CHICAGO, February 27, 2003 -- A U.S. District Court judge has continued until June 15th the hearing in which General Motors sought a temporary injunction against Avanti Motor Corp. over the design of Avanti's new Studebaker XUV (Xtreme Utility Vehicle).

General Motors' suit contends that Avanti's Studebaker XUV "knocks off" the shape of GM's Hummer H2 and will confuse the public. The hearing in Michigan's Eastern District, South Division of the U.S. District Court, originally scheduled for February 17, was postponed until Wednesday, Feb. 26 due to the judge's concerns over the jurisdiction of the case.

"It had to be a major disappointment for GM," said a spokesperson for Avanti Motor Corp. "As they continue their bullish ways, it just creates more interest for Avanti."

Avanti officials have noted that besides featuring a completely different body style, thr Studebaker XUV features sliding rear side doors and a sliding rear roof, first seen on the 1963 Studebaker Wagonaire.

Avanti Motor Corp., the largest independent carmaker in the United States, plans to begin production of the Studebaker XUV sometime this fall. Approximately 1,000 of the vehicles are expected to be manufactured at Avanti's facility in Villa Rica, Ga.

The 2004 Avanti Studebaker XUV measures 80 inches wide, 79.6 inches tall and 215.5 inches long, with a 134-inch wheelbase and a curb weight of 5,900 lbs. It is offered with either a 325-horsepower, 6.0-liter turbo-diesel V8 or a 310-hp, 6.8-liter V10. The V10 may be equipped with an optional supercharger, which raises the engine rating to 425 hp. A five-speed automatic transmission will be offered with both engines. The Studebaker's use of the Ford F-250 platform will enable the vehicle to be serviced by an established dealer network. Their starting price is approximately $75,000.

For more information and photos of the vehicles' differences, visit the company's website at www.avantimotors.com and search the press releases.

 

Chicago, IL - February 18, 2003 -- Avanti Motor Corp. had their first victory in the case recently filed against them by General Motors. A U.S. District Court judge delayed the hearing in which GM was seeking a temporary injunction against Avanti Motor Corp. until February 26, 2003 because of jurisdictional concerns.

Avanti Motor Corporation will keep their Studebaker Xtreme Utility Vehicle (XUV) in the Chicago Auto Show. General Motors had initially requested that the vehicle be removed.

Avanti Motor Corporation Chairman and CEO Michael E. Kelly stated that he feels Studebaker would not have gotten nearly this much recognition if not for GM bringing it into the spotlight. Kelly said "We are extremely excited for our new XUV, the public support for the XUV and Avanti has been tremendous."

Kelly reaffirmed that Avanti Motor Corporation will continue taking the necessary steps to produce the 2004 Studebaker XUV. "Car buyers will certainly not be confused," said Kelly. "Put both vehicles side by side, and the distinct differences are apparent."