Autos
*Ford’s 2009 E-Series full-size vans due out in August will have new interior features; engines that can burn E85, the ethanol/gasoline blend; and stability control. A redesigned dashboard includes a storage tray above the passenger-side air bag, and a larger center console has room for a laptop computer. Ford’s new “work solutions” features will be optional and include an in-dash computer, a radio-frequency identification tracking system, a fleet telematics and diagnostics system and cable locks for tools and equipment. Stability control with roll stability control will be standard on passenger and recreational models and optional on cargo vans.
*Chevrolet revives memories of the big-block V-8 Corvettes with the 427 Limited Edition Z06, starting this spring. It uses the same 7-liter (427-cubic-inch) engine as the Z06. Both are based on Chevrolet’s small-block V-8. The last big-block Corvette had a 454-cubic-inch V-8 in 1974. Base price is $84,195. Chevy will build 427 for the U.S. and Canada and 78 more for export.
*Some recently introduced Toyotas such as Tundra, Camry and Highlander have been criticized for cheaper-looking interiors and flimsier plastic trim than previous models. At the same time, some General Motors and Hyundai models have upgraded their interior materials and designs. Among those to notice was Katsuaki Watanabe, president of Toyota Motor Corp., who mentioned it at the Detroit Auto Show in January. “I’m sure we’ll be more competitive as a result,” said Don Esmond, executive vice president of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A.
Recall
*Ford is recalling 470,000 2005-08 Mustangs to update passenger-side front-air bag software. Ford says internal testing showed the air bag could injure a small, unbelted passenger.
Commuter rail
*A bill to finance expansion of the South Shore commuter rail in northwest Indiana to Lowell and Valparaiso has been set aside for further study this summer.
FYI
*Ford is starting to act like the global company it is. Exhibit A: The Ford Transit Connect, a compact cargo van built in Turkey and sold in Europe, is being converted for sale in the U.S. for hundreds of millions less than the cost of a new model. The main changes will be a gas 4-cylinder engine instead of a diesel and meeting U.S. safety and lighting regulations. “That really is the advantage of working Ford globally better than we’ve ever done,” says Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s head of global product development.
*Italian sports car-maker Ferrari will set up its first wholly owned Japanese subsidiary this year to boost its presence in the world’s second-biggest economy. Japan remains a lucrative market for luxury items.
People
*Douglas A. Fraser, who led the United Auto Workers through dark hours in the U.S. auto industry, has died. He was 91. In the 1960s and ’70s, he helped win such benefits as comprehensive health care and improved working conditions. But he faced challenges as UAW president from 1977 to 1983, a period of financial hardship for the industry that forced unprecedented union concessions.
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Quick Trips are compiled from the notebook of Rick Popely and from Tribune news services.
