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Watch three blogger dads as they head out on a Crosstour adventure from LA to NY to attend the Dad 2.0 Summit. |
From:Honda
Views:9
 1ratings |
| Time:03:15 | More inAutos & Vehicles |
Filed under: Minivan/Van, Technology, Honda, Design/Style
Co-developed with Shop-Vac, the HondaVAC system will come standard on the range-topping Touring Elite model. The system includes a replaceable filter and canister bag, along with a range of attachments located in the cargo hold. Honda says this first-ever feature includes a hose that is long enough to clean the entire interior. Better still, the vacuum will run for up to eight minutes after the vehicle is turned off, so you can get every last Cheerio out of the seat cushions, and it never needs plugging in or recharging, as it runs off of the vehicle's electrical system.Continue reading 2014 Honda Odyssey set to clean up in NY with world's first in-car vacuum
2014 Honda Odyssey set to clean up in NY with world's first in-car vacuum originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Mar 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsThe completely redesigned 2013 Honda Accord Coupe has earned the highest available safety rating a 5-Star1 Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The 2013 Accord Coupe is the only vehicle in its class to earn a NHTSA 5-star Overall Vehicle Score and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating with GOOD ratings in all test modes. For model year 2013, all tested Honda models have earned a TOP SAFETY PICK or TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the IIHS (only the Civic Coupe, FCX Clarity and Fit EV have not been tested).
"The Honda comprehensive approach to vehicle safety is validated by these top-level safety ratings," said Art St. Cyr, vice president of product planning and logistics at American Honda. "The 2013 Honda Accord truly excels in all areas, delivering the best overall safety ratings, while also providing exhilarating performance, outstanding comfort and top-class fuel economy."
The Accord Coupe earned the 5-star Overall Vehicle Score by garnering a 5-star rating in each seating position in the New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) frontal, side-barrier, and side-pole crash test categories, as well as a 5-star rollover rating. The 2013 Coupe joins the Honda Accord Sedan in earning an Overall 5-Star Safety Rating under NHTSA's testing.
In addition to its NCAP 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score designation, the 2013 Honda Accord Sedan is the only car in its class to earn a GOOD rating in all IIHS test modes, including the Institute's aggressive, new small overlap frontal crash test. Under the IIHS' testing program, the new small overlap frontal crash testsometimes called a "narrow offset" testis designed to replicate what happens when the front corner of a vehicle collides with another vehicle or an object such as a tree or utility pole at high speed.
Beginning with the 2013 Honda Accord, Honda is applying the second generation of the Honda Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE II) body structure to its models. This reinforced frontal structure further enhances frontal crash energy management through a wider range of offset and oblique collision modes.
New standard and available safety and visibility technologies in Accord models such as Back-Up Camera, Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Watch help increase driver awareness in the front, sides, and rear of the vehicle.
In addition to the Honda next-generation Advanced Compatibility (ACE II) body structure, passive-safety features offered as standard equipment on the 2013 Accord include dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags, and new SmartVent front side airbags, and side curtain airbags. The new SmartVent side airbag construction helps mitigate the risk of injury to occupants that may be positioned in the deployment path of the side airbag. SmartVent also allows heating of the passenger seatback on EX-L and Touring models.
Honda Safety Leadership
Honda has a long history of leadership in the development and application of advanced technologies and designs to enhance the safety of all road users, including automobile occupants, motorcycle riders, and pedestrians. The company operates two of the world's most sophisticated crash test facilities and is responsible for numerous pioneering efforts in the areas of crashworthiness, airbag technology, collision compatibility and pedestrian safety. This commitment to safety is rooted in the longstanding Honda goal to be a company that society wants to exist, and it complements the company's leadership in reducing vehicle emissions, improving fuel efficiency and advancing alternatives to gasoline.
Connect with Honda:
Media Newsroom (for journalists) http://www.hondanews.com/channels/honda-automobiles-fit-ev
For consumers: www.automobiles.honda.com
YouTube: www.youtube.com/honda
Flickr: www.flickr.com/hondanews
Twitter: www.twitter.com/honda
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/honda
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/honda
Instagram: http://instagram.com/honda
Google+: https://plus.google.com/+honda
1Government star ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program (www.safercar.gov). Model tested with standard side-impact air bags (SABs). Vehicles tested under this program cannot be compared to model-year 2010 and earlier vehicles. Ratings can only be compared with similar ratings on model year 2011 and later vehicles if rated under the new program
Honda is bringing the years biggest racing game to the 2013 Chicago Auto Show with the launch of Forza Horizon on Xbox 360. Chicago Auto Show attendees will have the opportunity to play the games new downloadable Honda Challenge Car Pack in the Honda booth located in the South Hall Feb. 7 thru 10. With the Honda Challenge Pack, players will have the option to race three, distinct performance-oriented Honda models: a new 2013 Civic Si Coupe, an original 1986 Civic Si, and the Honda Performance Development B-Spec Rally Fit.
In addition to playing the new game, attendees can virtually race against Honda IndyCar driver Scott Dixon and try to beat his fastest time in a 2013 Honda Civic Si. The "2013 Civic Si Challenge" contest awards the fastest racer the opportunity to meet the Indianapolis 500 winner in-person and receive a custom Civic Si-themed Xbox 360 gaming console.
Starting on Feb. 15, a photo contest will launch on the Forza Horizon online community encouraging players to submit photos taken in-game of the 2013 Civic Si. The best photo will be featured on Honda social media channels and on the Honda web site. Winners of the photo contest will also receive a custom Civic Si-themed Xbox 360 gaming console.
About Honda
Honda offers a complete lineup of cars and trucks through a network of more than 1,000 dealerships in the United States. In 2013, Honda marks 40 years of the Civic model, with more than 30 years of producing automobiles in the region, which began with the Accord in Marysville, Ohio in November 1982. Having produced more than 25 million vehicles in North America through 2012 using domestic and globally1 sourced parts, Honda currently operates 14 major manufacturing facilities in North America, producing a wide range of Honda automobiles, all-terrain vehicles, power equipment products, engines and transmissions.
Connect with Honda:
Media Newsroom (for journalists): www.hondanews.com
For consumers: http://automobiles.honda.com/civic/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HondaCivic
YouTube: www.youtube.com/honda
Flickr: www.flickr.com/hondanews
Twitter: www.twitter.com/honda
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/honda
Google+: https://plus.google.com/+honda
1Honda products are produced using domestic and globally sourced parts.
About Forza
Celebrate speed, music and style at the Horizon Festival! Forza Horizon combines legendary Forza authenticity with the freedom of the open road. Forza Horizon is exclusively on the Xbox 360 and is now available in a Limited Collectors Edition ($79.99 U.S.) and a Standard Edition ($59.99 U.S). The game is rated "T" For Teen by the ESRB. According to MetaCritic.com Forza Horizon is the highest-rated racing game on the Xbox 360 this holiday season.
Connect with Forza:
Web: www.forzamotorsport.net
Facebook: www.facebook.com/forzamotorsport
Twitter: www.twitter.com/Turn10Studios
YouTube: www.youtube.com/Turn10Studios
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For the 27th year in a row the Honda Accord has made it onto the Car and DriverTop 10 Best list. Car and Driver states, “It has inner beauty: Luxury-car big inside and yet smaller outside than before, this ninth-gen version fully delivers on Honda's "man-maximum, machine-minimum" philosophy.” We couldn’t agree more. It is and has been a beautifully crafted vehicle that has been providing individuals and families alike with sleek styling, great fuel economy and a smooth ride for a number of years now.
We are proud of the Accord for making the list, but she is not the only Honda to make the cut this year…the Honda Fit, Honda’s “Intelligent” vehicle also topped the list. With its simple, compact design it’s no wonder as to how she made the cut too. Car and Driver describe the Fit as “Like a genie lamp, it's small on the outside and remarkably cavernous inside.” Perfect statement for a perfect “Fit”.
Time to shoot for a 28th year atop the list…
“The Balancing Act®” morning show on Lifetime TV hit the road and traveled across the country on its “Balance Your Life Road Tour,™ and made its first fall stop in our very own Charlotte, NC.
Sherry Thomas, a corporate trainer from Hendrick Automotive Group was featured on this show yesterday. She dealt with a topic that many women face… anxiety and intimidation during the car buying/leasing process.
We are very proud of her here at Honda of Concord and would like to invite you to watch the video below of her segment. Enjoy!
It is almost that time of year again where in the air it begins to smell a lot like Christmas, with trees and cinnamon sugar filled goodies. For a lot of area kids this is just a description that they hear and may never really get to know. We at Honda are proud to announce that we have joined in with US Marine Corps to be a drop off location for Toys For Tots. Our plan is to fill up as many Honda Ridgeline's and Honda Odyssey's as possible. Let's make sure that no child goes through Christmas this year without experiencing the joy of getting a new toy on this special day! So on November 12, 2012, please stop in with your new unwrapped toy and join us in serving the community this year! Early Season Greetings!
This time every year brings about a little excitement as we are in the midst of fall and enjoying the simplicity of the weather in long sleeves and jeans. But one cannot forget that this day every year brings joy to those who wait in the long line for some good ol' BBQ and fellowshipping with old friends while making new ones. For 83 years the Mallard Creek Presbyterian Church has conducted this annual BBQ where for $9 a plate you can enjoy a wonderful plate of smokey goodness with a helping of cole slaw and brunswick stew. Is there any other way to enjoy an awesome fall day!? So as you wait in the traffic to get home or to get your plate, do not forget that you are basking in the greatness of history and tradition. Think upon your family, what great traditions do you all have? If you do not have any, try starting one with attending this event.
We are definitely aware of the throws of life and that many of our potential customers simply do not have the time to do many things that they would like to do. So to make your experience the best and the most convenient by bringing the test drive to you! So give us a call and we will do our best to give you the best experience right to your doorstep! Call us at 704-979-7500 or even Toll Free at 1-800-868-4961
We are definitely aware of the throws of life and that many of our potential customers simply do not have the time to do many things that they would like to do. So to make your experience the best and the most convenient by bringing the test drive to you! So give us a call and we will do our best to give you the best experience right to your doorstep! Call us at 704-979-7500 or even Toll Free at 1-800-868-4961
We are definitely aware of the throws of life and that many of our potential customers simply do not have the time to do many things that they would like to do. So to make your experience the best and the most convenient by bringing the test drive to you! So give us a call and we will do our best to give you the best experience right to your doorstep! Call us at 704-979-7500 or even Toll Free at 1-800-868-4961
Often times we patronize a company and just based upon the Golden Rule of customer service, we expect above and beyond service. But what happens when we get great service? Do you just walk away and consider it an ended transaction or do you go above and beyond as a customer? We often have the belief that you are to be treated exceptionally well because you are a customer and that is your right. And you are correct in this belief, because it is you that keeps that business going, however, what about the general Golden Rule? Do unto others as you would have them do unto you? Does this not apply? Moreover, we forget that many people learn by feedback, they need to know what they did right or inevitably what they may have done wrong.
Our daily routine has returned and school has started again. Whether it has bred excitement or utter anxiety, an educational journey was began by several thousand students in the past few days. However, many of these students began this journey without the necessary tools to start this exciting time in a proper way. With the help of WSOC-TV, Hendrick dealerships have teamed up with other area organizations to assist the students of the community to reach the goal of ensuring that no student goes without the proper necessities needed to complete class assignments and homework. These efforts were able to provide over 30,000 pens and pencils a week last year to teachers to assist their students in completing daily assignments and have a fair chance at being successful.
As the collection efforts are nearing a close on August 31, 2012, we are really focusing on what we can do to ramp up efforts of giving and close this year with a strong finish. As an incentive, Honda of Concord is offering a free car wash to any donor of 10 items. We know the economy is seen to not be at its best but, we hope that anyone that can give, does so as the students of our community really need anything that can be given. Remember it is not the size of the gift but the fact that you understood there was a need and you did your best to fill it.
Items Needed:
Backpacks, pens, pencils, packs of paper, markers, crayons, rulers, graph paper.
When you think of safety you have to consider the one piece of machinery that many of us have a daily reliance upon. As we zoom from point A to point B as well as cart around our precious cargo, safety becomes a major concern when making a purchase on a vehicle. With safety in mind, we are honored to be the winner of the Cars.com/USA Today/Motor Week Compact SUV Shootout for the Honda 2012 CRV.
The shootout takes six of the popular compact SUV’s through a head to head testing by a family of four that is currently in the market for this type of vehicle as well as experts of the aforementioned companies in which several factors are tested. The SUV’s went through a several mile drive from city driving to highway driving from five different experts each testing the cars for handling, braking, acceleration and the overall drive of the vehicle.
We are proud that the CRV was the overall winner because of these categories and based upon its standard features like Bluetooth and rear view back up camera, that you no longer have to desire with pricey models. So come out to Bruton Smith Blvd. and request a test drive and fall in love with a winner!
We are certainly proud to have our name across the #32 car driven by Boris Said racing in the Finger Lakes 355 at Watkins Glenn this weekend! Hendrickcars.com revels in its' NASCAR sponsorships including the past sponsorship in the Select 2012 Races held in Charlotte, NC this past June 4th. Hendrickcars.com will also be the main sponsor in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races in Sonoma, California. As stated by Boris Said, who is graciously ready to get back into the Sprint Cup and showing off the Hendrickcar.com car, "I'm excited". Well Boris, we are too! And we cannot wait until the start of the races via ESPN on Sunday August 12 at noon, because we will be cheering you on!
As we are certainly proud of all the Olympians from the USA making their mark on history, there is more than what meets the eye, marking history. For the first time in history bystanders and well-wishers are seeing their favorite competitors go for the gold in real time via social media outlets such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, just to name a few. With these outlets, Olympians are able to keep in constant contact with fans and spectators alike. But what happens when policies such as the “Rule 40†of the Olympic Charter take effect and bar some of their “private†thoughts and activities?
What does good customer service do for your business?
This should be a question that every business owner asks themselves each and every day they open their doors for business. However, understanding what bad customer can do to harm your business is just as crucial. Did you know that for every dissatisfied customer that you encounter, will tell at least ten other customers or potential customers not to patronize your business? And then if you really look at the scope of things, those ten people will tell at least five others what they heard from that one dissatisfied person. That is a lot money and lost both short-term and long term, when in most cases the consumer just wanted you to listen as to why they were unhappy. Sounds easy enough, right? Remember, with customers, a little definitely goes a long way! Remember little things about your customers, that lets them know that you are listening and that you are glad to have their business. So whether they have a sick relative, you know their favorite sports team or know an important date within their life, take that time to show them that if no one else does, you care! And that will make a world of difference. Below is a great example of exemplary service from our wonderful guys at Honda of Concord that definitely know that great customer service takes a team to make it all happen, from finance to gas in the tank Mark, Tim, and Michael you all are rockstars!
I wanted to take a minute and thank you for the professional team that you have in place. I believe that as a result of their efforts you have gained another loyal customer.
On June 23rd I came to your dealership to inquire about purchasing a used Honda Accord coupe. When I arrived I met Michael Penninger, who reviewed a couple of options with me to include vehicles that were in stock and also in inventory at other locations. After reviewing these options he introduced me to Mark Seymour. They both suggest another option to consider, specifically to purchase a new vehicle and take advantage of the promotional offer of 0.9% interest through Honda finance. Mark and Michael worked to offer an aggressive price. As I prefer to consider large purchases carefully, I thanked them for their time and left.
Since I was pleased with the Accord coupe, I decided to investigate other options in the Charlotte area. Through a web search I found another at a Hyundai dealership in south Charlotte that had a 2010 Accord. On June 25th, I drove down to see this vehicle. It was in great condition and had only ~13,000 miles. They offered a price that was the “internet priceâ€, and would not negotiate from that price at all. Although I found this frustrating, I thought this was a vehicle to consider. Hyundai invited me to drive the vehicle over night (I guess this is a way to guarantee I come back), which I did. That evening I searched again on a number of websites, (yours, Carmax, Cars.com, and others) and found that it was the best value for the mileage, condition of the car, and trim package in the Charlotte area.
On June 26th Mark reached out to me to find out how my car search was going. I informed him that I was actually driving a car from the Hyundai dealership. I also informed him the details of the deal they had offered me. He asked for the opportunity to offer a comparable offer on a new accord. Based on the rapport we had developed, I agreed to consider it. When Mark called back he explained that he could offer a competitive option considering improvements in price and the more favorable interest rate. He moved me from the used to a new car for about 20 Dollars a month. In short he sold me out of a car I was actually driving into a new vehicle from your dealership.
When I returned to the Hyundai dealership that afternoon, they finally tried to improve the offer from the “internet priceâ€, which was pointless as I had decided to purchase the new vehicle. (Had they negotiated the night before it would have been more difficult for Mark and your team to move me from the used 2010 to a new 2012.)
That evening I returned to your dealership and worked with Michael to complete the paperwork to purchase the vehicle. I was then handed off to Tim who helped with the financing and documentation process. He completed this in a professional and courteous manner. During this time Michael worked to ensure that my car was washed and had gas. Michael then showed me a number of features of the vehicle, to include how to connect my phone to the blue-tooth in the car.
In summary, your dealership earned my business as a result of the following:
• The professional team that you have developed.
• The ability to offer and educate consumers benefits of promotional offers
• The willingness to develop a relationship versus just selling a vehicle displayed by listening to my needs and then looking for solutions to those needs
I would be happy to offer any other feedback to yourself or another member of your team.
One additional thought, I have received a number of emails from your team about a survey from Honda about my experience, however I have not actually received an email from Honda about this survey.
Thank You
Name Withheld
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Getting a great deal on the Honda you've been waiting for is like the happy ending to a Hollywood movie. From "Action/Adventure" to "Family Comedy," there are lots of great endings to the Honda Summer Clearance Event. Get to your Honda dealer and find yours, today! |
From:Honda
Views:92
6ratings |
| Time:00:31 | More inAutos & Vehicles |
Did you know?
Every two seconds someone in America gets a blood transfusion. Five million patients will need blood this year.
Many people believe that they will never need blood in their lifetime; however they find themselves in challenging circumstances that will soon erase this belief. A blood donor can assist up to three patients with every one donation, so that means with a ten minute donation you can give someone the possibility of years of life.
Clearing some misconceptions
Many people have the misconception that if they give blood, they will not have enough for their own body to function properly, which is untrue. You actually have more than enough blood to give as long as you are healthy enough and age appropriate to donate.
People also believe that it is the Red Cross asking for blood donations for their own use, which is also untrue. The Red Cross asks on behalf of the many patients that are in dire need of your donation whether it be because of a disease and they require a transfusion or a victim of an accident, either patient will be grateful for your heroism.
So come out and share a gift that will leave a lasting impact on someone's life and you get free juice and cookies with your donation!
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The Accord is back and better than ever. Check out some of the head-turning available features, such as paddle shifters, GPS navi system and a V-6 engine in this video!For more information, visit http://automobiles.honda.com/accord-coupe/Important Information Disclaimers:[1] MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $770.00 destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.[2] 23 city/32 hwy/26 combined mpg for 4-cylinder models with manual transmission. 22 city/33 hwy/26 combined mpg for 4-cylinder models with automatic transmission. 17 city/26 hwy/21 combined mpg for V-6 models with manual transmission. 19 city/29hwy/23 combined mpg for V-6 models with automatic transmission. Based on 2012 EPA mileage estimates. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.[3] iPod® is a registered trademark of Apple Inc.[4] The USB Audio Interface is used for direct connection to and control of some current digital audio players and other USB devices that contain MP3, WMA or AAC music files. Some USB devices with security software and digital rights-protected files may not work. Please see your Honda dealer for details.[5] The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and any use of such marks by Honda Motor Co., Ltd., is under license.[6] The Honda Satellite Linked Navigation System™ is available on EX-L models in the United States, except Alaska. Please see your Honda dealer for details.[7] Paddle shifters available on EX-L V-6 AT models only.[8] Based on 2012 EPA mileage estimates. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle. |
From:Honda
Views:27
1ratings |
| Time:01:30 | More inAutos & Vehicles |
He currently has a collection of over 500 pairs of sneakers, all of which are white.
In the very first episode of "Seinfeld", the first conversation was between George and Jerry about a button. In the very last episode, when they were sitting in jail, the last conversation they had was the same thing about the button.
Honda has been recognized as the "Brand of the Year" in the "Full Line Automotive" category according to the 2012 Harris Poll EquiTrend® study. Honda received the highest numerical Equity Score among full line automotive brands included in the 2012 Harris Poll EquiTrend® study1. Harris Poll EquiTrend is an annual brand health assessment from Harris Interactive that surveys thousands of U.S. consumers online about their brand perceptions, measuring key touchstones including familiarity, quality and purchase consideration.
"This study offers strong evidence that the Honda brand continues to be well-regarded by American consumers," said Mike Accavitti, vice president of National Marketing Operations for American Honda. "The combination of strong brand equity and a fresh line-up of new models that resonate with customers will drive strong growth for us this year."
Connect with Honda:
Media Newsroom (for journalists): www.hondanews.com
For consumers: http://automobiles.honda.com
YouTube: www.youtube.com/honda
Flickr: www.flickr.com/hondanews
Twitter: www.twitter.com/honda
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Honda
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/honda/
On Google+
1The 2012 Harris Poll EquiTrend® study was based on opinions of 38,529 U.S. consumers ages 15 and over surveyed online between January 31 and February 20, 2012. Your opinion may differ. "Highest Ranked" and "Brand of the Year" were determined by a pure ranking of a sample of full line automotive brands.
"In 1997, the CR-V was one of the few compact crossovers, and Honda got it right from the start. With its slim proportions, all-wheel drive and generous cargo room, the CR-V is about as utilitarian as anyone really needs. The 4-cylinder engines are snappy and good on fuel...there's a lot of well-engineered car here."
BROOKLYN, Mich. – Dale Earnhardt Jr. found Victory Lane for the first time in four years after winning the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event at Michigan International Speedway on Sunday. This is his 19th career Cup win, and second for team owner Rick Hendrick.
A two hour rain delay stalled the long awaited Earnhardt victory, but once the green flag dropped the No. 88 Diet Mountain Dew/The Dark Knight Rises/National Guard Chevrolet rose through the field to recreate his first win as a Hendrick Motorsports driver and bring the stands to their feet. His first win behind the wheel of the No. 88 Chevrolet came on June 15, 2008 when he led 14 laps at the Michigan track.
“It’s pretty amazing,†Earnhardt said. “The last 15 laps were the longest laps ever. It’s great to do it for my fans. They stuck behind me for all these years. I know exactly what they’ve been thinking about and how long they’ve wanted to get back to Victory Lane. This is for them. Thanks to them and their support.â€
Earnhardt was joined in the top 10 by his Hendrick Motorsports teammates Jimmie Johnson and Jeff Gordon, who finished fifth and sixth, respectively. Kasey Kahne encountered a late-race issue and was scored with a 33rd-place finish.
Kahne opened the 200-lap race from the second row, leading his teammates and starting fourth. While Johnson qualified 10th, the No. 48 team chose to replace the engine of the Lowe’s Chevrolet and started the race from the rear of the field. Earnhardt and Gordon lined up 17th and 28th, respectively.
The Hendrick Motorsports teammates battled a slick track during the first Cup race at the newly repaved Michigan oval. As the day progressed, the drivers reported loose handling and took advantage of early-race cautions to make adjustments.
On Lap 25, NASCAR called for a competition caution where Earnhardt, Gordon and Johnson made gains coming off pit road. Kahne continued to address a loose No. 5 Farmers Insurance Chevrolet, dropping outside of the top 15.
Earnhardt’s Batman-themed No. 88 Diet Mountain Dew/The Dark Knight Rises/National Guard Chevrolet began to rise through the pack after the Lap 25 caution. He gained 15 positions to run 11th before the second competition caution on Lap 50. The crowd jumped to its feet as the winner of the June 2008 event at Michigan charged to the lead just 20 laps later.
Gordon cracked the top five for the first time during the 400-mile event shortly after his teammate took the lead. The No. 24 team executed a quick two-tire pit stop to climb into fourth position during a caution for debris on Lap 81. While Earnhardt and Gordon restarted in the top five, Johnson was 16th and Kahne sat in 21st.
After the sixth caution of the race, Gordon lined up to lead on the restart, followed by Earnhardt in the Batman-themed Chevrolet. Before the drivers could complete a circuit around the two-mile track, Kahne was collected in a multi-car incident when a competitor got loose on the backstretch. The No. 5 Farmers Insurance Chevrolet was taken to the garage where the team put a new front end on the racecar. Kahne returned to the track with roughly 40 laps to go and was ultimately scored 33rd.
With 50 laps to go, the remaining Hendrick Motorsports teammates ran together in the top 10. Led by Earnhardt and the No. 88 Chevrolet, Gordon ran in third while Johnson climbed to seventh. The driver of the Batman-themed Chevrolet never looked back.
Johnson continued to work his way up in the No. 48 Lowe’s Chevrolet to earn his eighth top-five finish of the season, while Gordon maintained his footing in the top 10 to finish sixth.
Team owner Rick Hendrick was not physically in attendance at Michigan, but anxiously watched the laps wind down from his home in North Carolina.
“I was doing laps around my couch, trying to end this race,†Hendrick said. “Man, Batman was in a hurry. I was too nervous to stand still. Linda and I were just watching it, come on, no problems. I was so afraid there was going to be a caution, or something was going to happen.â€
Hendrick’s fears were unnecessary. The race ended without further incident and Earnhardt safely made his way to Victory Lane, continuing his strong season.
“Dale is just—he’s just switched on,†Hendrick said about the race winner. “He’s got the confidence, Stevie has got the touch and every week they’re the best by far. I think he’s sitting in the cat bird seat to win his first championship.â€
After the event in Michigan, Earnhardt holds steady at second in the driver standings. Johnson improved one position to take fourth, Kahne held at 16th and Gordon moved to 20th.
ROSSBURG, Ohio – Jimmie Johnson and Kasey Kahne will line up for the Prelude to the Dream on Wednesday at Eldora Speedway. The charity event will be televised live starting at 8 p.m. ET on HBO Pay-Per-View (check local listings).
The seventh annual event highlights modern-day drivers returning to the roots of car racing by competing on a dirt track in a dirt late model stock car. This event allows avid fans to not only see the origins of the sport, but also to experience racing’s biggest names performing beyond their routine element. The drivers do not compete for points and winnings, but for charity, as the 2012 pay-per-view proceeds will benefit Feed The Children. For the top-10 finishers in the Prelude to the Dream, Feed The Children will send a food truck to each driver’s hometown or city of their choice.
Johnson, who hails from El Cajon, Calif., won the 2010 race driving the No. 48 Lowe’s Chevrolet. Overall, he has recorded one win and two top-10 finishes in four starts at Eldora.
Kahne, a native of Enumclaw, Wash., has competed in the dirt race five straight years, tallying four top-10 finishes during that time. He posted his best result of sixth in 2007.
The drivers will trade their typical race-day Chevrolet Impalas for late model cars that are a little bit longer, wider and shorter. To see a side-by-side comparison of the cars, click here.
The seven previous Prelude To The Dream events have collectively raised more than $3.5 million. With each year’s event gaining significant stature and mainstream interest, Tony Stewart’s ultimate goal is to have the 2012 Prelude To The Dream raise $1 million, with the proceeds benefitting Feed The Children.
For more information, visit http://www.preludetothedream.org.
American Honda today reported May 2012 U.S. sales of 133,997 units, an increase of 47.6 percent compared to May 2011 (an increase of 36.3 percent based on the daily selling rate*). The Honda Division posted May 2012 sales of 119,411 units, an increase of 46.0 percent compared to May 2011. Acura’s U.S. May sales of 14,586 units increased 62.1 percent compared to May 2011.
Honda
- Civic sales up more than 80 percent compared to May 2011; an exceptional sales figure for any month, Honda sold 33,490 Civics in May
- CR-V sets a May sales record (25,186 units), besting previous record by 5,226 units, leading Honda to a May record for light truck sales
- Accord sales (29,737 units) continue to show strength in the tough mid-size segment, up more than 70 percent from May 2011
"With our best May sales performance since before the financial crisis it’s obvious Honda’s return to strength is in full swing,, and our May sales are impressive irrespective of last year’s production supply problems,†said John Mendel, American Honda executive vice president of sales. “Any time Honda Civic sales surpass 33,000 units in a month, it shows real demand in the marketplace."
Acura
- Total Acura sales of 14,586 units were up 62.1 percent, making this Acura’s best month since December of 2010
- The RDX had its best sales month ever (3,301 units), with May 2012 sales up 216.8 percent. The RDX is expected to be at the top of the compact luxury SUV segment
- Overall, Acura light trucks posted a best-ever May result of 8,226 units, up 64.7 percent
- The all-new ILX compact luxury sedan went on sale May 22. As dealer inventory builds, the ILX marketing campaign launches with national TV advertising beginning in early June with the NBA conference finals on ESPN
“With the new RDX setting an all-time sales record this month, Acura went well beyond recovering from last year’s supply issues,†said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. “Now, with the new ILX reaching dealerships across America, Acura is just beginning a great new hot streak.â€
*The daily selling rate (DSR) is calculated with 26 days for May 2012 and 24 days for May 2011. Year-to-date, the DSR is calculated with 127 days for 2012 and 126 days for 2011. All other percentages in release are unadjusted; see table for adjusted DSR figures.
For more information about Honda vehicles, please visit www.automobiles.honda.com. For media inquiries please visit www.hondanews.com. For more information about Acura vehicles, please visit www.acura.com. For media inquiries please visit www.acuranews.com.
CONCORD, N.C. – Kasey Kahne gave Hendrick Motorsports’ its second straight NASCAR Sprint Cup win of the 2012 season after he drove his No. 5 Quaker State Chevrolet to Victory Lane on Sunday at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Earlier this month, Jimmie Johnson collected Hendrick Motorsports’ 200th Cup victory on May 12 at Darlington (S.C.) Raceway.
Sunday’s win at Charlotte marked the 13th victory of his career and his first with Hendrick Motorsports. Kahne is the 16th driver to win a Sprint Cup event under the Hendrick Motorsports banner. He also becomes just the third driver to win in his 300th career Cup start, joining Hall of Famers Ned Jarrett and Rusty Wallace.
“It feels really good,†said Kahne, who now has a career-best four victories at Charlotte. “It’s so special and awesome to drive for Rick and Linda Hendrick. For them to make me part of their company, it’s unbelievable. Our Hendrick engine was awesome. I had a brand new car that so many people put a lot of effort into.â€
Kahne, who jumps to 15th in the driver standings, was joined in the top 11 by teammates Dale Earnhardt Jr. (sixth), Jeff Gordon (seventh) and Jimmie Johnson (11th). Earnhardt ranks fourth in the driver standings; Johnson moves into fifth and Gordon holds 22nd after Sunday’s race.
Driving Hendrick Motorsports’ original entry, Kahne lined up seventh for his 300th career Cup start. He remained inside the top 10 with teammates Johnson and Earnhardt as his team fine-tuned the handling on the No. 5 Chevrolet. Meanwhile, his teammate Gordon was the biggest mover early in the race and climbed from his 23rd starting spot to run ninth within the first 100 laps. The driver of the No. 24 Drive to End Hunger Chevrolet claimed the lead on Lap 135 as the drivers cycled through green-flag pit stops and held on to pace the field for four laps.
On Lap 220, Kahne made his move to the leader spot and paced the field for two laps during another round of green-flag stops. Sixty-one laps later, the driver of the No. 5 Chevrolet was running away with the lead again.
With 50 laps left in Sunday’s race, the Hendrick Motorsports teammates had the handling down on their Chevrolets, and the drivers accounted for four of the 10 cars running on the lead lap. Kahne was leading the field, while Johnson was running third, Earnhardt fourth and Gordon in eighth.
On Lap 354, Kahne made his way down pit road for a quick adjustment and four tires. The No. 5 team quickly addressed the issues and sent Kahne back onto the track in the lead, while Johnson’s efficient two-tire stop was affected after he left his pit stall with the gas can still engaged. Johnson served a stop-and-go penalty and returned to the track in the rear of the field.
Earnhardt, meanwhile, stopped during the same caution period without incident in his No. 88 National Guard-An American Salute/Diet Mountain Dew Chevrolet and returned to join leader Kahne in the top 10. Gordon’s No. 24 team addressed a handling issue during his stop one lap later, and the driver of the No. 24 Drive to End Hunger Chevrolet remained eighth.
Johnson began his climb through the field, and his Hendrick Motorsports teammates maintained their positions inside the top 10. Johnson drove the No. 48 Lowe’s Patriotic Chevrolet through the field to finish 11th.
“We had a couple little mistakes on pit road tonight, and it took us out of a chance for a top three there, but it happens,†said Johnson, who ranks fifth in the driver standings. “Last week, it couldn’t have gone any better. But these guys will work their tails off this week, and we’ll get those things corrected.â€
Franchitti Claims Third "500" Win in Honda 1-2 Finish
Dario Franchitti came from the rear of the field to win a dramatic Indianapolis 500 Sunday at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, leading Target Chip Ganassi Racing teammate Scott Dixon to the checkered flag in a 1-2 finish for Honda in near-record heat and humidity. It is the third Indianapolis 500 victory for Franchitti, and the third for Honda with engine manufacturer competition.
After starting 16th, Franchitti was hit during his first pit stop by the car of E.J. Viso, spinning Franchitti around and dropping him to the rear of the field. But he fought back to the front, reaching the lead for the first time on Lap 151 and then entering into a multi-car battle for the victory over the final laps.
Once at the front of the field, Franchitti spent the late laps trading the lead with Dixon, part of a record 34 lead changes during the race; while the Honda Dallaras of Takuma Sato and Justin Wilson; as well as the cars of Tony Kanaan and Ed Carpenter all looked like potential race winners.
Carpenter was the first to fall by the wayside, spinning without contact on Lap 180. On the Lap 184 restart, Kanaan jumped from fourth to the front on the run to Turn One, but the yellow came out again just three laps later as Marco Andretti spun and crashed without injury.
On Lap 194, the green flag waved for the final time and both Franchitti and Dixon passed Kanaan. Sato also was quickly past Kanaan and then Dixon. On Lap 199, Sato moved alongside Franchitti and attempted a last-lap pass for the lead as they entered Turn One. But Sato lost control mid-corner, made contact with Franchitti and then spun hard into the wall, crashing without injury.
Franchitti was momentarily sideways, but corrected for the slide and claimed his third Indianapolis 500 victory, and the 96th IndyCar win for Target Chip Ganassi Racing at the 96th running of the Memorial Day weekend classic. Dixon finished second, with Honda drivers Justin Wilson seventh, Charlie Kimball in eighth and Townsend Bell, ninth.
The IZOD IndyCar Series now enters June with a run of four consecutive race weekends, starting with the June 3 Belle Isle Grand Prix temporary street circuit race in Detroit, Michigan, followed by oval races at Texas Motor Speedway, The Milwaukee Mile and Iowa Speedway.
Dario Franchitti (#50 Target Chip Ganassi Racing Honda) started 16th, finished 1st, his third Indianapolis 500 victory, 31st IndyCar victory (all with Honda power) and first win of 2012: "I moved over for Takuma [Sato]. I knew he was coming and I moved up the track. I felt it was a good move, but he got loose underneath me. It was the last lap of the Indianapolis 500 and I didn't expect him to lift. I think he did everything right up until the point he lost the rear of the car. It kind of reminded me of Emerson [Fittipaldi] and Little Al [Unser, at the 1994 Indianapolis 500] at the end there. This means the world. This is Indianapolis.
I also have to say 'thank you' to Honda. I have all of my [IndyCar] wins with them and today showed us all exactly why. They worked incredibly hard throughout the event, and never more so than in the week after qualifying. Honda showed us all today what they can accomplish."
Scott Dixon (#9 Target Chip Ganassi Racing Honda) qualified 15th, finished 2nd, led 53 laps: "We had the car to win today. Between the efforts of the team and Honda we had the power, reliability and mileage we needed, but at the end it was Dario's race. He did a hell of a job today, so I'm super happy for him, but super gutted for myself. Still, it couldn't be a better day, a 1-2 finish for the Target Chip Ganassi team at the Indianapolis 500."
Art St. Cyr (President, Honda Performance Development) on today's Honda victory in the Indianapolis 500: "This is why we go racing. To be able to participate in such a competitive race is one of the most amazing things in my career with Honda. It was an exciting day, and a great race for the fans - but pretty stressful for the participants! Any of several Honda drivers would have been a deserving winner today, but somehow it seemed destined that this was Dario's day. He drove a fantastic race, never giving up after getting hit during his first pit stop. It was an inspiring drive, and an incredible race, that had all of us riveted throughout. My congratulations to all our associates at Honda Performance Development, who worked so hard to make this victory a reality. What a great day."
Honda has captured three of AutoPacific's 2012 Vehicle Satisfaction Awards for the 2012 Honda CR-V, Odyssey and Pilot, and four of Total Car Score's inaugural Top Scoring Car Awards for the 2012 Honda Ridgeline, Fit, Odyssey and CR-V.
"It's fantastic to have so much of Honda's outstanding product line represented in these awards," said Michael Accavitti, vice president of marketing operations for American Honda. "AutoPacific's awards tell us we're creating truly satisfied owners, and the Total Car Score awards demonstrate how widely and well regarded Honda's products are among top authoritative sites."
AutoPacific's 2012 Vehicle Satisfaction Awards (VSA) are based on over 75,000 surveys completed by owners of new cars and light trucks in the United States in the first quarter of 2012.The VSAs are based solely on owner input, and are an accurate measurement of how satisfied new car and light truck buyers are with their recently purchased vehicle.
The Top Scoring Car Awards are based on Total Car Score's ranking formula, which utilizes the ratings from trusted automotive sites converted into a simple percentage. These ratings are translated into a single Total Car Score that allows car shoppers to quickly and easily compare cars.
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