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February 6, 2010

Today in automotive history: on this day in 1985 Walter L. Jacobs, founder of the first car rental company, died. Although he was "not exactly" the founder of the Hertz Corporation, Jacobs' car rental business became the Hertz Corporation after it was purchased by John Hertz in 1923. Read more about this day in history at The History Channel.

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Toyota head issues apology
Toyota Motor Corp. President Akio Toyoda, in his first public appearance since a safety crisis engulfed the Japanese automaker, apologized Friday for the recalls. Bowing deeply at a news conference in Nagoya, Toyoda, the grandson of the automaker's founder, said he deeply regretted the worry and inconvenience caused by recent big recalls. The automaker is struggling with the biggest problem in its recent history after recalling some 9 million cars and trucks around the world to fix faulty pedals and address other acceleration-related issues. "We, the ones supposed to relay to people the attractiveness of automobiles, have instead imparted on them worry. I regret this more than anything," Toyoda said.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Auto suppliers see better times ahead
Continued positive earnings and outlooks from major suppliers reflect a growing sense the worst is behind the auto industry, analysts said Friday. "I'm very positive about the industry going forward," said Jim Gillette, supplier analyst with CSM Worldwide in Grand Rapids. "The industry has risen from the depths of despair from even six months ago." American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings Inc. reported fourth-quarter earnings of $48.6 million compared with a $112.1 million loss a year ago. Net loss for the year was $253.1 million, far less than 2008's net loss of $1.2 billion. "We expect to be solidly profitable in 2010," said Chief Financial Officer Mike Simonte. The Detroit supplier expects 2010 revenue to increase as much as 40 percent to $1.9 billion to $2.1 billion.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Toyota preparing to announce Prius fix
Toyota Motor Corp. notified its more than 1,200 U.S. dealers that it is working on a solution to complaints of unresponsive brakes in its third-generation Prius hybrids and will disclose a remedy next week. Bob Carter, general manager of Toyota-brand sales in the United States, told dealers in an e-mail that the company would disclose details early next week, the company confirmed Saturday. "We want to assure our dealers that we are moving rapidly to provide a solution for your existing customers. We will share more specific details on this solution early next week," Carter wrote, according to an e-mail reviewed by The Detroit News. "Whether this would be a service bulletin, service campaign or recall hasn't been determined." Safety regulators in the U.S. and Japan have asked Toyota about the Prius brakes after receiving complaints, including at least 124 in the United States. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says the problem is suspected in four crashes and two minor injuries.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Subaru Legacy Limited's transmission is a peek at future
More cars in the future will resemble the 2010 Subaru Legacy Limited, whether we like it or not. While this all-wheel drive sedan is fun, capable and good looking, it's also got a CVT connected to its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This continuously variable transmission is going to take some getting used to. But there's no doubting that they're going to be inside future cars because they undeniably provide better gas mileage. The base Legacy with a 6-speed manual transmission and the same engine gets 19 miles per gallon in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. But the Limited, which offers the CVT as standard, gets 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway -- those are certainly noticeable differences.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Brake glitch may give Fusion, Milan drivers a scare
Consumer Reports has discovered an issue with some 2010 Ford Fusion hybrids and Mercury Milan hybrids that could lead drivers to mistakenly believe that their brakes have failed, when they have not. No accidents have been attributed and no recall is planned, but Ford will offer owners a free software update that addresses the glitch. "We have received reports that some drivers have experienced a different brake feel when the hybrid's regenerative brakes switch to conventional hydraulic braking. While the vehicles maintain full braking capability, customers may initially perceive the condition as loss of brakes," Ford said in a statement Thursday. Consumer Reports learned about the issue when one of its engineers slowed for a stop outside the magazine's test facility in East Haddam, Conn. He reported that the brake pedal went down farther than normal, and with little effect. The engineer ran the stop sign and coasted to a stop. He noticed that the brake system warning light was illuminated and turned the car off. When he turned it back on, everything worked fine.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) U.S. opens investigation into Prius brakes
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) will open a formal investigation into allegations of momentary loss of braking capability on uneven road surfaces, potholes or bumps in the 2010 Toyota Prius. The Office of Defects Investigation said it has received 124 reports from consumers, including four reports alleging that crashes occurred. Investigators have spoken with consumers and conducted pre-investigatory field work. "Safety is our top priority," said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "That is why in recent weeks NHTSA has also issued a consumer advisory on the recall of several models of Toyota vehicles and the Pontiac Vibe involving pedal entrapment and sticky accelerator pedals. We will continue to monitor these issues closely."   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) B.C. company initiates EV charging network
British Columbia will become the first Canadian province to be fully linked with electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, with the first installation within thirty days and the province linked within a year, according to Greenscape Capital Group. Greenscape will implement the charging station network through its subsidiary Green.Switch Capital and a partnership with Garage Juice Bar, operating as The Juice Bar. The network will be privately financed and will link all of B.C. through the installation of EV charging stations on properties owned or operated by existing Greenscape energy retrofit clients and on other third-party locations. The Juice Bar is also negotiating agreements with several large U.S. municipalities to provide EV charging station networks. The company said the network will consist of single-stall EV plug-in kiosks, installable at parking garages and other strategic locations.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) "Powder Room" offers Canadian rest stop map
The Powder Room, a national education program for people with overactive bladder, offers a cross-Canada highway map of public restrooms, which now includes British Columbia's Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99). Canadians are encouraged to add and rate public restrooms across the country on the Cross-Canada Powder Room Map. Restrooms are rated by their accessibility to the highway, cleanliness and maintenance, line-ups, location and overall decor. The Sea-to-Sky Highway map, designed for those travelling to Vancouver this month for the Olympic and Paralymic Games, includes locations in Horseshoe Bay, Lions Bay, Britannia Beach, Shannon Falls, Squamish, Garibaldi Highlands and Whistler.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) Nissan scores lone "Good" rating in new roof tests
The Nissan Frontier had the strongest roof, while the Chevrolet Colorado rated the weakest, in the first-ever rollover protection tests done by the U.S. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for small pickup trucks. The Frontier, which is also sold as the Suzuki Equator, was the only pickup in the group of five vehicles to earn the highest rating of "Good." The Ford Ranger was rated "Acceptable," while the Dodge Dakota, Toyota Tacoma, and Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon earned the second-lowest rating of "Marginal." The rating system is based on IIHS research showing that occupants in rollover crashes benefit from stronger roofs. Vehicles rated "Good" must have roofs that are more than twice as strong as the minimum required under the new current federal safety standard.   [more]   [top of page]

YAHOO NEWS (SOUTH AFRICA) Drunk driver had 49 children in 16-seat taxi
A South African minibus taxi driver five times over the legal blood alcohol limit at breakfast time was arrested on Wednesday for transporting 49 children in a 16-seat vehicle. The 26-year-old man was pulled over at a routine check-point in KwaZulu-Natal province, where traffic officials found the children, aged between three and 13, crammed on top of each other for the morning ride to school. "The man is now behind bars," Colin Govender of the Road Traffic Inspectorate said. The driver is due to appear in court on Thursday. With the soccer World Cup just months away, police are cracking down on rogue taxi operators in the hope that foreign visitors will use minibuses to get around the country. Millions of mostly black South Africans use minibus taxis to travel between townships and cities, although many of the vehicles are barely roadworthy and fatal accidents are common.   [more]   [top of page]

January 31, 2010

Today in automotive history: on this day in 1960 in a special racing series for small-bodied cars at the Daytona International Speedway, the Valiant captured the top seven positions in the 10-lap race. The Valiant was introduced by Chrysler in 1959 (the 1960 models) as a separate make. Read more about this day in history at The History Channel.

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Toyota finds fix for gas pedals; will alert customers next week
Toyota Motor Corp. plans to start notifying customers next week about how it will repair 2.3 million vehicles that it recalled last week over concerns of sticking pedals. A Toyota official confirmed today that it plans to use a selective spacer to insert into the pedal assembly. Toyota's pedal supplier, CTS Corp., is also shipping newly designed pedals. But Toyota hasn't laid out details of its plans, including which vehicles will get the replacement pedals and which will get the "field fix." Toyota's president and CEO Akio Toyoda apologized today in his first public comments.    [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Chrysler has ambitions for Jeep
The Jeep brand has outlived every company that has owned it, and with every change in control there has been a new strategy to capitalize on the brand. Chrysler Group LLC, following bankruptcy and an alliance with Fiat SpA, is no exception. Image-wise, Jeep is the strongest of Chrysler's four brands and needs the least fixing. Product-wise, the automaker wants to replace everything but the Wrangler and Grand Cherokee with vehicles engineered by Fiat to take advantage of cost savings through economies of scale. Chrysler's new management is tinkering with what constitutes a Jeep as it seeks to leverage Fiat's strength in small cars and fuel-efficient engines and tap into the Italian automaker's strong network of dealers in Europe and Latin America.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Toyota faces scrutiny on recall handling
Toyota Motor Corp. expects to announce a plan soon to fix faulty gas pedals, but the consequences of its big lapse in safety are likely to linger for months, even years. The damage from two large recalls spread Friday as politicians and analysts questioned how long the automaker knew there was a problem, and how Toyota and U.S. safety regulators responded to complaints that drivers couldn't stop their vehicles. On Friday, a second congressional committee said it would review Toyota's recalls and unintended acceleration issues. The House Oversight and Government Reform Committee will hold a hearing on Feb. 4 to probe the government's response to reports that led to Toyota's recall last week of 2.3 million vehicles.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Elantra Touring modestly fills jack-of-all-trades role
Someday in the not so distant future, people will own more cars, not fewer. There will be one they drive only on the weekends -- the family and boat in tow. Then there will be a small two-seater that they'll putt along to work in every day -- at least those who still go to an office instead of telecommuting. There may be other specialized family vehicles that promote efficiency and have specific purposes -- school drop-offs, grocery shopping and Friday-night-out vehicles. Until then, something like the 2010 Hyundai Elantra Touring may have to do.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Toyota to recall 8 models, up to 1.8M vehicles in Europe
Toyota Motor Corp. said it may recall as many as 1.8 million vehicles in Europe, as the trouble with the automaker's gas pedals spread beyond North America. Brussels-based Toyota Motor Europe said it would recall eight models, including the Corolla and RAV4, to fix a pedal that may stick or spring back slowly. "We understand that the current situation is creating concerns, and we deeply regret it," Tadashi Arashima, president of Toyota Motor Europe, said in a statement. "We would also like to reassure customers: The potential accelerator pedal issue only occurs in very rare circumstances." Toyota recalled 2.3 million vehicles last week in the United States and Canada. It has stopped sales and production of the eight models involved in the recall. It will also recall around 75,000 RAV4 compact SUVs in China. In Europe, the models affected are: 2005-09 Aygo, 2008-09 iQ, 2005-09 Yaris, 2006-10 Auris, 2006-09 Corolla, 20-10 Verso, 2008-09 Avensis and 2005-09 RAV4.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Pedal complaints reach recalled Vibes
General Motors Co. said Friday it recently has received complaints of sticky accelerator pedals from recalled Pontiac Vibe models. But the Detroit automaker reiterated that the 2009-10 Vibe models are "safe to drive." GM said no injuries have been reported in any of the complaints. GM hadn't received any complaints prior to the recall of 2.3 million vehicles on Jan. 21 by Toyota Motor Corp. that included 99,000 Pontiac Vibe models. The Vibe was built through August 2009 at the New United Motor Manufacturing plant in Fremont, Calif., which was a joint venture of GM and Toyota. That plant is set to close at the end of March.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) Toyota begins shipping new pedals in U.S.
Toyota U.S.A. has announced that its pedal supplier is starting to ship newly-designed pedals to dealers to meet the most immediate needs in the wake of a recall for possible sticking accelerator pedals. The company said that one of the main reasons it has stopped production of new vehicles is to make more of the pedals available to dealers right away. In a statement, the company said, "But at the same time, we are continuing to test effective pedal modifications for existing vehicles on the road that will be available to our customers quickly. We expect to announce a comprehensive remedy program for all affected customers and new vehicles soon."   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) B.C.'s cellphone "grace period" ends
A "grace period" for British Columbia drivers caught talking on a hand-held phone or electronic device ends Monday, February 1, 2010, with drivers facing a $167 fine for talking on a cell phone, and an additional three penalty points for texting or e-mailing. "Police have been stopping drivers throughout January to give them warnings about talking on a cellphone, and people seem to be getting the message and changing their behaviour," said Solicitor General Kash Heed. "But the grace period will soon be over, and drivers who don't keep their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road will now pay the price."   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) Three models improve in IIHS safety ratings
New designs have helped the 2010 Ford Mustang convertible, Acura MDX and Toyota Tundra to improve their ratings in crash tests performed by the U.S. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Ford's restyled Mustang convertible has earned a "good" rating for occupant protection in offset frontal crashes and side impacts. When the IIHS initially tested the 2010 model, it received a "poor" frontal rating. This improved to "good" in a followup test after Ford modified the front structure and doors of models made after December 2009. The Acura MDX earned a "good" rating for occupant protection in new side tests after Acura modified the side airbags in current models.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) "Female Friendly" car program comes to Canada
AskPatty.com, an online resource for women, is introducing its Certified Female Friendly program for dealerships, collision centres, quick-lube locations, service and repair centres, and tire dealers in Canada. The program provides online interactive training and marketing specifically to women. The California-based company has launched its first Canadian regional office in Mississauga, Ontario, headed by Patricia Muir as Canadian Regional Manager. "In Canada, market researcher Maritz Canada reports that women influence some 66 per cent of all buying decisions, including vehicle purchases," said Jody DeVere, founder and CEO of AskPatty.com. "In effect, they have become nearly every family's chief purchasing officer. Automotive retailers that do not change their approach to communicating more effectively with women will get left behind and leave themselves open to be overtaken by their competitors."   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) Cellphone bans don't prevent crashes: IIHS
Bans on the use of hand-held cell phones while driving are not reducing the number of crashes, according to a new study by the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI), an affiliate of the U.S. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Comparing insurance claims for crash damage in four U.S. jurisdictions before and after such bans, the researchers found steady claim rates compared with nearby jurisdictions without such bans.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) Michelin unveils electric vehicle tire prototype
Michelin has unveiled a new prototype tire designed specifically for battery-powered electric vehicles, providing automakers with benefits including increased range or the ability to reduce the battery size to optimize interior space. The company said its electric vehicle (EV) prototype achieves high performance levels of energy efficiency, maximum grip and long wear life, plus a quiet ride that is ideally suited to a power source that is relatively noise-free. The design includes new silica compounds, a new tire profile designed specifically for urban use, and a specific tread design optimizing the surface of rubber in contact with the road.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) Consumer Reports suspends Toyota's status
Consumer Reports has temporarily suspended its "recommended" status for eight Toyota models and the Pontiac Vibe until a fix for the accelerator pedal recall is available to consumers. The magazine is also advising used car buyers to avoid purchasing any of the affected vehicles until the issue is resolved. "Although incidents of sudden acceleration are rare, we are taking this action because the vehicles have been identified as potentially unsafe without a fix yet being available to consumers, and in general our position is that you shouldn't compromise on safety," said Jim Guest, president of Consumers Union, which publishes Consumer Reports.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) Size and weight will reduce emissions: Oxford University
A new study by Oxford University in England says the best way to reduce emissions in the short term is by a "drastic downscaling of both size and weight" of conventional gasoline and diesel cars, and suggests not relying on manufacturers producing hydrogen or battery-powered vehicles in the next decade. The Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment released the report, Future of Mobility Roadmap, which assesses the potential for low-carbon transport on land, by air and sea. It found that electric and hydrogen vehicles are likely to remain niche products for many years, due to limited battery life, and the high cost of platinum which is needed for the catalysts in hydrogen-fuelled cars.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) California begins plug-in hybrid trial
The California Department of General Services (DGS), with funding from the California Energy Commission (CEC), is launching a two-year plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) demonstration project. Deploying 50 converted Toyota Priuses and capturing critical performance data, California's DGS will analyze potential efficiencies gained through the use of electric vehicles and evaluate their potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Gaining a deeper understanding of PHEV performance across a wide range of terrain, climate and drivers is of particular interest. The Priuses will be deployed throughout California, from Sacramento to San Diego, as state fleet vehicles.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) Nissan receives US$1.4 billion loan to produce electric car
U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu announced today that the Department of Energy has closed a US$1.4 billion loan agreement with Nissan North America, Inc. The loan will support the modification of Nissan's Smyrna, Tennessee manufacturing plant to produce the Nissan Leaf, a zero-emission, all-electric vehicle, and the lithium-ion battery packs to power them. The loan, which originated through the Department's loan guarantee program office, was issued as part of the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loan Program, a US$25 billion program authorized by Congress as part of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. The program is designed to accelerate the development of vehicles and technologies that increase U.S. energy independence, create cleaner means of transportation and stimulate the American economy. The loan was finalized after a rigorous financial and technical qualification process.   [more]   [top of page]

YAHOO NEWS (MASSACHUSETTS, USA) Truck driver chokes on chili and crashes into home
Police said a Massachusetts lumber truck crashed into a home after the driver was knocked unconscious by a small chili from Wendy's. Lowell police said Eric Gremm reported that he choked on the chili when the truck hit a bump, causing him to pass out as the flatbed truck veered off the road and slammed into the home. The man, 59, said emergency workers at the scene told him that he had passed out, but he could not remember losing consciousness. Police said the truck hit the foundation of the home, and authorities were worried that the home might collapse when the truck was pulled out. Gremm was taken by ambulance to a local hospital for treatment of minor injuries. Police said he could be cited for eating while driving.   [more]   [top of page]

January 24, 2010

Today in automotive history - on this day in 1860 French inventor Etienne Lenoir was issued a patent for the first successful internal-combustion engine. Lenoir's engine was a converted steam engine that burned a mixture of coal gas and air. Read more about this day in history at The History Channel.

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Feds to unveil auto database to deter theft, fraud
Almost 17 years after Congress ordered it, the Justice Department is getting closer to rolling out a comprehensive national database designed to deter auto theft and fraud. The National Motor Vehicle Title Information System, created by Congress in 1992, has 77 percent of all motor vehicle title records in the United States -- more than 300 million vehicle identification numbers (VINs). The system helps protect customers from unknowingly buying a car that was salvaged or scrapped in one state, but retitled in another state without the same designation like "salvage," "rebuilt" or "flood." Some cars that were flooded might get a salvaged designation in one state, but not another.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Union: Opel plant closure a 'declaration of war'
Employee representatives at General Motors Co.'s Opel unit on Friday slammed the automaker's announcement it would cut 8,300 jobs and close its plant in Belgium as a "declaration of war" on European workers. Armin Schild, head of the IG Metall union in Frankfurt and a member of Opel's board, criticized GM for lacking a clear and thoroughly financed restructuring concept, the DAPD news agency reported. "Now, GM is apparently off on the next horror trip," Schild said. He criticized GM for mismanaging the company for 15 years and called the planned closure of the site in Antwerp, Belgium, "a declaration of war against all European Opel employees."   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Toyota recalls 2.3M vehicles for pedal jams
Toyota Motor Corp. announced another big recall Thursday, of 2.3 million cars and trucks, to fix "sticking" gas pedals. The Japanese automaker said the problem occurs rarely and is unrelated to reports of "unintended acceleration" that provoked a recall in September of more than 4 million vehicles. But the recall deals a heavy blow to the company, which has been struggling to reassure the American public that it's doing everything it can to make its vehicles among the safest and most reliable. The new recall is bound to revive concerns from customers and safety advocates whether Toyota has identified all the causes of acceleration-related issues.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Mazda's new minivan goes with the flow
Mazda Motor Corp. unveiled an all-new version of its Mazda5 minivan Wednesday. It's the first production vehicle to embody the company's new "Nagare" design. Nagare, which means "flow" in Japanese, takes its inspiration from flowing forms found in nature. The design has been showcased in concept cars that have drawn big crowds at auto shows from Detroit to Tokyo, and elements have been incorporated into recent vehicles, such as the 2010 Mazda3. But the new Mazda5 is the first full vehicle based on that design. Mazda says it provides superior drag coefficient and lift balance, making for improved aerodynamics and better fuel efficiency. Like the current model, the new Mazda5 features dual sliding side doors and multiple seating configurations.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) Used-car buyers unchanged in 2009: J.D. Power
The demographics of Canadian used-vehicle buyers changed very little in 2009, compared with 2008, according to a report by J.D. Power and Associates. In 2009, the age of the typical buyer increased to 45 years old, from the 2008 average of 44 years old. Slightly less than one-third were 35 or younger, and about one-quarter were 56 or older. In both 2008 and 2009, approximately 38 per cent of all used-vehicle buyers were female. What did decrease notably in 2009 was the percentage of used-vehicle transactions that included an extended service contract, life insurance, or disability insurance.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) China Automotive supplies Chrysler Group
China Automotive Systems, a power steering component and systems supplier in China, has officially announced that Chrysler Group LLC is its first global OEM customer. China Automotive (CAAS) received its first order from Chrysler to export power steering gears to its North American assembly facility in November 2008. Since mid-2009, the steering gears have been installed in the Jeep Wrangler.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) California's ZAP partners with China
California-based electric vehicle company ZAP has announced a new agreement that will see it producing electric SUVs, cars and other vehicles in China for domestic and global distribution. ZAP has partnered with Chinese auto manufacturer Zhejiang Jonway Automobile Company. The two companies worked on the Jonway A380 SUV, integrating electric propulsion and lithium-ion battery system technologies to produce a high-performance, mid-range electric vehicle that ZAP intends to offer to the fleet market in China. Jonway currently manufactures several thousand A380 Jonways per month, in two- and four-door configuration, and will expand its product line with new sedans and other automobiles.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) Tesla receives US$465 government loan
Electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla Motors will receive a US$465 million loan from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to construct plants to produce its Model S electric sedan. The company intends to build a manufacturing facility in southern California for the Model S, and a powertrain manufacturing plant in Palo Alto, California that will assemble electric vehicle battery packs, electric motors, and related vehicle control equipment both for Tesla's vehicles and for sale to other automobile manufacturers.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) EVs could be 20 per cent of global market: IHS
Electric vehicles (EVs), including plug-in hybrids and battery-electrics, will comprise nearly 20 per cent of the global market for light vehicles in 2030, according to automotive industry analysts at IHS Global Insight. The company forecasts an 8.6 per cent market share for plug-in hybrids, and a 9.9 per cent share for battery electrics. "The advantages of electric vehicles are numerous -- the multiplicity of energy sources, reduced emissions, reduced noise, the possibility of reduced operating costs -- but so too are the challenges," said Philip Gott, director of automotive science and technology.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) Canadian Car of the Year finalists named
The finalists for the Canadian Car of the Year have been named, with the winners in each category to be announced at the Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto on February 11. The finalists were narrowed down from segment winners tested and judged by members of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) last fall. The finalists are: * 2010 Canadian Car of the Year BMW 335d Sedan, Volkswagen Golf GTI, Volkswagen Golf Wagon TDI. * 2010 Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year Lexus RX450h, Subaru Outback, Volkswagen Touareg TDI Clean Diesel. * Best New Design Audi A5 Cabriolet, BMW 335d Sedan, Ford Taurus and Taurus SHO. * Best New Technology Audi Drive Select, Ford MyKey, Volvo City Safety. * Best New Green Technology Ford Next-Generation Hybrid System and SmartGauge, Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid with Lithium-Ion Batteries, Toyota/Lexus Plant-Based Ecological Plastics, Toyota/Lexus Beltless Atkinson-Cycle Engine with Cooled Exhaust.   [more]   [top of page]

YAHOO NEWS (FLORIDA, USA) Alleged car thief found playing 'Grand Theft Auto'
Sheriff's deputies in central Florida found a suspected car thief playing the "Grand Theft Auto" video game, and they later charged him with just that. Polk County deputies investigating the theft of a 1998 Dodge Durango arrested 30-year-old Michael Ray Ekes on Thursday. They found the SUV outside a Haines City home. Ekes was inside in the house, playing the popular video game. Ekes was charged with grand theft auto, burglary and drug possession. At the time of his arrest, he was out of jail on bond for another grand theft auto charge. According to Polk County jail records, Ekes remained in custody Friday. Bond had not been set and no attorney was listed.   [more]   [top of page]

January 17, 2010

Today in automotive history - on this day in 1949 the first Volkswagen Beetle in the U.S. arrived from Germany. The little Volkswagen ("people's car") was a sturdy vehicle designed by Ferdinand Porsche at the request of Adolf Hitler. Read more about this day in history at The History Channel.

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Detroit auto show draws steady traffic
Thousands streamed into Cobo Center on Saturday morning for the 9 a.m. public opening of the 2010 North American International Auto Show, including Keith Dean, 49, of Southfield, who's attended every year since he was a boy. "I like the concept cars, and you get to see what's out that is new," said Dean, a Detroit Police officer. "I like to look at the high-end vehicles, like the Bentleys, that you don't see every day." Michigan's sagging economy and Detroit's floundering auto industry didn't deter Wes and Cass Hellners, of Mount Clemens, from enjoying the show, which includes a broad display of electric and fuel-efficient vehicles this year.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Chinese carmaker back at Detroit auto show
China's carmakers are becoming regular fixtures at international auto shows, and China's BYD Auto Inc. is back in Detroit for the second year in a row. BYD, which stands for "Build Your Dreams," is displaying its e6 battery-powered electric sedan at the North American International Auto Show this week and hopes to sell it in the U.S. later this year. BYD is one of China's most ambitious carmakers, proclaiming at last week's show preview for media that it aimed to become China's No. 1 automaker by 2015 -- and the world's biggest by 2025.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Auto show's best in eye of beholder
The North American International Auto Show opens to the public today and while you've seen all of the new vehicles splashed on television and in the newspaper, you're probably wondering what really is new this year. What will make the biggest impression and what should you just skip? What's the best of the 2010 show? If we've learned anything during the past week, it is that "the best" is in the eye of the beholder. Some people will flock to the Lexus stand and coo over the gold LF-ch concept and others will spend their time breathing heavily over the row of Chevrolet pickups. Both may serve best roles, but in two different worlds.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) GM gives Opel $930M boost
General Motors Company has provided its struggling German carmaker Adam Opel GmbH with an additional $930 million in temporary aid until more permanent financing can be found, the automaker disclosed today in a regulatory filing. That brings to $1.83 billion the total financing GM has provided Opel, which is undergoing a restructuring. GM provided the most recent aid to Opel and its subsidiaries on Jan. 4, according to the filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. GM's board of directors decided in November against selling a majority stake in Opel, and the German carmaker is seeking long-term aid from European governments to fund a major restructuring that will cost almost $5 billion.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Japan urged to open 'cash for clunkers' to Detroit Big 3
Congress is pushing the Japanese government to open its "cash for clunkers" program to Detroit's Big Three automakers. A group of 40 House Democrats wrote a letter Friday to Ichiro Fujisaki, Japan's ambassador to the United States, calling for the country to allow U.S. manufacturers to participate. Congress is planning two hearings on the issue in coming weeks. The Democrats criticized Japan's "unfortunate historical pattern of the Japanese government keeping its domestic auto industry closed to foreign competition." Lawmakers who signed the letter included Rep. Gary Peters, D-Bloomfield Township, and Rep. Mark Schauer, D-Battle Creek.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Battery maker to hire 540
A Massachusetts battery manufacturer will begin hiring hundreds of skilled Michigan workers this year for jobs at massive plants under development in Livonia and Romulus. Watertown, Mass.-based A123 Systems expects to hire 540 permanent workers in construction, engineering, sales and marketing, administration and research and development at 300,000-square-foot plants in Romulus and Livonia. "For displaced autoworkers who've had the rugs pulled out from under them, they have the skills needed for these 540 jobs," said Gov. Jennifer Granholm, who helped announce the jobs plan Thursday at an A123 factory in Novi.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) Ford offers free options for Fiesta buyers
Ford of Canada has announced that it will offer special options at no extra charge for buyers who sign up to purchase the upcoming Ford Fiesta. Customers who signed up to "Follow the Fiesta" through Ford's Web site, and any additional people who sign, will have a chance to purchase the Fiesta and receive the SYNC and Sound package or the Passive Entry Passive Start (PEPS) with Perimeter Alarm package at no extra charge.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) ICBC offers tips for safe cellphone use in cars
As British Columbia approaches the end of first month of the province's ban on hand-held cellphones and other electronic vehicles and the one-month grace period, the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) is joining with the province and police to remind drivers to adopt smart driving behaviours. Driving is a complex task requiring full attention. The goal of the new law is to make roads safer for everyone, with all drivers playing an important role. ICBC offers tips should your phone ring while you are driving.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) Porsche presents 911 Turbo at Montreal show
Porsche has shown its new top-of-the-line 911 Turbo for the first time in Canada at the Montreal International Auto Show. The model goes on sale in Canada on January 16. The seventh-generation 911 Turbo uses a new twin-turbo 3.8-litre six-cylinder engine, delivering a maximum output of 500 horsepower. It uses direct fuel injection and Porsche's exclusive turbochargers with variable turbine geometry.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) European car sales pick up in second half of 2009
Following a marked decline in the second half of 2008 and the first half of 2009, new car registrations in Europe picked up in the second half of last year, largely due to the impact of fleet renewal programs in a number of major markets. In total, 14,481,545 new cars were registered in 2009, which was 1.6 per cent less than in 2008, and 9.5 per cent less than in 2007. In December 2009, demand for new cars rose by 16.0 per cent compared with December 2008.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) New Smart editions make Canadian debut in Montreal
The new Smart Fortwo Edition Highstyle has made its Canadian debut at the 2010 Montreal International Auto Show, featuring exclusive and fashionable trim and colours. The new Highstyle uses exclusive chocolate brown metallic paint, twelve-spoke 15-inch alloy wheels, an fabric and leather trim. Based on the Passion coupe, the Highstyle also includes aluminum logos, metallic leather-trimmed seats and matching door trim, three-spoke leather-trimmed sport steering wheel, and matte silver trim components.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) Nissan Cube Krom Edition launches in Montreal
Nissan Canada has unveiled the latest addition to its lineup at the Montreal International Auto Show, the 2010 Nissan Cube 1.8 Krom Edition. The Krom Edition builds on the Cube, which arrived in Canada in May 2009. Building on Cube's extensive standard features, the Krom adds a chrome grille, unique rear roof spoiler, exclusive 16-inch alloy wheels and rear emblem. Inside, customers find unique seat trim with woven black and grey cloth, titanium interior trim accents, sporty aluminum-trimmed pedals, and a 20-colour interior illumination system.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) Toyota's Scion brand comes to the Canadian market
The Scion brand has officially come to the Canadian market, with the full lineup making its debut at the Montreal International Auto Show through three highly customized, urban-aware models. "Scion drivers are a new generation of new and enthusiastic car buyers who feel it's important that what they drive expresses their individuality in the same fashion as their clothes, music and lifestyle in general," said Larry Hutchinson, director for Scion. "The Scion generation represents one of the fastest-growing demographics in Canada, and many of its members are still looking to buy their first car. For these people, we are pleased to have three standout examples of the promise and potential of Scion in Montreal."   [more]   [top of page]

YAHOO NEWS (MASS., USA) Man arrested 3 times in 3 days in Mass. towns
A Boston man has been arrested three times in three days in neighboring Massachusetts towns. Huy Quoc Le faces a number of charges after his string of arrests began Monday in Andover. Police said the 25-year-old was arrested on motor vehicle violations. He was charged with driving after suspension, attaching improper plates, forgery of Registry documents, and driving an unregistered and uninsured vehicle. On Wednesday, Le was arrested on charges accusing him of stealing nearly $10,000 from the business account of an Andover nail salon. Hours later, police in nearby Lawrence arrested him on allegations he broke into the home of a former girlfriend after officers found him inside. It was unclear if Le had hired an attorney.   [more]   [top of page]

January 10, 2010

Today in automotive history - on this day in 1942 the Ford Motor Company signed on to make Jeeps, the new general-purpose military vehicles desperately needed by American forces in World War II. The original Jeep design was submitted by the American Bantam Car Company. Read more about this day in history at The History Channel.

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) GM tweaks, perfects auto show presentation right up to the wire
General Motors managed Sunday to shoehorn Buick GMC boss Brian Sweeney into its news conference. GM ran through a dress rehearsal of a splashy news conference on the eve of the North American International Auto Show and found a prominent role for one of the automaker's newest executives. Sweeney, who was promoted to Buick GMC general manager last month, was so new that auto show planners had to adjust on the fly to squeeze him -- a process The Detroit News chronicled online earlier today. The dress rehearsal ahead of Monday's 9:25 a.m. news conference showed several behind-the-scenes changes. Two execs -- GMC Marketing Director Lisa Hutchinson and Buick Marketing Director Craig Bierley -- got axed from the presentation and planners shaved a few minutes from speeches to maintain the focus on three new vehicles: The Buick Regal GS sports sedan, GMC Acadia Denali crossover and an urban utility concept vehicle.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Jaguar XJ lays early claim to 'most beautiful' title
The most impressive technology on display at the Detroit auto show will probably be something on Electric Avenue, but if there's a contest for the most beautiful machine on display, my provisional vote goes to the new Jaguar XJ. The XJ won't win any prizes for its carbon footprint. After all, it is powered either by a 5.0 liter 385 hp V8 engine, a supercharged 5.0 liter 470 hp V8 or a 5.0 liter 510 hp V8. No talk of batteries, hybrids or plug-ins here. There's not even a diesel, at least in the United States.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) GM battery may get Michigan moving in new direction
The first lithium-ion battery pack rolled off the line Thursday at General Motors Co.'s new assembly plant here, a symbolic display that could be a step toward transforming Michigan's battered manufacturing industry. The battery pack is bound for a Chevrolet Volt extended-range electric vehicle, which debuts later this year. But the battery pack's arrival coincided with a study released Thursday showing the cost targets behind the automakers' electric vehicle plans are unlikely to be achieved, making it hard for consumers to recoup the extra cost of buying advanced vehicles.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Study: Buyers unlikely to recoup extra cost of electric vehicles
As automakers aggressively pursue electric vehicles, a study released today shows the cost targets behind the plans are unlikely to be achieved, making it hard for consumers to recoup the extra cost of buying electric. The study by Boston Consulting Group, released at an Automotive Press Association event in Detroit today, concludes the cost of electric vehicles is unlikely to drop to the $250 per kilowatt/hour threshold that is cited by many carmakers for these vehicles to be competitive in price. That benchmark is not possible without a major breakthrough in battery technology, and no such breakthrough is on the horizon, said Xavier Mosquet, the Detroit-based leader of BCG's automotive group. As a result, the payback time for an all-electric vehicle in the U.S. is about 15 years, and for an extended-range vehicle such as the Chevrolet Volt it would be 19 years, the study finds.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Toyota's Prius top-selling car in Japan in '09
The Toyota Prius was the top-selling car in Japan last year -- the first time a gas-electric hybrid has clinched that spot. The Japan Automobile Dealers Association said today that Toyota Motor Corp.'s Prius was No. 1 in its ranking of sales by vehicle models -- with 208,876 Prius cars sold in 2009, nearly three times the numbers sold the previous year. The big success of the Prius in the home market for Toyota, the world's biggest automaker, highlights the growing consumer acceptance of green vehicles. Hybrid sales already make up about 10 percent of new vehicle sales in Japan. That's huge compared to other global markets, where hybrids are eye-catching but remain a relatively niche product. Green Car Congress, which researches and compiles reports on green technology, said hybrids have a 2.8 percent share of new vehicle sales in the U.S.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN NEWS (ONTARIO, CANADA) Jeep unveils three new models at Detroit show
Jeep will introduce three new models at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit: the 2010 Liberty Renegade, Wrangler Islander Edition and Wrangler Mountain. "While clearly appealing to our core customers, these three new Jeep models will attract new customers to the Jeep dealer showroom," said Mike Manley, president and CEO of the Jeep Brand. "The new Liberty Renegade delivers renowned Jeep capability and an array of standard features in a stunning new rugged, premium design, while both Wrangler models expand the iconic anchor of the Jeep brand with unique, limited-edition versions that consumers have told us they want."   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) ZAP to show Alias electric car at Detroit
Electric car company ZAP will preview its Alias electric sports car at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, as part of the Progressive Insurance Automotive X PRIZE display. The X PRIZE competition includes a US$10 million purse for production-capable vehicles that exceed 100 miles per gallon (2.3 L/100 km) or an energy equivalent. The ZAP will be located in Electric Avenue, a section of the main floor showcasing electric vehicles and technology. Powered by an array of large-format lithium batteries, the base-model Alias can top 136 km/h and travel over 160 km on a charge. It is expected to retail for around $35,000. ZAP is optimizing the Alias design to meet growing demands from the European Union and Southeast Asia, as well as the requirements of the X PRIZE.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) Chrysler announces new powertrain lineup
Chrysler Group LLC is revamping its powertrain lineup as a result of its new alliance with Fiat, using technology that will contribute to an overall fuel consumption improvement of more than 25 per cent over the next five years. "Chrysler Group will attain leadership by rapidly applying Fiat Powertrain technologies, such as Multiair, direct injection, turbocharging and transmission systems to its powertrain portfolio," said Paolo Ferraro, senior vice-president of Chrysler Powertrain. "By 2014 calendar year, more than 80 per cent of Chrysler Group's current powertrain lineup will undergo a complete makeover." The companies plan to leverage combined powertrain and vehicle knowledge, using Fiat Powertrain's expertise in diesel technology and small-displacement gasoline engines of 1.8 litres or less, and Chrysler Powertrain's knowledge of large-displacement gasoline engines and vehicle electrification technology.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) GM continues planned Saab wind-down
General Motors has confirmed it has selected a company to supervise the orderly wind-down of Saab, but also said that it has received several proposals for the company and is continuing to evaluate them. GM has selected AlixPartners to supervise the wind-down, and has requested approval of the selection by the appropriate authority in Sweden. The use of a wind-down supervisor is a common process in Sweden and works in the interest of the shareholder. The process is expected to take several months and is intended to ensure that employees, dealers and suppliers are adequately protected. The company said that the appointment of AlixPartners does not affect the evaluations of proposals received.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) New wheel bearing will debut on BMW X1
A revolutionary new wheel bearing design will go into serial production on the BMW X1, and is expected to be used on more vehicles in future due to its simplified mounting process and reduced weight. Designed by the Schaeffler Group, the bearing uses spur gear teeth in a unique design where the wheel bearing and axle journal are connected axially, instead of radially. The component weighs ten per cent less, while its simplified mounting process reduces costs. The company said that the weight reduction could amount to more than a kilogram overall for four wheels. The idea of spur gear teeth is not new, but economical manufacture of the design did not come about until the advent of high-precision cold forming, resulting in the initiation of the new bearing design in 2004. "We are convinced that this groundbreaking invention will sooner or later become established with all automotive manufacturers," said Dr. Manfred Krauss, chief engineer of chassis applications.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) Hyundai to sell commercial vehicles in China
Hyundai Motor Company, which recorded enormous passenger car sales gains in China in 2009, has announced a joint venture in commercial vehicles in the country. Hyundai created the venture with Baotou Bei Heavy-Duty Truck Company, a Chinese commercial vehicle manufacturer. Under the agreement, each company will invest a total of US$400 million to establish a 50/50 joint venture in 2010 that will take over Baotou Bei Ben's existing large truck business, which has a capacity of 40,000 units a year. The venture will initially launch a refreshed Baotou Bei Ben model, and then launch a brand-new model by 2012 with input from Hyundai's modern technology and equipment. The joint venture also enables Hyundai to bypass building a construction facility.   [more]   [top of page]

YAHOO NEWS (SWITZERLAND) Swiss court fines speeding millionaire $290,000
A Swiss court has slapped a wealthy speeder with a chalet-sized fine -- a full $290,000. Judges at the cantonal court in St. Gallen, in eastern Switzerland, based the record-breaking fine on the speeder's estimated wealth of over $20 million. A statement on the court's Web site says the driver -- a repeat offender -- drove up to 35 miles an hour (57 kilometers an hour) faster than the 50-mile-an-hour (80-kilometer-an-hour) limit. Court clerk Heidi Baumann-Becker said Thursday the unidentified driver can appeal the decision, handed down in November, to the Swiss supreme court. The Blick daily newspaper in Zurich reported the fine was more than twice the previous Swiss record of about $107,000.   [more]   [top of page]

January 3, 2010

Today in automotive history - on this day in 1899 an editorial in the The New York Times made a reference to an "automobile". It was the first known use of the word. Read more about this day in history at The History Channel.

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Hyundai Elantra Blue caters to eco-minded consumer
Does a compact have to blow a person away? It's nice when it happens, but these cars, which are quickly becoming America's new choice of transportation, need to wow people's wallets more than their neighbors. More importantly, they need to get the job done. The 2010 Hyundai Elantra Blue caters to the eco-minded consumer -- and when I say eco, I mean the most important eco: economics. It's the newest member of the Elantra family -- a group of compacts that make up for low pizzazz scores with high mileage and solid performance. Here's what Hyundai did to color its Elantra blue.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Canada bought stake in GM to save jobs
When Canada bought a stake in General Motors Co., it did so for one reason: to preserve jobs on its side of the border. And while the auto industry hasn't fully recovered and much uncertainty remains, Canada has benefited since its investment. In December, GM announced it was buying out partner Suzuki Motor Corp. for full ownership of the CAMI Automotive Inc. plant in Ingersoll, Ontario, and adding a third shift and new body shop. In Oshawa, GM has promised an additional shift in 2011 to add production of the new Buick Regal, in addition to previous promises to invest in other facilities in the nation.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Bad year for biofuel ends on a dour note
An alternative fuel for diesel engines is off to a shaky start this year though it emits fewer pollutants and cuts down on petroleum use because it's made from environmentally friendly waste and vegetable oil. A federal tax credit that provided makers of biodiesel $1 for every gallon expired Friday. As a result, some U.S. producers say they will shut down without the government subsidy. Biodiesel's woes come on top of a year of problems for the fledgling biofuel industry -- an irony given the push to cut down on greenhouse gases and ease the nation's need for foreign oil. A key driver for the alternative fuel -- the high cost of oil -- disappeared as diesel prices dropped 18 percent since the beginning of the recession. Then in March the European Union placed import-killing tariffs on biodiesel and other biofuels.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Maserati, Ferrari to share Chrysler spot at auto show
Ferrari and Maserati are moving into a new neighborhood at the North American International Auto Show -- the Chrysler Group LLC stand, where they'll be nestled between the Dodge and Jeep brands. In the past, the high-end marques have leased real estate in the show's luxury row with the likes of Lamborghini, Bentley and Rolls-Royce, although last year Ferrari didn't have a display in Detroit. But since last year's auto show in Detroit, Chrysler formed a partnership with Italian automaker Fiat SpA, which is part of the Fiat Group that includes Ferrari and Maserati but also Alfa Romeo, Lancia, Iveco commercial vehicles, and CNH agricultural and construction equipment.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Ford, Toyota lead 2009 recall increase
The number of recalled vehicles jumped in 2009 by nearly 50 percent from the previous year, largely due to two massive recalls by Toyota Motor Corp. and Ford Motor Co. In 2008, nearly 10.5 million vehicles -- including cars, motorcycles, buses and campers -- were called back for fixes. Through nearly all of 2009, about 15 million vehicles have been recalled, according to a preliminary Detroit News review of government recall data. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration will release final numbers next month. Automakers and other manufacturers have called 481 recall campaigns through Dec. 28, compared with 684 in 2008.   [more]   [top of page]

DETROIT NEWS (MICHIGAN, USA) Customizers ready for launch of 2011 Ford Fiesta
As Ford gets ready next summer to roll out the updated version of its Fiesta, it makes a point of reminding enthusiasts that its new compact car for the 2011 model year can serve as a canvas for personalization and customization. To underscore that point, Ford had four "tuned" versions of the car in its display at the recent Los Angeles Auto Show. H&R Special Springs of Bellingham, Wash., created its version of the Fiesta by using Sticky Jewell custom graphics, custom Euro-style hood vents, blacked-out headlamps and a Ford Custom Accessories upper rear hatch spoiler. It installed H&R Street Performance monotube coil-over suspension with height-adjustable shock absorbers so it could fine-tune the relationship between the Fiesta wheel wells and a set of 18-inch OZ SuperTurismo GT wheels.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) Indian carmaker to unveil electric car
Indian auto company Mahindra & Mahindra will unveil an electric vehicle at the Auto Expo in Mumbai this month. The company, one of India's largest automakers, plans to launch the vehicle by the end of 2010. Mahindra said it has also developed compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles and a three-wheeled hydrogen-powered vehicle, and expects to launch these cars over the next 12 to 18 months.   [more]   [top of page]

CANADIAN DRIVER (ONTARIO, CANADA) UN may adopt Japanese electric vehicle rules
Japanese safety standards for hybrid and electric vehicles may become the global standard, with the UN World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations likely to adopt them when it meets in Geneva in March, according to the Green Car Congress. The meeting, the World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations, is intended to create global safety standards for hybrid and electric vehicles, as part of a revision of an international agreement.   [more]   [top of page]

YAHOO NEWS (TENNESSEE, USA) Police: Driver passes out, meth lab in back seat
Police say a driver passed out in his car at a Tennessee gas station while a batch of methamphetamine was cooking in the back seat. An employee at the gas station in Murfreesboro, about 30 miles southeast of Nashville, called police because the car was sitting at the pump for about an hour on New Year's Day. Police say a chemical process to make the drug was in progress. Some meth-making ingredients can be explosive. Murfreesboro Assistant Fire Chief Allen Swader told The Daily News Journal that gas pumps were shut off as a precaution.   [more]   [top of page]

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