For those who haven't seen some of these videos, you must see! The Human Highlight Reels share inspiring stories of former student athletes. Read on below:
DETROIT – Winners in college sports are well documented, but the victories earned by campus champions away from the game are often more impactful, yet rarely get the same attention. That’s why, as part of a new corporate partnership, Buick, NCAA, Turner Sports and CBS Sports will shine a spotlight on the accomplishments of former student-athletes making a difference in their communities.
Buick and NCAA will tell inspiring true stories of human achievement through the Buick Human Highlight Reel. For the featured former student-athletes, victory occurs away from the game when they apply the lessons of sport to community involvement, reaching out to help and connect in exhilarating ways.
The Buick Human Highlight Reel will launch at the beginning of the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship. A collection and archive of complete stories will appear online at www.ncaa.com/buick. Additionally, Buick will be the exclusive title sponsor of a 30-minute television show featuring select Human Highlight Reel stories that will air prior to the 2011 NCAA Men’s Final Four® semifinal games on April 2. Selected video profiles also will air during preliminary-round tournament coverage on truTV.
The filmmaking project complements the recently announced Buick Achievers Scholarship Program, which will provide up to $4.5 million-a-year in scholarship funds to 1,100 college-bound students nationwide who excel both in the classroom and in the community. The scholarships are renewable for up to five years.
“While the scholarship program will help foster the next generation of leaders, the Buick Human Highlight Reel will celebrate former college student-athletes who are leading winning efforts in their communities,” said Tony DiSalle, U.S. vice president of Buick marketing. “By sharing their stories Buick and our partners hope to inspire others to go above and beyond to help others achieve their fullest potential in life.”
Cont....
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Borcherding Buick GMC in Cincinnati, OH serving the automotive needs of friends, family and neighbors for 45 years. Get to know US not just our business! We like to stay in the "know" with upcoming trends. Please feel free to interact with us and give us your thoughts!
Odometer Fraud, Don't let it happen to you!
I came across this article and wanted to make sure I sure shared with as many people as possible. It is so important in your car buying quest to always know the history of the cars before you buy. We stand by our carfaxes and will give you one for free. Please contact any of our staff with any questions!
PHOENIX - The odometer fraud industry is a big part of used-car buying in Arizona, and sellers are getting away with it even though buyers never know.
You can see this story through the eyes of a man we'll call Jim. He doesn't want his real name used because of his experience with a 2004 Honda Accord.
He told us he wanted a car with less than 60,000 miles on it. He searched Craigslist, and found one listed as having just 47,000 miles on it.
He set up a meeting in Surprise with the owner, and Jim took an extra step and had a mechanic look it over.
With no problems found, Jim handed over $9900 in cash. Then he ran a Carfax report.He found the 47,000-mile Accord really had at least 163,000 miles on it.
The ABC15 Investigators tracked down records to show what happened next.
Jim got rid of the Accord. Records show he traded it to Showcase Honda in Phoenix. Showcase titled it with the actual miles, 197,950 at that point.
Then Showcase sold the car at a Valley auto auction to a place called Trans USA of California.
The Investigators tried to contact Trans USA but could not find a business listing under that name.
At this point, records show most of those miles disappear, and the Accord was listed as having 48,000 miles before being sold again.
We next found the Accord in front of a Phoenix home and knocked on the door.
The family said they bought the car with a title stating the actual miles were not known. But when we told them it had nearly 200,000 miles, the family was surprised.
I asked Tom Clinkenbeard, Inspector General with the Arizona Department of Transportation, how it could happen.
Clinkenbeard said there isn't a mechanism in the Arizona Motor Vehicles Division that tracks mileage and raises a red flag for a new buyer. He told me the magnitude of the odometer fraud problem is huge in Arizona.
And while he said his department investigates complaints, they don't get that many.
We found that could be because used car buyers just don't know their odometers have been rolled back.
The ABC15 Investigators talked with an insider who understands the world of odometer fraud. He didn't want his identity revealed, but said the problems begin at auto auctions.
Only dealers are supposed to bid on the vehicles after undergoing a background check, but the insider said scammers routinely get access by paying a couple of hundred dollars to a dealer.
Then, he said, the person getting the car spends another couple of hundred dollars and gets the odometer rolled back.
The insider said he's seen it done. He said you state the number of miles you want rolled back and it takes about 3 minutes.
The Investigators also found devices sold online for about $400 that can be used for rollbacks.
Maria Contreras of Phoenix knows first hand about the rollbacks. She bought a car from a man who she said "looks like a nice person."
She was told the car had only 70,000 miles. So, she bought it for $8,000.
Then, she received a letter from state investigators showing the car actually had 439,000 miles.
She believes the car is worth just a fraction of what she paid.
The seller got a citation for rolling back odometers, but the ABC15 Investigators went undercover and found those same people trying to sell a truck to us.
The truck showed 95,000 miles. We found it actually had 147,000 miles.
Before we could confront the seller, the truck had been sold. It happens that fast and likely to a person who had no idea of the true mileage.
The insider we talked with also said that the title process makes it too easy to cheat.
Maria's title is a good example. It should have 439,000 listed. But the seller claimed there was an error. There is a line drawn through the 4 and a circle around it.
The seller then claimed the 4 should not be there and he wanted a correction. The car was then titled with just 39,000 miles.
In Arizona and other states, a car can be titled without knowing the actual miles.
Clinkenbeard said there are good reasons to allow cars be titled without actual miles. But he also said "in an ideal world, if we didn't title vehicles with miles unknown that would eliminate a lot of the problem."
Clinkenbeard said changing that would likely take years and legislative action.
We learned from our investigation that if a price is too far below blue book value, there's usually a reason.
Also, make sure to have a mechanic check out any car you're about to buy.
And look for the car's history.
Carfax and Autocheck are two services that offer car histories. It will cost you, but can show if the car has a rolled back odometer.
Cheers!
Buick Sales Rocket 90 Percent in February
Buick has really revamped their brand. They are definitely appealing to a younger demographic that typically would consider imports. But, now with the sleek new styles and modern interior why wouldn't you consider one!
Read More:
DETROIT – Buick, the fastest growing major automotive brand in the United States in 2010, delivered its 17th straight month of retail sales gains with a 90 percent increase over last February. The brand’s total February sales also improved 73 percent year-over-year, thanks in part to the increased availability of the new fuel-efficient Regal CXL Turbo.
“Buick is gaining great traction in the midsize sedan, full-size car and crossover segments, thanks in part to very positive word of mouth,” said Brian Sweeney, U.S. vice president of Buick & GMC Sales and Service. “We fully expect the arrival of the fuel-efficient LaCrosse with eAssist and all-new Verano luxury compact to attract even more new customers to the brand.”
Approximately 38 percent of Buick buyers come from non-GM brands, including nearly 18 percent come from imports, calendar year-to-date.
Regal, which has the highest conquest rate of any Buick calendar year to date at 46 percent, enjoyed its strongest sales month since its launch last spring. Regal’s retail sales in February were 55 percent higher than in January. Regal’s total sales were up 59 percent compared to the same period – 21 percent higher than its previous highest month (December).
Regal’s recent sales gains are fueled in part by the increased availability of the all-new Regal CXL Turbo, which accounted for approximately 25 percent of Regal’s sales in February. On the open road, Regal Turbo’s 2.0-liter direct-injection four-cylinder engine delivers 220 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, better than Acura TSX. Regal Turbo, which is now available with manual six-speed transmission, also delivers better fuel economy, with an EPA-rated 32 mpg highway.
“Regal sales are expected to grow even more with the arrival of the new Regal with eAssist and high performance Regal GS later this year,” Sweeney said.
After enjoying its strongest sales in history in 2010, Enclave is on its way to having another strong year, with retail sales up 45 percent in February compared to the same period in 2010. Total sales for the luxury crossover were up by 38 percent for the month.
LaCrosse, which Car & Driver magazine recently honored with a 2011 Editor’s Choice Award, also had a strong February, with a 28 percent increase in retail sales and a 7 percent increase in total sales.
GMC Crossover Noise Cancellation Technology Helps us Go Green!
If you haven't driven a Terrain I encourage you to test drive one. Once you drive it you'll see what all the excitement is about. It tops over all import competitors, crv-v, rav-4, and everyone elso look out! Read on below the article discusses it's fuel saving technology and why this crossover is one of the quietest rides in its class.
DETROIT – The technology that makes high-end noise-cancelling headphones coveted by frequent flyers and iPod audiophiles is helping GMC Terrain owners save gas.
Active noise cancellation does double duty on Terrain. The technology enables the crossover to deliver a segment-leading EPA-rated 32 mpg in highway driving while ensconcing the driver in one of the quietest interiors in its segment. On the highway, Terrain easily tops the 28-mpg rating of Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Ford Escape.
“The use of active noise cancellation for fuel economy benefit on Terrain is among the first at GM,” said Paul Beaker, program engineering manager for GMC Terrain. “It has strong potential for implementation on other four-cylinder vehicle programs.”
When GM engineers set out to deliver segment-leading fuel economy on Terrain they chose to lower the 6-speed transmission’s gear shift points to enable the Ecotec 2.4L four-cylinder engine to run at lower rpm torque. In this “Eco” mode, which the driver can activate with a click of a button on the console, the torque converter clutch engages at lower engine speeds to help save gas. While the engineering action improved fuel efficiency by up to one mpg, it also created an objectionable low-end frequency boom. To counteract that boom the engineers turned to active noise cancellation technology.
Terrain’s noise cancellation system relies on two microphones embedded in the headliner to detect the hum and prompt an onboard frequency generator to create counteracting sound waves through the audio system’s speakers and sub-woofer. The system also reduces higher rpm engine noise at highway cruising speeds to help keep the vehicle interior quiet.
“Terrain measured quieter than the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 in our on-road interior noise tests,” said Jim Vallance, noise, vibration and harshness development engineer. “At 70 miles per hour, Terrain’s interior is quiet enough to allow conversation in normal tones of voice.”
The use of direct injection and variable valve timing also help maximize Terrain’s fuel efficiency. In a direct injection engine, fuel is fed straight to the engine's combustion chamber, allowing it to burn more evenly and thoroughly. For the driver, that can translate to better mileage and greater power to the wheels. Variable valve timing eliminates the compromise inherent in conventional fixed valve timing and allows a previously unattainable mix of low-rpm torque – even torque delivery over a broad range of engine speeds – and free-breathing, high-rpm horsepower.
“Terrain doesn’t trade efficiency for performance; its direct-injected engine delivers power on demand for a confident driving experience,” Beaker said. “And variable valve timing allows the engine to take advantage of late intake valve closing for greater efficiency.”
In addition, Terrain uses electric power steering, which does not require engine power to operate like traditional hydraulic power steering and draws electric power only as needed, which improves efficiency and extends component life. Electric power steering systems are relatively compact, help lower vehicle weight, and reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 3.5 percent.
GM engineers also worked closely with tire suppliers to develop low-rolling resistance tires, which typically require less effort to roll forward and minimize wasted energy. Terrain’s tires – unlike some low drag tires – was designed to provide good grip on snow and wet pavement while improving fuel economy by more than 1 mpg.
Program engineers improved Terrain’s highway fuel economy up to one mpg by reducing aerodynamic drag through the refinement of the front air dam, rocker panel, roof line, outside rear view mirrors and front bumper. By working on clay models in GM’s state-of-the-art wind tunnel, the engineers were able to reduce its wind noise to ensure quiet driving.
“Aerodynamic refinement happens by the millimeter. There is a tremendous amount of science behind it and we have decades of knowledge to draw upon,” said Justin D’Souza, GM aerodynamic performance engineer. “You can take an outside rear view mirror that worked well on one vehicle, put it on a different vehicle and get a completely different result. The end result has to work well aerodynamically and be true to the vehicle design.”
Engineers also minimized the Terrain’s curb weight by using lightweight aluminum chassis components and noise reduction materials that weigh less than traditional materials.
“Whether we’re lowering gear shift points, reducing wind drag or eliminating engine-driven power steering pumps, it takes laser-like focus on every detail to deliver segment leading fuel economy to our customers,” said Dave Poniatowski, product marketing manager for Terrain, which recently earned “Best Buy” recommendations from both Consumer Guide and Consumer Digest.
About GMC
GMC has built trucks since 1902, and is one of the industry's healthiest brands. Today GMC is evolving to offer more fuel-efficient trucks and crossovers, including the Terrain small SUV and Acadia crossover. The new GMC Sierra Heavy Duty pickups are the most capable and powerful trucks in the market. Innovation and engineering excellence are woven into all GMCs, including the Yukon and Yukon XL and full line of Sierra pickups. Today, GMC is the only manufacturer offering three full-size hybrid trucks.
Tanesha White
of Borcherding Buick GMC
DETROIT – The technology that makes high-end noise-cancelling headphones coveted by frequent flyers and iPod audiophiles is helping GMC Terrain owners save gas.
“The use of active noise cancellation for fuel economy benefit on Terrain is among the first at GM,” said Paul Beaker, program engineering manager for GMC Terrain. “It has strong potential for implementation on other four-cylinder vehicle programs.”
When GM engineers set out to deliver segment-leading fuel economy on Terrain they chose to lower the 6-speed transmission’s gear shift points to enable the Ecotec 2.4L four-cylinder engine to run at lower rpm torque. In this “Eco” mode, which the driver can activate with a click of a button on the console, the torque converter clutch engages at lower engine speeds to help save gas. While the engineering action improved fuel efficiency by up to one mpg, it also created an objectionable low-end frequency boom. To counteract that boom the engineers turned to active noise cancellation technology.
Terrain’s noise cancellation system relies on two microphones embedded in the headliner to detect the hum and prompt an onboard frequency generator to create counteracting sound waves through the audio system’s speakers and sub-woofer. The system also reduces higher rpm engine noise at highway cruising speeds to help keep the vehicle interior quiet.
“Terrain measured quieter than the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 in our on-road interior noise tests,” said Jim Vallance, noise, vibration and harshness development engineer. “At 70 miles per hour, Terrain’s interior is quiet enough to allow conversation in normal tones of voice.”
The use of direct injection and variable valve timing also help maximize Terrain’s fuel efficiency. In a direct injection engine, fuel is fed straight to the engine's combustion chamber, allowing it to burn more evenly and thoroughly. For the driver, that can translate to better mileage and greater power to the wheels. Variable valve timing eliminates the compromise inherent in conventional fixed valve timing and allows a previously unattainable mix of low-rpm torque – even torque delivery over a broad range of engine speeds – and free-breathing, high-rpm horsepower.
“Terrain doesn’t trade efficiency for performance; its direct-injected engine delivers power on demand for a confident driving experience,” Beaker said. “And variable valve timing allows the engine to take advantage of late intake valve closing for greater efficiency.”
In addition, Terrain uses electric power steering, which does not require engine power to operate like traditional hydraulic power steering and draws electric power only as needed, which improves efficiency and extends component life. Electric power steering systems are relatively compact, help lower vehicle weight, and reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 3.5 percent.
GM engineers also worked closely with tire suppliers to develop low-rolling resistance tires, which typically require less effort to roll forward and minimize wasted energy. Terrain’s tires – unlike some low drag tires – was designed to provide good grip on snow and wet pavement while improving fuel economy by more than 1 mpg.
Program engineers improved Terrain’s highway fuel economy up to one mpg by reducing aerodynamic drag through the refinement of the front air dam, rocker panel, roof line, outside rear view mirrors and front bumper. By working on clay models in GM’s state-of-the-art wind tunnel, the engineers were able to reduce its wind noise to ensure quiet driving.
“Aerodynamic refinement happens by the millimeter. There is a tremendous amount of science behind it and we have decades of knowledge to draw upon,” said Justin D’Souza, GM aerodynamic performance engineer. “You can take an outside rear view mirror that worked well on one vehicle, put it on a different vehicle and get a completely different result. The end result has to work well aerodynamically and be true to the vehicle design.”
Engineers also minimized the Terrain’s curb weight by using lightweight aluminum chassis components and noise reduction materials that weigh less than traditional materials.
“Whether we’re lowering gear shift points, reducing wind drag or eliminating engine-driven power steering pumps, it takes laser-like focus on every detail to deliver segment leading fuel economy to our customers,” said Dave Poniatowski, product marketing manager for Terrain, which recently earned “Best Buy” recommendations from both Consumer Guide and Consumer Digest.
About GMC
GMC has built trucks since 1902, and is one of the industry's healthiest brands. Today GMC is evolving to offer more fuel-efficient trucks and crossovers, including the Terrain small SUV and Acadia crossover. The new GMC Sierra Heavy Duty pickups are the most capable and powerful trucks in the market. Innovation and engineering excellence are woven into all GMCs, including the Yukon and Yukon XL and full line of Sierra pickups. Today, GMC is the only manufacturer offering three full-size hybrid trucks.
Tanesha White
of Borcherding Buick GMC
Buick Regal Big Competition
It's so great to see how far Buick has come. For years Buick has always provided luxury at lower cost than imports. Yet the stigma was that the import was a better quality. Well, that's just not the case especially today. We've made strides to compete with the best imports not only by our sleek new styles but also the ability to operate on current and next-generation renewable biofuels.
Read the full article below:
PONTIAC, Mich – The 2011 Buick Regal Turbo is the first direct-injected turbocharged production car capable of running on any blend of gasoline or E85 ethanol, joining more than 5 million flex-fuel models General Motors has produced over the last 15 years.
The turbocharged Ecotec 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine that powers the Regal will help GM reach its goal of offering more than 50 percent of its production in flex-fuel models by the end of 2012.
Attendees at the National Ethanol Conference in Phoenix will have the opportunity to drive the Regal and the flex-fuel GMC Terrain during conference breaks today.
Compared to earlier versions of the 2.0-liter Ecotec turbo, GM powertrain engineers have significantly upgraded the new engine to accommodate both E85 and to incorporate refinements.
Since ethanol requires a richer air-fuel mixture than gasoline, flex-fuel engines need higher flow-rate injectors. However, a flex-fuel engine can potentially have any combination of gasoline or up to 85 percent ethanol in the tank, so a sensor in the fuel system measures the blend in real-time. This allows the engine management system to automatically adjust the mixture to provide improved performance and reduced emissions and fuel consumption. Stainless steel fuel lines provide extra corrosion resistance to ensure that the Regal Turbo meets GM’s stringent durability requirements.
In the past, improving power output and reducing fuel consumption and emissions were often conflicting goals. By delivering fuel directly to the combustion chamber, the high-pressure injectors can now provide a more precise mixture for optimum combustion.
Turbochargers use the energy in the hot exhaust gas flow to drive a compressor that forces more air into the combustion chamber for on-demand power delivery. The twin-scroll turbocharger on the Ecotec engine provides two inlet paths to the turbine to maximize the kinetic and thermal energy delivered to the turbine.
“Lag and reduced vehicle launch response is one of the age-old concerns with previous turbo engines” said Ecotec chief engineer Mike Anderson.
“Drivers would step on the gas to accelerate and then have to wait for boost and power to be generated,” he said. “The twin-scroll turbocharger helps the engine generate power and torque when the driver needs it for passing maneuvers or merging onto a highway even at low engine speeds.”
The 2.0-liter Ecotec turbo produces 258 pound-feet of torque from 2,000 to 5,500 rpm making it feel like a much-larger V6 engine while still delivering four-cylinder efficiency.”
Other changes to the turbo engine for 2011 go well beyond the addition of flex-fuel capability. The 2.0-liter Ecotec turbo has a new precision sand cast aluminum cylinder block that provides better durability while transmitting less noise and vibration than lost foam casting used previously.
The end result is a quieter and more refined power plant that helps the Regal achieve best-in-class levels of noise, vibration and harshness while delivering the performance expected of the best import sport sedans and the ability to operate on current and next-generation renewable biofuels.
About Buick
Buick is a modern luxury brand offering vehicles with sculpted designs, luxurious interiors with thoughtful personal technologies, along with responsive-yet-efficient performance. Buick is attracting new customers with its portfolio of award-winning models, including the Enclave crossover, LaCrosse sedan, Regal sport sedan and highly anticipated all-new 2012 Buick Verano compact luxury sedan. Buick is the fastest growing major brand in the U.S. and remains a best-selling brand in China, with continuing record growth.
Cheers,
Tanesha White
of Borcherding Buick GMC
Read the full article below:
PONTIAC, Mich – The 2011 Buick Regal Turbo is the first direct-injected turbocharged production car capable of running on any blend of gasoline or E85 ethanol, joining more than 5 million flex-fuel models General Motors has produced over the last 15 years.
The turbocharged Ecotec 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine that powers the Regal will help GM reach its goal of offering more than 50 percent of its production in flex-fuel models by the end of 2012.
Attendees at the National Ethanol Conference in Phoenix will have the opportunity to drive the Regal and the flex-fuel GMC Terrain during conference breaks today.
Compared to earlier versions of the 2.0-liter Ecotec turbo, GM powertrain engineers have significantly upgraded the new engine to accommodate both E85 and to incorporate refinements.
Since ethanol requires a richer air-fuel mixture than gasoline, flex-fuel engines need higher flow-rate injectors. However, a flex-fuel engine can potentially have any combination of gasoline or up to 85 percent ethanol in the tank, so a sensor in the fuel system measures the blend in real-time. This allows the engine management system to automatically adjust the mixture to provide improved performance and reduced emissions and fuel consumption. Stainless steel fuel lines provide extra corrosion resistance to ensure that the Regal Turbo meets GM’s stringent durability requirements.
In the past, improving power output and reducing fuel consumption and emissions were often conflicting goals. By delivering fuel directly to the combustion chamber, the high-pressure injectors can now provide a more precise mixture for optimum combustion.
Turbochargers use the energy in the hot exhaust gas flow to drive a compressor that forces more air into the combustion chamber for on-demand power delivery. The twin-scroll turbocharger on the Ecotec engine provides two inlet paths to the turbine to maximize the kinetic and thermal energy delivered to the turbine.
“Lag and reduced vehicle launch response is one of the age-old concerns with previous turbo engines” said Ecotec chief engineer Mike Anderson.
“Drivers would step on the gas to accelerate and then have to wait for boost and power to be generated,” he said. “The twin-scroll turbocharger helps the engine generate power and torque when the driver needs it for passing maneuvers or merging onto a highway even at low engine speeds.”
The 2.0-liter Ecotec turbo produces 258 pound-feet of torque from 2,000 to 5,500 rpm making it feel like a much-larger V6 engine while still delivering four-cylinder efficiency.”
Other changes to the turbo engine for 2011 go well beyond the addition of flex-fuel capability. The 2.0-liter Ecotec turbo has a new precision sand cast aluminum cylinder block that provides better durability while transmitting less noise and vibration than lost foam casting used previously.
The end result is a quieter and more refined power plant that helps the Regal achieve best-in-class levels of noise, vibration and harshness while delivering the performance expected of the best import sport sedans and the ability to operate on current and next-generation renewable biofuels.
About Buick
Buick is a modern luxury brand offering vehicles with sculpted designs, luxurious interiors with thoughtful personal technologies, along with responsive-yet-efficient performance. Buick is attracting new customers with its portfolio of award-winning models, including the Enclave crossover, LaCrosse sedan, Regal sport sedan and highly anticipated all-new 2012 Buick Verano compact luxury sedan. Buick is the fastest growing major brand in the U.S. and remains a best-selling brand in China, with continuing record growth.
Cheers,
Tanesha White
of Borcherding Buick GMC
Auto Show Cincinnati
Well looks like the Auto Expo is back in town. I always love when we get conventions in town especially around this time of year. It's nice to get the family out of the house from hibernating in this frosty month and out not olny getting great excercise but looking at some pretty cool vehicles as well!
It's so exciting to see the new trends coming in vehicles. From fuel effeciency to entertainment packages the list goes on!
So if you're tired of being cooped up in the house come out to the Auto Expo Feb 17-20 @Duke Energy Convention Center!
It's so exciting to see the new trends coming in vehicles. From fuel effeciency to entertainment packages the list goes on!
So if you're tired of being cooped up in the house come out to the Auto Expo Feb 17-20 @Duke Energy Convention Center!
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