-back baseball hats?
Chevy went on to say the new truck is on schedule and will launch in 2018. It is being jointly developed by Chevrolet and Navistar.
“Our new Chevrolet medium duty will be the flagship of our truck portfolio for fleet and commercial customers,” said John Schwegman, U.S. Director of Commercial Product and Medium Duty for GM Fleet.
Extensive Offerings
GM says they have the industry’s most expansive portfolio of diesel-powered passenger cars, crossovers, pickups, and vans. Who am I to argue, but it also seems to me that Mercedes-Benz makes a ton of diesel powered delivery trucks too. Anyway, the General makes a lot of these guys, but it seems like there’s a niche that’s missing, so GM confirmed that Chevrolet’s all-new Class 4/5 commercial truck will soon be rolling out, and that it will be powered by a Duramax engine. Also, to sweeten the deal, the Duramax will be mated to an Allison transmission, a combo that is already found in close to two million trucks.
“We believe the strength of the Duramax/Allison powertrain combination will be able to tackle various jobs – from general contracting to urban delivery to bucket loaders and wreckers,” Schwegman said.
The first Duramax engines for Chevrolet and GMC trucks hit the market in 2001, and today, have more than 100 billion miles of use in the real-world. A new version of the Duramax arrived late last year for GM’s HD trucks.
“To win customers, we’re marshaling the best diesel and heavy-duty transmission engineers in the world and offering more choices than any other manufacturer,” Schwegman added.
2017 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD High Country. Photo: Chevrolet.
Powerful Parings
Based in Indianapolis, the cynosure of the racing world, Allison Transmission is the largest designer, developer, manufacturer, and distributor of medium- and heavy-duty fully automatic transmissions. They are also a leader in hybrid-propulsion systems. Allison designs are ubiquitous, being used in vehicles across the board: garbage trucks, construction, fire, distribution, bus, motor homes, defense, and energy; these transmissions are everywhere.
Allison has worked with Chevrolet since the 1950s, and before that, did things like build engines for P-51 Mustangs and P-38 Lightnings during wartime.
An employee at the DMAX, LTD engine plant assembles Duramax diesel engines in Moraine, Ohio on Monday, March 6, 2017. Photo: Chevrolet.

Nostalgic Tastes
I actually got a chance to see inside their old plant in Speedway, Indiana years ago. It’s a fantastically cool Art Moderne style place made out of native brick and glass block, the same kind of bricks they paved The Speedway with. At the time, Riley and Scott, the prototype racers, were based out of the place, and I thought that was about as cool of a set up as you could get: You’re making race cars in the building they used to make fighter plane engines in, and the place looks like a giant brick and glass toaster designed by Norman Bel Geddes. Sign me up!
The technical specs for Chevy’s new medium duty truck, including cab and frame dimensions, horsepower and torque, GAWR (gross axle weight rating), GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating), payload and other ratings, will be released closer to launch.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias towards lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.
Photos & Source: Chevrolet

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Ram Announces New Laramie Longhorn Hues In Dallas

Ram Announces New Laramie Longhorn Hues In Dallas

Ram has unveiled a new exterior color to compliment their luxurious Laramie Longhorn trim. “RV Match Walnut Brown” replaces the existing White Gold as the truck’s two-tone contrasting color. Ram made the announcement at the DFW Auto Show in Dallas, Texas, which runs through March 26th.
RV Match Walnut Brown models will go on sale in the second quarter of this year.
Exterior Styling
The Laramie Longhorn is available across the Ram lineup, including 1500, 2500, and 3500 Heavy Duty models. The trucks are set apart by unique exterior badging. For example, a chrome Laramie Longhorn badge with painted accents adorns the tailgate, while model-specific badges decorate the doors.
With regard to wheel choices, the 1500 variants feature 20-inch polished aluminum wheels with brown-colored pockets, while monochromatic versions have polished silver aluminum wheels. Ram 2500 and 3500 models (single rear wheel) have the same style of wheels, just in 18-inch form. 20s are still optional. Ram 3500 duallies get polished silver aluminum wheels with Laramie Longhorn edition center caps.
RV Match Walnut Brown is available as a two-tone combination with nine exterior colors: Black Forest Green, Bright Silver, Bright White, Brilliant Black Crystal, Delmonico Red, Granite Crystal, Maximum Steel, Pearl White, and True Blue. Other exterior treatments include wheel flares, painted front and rear bumpers, running boards, and painted tow hooks.
2017 Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn, RV Match Walnut Brown. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Interior Refinements
The Ram Laramie Longhorn embodies the southwestern culture and was inspired by time-honored elements of the outdoors: pocket watches, saddles, cowboy boots, and genuine leather. Ram’s designers focued particularly on the metal and leather craftsmanship throughout the truck. Authentic Walnut Burl inserts stained in Canyon Brown or Cattle Tan add to the elements of outdoor luxury.
The Cattle Tan leather or Canyon Brown seats are meant to ease long hours on the road, being both heated and cooled. A full Uconnect Access and Multiview cluster suite keeps driver’s connected.
Power & Performance
Ram 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty Laramie, Longhorn, and Limited models now feature the 6.4-liter HEMI as standard. The engine delivers a best-in-class gas engine towing capacity of 16,320 pounds. The 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel engine provides additional capability with a tow rating exceeding 30,000 pounds.
Ram Heavy Duty Laramie Longhorn trucks have become quite popular with campers and others who tow recreational units or vehicles. Not surprisingly, the new RV Match Brown color was chosen as a complement to the shades of brown frequently used for RV travel trailers and fifth-wheels.
“The Ram Laramie Longhorn has deservedly become the world’s benchmark for upscale, capable pickup trucks,” said Mike Manley, Head of Ram Brand, FCA – Global.
2017 Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn, RV Match Walnut Brown. Photo: FCA US LLC.

DFW Auto Show
A variety of Ram trucks, including this new Laramie Longhorn trim, will be on display at the DFW Auto Show. The event runs through March 26th at the Dallas Convention Center. Those who want to get a little closer can visit Ram Truck Territory, an interactive ride experience located in Hall F, adjacent to Luxury Row. Ram’s professional drivers will navigate attendees through a course that features a payload demonstration, hill descent test, and towing exercise. The latter takes place on Heavy Haul Hill, a 13-foot-high, 192-foot-long course element with a 35-degree steep grade.
Those looking to pilot a Ram on the streets of Dallas can visit the nearby Drive FCA ride-and-drive experience. FCA representatives will be on hand with a full lineup of vehicles for test drives, including the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Fiat 124 Spider, and Dodge Challenger.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
2017 Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn, RV Match Walnut Brown. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Photos & Source: FCA US LLC.

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Buick Enspire Concept Debuts In China

Buick Enspire Concept Debuts In China The Buick Enspire all-electric concept SUV has made its global debut in China, billed as an exploration of the brand’s design ideas and innovative technologies for future mobility. With the Enspire name, Buick retains the general practice of using the letter “e” for their SUV nomenclature; Enclave, Envision, and Encore.
Power & Performance
Buick was slim on the details but the Enspire has advanced propulsion technology, allowing the concept to travel 370 miles on a single charge. The propulsion system, dubbed “eMotion” by Buick, generates a maximum power output of 410 kW and can launch the vehicle to 60 in four seconds. Buick says the Enspire supports both fast and wireless charging, and the battery can be charged to 80 percent within 40 minutes.
2018 Buick Enspire Concept. Photo: Buick.
Styling & Technology
The “surround skyline” interior theme is really of note. Buick says this is a suspended theater-type seating arrangement, meant to open up the cabin for occupants. There is an OLED screen, an augmented reality heads-up display system, and 5G connectivity.
Judging by the press photos, the interior is smooth and streamlined with most of the vehicle’s functions being controlled either by voice, gesture, or touch. Although Buick did not specify, the interior looks befitting of an autonomous vehicle.
Typical to most concepts, the body is aerodynamic and nicely sculpted.
The “surround skyline” interior theme for the Buick Enspire Concept. Photo: Buick.
Availability & In Person
Unfortunately, Buick did not reveal their long-range plans for the Enspire. Given Buick’s presence and following in China, it’s likely to see a release there first if anywhere. No word on if it will arrive in the United States or other nations. In the meantime, the Enspire Concept will be on display at Auto China 2018 in Beijing from April 25th until May 4th.
The Automoblog Staff contributed to this report and can be reached anytime.
Photos & Source: Buick.

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2019 Honda Odyssey Arrives: A Brief Walk Around

2019 Honda Odyssey Arrives: A Brief Walk Around Families looking to upgrade their daily commuter may find a likely candidate in the 2019 Honda Odyssey. Honda’s top-selling minivan has arrived at dealerships with a variety of technology and safety features. Retail data from Urban Science shows Honda has lead the minivan segment for the last eight years. During our evaluation of the 2017 model, corresponding data from IHS Markit noted the Odyssey is the preferred minivan for buyers under 35.
Power & Performance
The new Odyssey has a 3.5-liter V6 engine, complete with direct injection and Honda’s i-VTEC and Variable Cylinder Management systems to increase performance and efficiency. The engine comes mated to either a nine- or ten-speed automatic, depending on trim level. The engine, which produces a healthy 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft. of torque, carries an EPA fuel economy rating of 19/28 city/highway and 22 combined.
During our extensive test drive of the current 2018 Odyssey, we believed the 3.5-liter V6 had enough power for all driving situations. We found the transmission was smooth-shifting and thought the rear sunshades were a nice touch.
2019 Honda Odyssey. Photo: Honda North America.
Safety & Technology
The Honda Sensing package of advanced safety features is standard and includes Collision and Road Departure Mitigation Systems, Lane Keeping Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control. On the tech front, there is everything from Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to in-vehicle Wi-Fi and an entertainment system with Blu-Ray and streaming video.
Of note is the CabinWatch feature, available for the Touring and Elite. CabinWatch allows parents to view their kids in the back via the eight-inch display screen, and even talk to them through the rear speakers or wireless headphones if the Rear Entertainment System is equipped.
Pricing & Manufacturing
The entry-level Odyssey LX starts at $31,065, with the mid-range EX-L coming in at $38,585. At the top of the mountain are the Touring and Elite trims, coming in at $45,635 and $47,945 respectively.
The 2019 Honda Odyssey was researched, designed, and engineered by Honda R&D Americas in Raymond, Ohio. The Odyssey and its engine are produced exclusively by Honda Manufacturing of Alabama in Lincoln, Alabama.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.
Photos & Source: Honda North America.

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2018 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD Review

2018 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD Review
The Mazda CX-5 is a driver-focused vehicle meant to deliver a different experience than your average small SUV. We think it offers a more satisfying experience than its chief rivals, the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Subaru Forester. And if looks have anything to do with it, we think it wins in exterior styling too.
Over the weekend, we drove the top trim, 2018 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring with all-wheel drive.
What’s New For 2018
The 2018 Mazda CX-5 largely carries over from the previous model year, when it received a complete redesign. New for 2018 are standard features like a leather-wrapped steering wheel and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Also new is cylinder-deactivation to improve fuel efficiency.
Features & Options
The 2018 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD ($30,945) comes with acoustic front windows, power driver’s seat, heated front seats, an upgraded six-speaker sound system, rear USB ports, and blind-spot monitors. It also features keyless ignition and entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. The vehicle also receives additional driver assistance features like blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning and mitigation, lane keeping assist, and automatic high beams.
Grand Touring models add leather and 19-inch wheels to the above. The Premium Package on this tester ($1,306) added a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, a heads-up display, power front passenger seat, and windshield wiper de-icer. Total MSRP including destination: $34,535.

Interior Highlights
This CX-5 Grand Touring interior takes a step forward over the standard trim with leather seating and stitching on the dash, console, and door panels. The quality of materials is excellent for this price point. The cabin is driver-focused with a new leather-wrapped steering wheel, and the shift-lever location fits the driver’s hand perfectly.
The seven-inch touchscreen resolution is sharp and it sits high atop the stylish dash, but it’s a bit too far away for our liking. There’s also an infotainment controller in the center console with a radio volume control knob that’s easy to find without taking your eyes off the road. The seats are comfortable and offer plenty of adjustments and support for long-distance driving. The steering wheel also offers a nice range of tilt-and-telescoping positions.
This weekend, we took a couple of six-foot gentlemen to lunch, and they commented on how there seems to be more shoulder room in the rear, likely due to the CX-5’s slightly wider track. The rear doors open wide, so they had no trouble entering and exiting the crossover. And thanks to scalloping in the back of the front seats, there was plenty of legroom for our riders.
If you need to carry cargo, the 40/20/40-split folding backseat reclines. Behind the rear seat, there’s 31 cubic feet of cargo storage, and 60 with the rear folded flat. It’s a bit less than competitors, including the Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, and Subaru Forester.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The 2.5-liter SKYACTIV 4-cylinder engine produces 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft. of torque. It comes mated exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission. Our tester came with Mazda’s all-wheel drive system for all-weather capability, a nice feature for those who live in winter climates. The 2.5-liter engine gets cylinder-deactivation technology which automatically shuts down the two outside cylinders at cruising speeds to maximize efficiency. Fuel mileage has increased 1 mpg over last year’s model.
EPA fuel mileage estimates are 24/30 city/highway and 26 combined with all-wheel drive.

Driving Dynamics
We think the CX-5 is higher on the fun-to-drive meter than any other crossover out there. We took a weekend drive in the mountains west of Denver where this journalist lives, and the small SUV delivered a most satisfying experience. We tossed the CX-5 around the tight curves and it responded like a sports sedan.
The steering is precise, and the suspension is tuned for sporty driving over comfort. Be aware, the CX-5 is not going to win any races. The crossover has enough power for most driving situations, but was fairly tame when we pushed it hard up I-70. The naturally aspirated engine could use a turbo for those traveling up into the high country or hauling extra cargo over a high mountain pass. For normal commuting, you won’t have an issue.
The cabin was quiet when we got underway. It’s not as quiet as a luxury car, but it’s much improved when we pushed the pedal, especially at highway speeds. With the heated seats, steering wheel, and heads-up dispaly, this small SUV feels like a more expensive vehicle. Overall, it’s the most fun we’ve ever had in a compact crossover, having tested the competition. If you live where there’s lots of twisty roads, this is the vehicle for you.
Conclusion
The 2018 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD nails it in driving dynamics, with a comfortable, quiet cabin, driver-focused interior, and strong exterior styling. If you like to drive, this crossover delivers a different, more pleasurable experience than your average small SUV.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2018 Mazda CX-5 Gallery

2018 Mazda CX-5 Official Site.
Photos: Mazda North American Operations – (2017 models also shown).

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2019 Genesis G70 Launched In Russia

2019 Genesis G70 Launched In Russia The 2019 Genesis G70 is headed to the Russian market following a recent ceremony at The Museum of Moscow. Over 500 guests and influencers joined the Genesis brand for a music festival that ultimately welcomed the G70 to Russia. In the Russian market, the G70 will come in five trim levels: Premier, Elegance, Advance, Sport, and Supreme.
“The launch of G70 in the Russian market confirms our strong commitment to deliver customer-oriented models that combine innovative technology, superior design, and the latest engineering advancements,” said Alexey Kalitsev, Managing Director of Genesis Brand in CIS.
Expansion & Design
The G70 is the brand’s foothold in an already competitive entry-level luxury segment. The car rounds out the Genesis sedan lineup alongside the G80, G80 Sport, and flagship G90.
“The brand will continue to expand its product portfolio to all areas of the luxury auto market,” reads a statement from Genesis.
The G70 is characterized by the company’s “Athletic Elegance” design language, which consists of a long hood, short overhangs, and high beltline. From the side, Genesis notes the “parabolic character line” that accents the curves and smooth surfaces alike. Similar its sedan stablemates, the G70 features the Genesis Crest Grille with LED daytime-running lights.
The 2019 Genesis G70 debuts in Russia. Photo: Genesis Motor America.
Power & Performance
The 2019 G70 for the Russian market will be offered with two different four-cylinder engines with 197 and 247 horsepower respectively. Engine availability will depend on trim level. In the United States, the G70 is offered in both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive, although Genesis was not exactly clear in their press materials if this would be the case in Russia.
The G70 will have a generous array of safety features with the Genesis Active Safety Control package.
Pricing (RUB)
In the basic version, the G70 is 1,949,000. The G70 in Elegance starts from 1,999,000. Advance (197 horsepower) – from 2,249,000 and the Supreme from 2,709,000. The G70 Sport is 2,899,000.
The Automoblog Staff contributed to this report and can be reached anytime.
Photos & Source: Genesis Motor America.

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New Dodge Durango Package Keeps Departed Era Alive

New Dodge Durango Package Keeps Departed Era Alive The Dodge Durango is one of the most underrated SUVs of our time. I’ve said this before, but “grown ups” who still love performance or muscle cars will find the Durango satisfying to their appetites. The modern day Durango has plenty of room, comfort, and technology for the family, but lots of grunt under the hood. It’s so nicely balanced on the spectrum: there’s luxury and technology, but also aggressive styling and raw power. Lots of raw power. Lots.
House of Power
For example, the 2018 Durango SRT features a 392 (cubic inches) HEMI V8 with 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft. of torque. It hits 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and runs the quarter-mile in 12.9 seconds as certified by the National Hot Rod Association. Trips to the swimming pool, piano recital, and grocery store are now infinitely more exciting. The Dodge Durango laughs at the notion that family vehicles are boring vehicles. And Dodge is continuing to chuckle with the new Rallye Appearance Package for the 2018 Durango GT.
If this were any other SUV, a new appearance package might fly under the radar. New appearance packages sprout up like dandelions on a spring day, and understandably so since they do dress up a given vehicle nicely. Yet, for Dodge, announcements like this go just a bit farther, because they are the only automaker still carrying the muscle car torch. This was evidenced recently by the new Shakedown Package for the mighty Challenger, which gives the iconic car a Dominic Toretto, Brian O’Conner vibe.
The Dodge Shakedown Challenger mixes design cues from the past and present to create an original Mopar machine. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Light Em’ Up
Again, new packages like this are common, but for Dodge there is distinct purpose when they release one. It goes beyond trying to attract more people to the dealership, or to get the automotive press to talk about it, or to jazz up the front end so it looks pretty at the auto show. Yeah, it may well do all those things, but for Dodge it’s about adding one more layer as they stay true to the unembellished and fervent mantras that are the muscle car culture. The GT resides at the midpoint in the Durango lineup, but it’s no exception. It gets lit by that aforementioned torch just as the Challenger would.
“Many of our customers love the performance look of the Durango R/T and Durango SRT, but are happy with the award-winning Pentastar V6 engine’s 295 horsepower and the excellent fuel efficiency it delivers,” explained Steve Beahm, Head of Passenger Cars, Dodge/SRT, Chrysler and FIAT, FCA – North America. “This new Durango GT Rallye Appearance Package gives those three-row SUV buyers the best of both worlds.”
The Durango GT’s new Rallye Appearance Package adds a performance-inspired hood with a cold air duct and two heat extractors. The front fascia and LED fog lamps have a look that mimics the R/T and SRT models, and it’s available with the popular Brass Monkey Wheels. That’s it. Simple. Simple but effective.
2018 Dodge Durango R/T (left) and 2018 Dodge Durango GT. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Performance & Technology
The Durango GT runs a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 that generates 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft. of torque, mated to a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic. When properly equipped, it can tow 6,200 lbs., a best-in-class figure according to Dodge. The Durango’s list of available features is nearly endless from Blu-ray and DVD players, to premium audio systems and navigation. Inside, driver’s have 85 cubic feet of cargo space and 50 different seating configurations at their disposal.
Pricing & Availability
The new Rallye Appearance Package for the Dodge Durango GT is $1,495 and is available now. If you add it to your Durango, do share a picture with us on Twitter.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.
Photos & Source: FCA US LLC.

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Toyota & Alabama A&M University Partner On Mobility Initiative

Toyota & Alabama A&M University Partner On Mobility Initiative Toyota Motor North America and Alabama A&M University (AAMU) are launching a “student-led mobility initiative,” which aims to strengthen the area’s connection and access to education, jobs, and clean vehicles. The initiative will unite an interdisciplinary team of students and faculty for the “Clean Low Emissions Approach & Novel Transportation Innovation Practice,” otherwise known as “CLEAN-TRIP.”
The effort is the first of similar initiatives Toyota is establishing across the United States.
“Creating a clean, safe and more efficient environment for the campus proper, as well as the immediate and larger community, has been a major thrust of AAMU for decades,” explained Dr. Ernst Cebert, facilitator of the project and professor within the College of Agricultural, Life and Natural Sciences. “Through this project, we will engage students with hands-on learning to address real world problems.”
“We partnered with AAMU because of their focus on renewable energy, strong STEAM programs, and history of preparing well-qualified graduates,” added Al Smith, Group Vice President, Toyota Social Innovation.
Toyota is providing an initial grant of $300,000, which includes scholarships for students accepted into the program. In addition to monetary support, students will work with Toyota to learn the company’s approach to problem solving and critical thinking. Once in the program, students will interact with local residents to better understand their mobility challenges.
“By developing a mobility solution through collaboration with the community, we can help guide students to create better ways to move that also improve quality of life,” Smith said.
In 2017, AAMU received funding from the Federal Transportation Agency to purchase zero-emission electric buses. AAMU was founded in 1875 by a former slave, William Hooper Councill and opened as the Huntsville Normal School. Today, the university has nearly 5,000 undergraduates and over 800 graduate students, with 75 percent of those students already involved in community service projects.
The Automoblog Staff contributed to this report and can be reached anytime.
Photo & Source: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., Alabama A&M University.

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