(Associated Press)
Daimler, Nissan, Renault forge deal
Renault and Nissan have agreed to a parts-sharing and research alliance with German automaker Daimler. The companies signed an agreement to jointly develop and share small cars, as well as collaborate on the research and development of hybrids, battery powered vehicles and other fuel-efficient technologies. The first outcome of the alliance for U.S. buyers will likely be a new, four-seat Smart ForTwo car and a Mercedes-Benz-powered Infiniti. Mercedes-Benz would also like to bring its A-Class and B-Class small cars to the U.S.
--Associated Press
(Thinkstock)
Motorcyclists benefit from antilock brakes
Antilock brakes on motorcycles significantly reduce crashes, a new study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has found. Motorcycles with antilock brakes are 37 percent less likely to be in fatal crashes than those without, the study found. Antilock brakes reduce brake pressure when they detect an impending lockup -- with can happen with hard braking in an emergency -- and then increase the pressure again when traction is restored.
--NWautos staff
(AP Photo/David Zalubowski)
GM brings end to Hummer sales
General Motors has announced it will wind down its Hummer brand and offer rebates of as much as $6,000 to sell remaining sport-utility vehicles. Shedding Hummer was part of GM's plan to pare its U.S. brands to four from eight after bankruptcy. GM has sold Saab, one of the four brands it explored selling. GM is winding down Saturn after a planned sale to Penske Automotive Group fell through in September. It reversed plans to sell its European Opel unit to Canadian supplier Magna International in November. Pontiac is also being closed.
--Associated Press
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