August 02, 2010⁠

Source: Jakarta Globe

Jakarta.  This year’s Indonesia International Motor Show rang up Rp 2.4 trillion ($268 million) in sales, 41 percent more than last year, in a strong sign for the nation’s auto market.

The 10-day event, which ended on Sunday, attracted a record 279,000 car lovers, well up on the 241,687 total who attended last year. The sales figures compare with last year’s Rp 1.7 trillion and surpassed the show’s target of Rp 2 trillion.

“This shows we have big potential for growth here,” said Sudirman, chairman of the Association of Indonesian Automotive Industries (Gaikindo).

“The buyers were not just rich  but also middle-income consumers. It was very interesting. People came in with their family to buy cars that were on show. We even had students buying cars,” he said, adding that the most popular models were family cars.

Volkswagen marketing manager Hary Novianto was in an upbeat mood. “I’ve never seen such enthusiasm toward the local market,” he told the Jakarta Globe.

The car show, opened on July 23 by Vice President Boediono, enjoyed the glow of a red-hot outlook for sales. This year’s show offered carmakers a chance to show off their goods to a population increasingly able to afford them — and apparently very willing to buy.

Visitors were treated to the domestic debuts of models ranging from Mercedes-Benz’s luxurious SLS AMG and E-Class Cabrio to more modestly priced rides like the Chevrolet Spark and Ford Fiesta, as global automakers find the country’s market increasingly attractive.

Twenty-three car manufacturers were represented at the show, along with 203 exhibitors showcasing parts and accessories.

With strong domestic consumption and expectations for 6 percent economic growth this year, Gaikindo has predicted sales would hit 555,000, up from 486,000 in 2009. Total sales hit 370,206 units in the first half, 76 percent of last year’s total.

PT Astra International, the country’s largest vehicle distributor, has projected sales could reach 700,000 this year.

• All-new BMW X1 sDrive20d and BMW X1 sDrive18i, the world’s first compact Sports Activity Vehicles, introduced to young urban Indonesians.

Jakarta. The all-new BMW X1 sDrive 20d has been unveiled in Jakarta, marking the official introduction of BMW Advanced Diesel Technology in Indonesia to meet the needs of environmentally-conscious young urbanites.

The President Director of BMW Indonesia, Mr. Ramesh Divyanathan, and an expert from BMW Diesel Engine Development Center, Dr. Ing. Erwin Kranawetter, officiated at the launching this morning.

“The era of old diesel has ended in Indonesia.  Today marks the new era of modern premium diesel.  BMW is setting a new trend on clean diesel in Indonesia.  Driving BMW diesel is fun, smooth, clean and cool,” said Mr. Ramesh Divyanathan.

Every BMW diesel engine delivers superb fuel efficiency, low CO₂ emissions, generous torque at low engine speeds and the typical BMW characteristics of superior smoothness and refined engine acoustics.
“This is the beginning of a paradigm shift,” Mr. Divyanathan said.  “We have chosen to introduce diesel engine on our all-new BMW X1 because the young urban Indonesians who are the target segment of this model are those with a stronger drive and the influence to change.” He added that half of the 150 pre-booked units of the all-new BMW X1 are the diesel model.

Earlier, in a technical workshop attended by delegates from the State Ministry of Environment, Indonesia’s Agency for Assessment and Application of Technology (BPPT), various energy supply companies, BMW dealers and the media, Dr. Kranawetter presented BMW Group’s sustainability strategy.

BMW Group aims to bring BMW EfficientDynamics technology, including the BMW Advanced Diesel engine, to all of its models.  The benefits to the environment are much more substantial than developing a green car model.  With BMW EfficientDynamics, the BMW Group has been able to cut its European fleet emissions by 25% in 2008 compared to 1995 levels.  In acknowledgement of its commitment to a sustainable environment, for the fifth consecutive year BMW has been rated the world’s most sustainable automobile manufacturer in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index.

Mr. Klaus Landhaeusser, Diesel System Manager External Affairs ASEAN from BOSCH, the company which developed the diesel common rail injection system, discussed the advantage of diesel engines compared to gas and hybrid engines during the workshop. The diesel engine is proven to be more economical by reducing 30% of fuel consumption, cleaner by reducing 25% of emissions and more powerful by having 50% more torque compared to petrol engine, he said.
The smooth-running 1.995 liter four-cylinder diesel engine in the BMW X1sDrive20d uses the latest-generation Common Rail Injection system and a turbocharger.  The engine delivers a perfect combination of dynamic performance and exceptional efficiency.
Capable of producing 177 hp at 4,000 rpm, the engine offers maximum torque of 350 Nm from 1,750 to 3,000 rpm.  The extraordinary drive system accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.3 seconds, top speed stands at 205 km/hour and average consumption is an efficient 6.1 l/100 km and CO₂ level at 160 g/km.  The engine meets EU3 standards, and therefore Pertamina DEX, Dynamic Diesel from Petronas, Shell Diesel and Performance from Total fulfill the fuel quality requirement.  This ensures that customers will have full mobility throughout Indonesia.

BMW Indonesia is also introducing the new BMW X1 sDrive18i petrol model to the market.  The model is powered by a 150 hp 1,995 cc four-cylinder gasoline engine featuring Valvetronic and Double Vanos.  Producing maximum torque of 200 Nm at 3,600 rpm, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.4 seconds.  Its top speed reaches 200 km/hour with an average fuel consumption of 8.4 l/100 km and CO₂ level at 195 g/km.

The all-new BMW X1 has been awarded the 2010 red dot award for outstanding design and achieved the highest score of 5 stars in the stringent EURO NCAP crash test.  This premium compact SAV is much anticipated by young urban Indonesians, as the car is in keeping with their character as well as road conditions in the market.

The all-new BMW X1 comes with all features typical of a BMW X model, while offering a new interpretation of BMW Sheer Driving Pleasure.  The youngest member in the wider range of BMW X models stands for versatile sportiness and supreme agility in a confident, elegant and modern style.  Young and sporty in design, the interior combines superior variability with equally superior flexibility.  The higher seating-position and driver-oriented design of the cockpit succeed in enhancing the emotional driving experience.

The model is fitted with six-speed automatic transmission and safety features such as airbags for driver and passengers, head and side airbags, Dynamic Stability Control and Run Flat Tyres.  The entertainment system features the Radio BMW Professional with CD, equipped with USB interface and AUX-IN connection.

The all-new BMW X1 sets new standards for driving pleasure in the premium compact segment.  BMW is the pioneer in introducing the premium Sport Activity Vehicle X5 in 2001, and now the family extends to the compact segment where there remains no competitor.

(Click the Spec. Table to see the detail on PDF. format)

# # #

The BMW Group

The BMW Group is the world’s leading premium car manufacturer since 2005 with its BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brands. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 24 production facilities in 13 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

The BMW Group achieved a global sales volume of approximately 1.29 million automobiles and over 87,000 motorcycles for the 2009 financial year. The pre-tax profit for 2009 was euro 413 million, revenues totalled euro 50.68 billion. At 31 December 2009, the company employed a global workforce of approximately 96,000 associates.

The success of the BMW Group has always been built on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy. As a result of its efforts, the BMW Group has been ranked industry leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes for the last five years.

BMW in Indonesia

PT. BMW Indonesia is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Munich-based Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG in Germany. The establishment of this subsidiary in April 2001 reflects the BMW Group’s confidence in the long-term future of Indonesia and its commitment to maintaining and extending BMW’s leading position in the premium market segment. PT. BMW Indonesia’s activities cover the wholesale of BMW cars, spare parts and accessories, as well as the overall planning of sales, marketing, after-sales, and related activities in Indonesia. Its dealership network covers 11 new car dealers and 1 used-car dealer spread out in various cities in Indonesia. Selected models of the 3 and 5 Series sedans are also assembled in Indonesia by a local partner. More information about BMW Indonesia may be found online at www.bmw.co.id.

For further information please contact:

Helena Abidin

Corporate Communications Director

Tel: +62 -21- 2992 3003

Mobile: +62-816-968 450

Email: maria.h.abidin@bmw.co.id

Roberto Sumabrata
Corporate Communications
Tel : +62-21-2992 3009 ext 21724
Mobile : +62-818-306 307
Email : roberto.sumabrata@partner.bmw.co.id

The 18Th Indonesia International Motor Show 2010

Along with the improving economic conditions in Indonesia are also increasingly optimistic about the automotive industry. The development of recent months shows an encouraging trend this year and expected growth of the automotive market will be very good. Optimism is also coloured the organization of exhibitions Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS) 2010.

On the 18th of this exhibition, Gaikindo sure that the automotive world that all the fans will be excited to this grand exhibition. Until now, there is 23 car manufacturers who have indicated their involvement in IIMS 2010, namely Audi, BMW, Chevrolet, Daihatsu, Ford, Photon, Fuso, Hino, Honda, Hyundai, Isuzu, Jaguar, KIA, Mazda, Mercedes Benz, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Nissan Diesel, Proton, Subaru, Suzuki, Toyota and VW.

At IIMS 2010 we want to increase the comfort of visitors and exhibitors. JIExpo is the best location to make this happen, because we want to present a better exhibition event including supporting events. Besides large parking area, safe and comfortable, easy access for visitors is also a venue for the excess JIExpo as IIMS 2010, “explained Johnny Darmawan.

IIMS 2010 will use the land area of 100,000 m2 will be achieved through 4 (four) entry access. Free shuttle buses will still serve the visitor from several shopping malls in Jakarta, Plaza Senayan ie, FX Center and Pondok Indah Mall.

IIMS 2010 will be open every day starting on July 23 until August 1, 2010, starting at 10:00 to 21:00 am, with ticket prices of Rp 20 thousand on Monday – Thursday (weekdays) and USD 30 thousand in the day Friday – Sunday (weekend). Especially for the first day, dated July 23, 2010, IIMS only for special invitations and media (VIP & Press Day).

Source: Gaikindo

Associated Press ,  Detroit   |  Sat, 03/27/2010 11:38 AM  |  Business

General Motors Co. is recalling about 5,000 heavy-duty Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vans because of a faulty alternator.

The automaker also halted sales of the vans Friday. It has also stopped production of them until it can fix the problem.

GM spokesman Alan Adler says there have been no injuries related to the recall.
Purchasers of the recalled vans, built in February and March, are urged to stop driving them and park them outside away from buildings and other vehicles.

It is rare for an automaker to halt sales because of a safety defect. GM’s decision to stop sales of the vans comes two months after Toyota Motor Corp. halted sales of eight models because of faulty accelerator pedals.

Source: The Jakarta Post

The Jakarta Post ,  Jakarta   |  Mon, 12/28/2009 10:26 AM  |  Business

The luxury car market, which has enjoyed trend-defying sales growth this year, may grow by 15 to 20 percent next year on the back of stronger economic growth and higher purchasing power, industry insiders say.

Indonesian Automotive Industry Association (Gaikindo) secretary-general Freddy Sutrisno said last week an expected 4,300 to 4,500 luxury cars would be sold in 2010, up from the expected 3,700 units in 2009.

The range is in line with the 15 to 20 percent growth predicted for overall domestic car sales in 2010 to around 600,000 units.

Gaikindo has also predicted a slump in 2009 domestic car sales, down from last year’s figure of 603,700 units to 475,000 units, due to the global financial crisis.

However, it adds, thanks to their highly segmented market, luxury car producers have enjoyed a relatively good year in Indonesia.

Mercedes-Benz Indonesia told The Jakarta Post it had sold 2,575 cars through the end of November — a 14 percent increase from the 2,256 cars it sold in the same period last year. Deputy marketing director Yuniadi H. Hartono said the increase was in part due to a major project to provide 400 cars to local taxi operator Blue Bird.

The company’s is expected to shift a total of 2,900 cars this year, or a 19.6 percent increase from the 2,424 cars it cold in 2008.

Mercedes controls 70 percent of the premium car market in the country, according to Gaikindo estimates.

Yuniadi said the manufacturer expected another good year in 2010 and was eyeing an increased sales target of 3,300 cars.

BMW Indonesia, which commands about 20 percent market share, is also expecting to cash in on the growing segment next year.

President director Ramesh Divyanathan told the Post that Indonesia’s promising market and expected GDP of more than 5 percent in 2010 had led his company to forecast “good double-digit growth” in car sales next year.

However, he pointed out “things must remain the same and no surprises here and there” for sales to remain high.

BMW enjoyed a 24 percent increase in sales through the end of November 2009, shifting a total 811 cars and exceeding the 2008 full year result of 720 cars. In November alone, it delivered 103 cars, up from the 90 units the previous month.

Last Monday, the company introduced its latest offering from its all-wheel-drive M-Series range.

Divyanathan said the X5M would hit the streets of Indonesia by May 2010. The car will retail for around Rp 2.4 billion (US$253,000) off the road.

Divyanathan said BMW Indonesia would launch 10 new cars next year as a part of a strategy to tackle the tough competition in the premium car market in the country. (adh)

The Crown has evolved into a line of full-size luxury sedans by Toyota. The range was primarily available in Japan and some other Asian countries, originally designed to serve as a taxi. It was in later years sold in the United States during the late 1950s and up until 1971. The Crown is Toyota’s oldest sedan still in production. It is outranked only by the Centuryand the Majesta in social status. The Crown is used by many Japanese companies as the company Limousine. Exports to Europe began in 1964 with the first cars going to Finland. Other European countries which saw imports of the Crown included the Netherlands andBelgium. The United Kingdom was another market until the early 1980s. It was also exported to Canada for a few years—1965–68. In many markets the Crown had become very expensive and was replaced by the Cressida when that model became available for export in the early 1980s.

And each Cabinet Minister has it now…

Source : www.wired.com

General Motors has once again built the First Limo, which isn’t so much a car as an armored personnel carrier wrapped in Cadillac bodywork. It is code-named “Stagecoach” but given its weight, wheelbase and bunker-like level of protection, Caddy One has been nicknamed “the Beast.”

The limo that carries President Obama down Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House today is the latest in a long line of Cadillacs to join the First Fleet over the years. Although GM and the Secret Service jealously guard the vehicle’s specs and secrets, you can bet Obama’s ride is the toughest, most sophisticated car anywhere. Think of it as the road-going equivalent to Air Force One.

“Although many of the vehicle’s security enhancements cannot be discussed, it is safe to say that this car’s security and coded communications systems make it the most technologically advanced protection vehicle in the world,” Nicholas Trotta, assistant director for the Secret Service Office of Protective Operations, said in a statement (.pdf).

GM had even less to say, noting “one of the specifications is we don’t talk about the specifications.” But spokesman David Caldwell says the redesigned car “is a fresh, more modern, more expensive” version of the Cadillac DTS that has carried President Bush since his second inauguration in 2005. Obama’s car, he says, is “a little bit more vibrant, if you will.”

Even if no one’s got anything to say about what’s under all that armor, there are some things widely believed to be known about Caddy One’s security measures.

The car is one of a small fleet of what is believed to be no more than 25 presidential limos General Motors built for the Obama administration, according to the Detroit News. Although presidential limos have a lifespan of about a decade, the Commander in Chief gets a new one about every four years. Hand-me-downs are used to carry the vice president and visiting heads of state.

GM says the car occupies the “same footprint” as the current presidential ride, but it is a little taller and the windows a little bigger to improve visibility. Limo One is believed to weigh between seven and eight tons, and spy shots suggest it rides on a GM medium-duty truck chassis propelled by a diesel engine. The body is sheathed in military-grade armor as much as 8 inches thick on the doors (each of which weighs as much as the cabin door on a Boeing 747, Motor Authority says). The armor reportedly is a mix of dual-hardness steel, aluminum, titanium and ceramic. The windows are ballistic glass said to be 5 inches thick, and Dan Neil of the Los Angeles Times says there’s probably a woven Kevlar mat covering the floorboard to protect the car from blasts. The cabin is believed to feature a sealed air recirculation system to protect its occupants from chemical attacks.

“I think he will be surprised about how when he’s in the limo, it’s a cocoon,” Joe Funk, a retired Secret Service agent who served as
President Clinton’s driver, told CNN. “The everyday noises will be gone, and he will be totally isolated in this protective envelope.

Still, despite being at least as secure as a hardened missile silo, GM says Caddy One features the same hand-sewn leather interior you’d find in the CTS at your local dealership, and supposedly it’s got a 10-disc CD player. And, of course, it’s packed with the latest communications technology.

“I think he will be surprised at the communication capabilities, how the phones, the satellites, the Internet – everything is at his fingertips,” Funk said. “So at one end, you are totally removed from society. The other side of the coin is that he can have any communications worldwide at a moment’s touch.”

Obama’s limo is the latest in long line of presidential cars Cadillac has built in the 100 years since Congress approved funding for a presidential motor pool. President Wilson rode in a Caddy during a parade marking the end of World War I. President Coolidge sported a lavish 1928 Cadillac Town Car, which was among the first Caddys parked at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. It featured a 341 cubic inch engine and a robust (for the time) 90 horsepower.

In 1938, the US government received two Cadillac convertibles, each 21.5 feet long and weighing nearly 8,000 pounds. They were dubbed the “Queen Elizabeth” and the “Queen Mary” after the ocean liners.  Each featured back-up generators, two-way radios and an arsenal of weapons. They served presidents Roosevelt, Truman and Eisenhower and were replaced by the Queen Elizabeth II and Queen Mary II, which remained in service until 1968.

Cadillac returned to the White House in 1983, when President Reagan rode around in a Fleetwood famous for being the last equipped with the Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 3-speed automatic transmission. President Clinton rode in a Fleetwood Brougham powered by a 454 cubic inch (7.4 liter) V8.

The largest collection of presidential limos is held by the Henry Ford Museum, but President Bush’s limo will not appear in it. The Secret Service has since the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, required that presidential limos be destroyed upon retirement to preserve their secrets.

Photo: General Motors.