Timely Automotive Tribune News

There are some important items in the world of automotive news that will be of interest to Tribune readers.

Dodge Ram truck sales are up significantly

was reported in the March 16th edition of Automotive News .  Ram 1500’s share of the full-sized pickup segment rose to 13.5 percent in February from 10.7 percent in January and 8.2 percent in December.  This momentum, general excitement, and life signs were observed  and expressed in the Tribune’s recent acticle on the Dodge Ram.

Tata Nano to start production

was an article in today’s Wall Street Journal .  It is reported that the 10.2′ foot long car will cost dealers just under $2,000.  This car has been in limited availability in India because the new almost-completed production facility had to be relocated because of violent problems with a political party and local residents over disputed land.  During a business trip to Paris in late 2008 I discussed the Nano with an executive from India.  You will find the Tata Nano official website of interest as it countsdown till Monday’s official launch.  There are absolutely no plans for the Nano to come to North America!  This car represents a focused effort to provide a very low cost global entry vehicle for developing nations.

2010 Camaro went into produciton on March 16th. 

You will be able to see the arrival of the Camaro at your local Chevrolet dealer in April.  Currently, GM reports that they have 14,000 vehicles on order.  Here is the link to the All New Camaro web site.   A base car in LS trim with IRS and a 304 HP V6 has a starting price of $22,995.  However, after spending some time with the Build Your Own feature, the Tribune is of the opinion that the full featured 2LT which comes in around $30k with the RS package will be the sales leader.  A fully optioned 2SS with either of the big ticket tire & wheel packages ($4,680 or $4,865) brings the total to just short of $42k for the 426 HP V8.