Keema News - Jul 2009

Since being released in Australia in February 2008, Hyundai Motor Company Australia's iLoad commercial van range and iMax people mover have proven to be a huge sales success; buyers enjoying comfort, style and practicality at an affordable price.

ANCAP's Program manager, Michael Case, congratulated Hyundai on achieving a 4-star rating for the iLoad and iMax range.

"ANCAP is pleased to announce that both the iMax and iLoad have been awarded a 4-star safety rating by ANCAP," Mr Case said. "Hyundai has taken the decision to actively raise the safety bar for its fleet and has been working with ANCAP in a bid to ensure safety is built in and the vehicles incorporate the latest safety features."

Now iMax and iLoad owners have even more of a reason for giving themselves a pat on the back for having made the right choice. In recent ANCAP tests, both vehicles (from March 2009-build onwards) scored a four-star occupant safety rating.

"We're tremendously proud of the result," said Hyundai's Director of Sales and Marketing Kevin McCann. "While we've always known that our semi-bonneted design - with more 'real estate' to engineer in crumple zones - affords occupants much greater protection than is possible with straight forward control (cab-over) style vans, it's great to see our conviction vindicated by ANCAP's rigorous and independent test regimes."

Customer feedback suggests that there are a number of reasons for the popularity of the two vehicles. "People like the fact that they get all the power and torque they want from the 2.5 litre Common Rail Direct injection turbo Diesel, while not missing out on fuel efficiency," McCann explains. "And the 2.4 litre petrol engine is also very frugal - something that's very important nowadays. Other reasons for ownership pleasure and satisfaction include the payload capacity - up to 1132kg - and our five year warranty."

The award-winning Hyundai iMax and iLoad are extremely well-specified for the price (from $29,990^ for the iLoad and $36,990^ for the iMax), with ABS and EBD standard across the range, dual front airbags, keyless entry, alarm, height-adjustable seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters for front seat passengers, tilt steering, air conditioning, rear wiper, auxiliary input for both iPod and MP3 players, sliding doors on both sides to maximise ease of cargo or passenger access and optional locking differential for use on muddy building sites.

The iLoad van and crew van run a leaf spring rear suspension more suited to commercial loads, whereas the iMax shuttle has a five-link coil spring arrangement that offers a more comfortable ride for those in the rearmost seats.

It's in the attention to detail that the vehicles shine. Built to purpose, the iLoad for example comes as both a three-seat van and six-seat crew van workhorse aimed at both trade and logistics customers. Optional twin-swing rear doors mean it will accept two fully-loaded pallets straight from a forklift - no need for manual handling, with its associated operator downtime and labour. While the doors swing out to more than 90 in default configuration, the removal of a simple hinge pin sees them swinging through more than 180 for maximum load space access. iLoads powered by the 392 Nm CRDi turbo Diesel can be optioned up with ESP Stability Control (ESP) incorporating Traction Control System (TCS).

Another feature is the centre seat backrest, which can tilt forward when not in use to form a wide armrest with inbuilt cup holders and open-topped centre storage compartment, or tilt back into the cargo area to form a handy stool for tradespeople who need to do a bit of work in the shelter of the van. There are ten sturdy floor-mounted tie-down eyes in the iLoad van, and six in the crew van, ensuring peace of mind when securing the load during transit. This is a vehicle where the needs of the commercial buyer have been researched and analysed before manufacturing even started. Delivery Magazine recognised this by awarding the iLoad CRDi range the title of 'Best Van of the Year' 2009 (the iLoad CRDi 6 seat crew van was given the honour of 'Best Medium Van' 2008). Totting up a total of over 3,500 sales since launch makes it runner-up in Australian van sales.

Likewise, the eight-seater iMax (in CRDi configuration currently Australia's 'Best People Mover' as voted by Australia's seven State and Territory-based motoring clubs) completely fulfils the needs of transit operators in the tourism, entertainment, corporate and commercial sectors, as well as providing the ideal transport for large families who also require reasonable luggage space.

Boasting all the features of the iLoad and significantly more affordable than many European and Japanese entrants in the sector, the Hyundai iMax shuttle demonstrates Hyundai's burgeoning emergence as a global player. With two comfortable bucket seats up front and two rows of seats in the rear - each accommodating three adults in total comfort, with copious legroom - there's still some 850 litres of luggage space; evidence that yet again, this is a design thought out from the ground up. The middle seating row features 60:40 split/fold capability and also slides forwards or backwards, tailoring occupant needs as required. A two-tone interior trim, six-speaker audio system, and dual-zone ducted air conditioning with six individually controllable overhead vents to optimise individual ambient temperature, creates true car-like interior ambience. ESP Stability control (ESP) and Traction Control System (TCS) are standard on models with the high output CRDi (turbo Diesel) engine. Significantly, the iMax has sold over 1,200 variants since launch.

A range of Genuine Hyundai Accessories is available for customers to ensure their iLoad or iMax is tailored to their needs. The range includes Bluetooth Phone Kit, Tailored Carpet and Rubber Floor Mats to protect the interior, Alloy Nudge Bar, Roof Racks to carry snow boards, surf boards and bikes, Full Technician Kit, Front & Reverse Park Assist, Courier's Wooden Floor (iLoad) and Rubber Cargo Mat (iLoad). All Genuine Hyundai Accessories are covered by Hyundai's Australian first 5 year Accessory warranty with unlimited kilometres.

"The Hyundai iLoad is currently 2nd in the light commercial segment, achieving an outstanding 13% market share in only 18 months," said Kevin McCann. "This can be attributed to the range offering outstanding value for money and now, with the release of the four-star ANCAP safety rating, buyers have all the more reason to say "i's for me!" Make no mistake, its one tough range!"

SPECIFICATIONS AND MANUFACTURER'S LIST PRICES AT A GLANCE

Hyundai iLoad 2.4 litre petrol powertrain
Peak power: 129 kW @ 6,000 rpm
Peak torque: 228 Nm @ 4,200 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Fuel consumption*: 10.1 L/100 km (manual)
CO2 emissions: 238 g/km (manual)
Towing capacity: 1,500 kg (braked); 750 kg (unbraked)

Hyundai iLoad 2.5 litre CRDi turbo Diesel powertrain
Peak power: 125 kW @ 3,800 rpm
Peak torque: 392 NM @2,000 to 2,500 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed manual or 5-speed Selectronic automatic
Fuel consumption*: 8.5 L/100 km (manual); 9.6 L/100 km (auto)
CO2 emissions: 225 g/km (manual); 253 g/km (auto)
Towing capacity: 2,000 kg (braked manual); 1,500 kg (braked auto); 750 kg (unbraked manual & auto)

Hyundai iMax 2.4 litre petrol powertrain
Peak power: 129 kW @ 6,000 rpm
Peak torque: 228 Nm @ 4,200rpm
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Fuel consumption*: 10.6 L/100 km (auto)
CO2 emissions: 250 g/km (auto)
Towing capacity: 1,500kg (braked); 750kg (unbraked)

Hyundai iMax 2.5 litre CRDi turbo Diesel powertrain
Peak power: 125kW @ 3,800rpm
Peak torque: 392Nm @ 2,000 to 2,500 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed manual or 5-speed Selectronic automatic

-All-electric car goes to market in

U.S. and Japan in 2010-

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. has previewed its electric vehicle EV platform on a Tiidabased

prototype to demonstrate the superior driving pleasure of a pure zeroemission

vehicle. It also showcased a sophisticated EV-IT system developed to

support electric driving 24/7 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week).

Newly developed EV platform

The dedicated EV platform is comprised of a highly rigid body, high-performance motor,

compact lithium-ion battery with high power output and energy capacity, delivering

outstanding driving performance and safety, while offering a quiet and peaceful driving

experience - a unique feature of a fully-electric drivetrain.

The in-house developed electric motor delivers 80kW/280Nm for high response and

powerful acceleration. Nissan's unique motor control also contributes to the vehicle's

seamless acceleration.

The 24kWh laminated compact lithium-ion battery pack is placed under the vehicle floor

for more efficient packaging, without compromising cabin or cargo space. The battery

layout also allows smooth underfloor air-flow which helps reduce drag. Additionally, the

regenerative brake system employed to recharge the battery during deceleration and

braking extends the driving range to more than 160km*1 under a full charge.

High durability is achieved by employing an additional frame for the battery pack to

significantly improve the rigidity of the platform. The combination of a high rigidity

platform and electric powertrain minimizes vibration and external sounds to produce a

quiet and pleasing drive.

EV prototype based on the newly developed EV platform EV-IT support function

Nissan has developed an sophisticated IT system for its zero-emission EVs, connecting

the vehicle's on-board transmitting unit to a global data center*2 to support EV driving 24

hours 7 days a week.

28 July 2009

Usability and convenience for EV driving is achieved via the following:

Maximum range display

- With a simple touch of a button, the navigation map shows the driving radius within

range under the current state of charge.

- The system can calculate if the vehicle is within range of a pre-set destination.

Update on charging stations

- The navigation system points out the latest information on available charging stations

within the current driving range.

- Detailed information for each charging station will also be displayed.

Timer function

- The timer function enables the air-conditioner or battery charging to begin at a

specified time. The air-conditioner can be pre-set while the vehicle is plugged-in

to cool the cabin to a desirable temperature before driving begins, without taxing the

vehicle's battery. Meanwhile, the battery charging can be set to start at a specified

time at night to benefit from more favorable electricity rates.

EV remote control and monitoring function

- The driver can monitor the state-of-charge of the EV via an online website and a

cellular phone. For example, when the battery is fully charged, a message alert is

sent to the cellular phone. Additional remote control functions range from switching the

charging system ON/OFF or setting the air-conditioner timer.

To be a leader in zero-emission mobility, Nissan is progressing its development for electric

vehicles and the key components. The all-electric vehicle slated for launch in 2010 will

have a unique design and body. Nissan plans to unveil the design of the production EV

at its new Global Headquarters Opening in Yokohama on August 2nd. A Nissan Zeroemission

Websitewww.nissan-zeroemission.com) will also go live on Aug. 2nd.

Nissan has been addressing a wide range of actions under "Blue Citizenship" which

represents the company's desire to protect the blue planet and to be a corporate citizen

that can live symbiotically with people and society. These efforts range from such global

issues as the environmental protection to contribution to communities, promoting diversity

and making personal mobility available to as many people as possible. Nissan continues

promoting the development of zero-emission vehicles based on the "Blue Citizenship"

spirit by introducing effective technologies, products and services into the market.

*1: US LA4 mode. Actual range may vary depending on driving style and conditions.

*2: Global data center: A globally common platform to provide identical telematics services via mobile network by

connecting internet and vehicle IT system.

For further information:

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. Global Communications and CSR Division

Tel:+81-(0)3-5565-2141 http://press.nissan-global.com/EN

Jeffrey Fisher Email: jeff_fisher@nissan.com.au Phone:(03) 9797 4358Head of Corporate Communications Mobile: 0400 028 425

Nissan will add a stylish limited edition to its strong selling Navara range with the

addition of a high feature, high value, Navara Titanium Edition.

The Nissan Navara Titanium Edition is available on the D40 4x4 Dual Cab model

powered by the 126 kW common rail diesel engine and mated to a choice of six-speed

manual or five-speed automatic transmissions. It is based on an enhanced specification

of the popular ST-X model.

Just over 1,000 examples will be available in Australia, and of these, 360 will be available

with special Charcoal embossed leather upholstery complete with contrasting titanium

coloured double stitch detail.

The Titanium Edition continues the Navara's 'Tough at Work, Hard at Play' theme, with

its new and unique titanium coloured accents and fittings. These comprise of titanium

coloured 17-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, front grille, rear step bumper bar, door mirrors

with integrated indicators and door handles.

In addition a new, exclusive exterior colour is Black Pepper, available alongside Silver

Lightning and Midnight Black, with all models gaining Titanium Edition side graphics and

tailgate badge, Titanium Edition embroidered floor mats and Bluetooth Handsfree telephone

connectivity. Front fog lights, Nissan's 'Utili-Track' load system and an integrated tubliner

are also part of the package, along with a Chrome Sports Bar and side steps.

With its high specification and distinctive styling the Nissan Navara Titanium Edition

represents great value with recommended retail pricing starting from just $48,400 for the

manual transmission model excluding dealer delivery and on road costs. By comparison

the Navara ST-X , on which the Titanium Edition is based has a recommended retail price

of $47,860.

Charcoal Titanium Edition embossed leather upholstery is available in limited numbers at

selected dealerships adding a further $2,300.

"The combination of unique styling, generous specification and outstanding value is likely

to make the Nissan Navara Titanium Edition precious metal, setting the Nissan Navara

apart from the crowd and generating even more interest in this very successful product

line," said Matthew Baily, Brand Manager Commercial Vehicles, at Nissan Australia.

Nissan Australia adds a special Adventure Edition to its award winning

X-TRAIL range.

The special limited production X-TRAIL Adventure Edition is based on an enhanced

X-TRAIL ST 2.5 litre petrol model. It offers a choice of either six-speed manual or CVT

automatic transmission.

Only 600 units will be available in Australia in three colors, Platinum, White Diamond and

the new exclusive color Burning Red. The Adventure Edition comes with a host of extra

features including nudge bar, 16" alloy wheels, roof bars, cargo blind, rear privacy glass,

and special "adventure edition" badging on the tailgate. The Adventure Edition will go on

sale 1st August

Nissans Sports Adventure is a commercial outdoor sports platform that Nissan supports.

To date Nissan Sports Adventure has been involved with the cult ski and snowboard film

maker Warren Miller, Mount Hotham, Nissan UCI Mountain Bike World Cup and Olympic

medalist Robin Bell.

With over $1000 in features at no extra cost, the X-TRAIL Adventure Edition represents

superior value with recommended retail pricing $33,990 for the manual and a RRP of

$36,490 for the CVT auto transmission.

The Adventure Edition is an expression of Nissan's Sports Adventure commercial

platform program.

Great Wall Motors is the first Chinese car manufacturer to debut in the Australian and New Zealand markets after its dealer launch in Sydney today.

Two twin-cab utilities, the V240 in both 4x2 and 4x4 configurations and the SA220 in 4x2 only, are the first Great Wall models to be released onto the Australasian market. Both vehicles offer unparalleled value for money to Australian and New Zealand buyers.

The V240 4x2 will sell in Australia for a class leading $23,990 on road with the 4x4 option costing a modest $3,000 extra, while the SA220 will sell for a remarkable $19,990 on road. Both vehicles offer buyers superior equipment levels, including electric windows, alloy wheels, leather trimmed seats and air conditioning and a genuine opportunity to enter the new car market at the equivalent of a second-hand price.

Great Wall vehicles will be sold and supported initially in Australia by a nationwide network of over 45 dealers and have a comprehensive three year/100,000km warranty. The New Zealand range will be common to that sold in Australia with six dealers at launch.

Ateco Automotive, the Sydney and Auckland-based importer, has been negotiating to bring Great Wall to Australia for over three years. According to the Ateco Managing Director, Mr Ric Hull, "Great Wall is one of China's leading car makers and it has been consistently at the top of its domestic car market with its Ute and SUV models."

"This year China will make and sell more vehicles than any other country in the world. Every mainstream car and component manufacturer is represented there. Access to technology is virtually unlimited. China's car industry has come a long way in a very short time," he said.

"From day one we have been thoroughly impressed with Great Wall. World-class production facilities are becoming commonplace in China and there is no doubt that Great Wall has set a production benchmark. But what sets Great Wall apart is the corporate culture that permeates through the organisation. The company motto is 'Improving little by little every day' and from what we have seen the staff really do live and breathe this philosophy."

"Every time we go to Great Wall's head office in Baoding, we are impressed by the progress that has been made since our last visit. We targeted Great Wall for our Chinese plans because they are highly disciplined, organised and well led," said Mr Hull.

About Great Wall

Analysts are predicting that the Chinese automotive market will this year exceed 10 million vehicle sales replacing the USA as the largest market in the world. This significant milestone has been achieved almost a decade ahead of expectations. A discernible shift in the global automotive power bases is taking place, with every major automotive manufacturer actively trying to gain access or increase its influence in the worlds most dynamic and fastest growing automotive market.

Great Wall Motor Company Limited is located in the industrial city of Baoding which is in the Hebei province of North East China, 140 km south of Beijing. The company was founded in 1976 and was the first Chinese automotive manufacturer to be listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.

Originally, the company specialised in manufacturing Pickups and Sports Utility vehicles achieving an outstanding reputation in the domestic and some overseas markets. These vehicles have been so well received that Great Wall has been Chinas No. 1 manufacturer of Pickups for the last 10 consecutive years and for the last five years Great Wall has been Chinas market leader in SUVs.

Today Great Wall boasts an ever-expanding range, including recently released light and small passenger vehicles as well as MPVs. The company owns more than 30 subsidiaries and employs over 22,000 staff. At present, it has a production capability of 400,000 units which is set to expand to 800,000 units by 2010.

Great Wall possesses a state-of-the-art research and development centre with first class international R & D equipment and systems and owns a nationally certified test centre, all of which lays a solid foundation for Great Walls ongoing independent R & D and innovation program.

Over the next three years Great Wall plans to make substantial additional investment in production and R & D facilities. The total anticipated investment will approach A$2 billion. By 2010, the annual output of 800,000 units is expected to realise sales revenue in excess of A$6 billion.

The Great Wall Technical Centre is responsible for independent innovation activities such as product planning, product development, technical support and R & D management. It has an R & D team of about 3,000 people including some 500 experts and executives in various fields from both China and overseas. The Technical Centre has directly and closely co-operated with famous design and engineering companies both at home and abroad.

At the core of Great Wall lies its adherence to the management philosophy of "improving little by little every day". These simple yet powerful words emblazoned on the factory wall underpin the thinking of every Great Wall employee and set the organisation apart from its competitors. An utter and total commitment to the power of relentless, small, sustainable improvements delivers a key competitive edge; distinguishing Great Wall from all other competitors.