Jeep, Land Rover and Range Rover News



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Last Wrangler rolls through factory

June 30th, 2006 by admin

One of the last Jeep Wranglers on the line

Toledoan Bob Laucks isn�t saddened by the prospect of inspecting his final Jeep Wrangler this week, a move that will help signal the end of the nation�s longest-running auto plant.

Instead, the 29�-year Toledo Jeep veteran is looking forward to moving to the $900 million multifactory complex that will replace the Stickney Avenue plant and Jeep Parkway factory.

The last of nearly 970,000 Wranglers made since the icon was last redesigned in 1997 was built at Parkway yesterday, will be painted red there today, and will be finished tomorrow at Stickney, where Mr. Laucks works.

Meanwhile, production of the redesigned Wrangler begins with four-door Unlimited models on July 17 after Mr. Laucks and others return from Toledo Jeep�s traditional two-week summer shutdown. The first finished vehicle is to be…

4 door Jeep Wrangler

Read the complete article here, at TheBlade.com

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Land Rover unveils 24/7 broadband TV channel

June 29th, 2006 by admin

With a history of pioneering initiatives both off-road and on, Land Rover now leads into cyberspace with the global launch of a new interactive adventure website called Go Beyond.

Dedicated to the spirit of adventure, the ambitious online project is a first in the automotive industry, reflecting the innovative and industry-leading positioning of Land Rover.

Content rich and fully interactive, Go Beyond is about lifestyle rather than cars. Incorporating the world’s first broadband TV channel to be launched by a car company, Go Beyond was launched at the New York International Auto Show on April 12.

The Go Beyond website and TV channel will focus on real people living lives much less ordinary and can be accessed on any computer with a broadband connection. It will also be displayed at major motor shows and will be ultimately available for download to mobile phones or hand-held consoles like the Sony PSP or iPod. A Go Beyond link on www.landrover.com takes users to the new site.
Six unique channels of Go Beyond TV will cover all aspects of 21st century adventure from travel, to amazing Land Rover off-road journeys, food and wine, and people and places. The content will be premium, contemporary and adventurous � three of the cornerstones of the Land Rover brand.

�Go Beyond is about going beyond personal boundaries and experiencing adventure in its many forms,� said Phil Popham, Managing Director of Land Rover. �It amplifies the core brand promise of Land Rover to Go Beyond. It will also enhance our dealer environments, and work in tandem with our landrover.com website to drive sales and further improve customer loyalty.�

While a limited amount of online material is already accessible on the website, much of the content on the new Go Beyond website will be launched at the British International Motor Show in London in July.

Go Beyond can be accessed through the www.landrover.com website, or you can go directly here: http://gobeyond.landrover.com/index.html.

The Gobeyond website is flash-driven and kind of slow. Content is limited and the media player on some segments works better with Internet Explorer than Firefox. In fact, my first run through a segment the media player crashed Firefox on me.

Neat idea - let’s see if it actually catches on, though…

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Vietnam Vets restore an M151A2

June 29th, 2006 by admin

Abandoned M151a2 before restoration

City of Oconomowoc - A Vietnam-era jeep, known for its ability to travel over rough terrain, stands as a perfect metaphor for Vietnam veterans who likewise had a rough road to travel when they returned from service.
Thanks to a successful fundraising campaign, the local chapter of Vietnam Veterans of America will showcase an authentic Vietnam-era jeep during the Fourth of July parade Saturday.

The capital campaign set out to raise $15,000 through individual, business and corporate donations to purchase the vehicle for the organization’s award-winning color guard unit.

City of Oconomowoc resident Vern Larsen chaired the fundraising campaign along with Jim Fulmer, who served as treasurer.

” ‘Welcome home!’ It’s a greeting from one Vietnam veteran to another acknowledging the service that Vietnam veterans gave to their country with the brotherly welcoming that didn’t exist for returning Vietnam vets,” Larsen explained.

“This greeting is given each time new Vietnam vets come into a chapter of Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA). Oconomowoc Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 635 is no exception. The chapter is composed of more than 60 Vietnam veterans and associate members.

“This week Chapter 635 is giving a ‘welcome home’ to a Vietnam-era jeep that was popular during the many campaigns during the Vietnam War. The jeep’s nomenclature is M151A2. The jeep was originally manufactured in the early ’50s, but modifications during the ’60s made it the most popular individual transport vehicle during the war,” he said.

The impetus for the project was the pride the color guard unit has in its abilities.

“We’ve taken first place in every parade we’ve been in,” he said.

“St. John’s Military Academy has been gracious enough to allow us to borrow theirs (Vietnam-era jeep), but we felt we needed to get our own,” Larsen said. The Oconomowoc unit had helped restore that vehicle many years ago.

A restored M151a2
M151a2 similar to the one resdtored

The capital campaign kicked off in March 2005 with a $15,000 goal.

“I believed there were businesses and individuals in Oconomowoc who would support that,” he said.

“We exceeded that. We made enough to buy the jeep and an official military trailer that goes behind it that will carry a plaque with the names of the major donors,” he explained.

“I expected there was a patriotic fervor with Iraqi Freedom going on, but I didn’t expect so many people to step forward,” Larsen said.

He said the successful outcome is due to the hard work of many people.

“Mac Dorn of First Bank Financial Centre served as honorary chair and was instrumental in helping get gifts for us,” Larsen said.

“I was overwhelmed by the generosity of people,” in response to the campaign, Larsen said.

If raising the necessary money was a challenge, locating the appropriate kind of jeep proved to be more so.

“It was very difficult, finding this kind of jeep,” he said.

Because of safety concerns about the vehicle’s independent suspension system that made it appropriate for off-road riding, it was deemed unsafe for on-road travel, and obsolete vehicles were crushed.

Larsen eventually found two authentic vehicles in mint condition, but the accompanying price tag was too high. Further searches eventually led to…

Read the complete article here, at the Oconomowoc Focus- it’s worth it.

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Boston Acoustics Rocks the Jeep Compass

June 28th, 2006 by admin

Already known for supplying upgrades sound systems for the 300C and Grand Cherokee, Boston Acoustics is having a go at the new Compass.

Boston Acoustics rocks the Grand Cherokee
Boston Acoustics makes the Grand Cherokee sing.

VAN BUREN TOWNSHIP, Mich., June 28 /PRNewswire/ — The premium audio system on the all-new 2007 Jeep� Compass can help guide the mood - whether it be upbeat, carefree or mellow - of any driver. Visteon Corporation (NYSE: VC - News), in partnership with Boston Acoustics�, delivers a unique, premium audio system customized specifically for the Jeep Compass, which will hit showroom floors later this summer.

The Jeep Compass sports a nine-speaker Boston Acoustics sound package - co-engineered by Visteon and Boston Acoustics - that brings a powerful 458- watt premium high-performance system with liftgate speakers that swing down for tailgating.

Visteon’s audio engineering expertise merges with Boston Acoustics’ custom-designed, precision-crafted speakers to distribute the smooth, octave- to-octave tonal balance known as The Boston Sound(TM) to all points of the Compass’ interior. The combination of customized speaker placement from Boston Acoustics and Visteon’s Digital Signal Processing produces sound with remarkable clarity and fidelity. The Jeep Compass’ audio system is engineered to optimize the vehicle’s interior environment, accounting for such acoustic factors as seat location, interior fabrics and materials.

The Jeep Compass takes premium audio innovation a step further, offering two speakers that are mounted into the rear liftgate. With the liftgate up, the speakers can be swiveled down and out to project the vehicle’s interior soundstage to the outdoors. An auxiliary input jack, on the standard radio, makes it easy to connect an MP3 player.

“This was a fun and very satisfying project for a cool vehicle,” said Julie Fream, Visteon customer group vice president and general manager. “It’s an honor that Visteon and Boston Acoustics were awarded the chance to uniquely contribute to the personality of this new vehicle.”

Visteon and Boston Acoustics also provide the sound systems in Chrysler’s 2006 PT Cruiser and PT Cruiser Convertible models, the Chrysler 300, the Jeep Commander and Jeep Grand Cherokee, as well as the Dodge Charger, Magnum and Caliber. Later this year, Visteon and Boston Acoustics will bring The Boston Sound to the Jeep Patriot, another highly anticipated vehicle.

“With sound systems playing a key role in today’s consumer buying decision, Boston Acoustics is pleased to offer a premium-level option on the highly anticipated Compass,” said Michael Chass, OEM vice president for Boston Acoustics.

Jeep’s interior specs here.

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Increase fuel economy by 30% - WTF, are you kidding?

June 27th, 2006 by admin

It seems a couple of Detroit area Hummer dealerships are having some success convincing buyers this little doo-dad will increase fuel economy by 30% on their gas-guzzling mobile boulders. In fact, those buying are coughing up about $190 for this option, installed.

Interestingly enough, a search for the company listed in the WSJ article led directly to the Vortex Valve website - which lists this same item for sale to the general public for $69.95 each. And if the testimonials are to be believed, it can be installed by anyone in their driveway with a screwdriver and 5 minutes of free time. What the heck are those Hummer owners paying $190 for then? More money than brains comes to mind…

The Wall Street Journal covered the story, and everyone seems happy - though I’m sure the owners are oblivious to the obvious rip-off. Never mind that the claims are unproven and no recognized authority has actually tested the device to see if the results actually exist.

Apparently the dealership has had several calls from new owners saying they were happy with the results! Imagine, you just bought the damn truck, you drive home and then call the dealer to say you’ve noticed the difference in fuel economy…LOL

While not as simple as THAT, it’s not far off…

Here’s the little item in question:

Vortex Valve - POS or fuel economy champ

Hell, even if new owners ran several tanks fo fuel through their Hummers before calling the dealership to spread the good news, the normal breaking in of an engine would show improvements in fuel economy after several thousand miles of driving…

Read the complete article here, at the Wall Street Journal.

It baffles me how folks in an educated society can be taken by crap like this…

Hold on, just got an e-mail from Nigeria I have to read…

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Jeep - Charter Advertiser on new Action Sports Network

June 26th, 2006 by admin

AOL, the Online Network will Feature Events, Breaking News, User-Created Video, Blogs and In-depth Coverage of Action Sports; Jeep� Brand Signs On as Charter Advertiser

Dulles, Va. and Portland, Ore., Jun 27, 2006 -
AOL and Fusion Entertainment today announced a joint venture called Lat34.com ( http://www.Lat34.com ), the first comprehensive interactive network dedicated to action sports, including skate, BMX, FMX, surfing, snowboarding and more. This surging category already claims upwards of 100 million U.S. fans.** The new network will emphasize both programmed and user-generated content, including action sports video on-demand, event coverage, action sports athletes up close and in-depth coverage of all aspects of the action sports culture.

Lat34.com � named for the company�s location in Los Angeles (34oN/118 oW), considered the unofficial home of action sports in the U.S. � is dedicated to bringing the most comprehensive action sports information to the Web. Capitalizing on AOL�s leadership in online video, Lat34.com promises dynamic and timely video coverage of action sports wherever they occur. In addition, Lat 34.com will offer fans the chance to contribute by uploading their video, photos, blogs and more.

The Jeep� brand has signed on as the charter advertiser and is currently running teaser ads for the all-new 2007 Jeep Compass which will be in dealerships later this summer. Jeep Compass is a compact Jeep 4X4 that delivers fun, freedom, utility and capability, and more � all at a great value � making it an ideal advertiser for the action sports enthusiast. Jeep will also be showcasing video ads on the site to highlight new models shortly. Lat34.com will allow advertisers to tap into the strength of the surging action sports category and action sports fans, in turn, will benefit from targeted and relevant ads that address their needs and interests. The network will offer instream advertising opportunities, including pre-roll, ad curtains and banners.

�The action sports world is a passionate, underserved community that, until now, has had to rely on individual sport sites, product driven print publications or scheduled television programming. Lat34.com is a 24/7 broadband network, combining traditional media programming with Web 2.0 user-generated content,� said Jim Bankoff, AOL Executive Vice President of Programming and Products. �This joint venture gives action sports fans an unparalleled experience by providing them with a powerful video platform and popular social networking tools, including AIM.�

�Fusion Entertainment’s extensive library of action sports video footage will be a vital component of Lat34.com,� said Doug Allen, CEO, Fusion Entertainment. �Action sports fans want to connect with each other and generate buzz about the sports they love. This new network will provide a forum to share amateur and professional videos and photos.�

�Lat34.com creates a central online hub where marketers and advertisers can reach this pivotal audience in a more targeted way,� said Jeff Rowe, President and CEO, Lat34.com. �Action sports enthusiasts can be ensured that the marketing and advertising is relevant and appeals to their interests.�

Key features of Lat34.com will include:

* Comprehensive action sports event coverage and calendar, up-to-the-minute action sports news, action sports video on-demand, athlete profiles, action sports movie previews, gear information and connecting fans of specific sports together via AIM social network platform, blogs, meet-up groups and provide tools for uploading video and photos
* Video and photo highlights of action sports culture, including fashion, music, movies, local events and links to some of these popular sites
* An in-depth action sports database with vertical search capability to access athletes� past stats and current records, events, gear, tricks, movies, sites, etc. built by users
* Original programming such as athlete Blogs and profiles, photo galleries and video programming
* On-demand footage of various action sports events around the country
* �Trick of the Day� � where users can upload their own video of action stunts and features and enter to win a weekly prize.

Lat34.com, currently in beta, will roll out additional features and content areas throughout the summer.
** American Sports Data Inc., May 2004

About AOL
AOL and its subsidiaries operate a leading network of Web brands and the largest Internet access subscription service in the United States. Web brands include the AOL.com� Web site, AIM�, MapQuest� and Netscape�. AOL offers a range of digital services in the areas of education, safety and security, communications and music. The company also has operations in Europe and Canada. AOL LLC is a majority-owned subsidiary of Time Warner Inc. and is based in Dulles, Va.

About Fusion Entertainment
Fusion Entertainment is a full service Hi-Definition video production company which has built a solid reputation as one of the world’s largest and most respected providers of action sports programming. Fusion produces and distributes action sports television to over 140 countries and has provided action sports programming domestically to networks such as NBC, ESPN/ESPN2, OLN, Spike TV, MTV/MTV2, FUEL TV, FUSE, USA Network, iNDEMAND INHD and Fox Sports Network. Fusion specializes in the entire spectrum of action sports from exotic adventure travel to event coverage to core lifestyle programming. Fusion is independently owned and has headquarters in Portland, Ore.

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Grand Cherokee CRD First Drive

June 25th, 2006 by admin

Jeep Grand Cherokee with the 3.0 CRD diesel engine

Short and sweet article on driving the new Grand Cherokee with the Mercedes-sourced 3.0 CRD engine. Not too much detail, but the author covers the basics and makes the main point: This is one of the best, if not THE best, diesel offerings available today.

Jeep 3.0 CRD diesel engine

In addition to some cosmetic changes, inside and out, the 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee will now offer a diesel engine in the Laredo, Limited and Overland trim levels. Models with the diesel engine will be badged CRD for common-rail diesel. Additionally, the 4.7-liter V-8 gasoline engine will now be flex-fuel, capable of running on E85 or gas.

When I drove the Grand Cherokee CRD around DaimlerChrysler’s proving grounds in Chelsea, Mich., it delivered as promised. It’s ridiculously gutsy from a standing start, even with the relatively heavy Quadra-Drive II four-wheel drive underfoot. It’s no surprise, because the engine puts out 376 pounds-feet of torque at 1,600-2,800 rpm, as well as 215 horsepower at 3,800 rpm. What makes this engine stand out, though, is…

Read the complete article here, at Cars.com.

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End of an Era - Jeep closes “Jeep Parkway” plant

June 24th, 2006 by admin

It’s a part of history now, or will be in a few days. It’s the location where the original Willy’s began production, and later this week it’ll see today’s ancestor, the Wrangler, as it’s last production item. When the last painted Wrangler rolls out the door, the factory will shut down and remain silent…after 96 years, and 11 million vehicles, the Jeep Parkway will cease operations.

Jeep Parkway manufacturing plant

Read the full article and see what retiring workers have to say about this historic location.

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Willys MB Jeep article - still going strong today

June 23rd, 2006 by admin

Willys MB - the original Jeep

This is a great article written by a lady named Francie Clarkson. Her dad fought in World War II and the original Jeep, the Willys MB brings her back to a time when her Dad, and men like him, made a difference.

The first thing you realise when you visit a second world war battleground with a military historian is just what a fanciful view of history Hollywood film-makers have. It�s not just the small anachronistic detail, like blossom on the trees when a conflict took place in mid-summer. No, we�re talking an entire rewrite of historical facts.

From watching war movies you would conclude that the Americans were the ones to capture the machine that cracked the Enigma code, that they were the only nation to take part in the D-Day landings, and that the battle of Arnhem was lost due to the incompetence of the British � poor planning, faulty equipment and soldiers who were effete fops, useless upper-class eccentrics.

That�s how they were portrayed in the film A Bridge Too Far. Anthony Hopkins goes into battle with a hunting horn and Christopher Good carries an umbrella. Good entertainment, but they weren�t typical of the many British officers who fought and died.

I have a particular interest in this battle because my father, Major Robert Cain, was serving in the 2nd Battalion, South Staffordshire Regiment, and was one of only five men to win the…

Read the complete article here, at TimesOnline.co.uk- it’s worth it.

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Worst Jeep Concepts Ever? So says JP Magazine

June 23rd, 2006 by admin

I kind of like some of these, actually. But I’m just one guy.

Here’s Jeep’s 1997 Casablanca Concept - I see shades of Commander in there…and lots of Cherokee, naturally.

1997 Jeep Casablanca Concept

As usual, the guys don’t pull any punches at JP, so you’ll want to read this online article and enjoy what might have been - or shudder, and be happy it never was…

Worst Jeep Concepts EVER

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