Saturday, October 26, 2013
Lock It Up 2014 Chevrolet Impala Offers Secure Info Storage
The new Impala’s available 8-inch center stack display is an interactive touch screen for the next-generation Chevrolet MyLink system but doubles as a PIN-activated retractable faceplate over a secure storage bin large enough to hold valuables like a wallet, MP3 player and smartphone. Addresses and contacts stored on MyLink also remain PIN-protected.
“Valet mode is the kind of feature that Impala customers will appreciate,” said Chris Perry, Chevrolet vice president of Global Marketing. “It is one of many great new features on our newest MyLink and a small part of Impala’s overall technology package.”
Impala owners will be able to access valet mode through MyLink’s Settings menu via a four-digit code, much like on a hotel safe. A confirmation entry of the code simultaneously locks the bin and secures personal information.
Chevrolet customer clinic participants showed avid interest in valet mode, particularly young car buyers who valued MyLink’s information privacy protection feature. Impala’s hidden bin also addresses customers’ frequently expressed need for a secure place to keep personal items out of sight.
“We were able to move the MyLink system’s electronics to another location in the vehicle, effectively creating the space behind the touch screen,” said Matt Highstrom, General Motors human-machine interface designer.
In addition to privacy protection, Impala’s next-generation MyLink system allows for increased personalization. Owners can click and drag icons on the home screen located in the center stack, similar to operating a smartphone or tablet.
Using consumer research, including interviews and online voting, designers of the award-winning MyLink developed four specific graphic appearances or “skins,” selectable through the Settings menu, designed to appeal to distinct customer group personalities. They include:
Contemporary – Clean, simple interface that’s neither overly colorful nor busy, geared to busy moms and families.
Edge – Youth-oriented, dynamic feel with vibrant colors and pop culture-inspired icons.
Velocity – Sleek, with carbon fiber background appearance and glowing neon, aimed at driving enthusiasts.
Main Street – An all-around, crowd-pleasing design using primary colors.
These and other functions, including valet mode, will be rolled out to other Chevrolet models featuring the next-generation MyLink system.
“We can’t design a custom Impala interior for every customer, but we can give them the next best thing – an infotainment system that reflects their tastes and features that meet their needs,” said Matt Fuligni, design manager, Chevrolet User Experience.
The 2014 Impala will begin production this spring and eventually will be offered with three engine choices. A 3.6L V6 will be available at launch, starting at $30,760 including destination charges.
Courtesy of Chevrolet News
Sunday, October 20, 2013
News Toyota Offers 1 000 off a Prius c
College was tough. A non-stop onslaught of tests and homework that left you with a diploma and the tools to start a career. If youre asking yourself what you get out of all of this hardwork look no further than Toyota Motor Sales.
Toyota has decided for all your hard work you should have a Toyota Prius c. To sweeten the deal they are offering recent and soon to be graduates a $1000 rebate for the Prius c of their choice. Toyota also offers College Graduate Finance program that offers special financing to students purchasing their first car.
With the $1,000 rebate the cost of a Prius c One fall to $17,950 MSRP
Will this be enough to draw eco-friendly and frugal Millenials into the Toyota family? If youre interested in the program check out the stipulations below.
How to Qualify: You must meet all of these conditions:
Get that degree! To take advantage of the program you must:
Have graduated from an accredited four-year college, university, or registered nursing degree program during the last two years or graduate from such a school/program within the next six months, or
Have graduated from an accredited two-year college during the last two years, or
Be enrolled in an accredited graduate degree program or have received a degree from an accredited graduate program during the last two years, or
Have graduated during the last two years from the two-year Toyota Technical Education Network (T-TEN) Program or any other two-year post secondary automotive program accredited by the NATEF, or
Have completed an electrician apprenticeship/cert. program during the last two years through NJATC and IBEW.
Get a job! Show proof of present employment, or future employment with a start date within 120 days of your purchase contract date. TFS must deem your salary sufficient to cover living expenses and vehicle payments.
Minor credit lapses allowed! Obligations paid within 60 days or less of the due date and non-credit related (e.g., rent, utilities, health club membership, etc.) charge-offs less than $1,000 in the past 24 months are acceptable.
On approved credit through participating Toyota dealers and Toyota Financial Services. Not all applicants will qualify. Terms, conditions and restrictions apply.
Source: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. (TMS)