New cars, company acquisitions and more!

General Motors Poised To Build Small Cadillac SUV

GM is gearing up to build a new Cadillac crossover, and has begun building test versions of the XT4 at its assembly plant in Kansas City, according to sources. The XT4 will have a dual mission.

First, to give SUV-loving luxury buyers more options in Cadillac showrooms. Second, to make better, more economical use of the OEM’s Kansas assembly plant, where the Malibu is currently built and where the XT4 will use similar underpinnings.

The XT4 will be smaller than the current XT5 and will compete with such luxury marques as the BMW X3 and Audi Q3. “It’s a new architecture for us, and it is up to the task,” said Cadillac President Johan de Nysschen. “It’s the right size, dynamics and sophistication to attain what I believe is worthy of a Cadillac in this segment.”

Katzkin Leather Interiors Displayed At Chicago Auto Show

When the Chicago Auto Show kicked off in February at McCormick Place, Katzkin Leather’s custom interiors were prominently displayed in Nissan’s concept Armada ‘Snow Patrol’ vehicle, as well as the all-new Jeep Wrangler and Ram 1500 by Mopar.

Such partnerships, said the company, open the channels for consumers to learn about Katzkin products, while better visualizing how similar designs can blend with their own personality to create an interior transformation. “Leather is an option in virtually every vehicle with cloth. We have the unique ability to personalize one’s vehicle, new or used, to their own taste and desires, creating an opportunity to love your drive, even before turning on the ignition,” said Tim Clyde, Katzkin CEO. www.katzkin.com.

Tint World Named To Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 List

For the fourth consecutive year, Tint World Automotive Styling Centers, an automotive customization and window tinting franchise, has been named to Entrepreneur Magazine’s 500 list. “Our owners and corporate team have worked so hard to take advantage of our momentum and stay on a list in the company of so many other amazing brands,” said CEO Charles J. Bonfiglio.

Entrepreneur’s annual ranking of top franchise companies considers financial strength, growth, stability and overall size. “For the past four years, we’ve developed our business strategies, secured very strategic partnerships, and extended our reach,” added Bonfiglio. “We’re excited about the new year ahead of us, and we look forward to continuing our growth and adding members to the Tint World family.” www.tintworld.com.

Bestop Acquires KAMM Industries

Bestop Premium Accessories Group (BPAG), manufacturer of aftermarket products for the Jeep®, trucks and UTVs, announced the acquisition of PRP Seats, Status Racing and SpeedStrap, all owned by KAMM Industries.

“PRP Seats, Status Racing and SpeedStrap are premier-quality names in this space, and we are thrilled to work with them,” stated BPAG CEO John Larson. “The addition of these three brands in the Bestop Premium Accessories Group family further positions us as the leading provider of top-of-the-line off-road driving accessories.” www.bestop.com.

Mickey Thompson Tires & Wheels Expands Footprint

Mickey Thompson’s street, strip, truck and off-road tires and wheels are now rolling out of a new facility in the company’s hometown of Stow, Ohio. The company’s new state-of-the-art headquarters and warehouse encompasses 200,000 sq. ft., including office space. The facility serves as the eastern distribution center and corporate headquarters for Mickey Thompson and Dick Cepek brands. www.mickeythompsontires.com.

Edelbrock To Host 13^th Annual Car Show

Automotive enthusiasts are invited to enjoy a day of hot rods and custom rides, food and live entertainment at Edelbrock’s 13^th Annual Car Show. The event is slated for 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 5, at the company’s corporate headquarters in Torrance, Calif.

In addition to more than 400 display vehicles, aftermarket manufacturers will be on hand to showcase their products. The show will also host the Hot Rodders of Tomorrow Engine Challenge and Kids Corner. Spectator entry is free.

On Friday, May 4, Edelbrock will open the doors of its headquarters and manufacturing facility to the public, and provide guided tours of its Research & Development, Manufacturing and Quality Control departments. Tours will run from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Limited spots are available. To register for a tour, visit www.edelbrockcarshow.com.

Automotive Care Laboratories Inks Partnership With West Coast Customs

Automotive Care Laboratories (ACL) has reached agreement with West Coast Customs to develop an expanding line of car care products, fuel and oil additives, and multiple products in adjacent categories, as the exclusive marketer and distributor for the branded portfolio.

The strategic implementation with West Coast Customs for the car care and engine oil additives categories reflects ACL’s continued commitment to strategic value-based expansion, according to Atticus Firey, ACL’s CEO. “I’m honored to be working with Ryan Friedlinghaus and his team as we aggressively roll out their premium, highly successful brand in all relevant categories and countries,” said Firey.

Cars.com Names Ram Best Of Show

Ram unveiled a number of changes to its popular 1500 lineup at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Following the reveal, the editors of Cars.com named the all-new Ram 1500 Best of Show.

In determining the Best of Show, Cars.com experts considered new vehicles for their innovation, overall show impact and execution of claims.  “Ram climbed to the top of the heap for its blend of capability, comfort, technology and efficiency,” Cars.com reported.

Besides a sophisticated 12-inch touch screen with 360-degree camera views and other features, the truck also boasts an array of active safety and security systems. Overall weight for the Ram has been reduced by 225 lbs., and a new eTorque mild hybrid system delivers improved fuel efficiency in both V6 and V8 configurations.