As part of its overall plan to revitalize the General Tire brand, parent company Continental Tire North America Inc., has introduced a new logo to represent the brand in the Americas. The new logo symbolizes Continental's rededication to the General brand with bold new type and graphic elements. Rumor has it the company will also be offering some competitive products for the 4x4 market in the near future. Check out next month's issue for more details.
SEMA recently announced that Toyota will be the official Vehicle Manufacturer of the 2007 SEMA show. This will mark the first time the automaker will serve as the Vehicle Manufacturer of the Show. In addition to exhibiting at the SEMA Show, Toyota supports SEMA's project vehicle program with SEMA members, provides SEMA members with hands-on early access to vehicles, and takes part in the association's OEM roundtable program. The 2007 SEMA Show takes place October 30-November 2 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Details about the 2007 SEMA Show are available at www.semashow.com.
* Starting in the 2008 model year, Ford vehicles will offer Sony-branded head units.
* Ford has extended oil change intervals on all 2007-and-newer gasoline models to 7,500 miles.
* Toyota says the new Tundra mix is running about 70 to 80 percent being ordered with 5.7L engines, much higher than the anticipated 50 percent.
Minnesota Law Attempts To Limit 4x4s
Legislation that would limit modified 4x4 trucks to minimally maintained roads and to the area specifically designated for their use has been reintroduced to the Minnesota Legislature. The SAN-opposed measure would severely restrict 4x4 truck access to Minnesota hobbyists by prohibiting use of "trails," including those designated south of Highway 2 and those north of Highway 2 that are currently open for ORV use. The proposed bill also defines 4x4 trucks as four-wheeled motor vehicles manufactured to operate on public roads and subsequently modified with special tires, suspension, or other equipment.