Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry.<![CDATA[Ironic: New Florida billboard campaign aims to curb distracted driving (w/VIDEO)]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/11/ironic-new-florida-billboard-campaign-aims-to-curb-distracted-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/11/ironic-new-florida-billboard-campaign-aims-to-curb-distracted-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/11/ironic-new-florida-billboard-campaign-aims-to-curb-distracted-d/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above to watch the video after the break

It seems to us that when we're glancing in the direction of a roadside billboard, we're not really keeping our eyes on the road. This undeniable fact hasn't stopped the installation of a new billboard in Fort Myers, Florida directing drivers to visit deathbycellphone.org. Good cause, poor implementation?

In a report that seems oblivious to the irony of an eye-catching billboard reminding drivers to pay attention to the road, the local NBC affiliate quotes Jay Anderson, founder of Stay Alive Just Drive, as saying, "Distractions are dangerous, period. At any given time, look left look right and you're going to see someone on their cell phone." Vinny Fazio of Lamar Advertising, which donated the billboard space, adds, "That's the good thing about outdoor advertising. We're looking to grab people's attention."

In related news, deathbybillboard.org has yet to be registered. Hit the jump to watch a video segment from WLBZ Channel 2 in Bangor, Maine along with a press release from the National Safety Council.

[Source: WLBZ2.com]

Continue reading Ironic: New Florida billboard campaign aims to curb distracted driving (w/VIDEO)

Ironic: New Florida billboard campaign aims to curb distracted driving (w/VIDEO) originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 11 Jul 2009 09:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>death by cellphonedeathbycellphonedeathbycellphone.orgironic advertisingironic billboardIronicAdvertisingIronicBillboardstay alive just driveStayAliveJustDriveSat, 11 Jul 2009 09:25:00 EST<![CDATA[(Over) Active Aero: VW recalling Touareg over spoilers that might take flight]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/over-active-aero-volkswagen-recalling-2007-2009-touareg-over/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/over-active-aero-volkswagen-recalling-2007-2009-touareg-over/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/over-active-aero-volkswagen-recalling-2007-2009-touareg-over/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



With products like its now-defunct Corrado sports coupe, Volkswagen has proven that they understand the benefits of active aerodynamics - but a new recall in conjunction with the National HIghway Traffic Safety Administration centers on the potential for some completely unintentional and undesired active aero with the company's products.

According to NHTSA, VW will recall 14,416 2007-2009 Touareg SUVs because the vehicle's roof spoiler can jettison itself from the vehicle, potentially striking pedestrians or other vehicles. Apparently, the problem stems from the fastening struts on the spoiler which can crack, leading to the loosening or outright detachment of the aerodynamic element.

Owners of Touaregs covered under the recall can bring their vehicles to their local dealer, which will install reinforcement wedges to the assembly for free. Official recall information posted after the jump. Top tip, Jeff!

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading (Over) Active Aero: VW recalling Touareg over spoilers that might take flight

(Over) Active Aero: VW recalling Touareg over spoilers that might take flight originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Jul 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>TouaregVolkswagenVolkswagen TouaregVolkswagenTouaregVW SUVVW TouaregVwSuvVwTouaregFri, 10 Jul 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Aussie gets second car yanked under anti-hoon laws after posting antics on Facebook ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/aussie-gets-second-car-yanked-under-anti-hoon-laws-after-posting/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/aussie-gets-second-car-yanked-under-anti-hoon-laws-after-posting/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/aussie-gets-second-car-yanked-under-anti-hoon-laws-after-posting/#commentsFiled under: , ,



According to The Herald Sun, since Victoria, Australia introduced anti-hoon legislation on July 1, 2006, more than ten cars a day have been confiscated from their owners. That's over 8,000 cars in three years, more than 5,000 of which the police still have. Despite those big numbers, Victorian Peter Black has the distinct honor of being the first Aussie to surrender two different cars in two years for hooning.

While our instincts generally tend to sympathy any time a car is taken away, we can't feel sorry for Black because he's guilty of criminal vanity: he broke the law and then posted the video of it online. That led to someone alerting the police as to the video's existence, and in turn, to the authorities alerting Black that he could hand over the keys to his Ford Falcon ute. How many times do we have to say it? Drive safely. If you don't, please keep it to yourself.

Black's case goes in a similar file to Aussie Joshua Shelton's - the 19-year-old had his arm amputated after a high speed crash, then had his license taken away after he was busted two months later doing donuts, and then he got busted this week twice in an hour for two different "hoon-related activities" while he was a passenger. These kids today...

[Source: Herald Sun]

Aussie gets second car yanked under anti-hoon laws after posting antics on Facebook originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jul 2009 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anti hoonAntiHoonaustraliahoonhoon lawhooningHoonLawvictoriavictoria australiaVictoriaAustraliaThu, 09 Jul 2009 18:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Fiery Swede: Apple iPod suspected of torching defenseless Saab 9-3 Combi]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/apple-ipod-suspected-of-torching-defenseless-saab-9-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/apple-ipod-suspected-of-torching-defenseless-saab-9-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/apple-ipod-suspected-of-torching-defenseless-saab-9-3/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Any infotainment system worth its own salt has iPod integration, but we're pretty sure there aren't many vehicles with sprinkler systems in the event said iPod catches fire. One undoubtedly unhappy owner of a 2007 Saab 9-3 Combi in Sweden apparently found out first hand that leaving your iPod on your front seat is a bad idea, as investigators believe the musical bauble is the reason the wagon caught fire, turning its interior into a prop for Backdraft II.

There has been no definitive word that the iPod was the cause for the fire, and we don't know at this point whether the popular music player was charging at the time of the incident. We do know, though that there were apparently no underlying problems with the vehicle, and the fire started on the seats, where the iPod was resting.

Since iPods are still a very hot item (no pun intended), we're guessing that you shouldn't leave them sitting inside the car. Now that there is a chance the little battery-powered devices can spontaneously combust, we're not so sure they should be in your pocket, either. Hat tip to 13enS!

[Source: Hallandsposten via Engadget | Image: Christer Pioge]

Fiery Swede: Apple iPod suspected of torching defenseless Saab 9-3 Combi originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jul 2009 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-3apple ipodAppleIpodipodipod fireIpodFiresaabsaab 9-3saab fireSaab9-3SaabFiresportcombiThu, 09 Jul 2009 17:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Volkswagen Routan recalled for... <i>*magic 8-ball shake*</i>... owner's manual omission?!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/volkswagen-routan-recalled-for-i-magic-8-ball-shake-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/volkswagen-routan-recalled-for-i-magic-8-ball-shake-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/volkswagen-routan-recalled-for-i-magic-8-ball-shake-i/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



In Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, one of the characters decries the need for a set of detailed instructions on a packet of toothpicks. Volkswagen might feel the same way now that 18,500 of its 2009 Routan minivans are being recalled because their owner's manuals don't include a required warning not to put items on or near the airbag. In the words of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:
The owner's manual was printed without the required information explaining that no objects should be placed over the or near the airbag on the instrument panel. Any such objects could cause injury to the vehicle's occupants in the event of a crash severe enough to cause the airbag to inflate.
VW is sending dealers an insert to be placed in affected Routan manuals. If you don't trust yourself to handle the insert, you can take your Routan to the dealer and they'll be happy to assist.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Volkswagen Routan recalled for... *magic 8-ball shake*... owner's manual omission?!

Volkswagen Routan recalled for... *magic 8-ball shake*... owner's manual omission?! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 routan2009 volkswagen routan2009Routan2009VolkswagenRoutanminivannhtsarecallroutansafetyvolkswagenvwvw routanVwRoutanTue, 07 Jul 2009 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Georgia mom looking to mandate 'newly licensed' magnets for teen drivers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/georgia-mom-looking-to-mandate-newly-licensed-magnets-for-teen/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/georgia-mom-looking-to-mandate-newly-licensed-magnets-for-teen/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/georgia-mom-looking-to-mandate-newly-licensed-magnets-for-teen/#commentsFiled under: ,

A mom in Georgia is on a crusade to convince state lawmakers to require special "Caution - Newly Licensed" magnets and stickers on the backs of all vehicles operated by young drivers. Concerned after moving from Ohio to the Peach State and seeing how "crazy" the local drivers were, Susie Kessler founded the "Caution and Courtesy Driver Alliance" to help keep her young son safe when he reached driving age.

According to an interview with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Kessler says the magnet concept was designed to be "something positive" and not embarrassing (in her mind, the simple sticker avoids humiliation to new drivers). And, if you think (correctly) that the kid will simply drive around the corner and pull of the magnet, parents may affix a permanent sticker to the rear window just to drive the message home.

Donnie, her hapless 16-year-old son stuck driving a newbie-emblazoned vehicle, expressed wishes that his mom had focused her energy somewhere else as he quipped to the reporter, "Why does she have to take on this? Couldn't she be feeding the homeless?"

[Source: Atlanta Journal-Constitution; Image: Phil Skinner]

Georgia mom looking to mandate 'newly licensed' magnets for teen drivers originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Atlanta JournalAtlantaJournalDriverMagnetNewly LicensedNewlyLicensedSusie KesslerSusieKesslerYoung Driver StickerYoungDriverStickerTue, 07 Jul 2009 14:27:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Worst crash test ever will definitely leave a mark]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/video-worst-crash-test-ever-will-definitely-leave-a-mark/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/video-worst-crash-test-ever-will-definitely-leave-a-mark/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/video-worst-crash-test-ever-will-definitely-leave-a-mark/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above to watch video after the jump

We've shown you crash test footage that we thought was the worst we've ever seen, but anything seen here in the past has nothing on the crash of what appears to be a 1978 Holden Commodore VB. After the jump is video of said sedan hitting a cement barrier and collapsing like an accordion. The Commodore was reportedly crashed at 62 mph back in 1992 to to test the vehicle's drive system, and not the car itself.

For the record, most of America's crash tests are performed at closer to 35 mph, so if the 62 mph figure is correct, the speed of this test collision is far greater than what we're used to seeing. Regardless, the carnage of the accident is far to great not to see.

Just for fun, we have also added post-jump footage of a Volkswagen T3 combi hitting a cement barrier at an unknown and presumably high rate of speed. The crash was so severe that the chances of anything larger than a cockroach surviving is pretty much zero. Which impact is worse? You be the judge by watching them both after the jump.

[Source: YouTube via TTAC]

Continue reading VIDEO: Worst crash test ever will definitely leave a mark

VIDEO: Worst crash test ever will definitely leave a mark originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1978 holden commodore1978HoldenCommodoreholden commodore vbHoldenCommodoreVbvw microbusVwMicrobusMon, 06 Jul 2009 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Reviewed: Bridgestone 3G RFT Tires take the shock out of run-flats]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/reviewed-bridgestone-3g-rft-tires-taking-the-shock-out-of-run/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/reviewed-bridgestone-3g-rft-tires-taking-the-shock-out-of-run/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/reviewed-bridgestone-3g-rft-tires-taking-the-shock-out-of-run/#commentsFiled under: ,


Bridgestone 3G RFT Tires - Click above for high-res image gallery

The BMW enters the massive skidpad at more than 100 mph and begins a sweeping right turn along a soldiered row of orange cones. On cue, a pneumatic device attached to the hub of the spinning left rear wheel instantaneously rips its air valve clean out. Abruptly unsettled by the simulated tire "blow-out," and the collapse of the tire, the family wagon plunges into a long and flat uncontrolled spin knocking the hapless cones skyward in its wake. The BMW finally comes to a rest off course, facing 180-degrees from its original direction of travel.

Melodramatic in execution, the tire demonstration was repeated again moments later. This time the BMW was fitted with a set of Bridgestone's new third-generation run-flat tires. The high-speed blow-out again unsettled the car, but riding on sustained tire sidewalls it remained controllable as it tracked within the cordoned lane of orange cones and gently came to a stop.

The demonstration was powerful. Without a doubt, run-flat tires do work. Unfortunately, we've never met a set that didn't ride rough, feel like anchors, or cost us an arm and a leg at the register. We typically avoid them at all costs. Determined to make a change, Bridgestone invited us to Italy to try out its latest iteration of run-flats, promising to alter the way we think about the technology. What is this new tire? Why is it different from its predecessors? And, most importantly, how does it ride? Find those answers and more after the jump...


Gallery: Bridgestone 3G RFT


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Bridgestone Tire

Continue reading Reviewed: Bridgestone 3G RFT Tires take the shock out of run-flats

Reviewed: Bridgestone 3G RFT Tires take the shock out of run-flats originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1G RFT1gRft2G RFT2gRft3G RFT3gRftbridgestonebridgestone run-flatsBridgestoneRun-flatsfeaturedRFTrun-flatrun-flat tiresrun-flatsRun-flatTiresMon, 06 Jul 2009 11:56:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: What goes into German engineering - Audi's TechDay Quality]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/05/what-goes-into-german-engineering-audis-techday-quality/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/05/what-goes-into-german-engineering-audis-techday-quality/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/05/what-goes-into-german-engineering-audis-techday-quality/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Audi's TechDay Quality philosophy -- Click above to watch video

Why are German luxury cars so expensive? Because of German engineering. And what is this whole "German engineering" thing all about? That's the question Audi tries to explain once a year when it takes outsiders through its quality processes during its factory TechDay.

According to the Audi, the automaker's three main tenets are Value, Precision, and Fascination, and they all add up to Quality. This encompasses processes that go into making processes like reworking the fit of the gas tank cap to adjust for parallax error, using a scanning electron microscope for surface analysis, and an olfactory team to make sure things like leather smell right.

The video shows you what Audi does to get you that quality... and frankly, it looks like a lot more fun than the engineering bits. You can see the video and read a Joycean-length string of press releases after the jump. A host of high-res photos, including more shots of the A5 Sportback, are in the gallery below.


Gallery: Audi TechDay Quality 2009


[Source: Auto Scout (translated) via German Car Blog]

Continue reading VIDEO: What goes into German engineering - Audi's TechDay Quality

VIDEO: What goes into German engineering - Audi's TechDay Quality originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 Jul 2009 16:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiengineeringlifestylequalitysafetytechnologyvideoSun, 05 Jul 2009 16:11:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: NHTSA to mandate lane departure warning and auto-brake systems?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/03/report-nhtsa-to-mandate-lane-departure-warning-and-auto-brake-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/03/report-nhtsa-to-mandate-lane-departure-warning-and-auto-brake-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/03/report-nhtsa-to-mandate-lane-departure-warning-and-auto-brake-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Is the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration about to add some more safety measures to your next new car? According to The Detroit News, they might be. The Motown daily says that government officials are pondering whether or not they should require new vehicles to be fitted with lane-departure warning systems and automatic braking systems that trigger upon warning of an impending accident. Both systems are currently available only in very small percentage of new passenger cars - primarily luxury vehicles. According to the DetNews report, safety experts believe that the systems "show significant promise" in their ability to reduce traffic accident-related fatalities and injuries.

NHTSA will decide whether to require such systems in 2011 after further cost-benefit analysis, including looking at insurance company data and estimated manufacturing costs. It has already added new components to its New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) for 2011 vehicles, including a test that measures the effectiveness of lane-departure warning systems and a different frontal-crash program.

NHTSA hopes to announce its findings by the end of the year.

[Source: The Detroit News]

REPORT: NHTSA to mandate lane departure warning and auto-brake systems? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto safetyAutoSafetybike absBikeAbscar safetyCarSafetylane departurelane departure warningLaneDepartureLaneDepartureWarningmotorcycle absMotorcycleAbsNCAPnew car assessment programNewCarAssessmentProgramnhtsaFri, 03 Jul 2009 13:44:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Tragic Irony - Vintage James Dean driving safety video]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/03/video-tragic-irony-vintage-james-dean-driving-safety-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/03/video-tragic-irony-vintage-james-dean-driving-safety-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/03/video-tragic-irony-vintage-james-dean-driving-safety-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above to watch video after the jump

Most know how James Dean died; driving his Porsche 550 Spyder on Highway 466 in California. Dean even received a ticket earlier in the day, prompting many to assume that he was driving recklessly when the accident occurred. Later examination of the crash showed that the Hollywood icon was likely driving around 55 mph at the time of the crash; which was the legal limit at the time.

While Dean was shooting the film Giant (released posthumously in 1956), the Hollywood superstar shot a quick public service video for the program Warner Bros. Parents. The short was about the dangers of speeding on the highway, and Dean insisted that speeding was for the race track and not for public roads. Chillingly, he ends the interview saying "Take it easy drivin'... the life you might save might be mine." As Dean died soon after filming the short segment, it reportedly never aired. Hit the jump to view the two minute interview.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Tragic Irony - Vintage James Dean driving safety video

VIDEO: Tragic Irony - Vintage James Dean driving safety video originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>giant filmGiant movieGiantFilmGiantMoviejames deanJamesDeanPorsche 550Porsche550PSApublic service announcementPublicServiceAnnouncementFri, 03 Jul 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Double Oops: Wife plows into husband's new Chevy Corvette Z06... in her Hyundai Genesis]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/double-oops-wife-plows-into-mans-new-chevy-corvette-z06-in/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/double-oops-wife-plows-into-mans-new-chevy-corvette-z06-in/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/double-oops-wife-plows-into-mans-new-chevy-corvette-z06-in/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Hyundai Genesis crashes into Chevrolet Corvette Z06 - Click above for high-res gallery

We can only imagine how exciting a day it would be to bring home a brand spanking new Chevrolet Corvette Z06. Genesis Owners forum member zedbuyers was feeling that love as he and his wife left a Massachusetts Chevy dealer with a spanking new Cyber Gray Metallic Z06. Zedbuyers was driving from the dealer in the rain with his wife following behind in the couples' nine-month-old Genesis Sedan when disaster struck.

As traffic slowed from 60 mph to 30 mph in the exit lane, zedbuyers applied the brakes, but his wife evidently didn't. The Genesis slammed into the hours-old Z06, thrusting the $80,000 supercar into the vehicle in front of it. Oddly, the Genesis took the brunt of the blow, and a local Hyundai dealer estimated the damage at $16,000, including nearly $2,000 for the HID headlamps alone. The Z06 damage was $10,000, including $2,000 for a carbon fiber bumper.

Luckily, nobody was seriously injured in the accident, but we're sure the owner is smarting none the less. We're guessing the insurance company is not going to react kindly to a combined $26,000 in damages only hours after the purchase of what is likely a very expensive vehicle to insure in the first place. Peruse the gallery below to check out the carnage, and click on the link below for zedbuyers' damage estimates.


Gallery: Genesis crashes into Corvette Z06


[Source: Genesis Owners via Jalopnik]

Double Oops: Wife plows into husband's new Chevy Corvette Z06... in her Hyundai Genesis originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 Chevrolet Corvette Z062009ChevroletCorvetteZ06corvette z06CorvetteZ06genesis sedanGenesisSedanhyundai genesisHyundaiGenesisThu, 02 Jul 2009 13:29:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: NHTSA may mandate amber turn signals]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/report-nhtsa-to-mandate-amber-turn-signals/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/report-nhtsa-to-mandate-amber-turn-signals/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/report-nhtsa-to-mandate-amber-turn-signals/#commentsFiled under: ,



Some cars have red turn signal lamps, while others have an amber hue. Big deal, right? The National Highway Traffic Safety Association thinks it is, after finding that amber lights are 5.3% more effective at preventing crashes than the red blinkers. NHTSA came to that conclusion after comparing crash data of vehicles that switched from one color to another. Europe already mandates the amber turn signal, and NHTSA says that data from other agencies supports their findings. As it is, American cars sold in Europe already receive legal turn signal units - even if they aren't sold that way in America (see Chevrolet's C6 Corvette as an example).

NHTSA is now asking the public whether it should mandate amber turn signals for all vehicles sold in the States. Unfortunately for automakers, amber turn signals aren't exactly high fashion here in the U.S., as the vast majority of the signals are of the red blinking variety, likely because of cost considerations. While it's true that the auto industry is probably suffering from a case of far too many regulations, anything that can improve safety by up to 5.3% without costing an arm and a leg is probably worth considering. If NHTSA gives automakers a reasonable amount of time to implement the changes, automakers may be able to fit the change into the next design cycle.

[Source: Kicking Tires]

REPORT: NHTSA may mandate amber turn signals originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amber turn signalAmberTurnSignalnhtsared turn signalRedTurnSignalregulationssafetyThu, 02 Jul 2009 12:57:00 EST<![CDATA[STUDY: Majority of highway fatalities caused by deficient road conditions]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/study-majority-of-highway-fatalities-caused-by-deficient-road-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/study-majority-of-highway-fatalities-caused-by-deficient-road-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/study-majority-of-highway-fatalities-caused-by-deficient-road-c/#commentsFiled under: , ,



What would you think to be the leading contributor to fatalities in car crashes here in the States? Failure to use seat belts? Speeding? Drunk driving? Think again. According to a new study commissioned by Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation (PIRE), the leading cause of highway fatalities is deficient road conditions. In fact, the study asserts, with a roadway-related crash occurring every minute on American streets, inadequate roadway infrastructure is responsible for the majority of highway fatalities in the United States and over a third of injuries incurred in non-fatal crashes as well.

Given the state of many roadways, you might think that the situation - like America's road network - is beyond repair. However, the study, entitled "On a Crash Course: The Dangers and Health Costs of Deficient Roadways," assesses the financial cost alone of crashes caused by these substandard roadways - as a whopping $217 billion annually, including medical bills, loss of productivity and property damage. That's more than three-and-a-half times the $59 billion which local, state and federal governments in the United States invest in improving America's roadways. PIRE's solution? Improving road conditions, of course, including better signage and markings, widening shoulders and removing obstacles from roadsides. Follow the jump to read more on PIRE's findings and suggested solutions for what it deems is one of the largest killers in America.

[Source: Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation | Image: STR/AFP/Getty]

Continue reading STUDY: Majority of highway fatalities caused by deficient road conditions

STUDY: Majority of highway fatalities caused by deficient road conditions originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto accidentauto accidentsAutoAccidentAutoAccidentscar accidentcar accidentscar crashcar crashesCarAccidentCarAccidentsCarCrashCarCrashescause of deathCauseOfDeathdeathdeficient roadwayDeficientRoadwayfatalitiesfatalityhighwayhighway maintenancehighway markingsHighwayMaintenanceHighwayMarkingsPacific Institute for Research and EvaluationPacificInstituteForResearchAndEvaluationpireroad constructionroad maintenanceroad networkroad safetyRoadConstructionRoadMaintenanceRoadNetworkRoadSafetyroadwaysafetysignagetraffic safetyTrafficSafetyThu, 02 Jul 2009 10:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Some airlines adding airbags to first-class seats]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/some-airlines-adding-airbags-to-first-class-seats/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/some-airlines-adding-airbags-to-first-class-seats/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/some-airlines-adding-airbags-to-first-class-seats/#commentsFiled under:



Beginning October 27, many planes could be quite a bit safer in the event of a crash. New government regulations are forcing all planes to have sturdier "16G" seats that will stay bolted to the floor in the event of an impact 16-times the force of gravity. The seats have been present in all planes designed and produced after 1988, but older planes with 9G seats will be replaced. The 9G seats could rip apart from the floor even in crashes where the plane skid off the runway; killing or severely injuring some passengers secured with the 16G seats. The seat sturdiness will remain at 16G, as scientists say stronger forces are not survivable.

Another technological improvement in airline safety is the introduction of airbags. The airbag tech is lifted directly from automobiles, and they're designed to go off only in the event of an impact, however, turbulence won't trigger the devices. The airbags are built into the lap belt and the employment will be in first class where the distance between seats is greater than in coach. In coach, airbags will be used in front rows, exit rows and bulkhead seats.

[Source: Engadget, New York Times]

Some airlines adding airbags to first-class seats originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 07:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2007 Toyota Prius - Click above for high-res image gallery

We'd wager that the last thing Toyota wants in the midst of the super-important launch of its new third-generation Prius is a negative stigma attached to the previous model. Unfortunately, that's exactly what the Japanese automaker may have on its hands as a number of owners of the 2005-2008 Toyota Prius with the HID headlight option are banding together on online forums, message boards and in possible class action lawsuits against the automaker in relation to failing headlamps.

According to Advertising Age, these HID headlight bulbs and their associated electronics can sometimes cost well over $1,000 to replace after they've gone faulty, and Toyota is unwilling to pick up the tab. At least one lawsuit has reportedly been filed last month by Girard Gibbs in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles on behalf of a Putnam County, N.Y., Prius owner. The suit contends that the problem is a "dangerous but undisclosed safety defect" and alleges that "Toyota is concealing the problems from owners" despite having been "long been aware of Prius' HID headlight problem." It's possible that the suit will get class-action status.

The NHTSA has reportedly filed a preliminary investigation into the issue and contacted Toyota on May 13 regarding 338 complaints it has received so far from Prius owners about the HID headlamps. Spokesmen from Toyota have said the automaker is cooperating with the NHTSA investigation, which may or may not end up calling for an official recall.


Gallery: Review: 2007 Toyota Prius Touring


[Source: Advertising Age]

Toyota stung by possible Prius headlight defect? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Saturn Vue - Click above for high-res image gallery

Some 44,451 Saturn Vue models from the 2008 model year are being recalled, and yours might be a part of the action if it has body-color door handles. What's the deal? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the handles may stick, preventing the door from properly latching.

NHTSA says an unbelted occupant could tumble out of the vehicle as a result of a door that refuses to latch, though one has to figure that you're sort of asking for it by ignoring the safety gear. In any circumstance, doors that pop open aren't acceptable, so the 44,451 vehicles affected will be give chrome door handles by dealers at no charge to customers. The recall goes into full effect by August 18th, plenty of time to get a can of Nevr-Dull to keep those shiny handles looking their best.


Gallery: 2008 Saturn VUE


[Source: NHTSA]

REPORT: GM recalling over 44,000 Saturn Vue crossovers because of sticky door handles?! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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European Fiat advertising campaign - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've seen some pretty cool advertising in our time, but a new European marketing campaign from Fiat is surely one of the more memorable efforts from an automaker in recent memory. In an effort to underscore the safety of its diminutive 500 - both to its occupants and the animals we share our planet with - the Italian automaker has unleashed a new series of images depicting the retro hatchback in various crash test scenarios.

The interesting part comes from the car's occupants, which includes a panda bear, a walrus (goo goo g'joob) and a couple of penguins. Equally as clever is the tagline, "Engineered for a lower impact on the environment," after which the ad reminds the viewer that Fiat - with 133.7 grams of C02 per kilometer on average - is the brand with the lowest carbon emissions in all of Europe.


Gallery: European Fiat advertising campaign


[Source: Fubiz.net via Jalopnik]

PETA Alert: Fiat underscores eco-friendliness using unique advertising campaign originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LightLane - Click above to watch a video after the jump

There's no question that well-designed and implemented bike lanes improve safety for cyclists by making them less likely to be hit by passing automobiles, and that's especially true after the sun goes down. LightLane thinks it has the solution in the form of frickin' laser beams downward-pointing green lasers on either side of a flashing red LED tail lamp. Designed to clamp on to nearly any seatpost, as the bicycle moves forward, an instant virtual bike lane appears in bright green on either side of the rider.

A single charge of the onboard lithium ion battery pack provides three hours of continuous use, and any universal cell phone charger is reportedly capable of recharging the battery pack. We'd still suggest wearing a reflective jacket or vest along with the rest of the applicable safety gear, but anything that improves the safety of cyclists is fine by us. Click past the break for a video of a LightLane prototype in action.

[Source: LightLane]

Continue reading VIDEO: LightLane adds instant bike lane for night bicycle rides

VIDEO: LightLane adds instant bike lane for night bicycle rides originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Jun 2009 09:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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You will soon have more ways to choose which tire is right for you: the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has proposed a new tire label that ranks rubber based on fuel efficiency and greenhouse gas rating, safety (wet traction), and durability. According to NHTSA's calculations, rolling resistance accounts for up to 7% of "uses and losses of fuel energy in a vehicle." With everyone paying close attention to gas mileage and gas prices now, the federal agency wants to give consumers more info on how to maximize a car's performance in that respect.

There are a variety of labels NHTSA has come up with to display a tire's ratings. When the final rule is implemented, the removable label will be located on the tire at the point-of-sale, and the ratings will also be available at the NHTSA website, www.safercar.gov. The agency is taking comments from consumers now, and needs to come up with a final rule by December of this year. You can read the press release after the jump. Thanks for the tip, Nick

[Source: LA Times]

Continue reading NHTSA introduces new tire labels

NHTSA introduces new tire labels originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 21 Jun 2009 16:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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