Motor News
MotorWeek tracks auto industry news, focusing on crash tests, safety ratings, new advances in technology and the latest from auto shows around the world.
IIHS
“The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is best known for their crash tests, and how they’ve pushed carmakers to build better, safer automobiles. But, now their focus is shifting from helping drivers survive a crash--to avoiding one in the first place.” That was the message behind the recent unveiling of a major expansion of testing facilities at the… Read More
Frankfurt Motor Show
“Things are looking up for the auto industry, and judging by all the eye candy at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, there should be more good times on the way.” Any time you can steal some thunder from the Germans in their own backyard—it will earn you major props---and the much-anticipated Infiniti Q30 did just that. It’s not the first compact car from… Read More
OBDII Hacking
“The OBDII port is a handy way to diagnose car trouble. Through it, mechanics can gather data and send commands back into the vehicle’s system. On board diagnostics has become an integral part of the modern automobile since 1996-when it was mandated by federal law.” But with more electronics, control of everything from windshield wipers to braking and… Read More
Alfa Romeo
“We all know that Alfa Romeo has much bigger plans for the U.S. market than just the pint-sized 4C sports car. But we didn’t know exactly what those plans were…until now.” As we were on the scene in Arese, Italy, near Milan, to catch the unveiling of the new Giulia sport sedan, that will go on sale in the US next summer. Shown here in its top Quadrifoglio… Read More
Honda Civic Natural Gas Announcement
“As Honda ramps up production for its tenth generation Civic, two specialized models will disappear from the compact’s portfolio. That means the Hybrid and Compressed Natural Gas Civics are no more.” Citing a lack of public infrastructure, Honda claims that Compressed Natural Gas, or CNG, just hasn’t caught on like they had hoped. Mainly used as a fleet… Read More
Hydrogen Fuel Cell Toyota Mirai
“With conventional EVs becoming more mainstream, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are once again making a push for relevancy. Entries from Volkswagen, Audi, and Toyota all made headlines on this year’s auto show circuit.” Of those, none is more realized than the Toyota Mirai. Already in production, and due to go on sale in California this October, the Mirai will… Read More
2016 Camaro Reveal
“The Ford Mustang reached the half century mark well ahead of its long time Chevrolet Camaro. But, Camaro’s own 48 year history has spawned an equally avid cult following. And we were on hand on Detroit’s Belle Isle for the reveal of an all-new sixth generation. “ The 2016 Camaro, as you could probably guess, is the most advanced Camaro yet. Trick features… Read More
Open Bay
“Today’s world is one of convenience. It’s never been easier to shop online for a car or surf the net for “how-to” car-care videos. But maintaining your vehicle’s long-term health still requires a trip to the repair shop. And now there’s a way to find the best service possible.” Openbay is not unlike many car shopping websites and apps that help you find the… Read More
Hybrid Battery Pack Recycling
“While hybrid and all-electric vehicles are great for the environment – giving off little or no harmful emissions - the long term aspects are a little more troubling. What do you do with and how do you properly dispose of those large battery packs and the hazardous materials contained in them?” Well, leave it to the National Park Service to find a green… Read More
2015 Shanghai Motor Show
“China is by far the world’s largest car market. So to feed their growing automotive appetite, there were plenty of new faces at the 2015 Shanghai Motor Show.” The Cadillac CT6 continues its debut with a plug-in hybrid rated at 335 horsepower with a 37 mile all-electric range. BMW showed off their production plug-in hybrid X5 SUV. Total system horsepower is… Read More