auto

Is Apology By Toyota Prexy Disingenuous?

Chris Dannen — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 13:46:15 -0400

This morning Toyota President Akio Toyoda apologized profusely to the Japanese people for making vehicles that have not excited domestic buyers. He was also contrite over the company's projected loss of $5 billion for the year, and for a recent floor-mat recall prompted by the deaths of four people in San Diego. But Toyota, which overtook GM as the world's largest automaker last year, is still much better off than any American car company. Can our auto execs learn from Mr. Toyoda's regrets? (Below, the popular Toyota Prius.)

Inside Tesla's First East Coast Store

Chris Dannen — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 15:52:13 -0400

California-based Tesla Motors opened its third retail store today in Manhattan's Chelsea neighborhood, kicking off a rapid retail expansion plan that should land stores in eight major U.S. cities before the end of 2009.

The Real American Auto Industry

Terry Tamminen — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 18:43:47 -0400

With so many jobs in the balance and their fingers in so many pies I don't want any of the top three automakers, Chrysler, GM, or Ford, to fold up their tents. One way or another I want them get their acts together and turn themselves into viable businesses, contributing to America's economic engine.

2010 Toyota Prius to Achieve 50 MPG

Noah Robischon — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 10:46:28 -0500

The 2010 Toyota Prius is set to achieve a combined city/highway EPA estimated fuel efficiency rating of 50 miles-per-gallon, the highest ever for a consumer retail vehicle. The original Prius came in at 41 MPG, and the current model gets 46 MPG.

Dodge's New Ram Is a WiFi Hotspot, Too?

Chris Dannen — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 14:53:09 -0500

As Detroit feels the noose around its neck, everyone says it's getting what it deserves for years of crappy cars. And it is. But you wouldn't know it by looking at the new Dodge Ram, which is replete with more tech toys than most luxury sedans. The crowning feature: the truck can serve as a mobile WiFi hotspot and link multiple computers or phones to the Internet.