As G.M.’s executive salaries are under review as part of the whereby the government invested billions in the ailing company in June, Vice Chairman Bob Lutz – who also serves as the company’s VP of marketing – says that G.M.’s execs are extremely under-compensated, given the nature of their jobs and the market in which they compete.
“All I know is, right now, we are given our responsibility. And given the rigors of the job and demands and the accountability, I would say we are being paid way, way, way below market,” Lutz said.
Pay Czar Ken Feinberg had ordered a 25% pay cut for then-CEO Fritz Henderson, and mandated that save for the CEO and one other executive, no one was to earn over $500,000 per year. Lutz says that while this may not be a big problem right now, companies that under-compensate, are bound to run into recruitment and retention problems.
Pocketnow has published this video comparing the home screens on the iPhone 3GS, HTC HD2, Google Nexus One and Palm Pre.
Observing the iPhone’s screen to be the most simplistic, and the HTC HD2’s to have the most eye candy, Pocketnow did not express a clear preference, but we know which one we will choose.
Henk Tennekes is well known to the visitors of our website. A few days ago, he told me that he submitted a letter of resignation to the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences on Saturday, January 23. He wrote to me “I don’t want to remain a member of an organization that, like AMS and NAS, screws up science that badly.” The Dutch newspaper NRC-Handelsblad apparently got hold of a copy of the resignation letter and ran a News Flash on Saturday, January 30. In the letter to the Academy, Henk complains that he submitted the manuscript of his essay on Hermetic Jargon (which I am happy to reproduce here below, with his permission) to the Academy President at that time, Frits van Oostrom. The President, however, did not bother to respond. The NRC news flash, translated by Henk himself at my request, reads:
Tennekes Quits
By Karel Knip
“I have had it. Farewell.” With these words Henk Tennekes concludes his final letter to the Executive Board of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences. He wrote his letter of resignation on January 23. A unique occurrence in the history of the Academy, which obtains its membership by co-optation. Normally, a member of the Academy loses his membership only when he dies. Tennekes is still alive.
For many years, Tennekes was director of research at KNMI. He also was a professor at the Pennsylvania State University and at the Free University in Amsterdam. In 1982 he became a member of the Academy. And now he steps out. “There is light out there” is the closing sentence of the essay “Hermetic Jargon” that he now gives a broader distribution.
J.D. Power & Associates predict a 1 million unit rise in the auto industry this year courtesy of loosening consumer credit and a gradual return by manufacturers to leasing. The U.S. retail forecast for this year is 9.6 million units, up from 8.6 million last year.
Credit is the key determining factor, as unemployment still remains rather high, but the economy does show signs of growth. A slowing economy has meant 7 million fewer units sold from 2000 to 2009, but given that scenario, there are many older cars on the road in need of replacements.
Leasing accounted for a huge chunk of the pre-recession retail auto market, accounting for 20-22 percent of total new sales in 2008. The leasing market took a huge hit with the recession, as GM and Chrysler nixed their lease programs, and Ford cut theirs significantly. Leasing is expected to creep back this year and account for 15-18 percent of new sales.
Prostate Cancer Research Program Impact Award – The overall goal of the FY10 PCRP is to find and fund innovative, high-impact research that will eliminate death and suffering from prostate cancer. Specifically, the PCRP seeks to: 1) Support innovative high-risk, high-gain research with potential near-term impact; 2) Sponsor multidisciplinary synergistic research; 3) Fund translational studies to promote the fluid transition of knowledge between bedside and bench; 4) Invest in research on patient survivorship (quality of life); 5) Foster the next generation of prostate cancer investigators through mentored research; and 6) Promote research into prostate cancer health disparities. The overarching goals of the FY10 program are aimed towards eliminating death and suffering from prostate cancer. All applications for the PCRP Impact Award should address at least one of these overarching challenges: 1) Develop effective treatments for advanced prostate cancer; 2) Distinguish lethal from indolent disease. Applications for the PCRP Impact Award should also address at least one of the following FY10 PCRP focus areas: 1) Biomarkers: Discovery and validation of biomarkers for the detection, prognosis, and progression of prostate cancer; 2) Genetics: Understanding the genetics and epigenetics responsible for susceptibility, disease progression, and treatment outcomes for clinically significant prostate cancer; 3) Imaging: Development of new imaging technology for the detection and prognosis of prostate cancer, including progression to systemic disease; 4) Survivorship: Studies on the impacts of treatment, nutrition, metabolism, and exercise on the well being of prostate cancer patients and their families; 5) Therapy: Identification of new targets, pathways, and therapeutic modalities or molecules for the treatment of prostate cancer; 6) Tumor Biology: Understanding the heterogeneity and microenvironment for the prognosis and progression of prostate cancer. Eligibility: Applicants must be independent investigators at or above the level of Assistant Professor (or equivalent). The maximum period of performance is 4 years. The maximum allowable funding for the entire period of performance is $750,000 in direct costs. Closing Date: April 19, 2010.
Posted Date: February 2, 2010
Funding Opportunity Number: W81XWH-10-PCRP-IA
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DoD Peer Reviewed Medical Clinical Trial Award – The vision of the FY10 PRMRP is to identify and fund the best medical research to protect and support war fighters, veterans and all beneficiaries and to eradicate diseases that impact these populations. The PRMRP seeks proposals in laboratory, clinical, behavioral, and epidemiologic research as well as public health and policy; environmental sciences; nursing; occupational health; alternative therapies; ethics; economics; and strategic research, such as studies designed to shape the development of or to validate clinical policy or guidance. Interdisciplinary and integrative health approaches are welcomed. This award is intended to support the rapid implementation of clinical trials of interventions with the potential to have a significant impact on a disease or condition addressed in at least one of the congressionally directed FY10 PRMRP topic areas. All studies must be responsive to the health care needs of the Armed Forces, their family members, and/or the U.S. veteran population, and may address prevention, detection, diagnosis, treatment, and/or quality of life. All applications must specifically and clearly address the military relevance of the proposed research. Collaboration with military and/or U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) researchers and/or clinicians is encouraged; however, the use of military populations is not a prerequisite. Proposals recruiting civilian populations as an alternative are strongly recommended. PIs at or above the level of Assistant Professor (or equivalent) are eligible to submit applications. The maximum period of performance is 5 years. The maximum allowable funding for the entire period of performance is $2.2M in direct costs. Closing Date: May 13, 2010.
Posted Date: January 29, 2010
Funding Opportunity Number: W81XWH-10-PRMRP-CTA
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DoD Peer Reviewed Medical Investigator-Initiated Research Award – This award mechanism is intended to support studies that will make an important contribution toward understanding mechanisms of initiation, or progression of and/or improving patient care for a disease or a condition related to at least one of the congressionally directed FY10 PRMRP topic areas. Research proposals should be responsive to the health care needs of the Armed Forces, their family members, and/or the U.S. veteran population. All applications must specifically and clearly address the military relevance of the proposed research. Collaboration with military and/or US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) researchers and/or clinicians is encouraged. Research projects may focus on any phase of research from basic laboratory research through translational research, including preclinical studies in animal models and human subjects, as well as correlative studies associated with an existing clinical trial. Observations that drive a research idea may be derived from a laboratory discovery, population-based studies, or a clinician’s first-hand knowledge of patients and anecdotal data. Applications must include data relevant to the FY10 PRMRP topic area(s) addressed that support the rationale for the proposed study. These data may be unpublished and/or from the published literature. The maximum period of performance is 3 years. The maximum allowable funding for the entire period of performance is $725,000 in direct costs. PIs at or above the level of Assistant Professor (or equivalent) are eligible to submit applications. Closing Date: August 5, 2010.
DoD Peer Reviewed Medical Technology/Therapeutic Development Award – This award is product-driven and is intended to provide support for the translation of promising preclinical findings into products for clinical applications in at least one of the congressionally directed FY10 PRMRP topic areas. Products in development should be responsive to the health care needs of the Armed Forces, their family members, and/or the U.S. veteran population. All applications must specifically and clearly address the military relevance of the proposed research. Collaboration with military and/or U.S Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) researchers and/or clinicians is encouraged. The product(s) to be developed may be pharmacologic agents (drugs or biologicals), devices, and/or clinical guidance. The Principal Investigator (PI) must provide a transition plan (including potential funding and resources) showing how the product will progress to clinical trials and/or delivery to the military or civilian market after the completion of the PRMRP award. Applications must include data relevant to the FY10 PRMRP topic area(s) addressed that support the rationale for the proposed study. These data may be unpublished and/or from the published literature. PIs at or above the level of Assistant Professor (or equivalent) are eligible to submit applications. The maximum period of performance is 4 years. The maximum allowable funding for the entire period of performance is $1.7M in direct costs. Closing Date: May 13, 2010.
DoD Breast Cancer Postdoctoral Fellowship Award – The Postdoctoral Fellowship Award supports exceptionally talented recent medical or other doctoral graduates performing innovative, high-impact breast cancer research during their postdoctoral training, and allows them to obtain the necessary experience for an independent career at the forefront of breast cancer research. Candidates for this award should exhibit a strong desire to pursue a career in breast cancer research. While the PI is not required to have previous experience in breast cancer research, this proposal must focus on breast cancer research. Proposals must emphasize the PI’s high potential for success in becoming an independent breast cancer researcher based on his/her qualifications, achievements, and letters of recommendations. Proposals must provide details on the suitability of the PI’s overall training plan and research project for attaining the goals of this mechanism. In addition, proposals must elaborate on the quality of the training environment in which the candidate will work, provide details on the training program and describe how this training will facilitate the candidate’s career development as an independent, innovative breast cancer researcher. A multidisciplinary research approach to breast cancer is highly encouraged but not required; however, if there are multi-disciplinary aspects to the training, they should be clearly outlined in the proposal. The maximum period of performance is 3 years. The maximum allowable funding for the entire period of performance is $300,000 in direct costs. Closing Date: April 7, 2010.
DoD Breast Cancer Idea Award – The Idea Award is designed to promote new ideas that are still in the early stages of development and have the potential to yield highly impactful data and new avenues of investigation. This mechanism supports conceptually innovative, high-risk/high-reward research that could ultimately lead to critical discoveries or major advancements that will accelerate the eradication of breast cancer. Research projects should include a well-formulated, testable hypothesis based on strong scientific rationale. The BCRP seeks applications from all areas of basic, translational, clinical, behavioral, and epidemiological research. Presentation of preliminary data is not consistent with the intent of the Idea Award mechanism. While the inclusion of preliminary data is not prohibited, the strength of the application should not rely on preliminary data. Innovation and Impact are the most important aspects of the Idea Award. Expected Number of Awards: 75; Estimated Total Program Funding: $46,300,000. Closing Date: May 5, 2010.
Posted Date: January 29, 2010
Funding Opportunity Number: W81XWH-10-BCRP-IDEA
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DoD Breast Cancer Multi-Team Award – The BCRP Multi-Team Award supports the creation of a collaborative research project among three teams, each led by a Principal Investigator (PI) with a history of creativity and innovation, to focus on a critical area of breast cancer. Research proposed under the Multi-Team Award must focus on a question of significant importance to breast cancer that has been inadequately addressed, or for which there may be an absence of an established paradigm or technical framework. The research question should address overarching issues that have broad implications for the disease and risk management (e.g., risk factors, dormancy) and not focus merely on the study of specific pathways or genes. Clinical research (may include clinical trials) must be included as part of the proposed work. The Multi-Team Award supports the collaborative efforts of three teams consisting of scientists and consumer advocates. Collectively, the members of the teams should represent the appropriate DOD FY10 Breast Cancer Multi-Team Award 3 diversity of expertise necessary for addressing the research question. Participating institutions must be willing to resolve potential intellectual and material property issues and remove institutional barriers to achieving high levels of cooperation. The maximum period of performance is 4 years. The maximum allowable funding for the entire period of performance is $4.5M in direct costs. Closing Date: June 23, 2010.
Posted Date: January 29, 2010
Funding Opportunity Number: W81XWH-10-BCRP-MTA
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DoD Breast Cancer Transformative Vision Award – The most important aspect of the Transformative Vision Award is the articulation of the vision for a new approach to significantly impact the prevention or treatment of breast cancer. The final impact may be near-term or long-term, but the success of the vision must be transformative on breast cancer. A careful presentation of the state-of-the-art, and how the vision will transform this state, must be described. The vision must be supported by a detailed plan that identifies critical milestones and clearly outlines the innovations and technical solutions that will be implemented to accomplish the milestones. The scope of the research effort may include a broad spectrum of research spanning from basic to clinical studies, with the end result leading to a revolutionary impact on an area of paramount importance in breast cancer prevention or treatment. The Transformative Vision Award will be supported in two phases. Phase I will enable the team to lay the groundwork for the research project and to test the basic concepts of the vision. Phase II will allow the expansion of the project to proceed to accomplishment of the vision. The maximum period of performance is 5 years. The maximum allowable funding for the entire period of performance is $12M in direct costs. Closing Date: July 23, 2010.
Posted Date: January 29, 2010
Funding Opportunity Number: W81XWH-10-BCRP-TVA
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DoD Breast Cancer Inter-Institutional Training Award – The overarching goal of this award mechanism is to establish the foundations for breast cancer research programs at academic institutions where they currently do not exist. This will be accomplished through focused mentoring and training of two or more faculty-level investigators who have limited or no experience in breast cancer research, participating in research collaborations with experienced breast cancer investigators. The Principal Investigator (PI) and co-PIs must indicate a commitment to becoming competitive breast cancer researchers and to the establishment of a breast cancer research program at their institution. This award provides mentorship and training at an institutional level by supporting collaborations between: 1) Multiple investigators at an academic institution that does not have an established breast cancer research program; and 2) At least one experienced breast cancer researcher (Primary Collaborating Mentor) at a different research institution, which has a well-established breast cancer research program. The PI and co-PI(s) each must have a doctoral degree (Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent) and hold a faculty position (Assistant Professor or higher) at an academic institution without a breast cancer program. The applicant institution must have received no more than $500,000 in aggregate during the past three calendar years (2006-2009) in non-mentored federal funding for breast cancer research. The maximum period of performance is 4 years. The maximum allowable funding for the entire period of performance is $1M in direct costs. Closing Date: June 23, 2010.
Posted Date: January 29, 2010
Funding Opportunity Number: W81XWH-10-BCRP-IITA
(DARPA, February 1, 2010) The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) awarded a contract on January 26, 2010, under the Legged Squad Support System (LS3) program. Boston Dynamics of Waltham, Massachusetts, will receive $32 million for a 30-month phase that includes trade studies, detailed design work, and building of initial prototypes. The LS3 program is a joint effort between DARPA’s Tactical Technology Office (TTO) and the U.S. Marine Corps Warfighting Lab (MCWL). The program goal is to develop a walking quadruped platform that will augment squads by carrying traditional and new equipment autonomously. LS3 will carry 400 pounds or more of payload, and provide 24 hours of self-sustained capability over as much as 20 miles of maneuver. LS3 will weigh no more than 1,250 pounds (including its base weight, fuel and payload of 400 pounds). Click here to read more…
(Reuters, February 1, 2010) Los Angeles – Clean technology companies welcomed nearly $2.4 billion for the sector in the Obama administration’s proposed budget released on Monday, but some industry watchers said it wasn’t enough for major changes in the emerging market or for long-term growth. Small Business – U.S. President Barack Obama’s new budget gave a shot in the arm for energy efficiency and renewable energy programs, and was a huge increase from $113 million in the previous budget. It also included various climate measures and an additional $36 billion in loan guarantees for nuclear energy. Click here to read more…
In a dealer communique sent out today, Toyota has announced the voluntary recall of some 8,000 2010 Tacomas that could suffer from a defect in the front propeller shaft.
Pickuptrucks.com reports that a crack can form in the rear joint, causing the driveshaft to come loose from the truck. Obviously, this defect will only affect four-wheel drive models, so standard two-wheel drive Tacomas are left out of the recall.
According to Brian Lyons, Toyota’s head of safety communications, “Most of the vehicles [included in the recall] are in the pipeline in Toyota’s distribution system or on dealer lots.”
Affected owners can contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331 for more information, and Toyota dealers will perform a ten minute visual inspection of the trucks. Naturally, if they find a fault with the prop shaft assembly, it will be replaced free of charge.
(DOE, February 12, 2010) Washington, D.C. – The Obama Administration today announced a multi-agency initiative to spur regional economic growth while making buildings more energy efficient. Seven federal agencies today issued a combined Funding Opportunity Announcement of up to $129.7 million over five years to create a regional research center that will develop new building efficiency technologies and work with local partners to implement the technologies in area buildings. Buildings account for nearly 40 percent of U.S. energy consumption and carbon emissions. Improvements in building efficiency will provide significant benefits – reducing energy use, lowering utility bills and decreasing carbon emissions. Click here to read more…
It seems that BMW is so obsessed with EfficientDynamics that it will apply its fuel-saving technologies across its lineup – even at the very highest level of performance. Starting spring 2010, the 2011 BMW M3 will ship standard with Auto Start / Stop function. The feature will help reduce the average fuel consumption and CO2 levels of the BMW M3 by up to 8 percent.
Also new for the 2011 BMW M3 will be the addition of the optional Competition Package, available for the coupe and sedan. The package will lower the suspension 10 mm will add light 19-inch alloy wheels at the front and Y-spoke design at the rear. The optional package will also add an electronic damper adjustment function EDC including Sport Mode, which is specifically made for the Competition Package. A carbon fiber rear spoiler and front apron are also included in the package.
BMW also confirmed that it will show M Sport Package for the new 2011 BMW X5 at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show.
Click through for the press release and the high-res image gallery.
2011 BMW M3 Competition Pacakge:
Press Release:
More joy in top-level performance: the product range of BMW M GmbH for spring 2010.
Munich. More driving pleasure, reduced emissions: this principle of the development strategy BMW EfficientDynamics applies equally at the very highest level of performance. As of spring 2010, the high-performance model BMW M3 consistently combines its outstanding driving performance figures with further reduced fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels. The range of BMW EfficientDynamics measures fitted as standard in the models BMW M3 Coupé, BMW M3 Convertible and BMW M3 Sedan is now to be supplemented with the Auto Start Stop Function. This reduces the average fuel consumption and CO2 levels of the BMW M3 by up to 8 per cent or 24 grams of CO2 per kilometre. In order to further hone the outstandingly sporty profile of the model there will also be a Competition Package available as of spring 2010.
The range of driver assistance systems optionally available for the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M will also be extended in spring 2010. Both models can now be fitted with the functions Side View and Speed Limit Info. The remainder of the BMW M GmbH portfolio will likewise feature new offers. Directly at the market launch of the new BMW X5, a newly configured M Sports Package will be available for the Sports Activity Vehicle. The new BMW 3 Series Coupé and the new BMW 3 Series Convertible can also be upgraded from the start with an M Sports Package. An M Sports Package, also designed for the specific model in question, is part of the equipment range of the BMW 3 Series Sedan and the BMW 3 Series Touring in the Edition Sport. For the launch of the Z4 sDrive35, the M Sports Package for the BMW Z4 is offered for all the other versions of the roadster, too. The BMW Individual range will also be further refined. Especially exclusive equipment options are already available at the market launch, also for the new BMW 5 Series Sedan.
Auto Start Stop Function for the BMW M3 – for the first time in conjunction with a dual clutch transmission.
The BMW M3 achieves its outstanding performance with impressive efficiency. Its 4.0 litre V8 high-revving engine mobilises 309 kW/420 bhp, enabling superior acceleration response due to its unique propulsion. In addition to its fascinating performance characteristics, the 8-cylinder engine – developed exclusively for the BMW M3 – is characterised by an unusually high degree of efficiency. Additional efficiency potential is now tapped into with the Auto Start Stop Function. This helps the drive avoid idling phases when stopping at junctions or in congested traffic. In order to prevent unnecessary fuel consumption the engine is switched off when the vehicle comes to a halt. As soon as the driver wishes to continue driving, the engine is re-activated without delay.
The Auto Start Stop Function is used both in vehicles with standard 6-speed manual transmission and in conjunction with the M dual clutch transmission with Drivelogic. The BMW M3 is thus the first model – along with the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 and the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 – to use this efficiency-enhancing measure in combination with an automated manual transmission.
The increase in efficiency brought about by the Auto Start Stop Function is up to 8 per cent of 24 grams of CO2 per kilometre, depending on the model and transmission type. For example, the BMW M3 Coupé with 7-speed M dual clutch transmission and Drivelogic powered by a V8 high-revving engine with 309 kW/420 bhp now achieves an average fuel consumption on the EU test cycle of 11.2 litres per 100 kilometres (6-speed manual transmission: 12.4 litres). The same figures apply to the BMW M3 Sedan. In the case of the BMW M3 Convertible, the average fuel consumption is reduced to 11.5 litres (M dual clutch transmission with Drivelogic) or 12.7 litres (6-speed manual transmission) per 100 kilometres. All versions of the BMW M3 will also meet the exhaust emission norm EU5 in future.
Modified rear lights with glass covers in a homogeneous red colour provide an additional visual accentuation in the BMW M3 Coupé and the BMW M3 Convertible. With two harmoniously illuminating light banks fed by LED units, they create a characteristic nocturnal design.
New for the BMW M3: Competition Package and retrofit options.
The Competition Package, available for the Coupé and the Sedan, and the retrofit options from the range of Original BMW Accessories specially developed for the M3 are just two possible ways of individualising the sports car. With a suspension lowered by some 10 mm and light alloy wheels in the size 9 x 19 inches at the front and Y-spoke design at the rear, the Competition Package provides further optimised longitudinal and transverse dynamics. In addition, the control of the electronic damper adjustment function EDC including a Sport mode specially developed for the Competition Package has been precisely adjusted to the chassis modifications by means of map-based control and the driving stability control function DSC.
The new range of items from the Original BMW Accessories program available for the BMW M3 provides an even more intense driving experience. Retrofit options designed for this model are specifically geared towards increasing dynamic performance and driving pleasure. For example a rear spoiler and front apron flaps in carbon will be available from spring 2010. As well as perfectly matching the Competition Package the aerodynamically optimised components further reduce lift force, thereby increasing the driving dynamics potential of the BMW M3.
Innovative driver assistance systems for the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M.
Additional equipment options are also available for the models BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M as of spring 2010. The two top sports cars in the segment of the BMW X models can now be fitted with such features as the driver assistance systems Side View and Speed Limit Info. The Side View system comprises two cameras integrated in the side of the front bumpers, which means that intersecting traffic can be observed. The images from these cameras are shown on the Control Display of the operating system iDrive, providing an advance view of the road situation to the left and right of the vehicle when coming out of blind exits such as narrow driveways or multi-storey car parks, for example. Speed Limit Info gives the driver the possibility of finding out about speed restrictions on the current route. Here, a camera is installed on the windscreen in the area of the interior mirror which permanently monitors signs at the roadside as well as the variable displays on overhead gantries on motorways, comparing this information with the data from the navigation system. The figure thus obtained is displayed by means of a symbol on the instrument panel or in the Head-Up Display, as required.
Newly designed rear lights with especially narrow bands of light in the reversing lamps provide an enhanced sense of width in the BMW X5 M. Their homogeneously luminous light banks fed by LED also create a nocturnal design which is characteristic of the brand. They are now also fitted with dynamic LED brake lights which flash in the event of particularly intense deceleration, thereby providing a warning signal for drivers to the rear.
M Sport Package for the new BMW X5.
At the 2010 Geneva Automobile Salon the M Sport Package will also be presented for the new BMW X5. It offers ideal ways of experiencing the enhanced sporty qualities of this Sports Activity Vehicle even more intensely and expressing these strikingly in terms of design. The M Sport Package is made up of exterior, interior and chassis components which underscore the dynamic potential of the BMW X5. Larger air inlets in the front apron give the vehicle a particularly powerful appearance. A high-speed set-up and sporty suspension settings emphasise the dynamic character of the vehicle, as do the 19-inch M light alloy rims in V-spoke design. As an alternative, M light alloy wheels in 20-inch format are optionally available, either in two colours or in burnished finish. In both instances, a special mixed tyre selection is used on the front and rear axle which is designed specially for the BMW X5. Even in the 6-cylinder versions, the tailpipes of the exhaust system bear the contours characteristic of V8 engines.
In addition to the M Aerodynamics Package and the M entry strips, the BMW Individual Exterior Line in satinised aluminium design for the surrounds of the side windows and the BMW Individual roof railing in high gloss Shadow Line ensure an unmistakable visual appearance. In the interior, sports seats for driver and passenger, the M leather steering wheel, M driver footrest, the interior strips in fine lengthwise brushed aluminium design and the anthracite-coloured BMW Individual roof liner optimise the driving experience in the BMW X5.
Stylish and exclusive: new BMW Individual options.
Supplements to the BMW Individual product portfolio round off the list of new items in the range of BMW M GmbH. For the new BMW 5 Series Sedan, too, there is the option to add an unmistakable touch with stylish and exclusive options from the BMW Individual program directly at the market launch. The range specially developed for the Sedan includes the BMW Individual high gloss Shadow Line, the BMW Individual Exterior Line in satinised aluminium design, an anthracite-coloured BMW Individual roof liner and BMW Individual reading lights at the rear.
The new BMW Individual paint finish Frozen Grey will be available for all models of the BMW 6 Series. The surrounds of the monitors of the optional rear entertainment systems for the BMW 7 Series are now available in a finish which matches the colour of the BMW Individual full leather trim. What is more, the side rear monitor panels can be covered with BMW Individual Merino leather if requested specifically by the customer. The long version of the BMW 7 Series can be additionally fitted with fold-out tables integrated in the backs of the driver and front passenger seats. The storage surfaces for the fold-out tables available for the long version of the BMW 7 Series can be covered in soft nappa leather or in BMW Individual leather on request, thus offering additional comfort in the use of external entertainment or communication devices. As well as enhancing the overall travel experience, this also extends the range of functions of the luxury sedan when used as a mobile office.
With the current new items in its model program and the further extended product range, BMW M GmbH has created an ideal basis for the continuation of its successful business development. Enthusiasm for exclusive high-performance vehicles in the premium segment continues unabated in automobile markets throughout the world. Current sales figures indicate a dynamic start to the year 2010 for BMW M GmbH. 1,146 BMW M automobiles were sold worldwide in January 2010 alone. This is an increase of 7 per cent over the previous year. “The new models BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M have made a key contribution to this positive trend,” explains Dr. Kay Segler, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW M GmbH. “With their very successful launch they have even made up for the end of the production cycle of the BMW M5 Sedan, which has been one of the cornerstones of BMW M automobile sales up to now.” Particularly significant sales increases were achieved in January 2010 in the European markets of Germany, the UK and the Netherlands, as well as in China, Australia, South Africa and the Middle East.
BMW M GmbH is a 100 per cent subsidiary of BMW AG. With its products and services in the four business areas of BMW M Automobiles, BMW Individual, M Sports Packages and Options and BMW Group Driving Experience, it is geared towards customers with particularly high aspirations in terms of the performance, exclusivity and individual style of their vehicle. Based in Munich, the company was founded in 1972 as BMW Motorsport GmbH. Since then, the letter M has become synonymous all over the world for success in motor racing and for the fascination of high-performance sports cars which can be used for everyday driving. The production of BMW M automobiles is integrated in the manufacturing processes of the BMW plants. BMW M GmbH has the status of an independent automobile manufacturer.
In the financial year 2009, BMW M GmbH achieved worldwide sales of over 15,000 vehicles. BMW M GmbH currently employs a workforce of some 500 in the areas of development, administration and sales.
Last month RM Auctions offered up the 427 Cobra prototype at its annual auction in Phoenix, and although it failed to meet reserve price, the final bid of nearly $1.5 million signified the importance of the car. Fortunately for car collectors who still want to add a notable Shelby to their garage will have the chance at RM’s auction next month. A 1964 Shelby Cobra, chassis CSX2557, will be crossing the block during the sale coinciding with the Amelia Island Concours on March 13.
Just one of 42 289-powered racecars and one of only six “cutback door” factory team cars, CSX2557 was built to race in the U.S. Road Racing Championships (USRRC). Much of the design foreshadowed the later 427 Cobras like the widened fenders, larger intakes and side exhaust pipes. Although this particular car had a limited race history in the hands of Shelby, it is one of the most original examples in existence and is in excellent condition thanks to a restoration in the mid-1990s. You can read more about the history of CSX2557 and the other Cobra racecars after the jump.
An Orland Park man who apparently has trouble keeping his mouth shut remained in the Cook County Jail this week under $300,000 bail for three separate incidents.
Yacub Ibrahim, 32, 17505 Brook Crossing Drive, is accused of making a false 911 call and intimidating a witness Tuesday and Sunday, respectively, police said.
Ibrahim’s troubles this week are in addition to a Jan. 30 incident when he shouted profanities and made threats inside a Jewel Express, 17940 Wolf Road, police said.
On Tuesday, Ibrahim called 911 and reported a robbery outside of Barracco’s Pizza, 18040 Wolf Road, police said.
He told police he saw a man in a ski mask approach a woman as she exited the pizzeria, grab her purse and flee toward the nearby Jewel-Osco store.
Police said they investigated and could not find the victim or the robber, resulting in Ibrahim being charged with disorderly conduct for making a false 911 call.
“We take this very seriously,” police Cmdr. John Keating said. “And we’ll prosecute accordingly.”
Ibrahim also was charged with unlawful communication with a witness after he threatened to harm a witness Sunday at the Jewel Express store, police said.
They said he “threatened bodily harm” to anyone who testified against him in court Feb. 19 about the Jan. 30 incident, in which he was charged with aggravated assault, criminal trespass to property, disorderly conduct and resisting police.
Police said Ibrahim began bothering customers and employees at Jewel Express on Jan. 30 and refused to leave. Eventually, he did leave, but he returned about a half-hour later and screamed profanities at customers and staff, according to police.
They said that when officers arrived, Ibrahim resisted arrest and threatened to shoot police.
Besides the Feb. 19 court hearing, Ibrahim is scheduled to appear in court March 2 on the most recent charges, police said.
A father was charged with reckless conduct after a handgun accidentally went off striking him in the hand and his 7-year-old son in the head, Thursday afternoon at a warehouse on the Northwest Side.
The incident occurred about 3:30 p.m. at 2612 W. Nelson St. when the man, whom police declined to identify, was showing his 7-year-old son a handgun inside a warehouse that the man either owns or works for, police said.
The gun accidentally discharged and struck the boy, causing him to suffer a graze wound to his head.
He was taken to Children’s Memorial Hospital but he did not suffer life-threatening injuries, police said.
The man was shot in the hand and transported to Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, where he underwent surgery, police said.
The man was charged with misdemeanor reckless conduct and a firearm registration violation, police said.
Malaysian automaker Proton has released the first image of a new compact hybrid concept it will show off next month at the Geneva Motor Show. At this point, we don’t have a name or any technical details, but the body was apparently designed by Italian studio Italdesign Giugiaro.
Since Proton is the parent company of Lotus and has often used the British firm to help with its engineering, it’s probably a safe bet that the concept will contain some Lotus-developed techno-bits. And since this is a small car likely targeted at a lower price point, it will likely be powered by some sort of mild hybrid developed by the crew in Hethel. We’ll know more soon enough. Thanks to Shen for the tip!
When we recently wrote about South Butt’s response to the lawsuit from The North Face, I wondered how the judge would take it. While that post got a ton of traffic, and we heard from lots of people — including many lawyers — claiming that it was one of the “best” legal filings they had ever seen, you could see how a judge might be offended and think that it somehow mocked the judicial process. Indeed, while the judge doesn’t appear pissed off about it, he also was not that pleased. Eric Goldman points us to the judge’s refusal to dismiss the complaint, which also warns the lawyer to knock off the frivolity:
I remind counsel of their obligations under Rule 11 and that, with each
filing, they certify to the Court that the motion is not being presented to harass,
cause unnecessary delay or needlessly increase the cost of litigation and that the
legal contentions are warranted by existing law or nonfrivolous arguments for
extending, modifying, or reversing existing law or for establishing new law.
Although this filing may not reach the level of frivolity, it approaches the line.
Too bad. The judicial system would be a lot more interesting if lawyers felt free to respond as The South Butt’s lawyer did originally.
Several people escaped unhurt after a fire erupted in a Chicago Ridge apartment building. The blaze was blamed on an unattended candle.
Four or five residents escaped, and no one was injured, fire officials said.
Fire crews were called to the three-story building, 10656 S. Central Ave., about 12:40 p.m. and discovered smoke and flames coming from the second floor.
Firefighters extinguished the blaze within 10 minutes.
Fire Chief Randall Grossi said the fire began in a second-floor apartment, where a resident had left a candle unattended.
Grossi said the fire caused “serious damage” to the second floor.
The EIB today approved a loan to Saab for €400 million ($545 million USD), Spyker said today.
“The EIB has confirmed the authorisation to conclude the EUR 400 million loan to SAAB Automobile AB in accordance with the terms and conditions approved by the Board of Directors on 21 October 2009 and to conclude the guarantee agreement with the Swedish National Debt Office, as the loan is subject to a state guarantee which the Swedish Government approved on 26 January 2010,” EIB said in a statement. “The EU Commission approved the Swedish state-guarantee for the Bank’s loan to SAAB on 8 February 2010.”
“We are extremely pleased with the decision by the EIB as this was a crucial component in enabling the acquisition of Saab to proceed. Months of hard work have paid off, said Victor Muller, Spyker’s CEO. “We cannot wait to close this transaction now as soon as practically possible. We extend our gratitude to the EIB officials who have worked relentlessly to make this happen.”
Environmental activists say a federal plan to keep Asian carp out of the Great Lakes has good points but also serious flaws.
The government released its $78.5 million proposal this week for preventing the invasive fish from entering Lake Michigan through Chicago waterways.
Five environmental groups today praised its promises to erect new barriers and step up processing of DNA tests needed to tell how close the carp have gotten to the lake.
But Andy Buchsbaum of the National Wildlife Federation said there’s too little detail about when and how the steps will be taken. He likened it to a list of ingredients with no recipe.
Joel Brammeier of the Alliance for the Great Lakes said it fails to promise eventual separation of the lakes from the Mississippi River system.
Lots of volatility in the last hour of trading today.
Dow: Down 42 points to 10,102.
NASDAQ: Up 6 points to 2183.
S&P 500: Down 3 points to 1075.
Commodities: Bad news: Oil is down to $74.11 a barrel.
Gold is at $1093 an ounce, down $1.30. Silver is down $0.07 to $15.52 an ounce.
Futures remain mixed, metals tanking and softs soaring.
In the end, bulls have to be really happy. Given all the news that’s expected to come out this weekend (such as development on the Greece front) the fact that not everyone was just in SELL mode has to be a good sign
Prostate Cancer Research Program Impact Award – The overall goal of the FY10 PCRP is to find and fund innovative, high-impact research that will eliminate death and suffering from prostate cancer. Specifically, the PCRP seeks to: 1) Support innovative high-risk, high-gain research with potential near-term impact; 2) Sponsor multidisciplinary synergistic research; 3) Fund translational studies to promote the fluid transition of knowledge between bedside and bench; 4) Invest in research on patient survivorship (quality of life); 5) Foster the next generation of prostate cancer investigators through mentored research; and 6) Promote research into prostate cancer health disparities. The overarching goals of the FY10 program are aimed towards eliminating death and suffering from prostate cancer. All applications for the PCRP Impact Award should address at least one of these overarching challenges: 1) Develop effective treatments for advanced prostate cancer; 2) Distinguish lethal from indolent disease. Applications for the PCRP Impact Award should also address at least one of the following FY10 PCRP focus areas: 1) Biomarkers: Discovery and validation of biomarkers for the detection, prognosis, and progression of prostate cancer; 2) Genetics: Understanding the genetics and epigenetics responsible for susceptibility, disease progression, and treatment outcomes for clinically significant prostate cancer; 3) Imaging: Development of new imaging technology for the detection and prognosis of prostate cancer, including progression to systemic disease; 4) Survivorship: Studies on the impacts of treatment, nutrition, metabolism, and exercise on the well being of prostate cancer patients and their families; 5) Therapy: Identification of new targets, pathways, and therapeutic modalities or molecules for the treatment of prostate cancer; 6) Tumor Biology: Understanding the heterogeneity and microenvironment for the prognosis and progression of prostate cancer. Eligibility: Applicants must be independent investigators at or above the level of Assistant Professor (or equivalent). The maximum period of performance is 4 years. The maximum allowable funding for the entire period of performance is $750,000 in direct costs. Closing Date: April 19, 2010.
(DARPA, February 1, 2010) The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) awarded a contract on January 26, 2010, under the Legged Squad Support System (LS3) program. Boston Dynamics of Waltham, Massachusetts, will receive $32 million for a 30-month phase that includes trade studies, detailed design work, and building of initial prototypes. The LS3 program is a joint effort between DARPA’s Tactical Technology Office (TTO) and the U.S. Marine Corps Warfighting Lab (MCWL). The program goal is to develop a walking quadruped platform that will augment squads by carrying traditional and new equipment autonomously. 
By Poornima Gupta and Laura Isensee
(DOE, February 12, 2010) Washington, D.C. – The Obama Administration today announced a multi-agency initiative to spur regional economic growth while making buildings more energy efficient. Seven federal agencies today issued a combined Funding Opportunity Announcement of up to $129.7 million over five years to create a regional research center that will develop new building efficiency technologies and work with local partners to implement the technologies in area buildings. Buildings account for nearly 40 percent of U.S. energy consumption and carbon emissions. Improvements in building efficiency will provide significant benefits – reducing energy use, lowering utility bills and decreasing carbon emissions. 
An Orland Park man who apparently has trouble keeping his mouth shut remained in the Cook County Jail this week under $300,000 bail for three separate incidents.
Several people escaped unhurt after a fire erupted in a Chicago Ridge apartment building. The blaze was blamed on an unattended candle.
Environmental activists say a federal plan to keep Asian carp out of the Great Lakes has good points but also serious flaws.