Autoblog

In word that must have long-time Audi executives reaching for their Maalox by association, Connecticut officials are urging federal regulators to investigate allegations of 'unintended acceleration' in late-model Jeep Grand Cherokees.

The call comes after a 52-year-old man was run over and killed in a car wash in the state. In fact, the hubbub seems to be that something in that particular environment appears to make these episodes more likely – Connecticut bigwigs have logged a number of complaints about the vehicles suddenly picking up speed when drivers move the automatic transmission from 'neutral' to 'drive' while in car washes.

Car buffs may recall Audi's bout with 'unintended acceleration' way back in 1986, when news program 60 Minutes demonized the company's 5000 model sedan. The company's reputation and sales tanked, taking more than fifteen years to rebound. In that case, the syndrome was later judged to be the result of operator pedal misapplication.

If we had to put money on it, we'd be just as quick to cite wet shoes and slippery pedals.

[Source: CNNMoney.com]

Tonight, 60 Minutes will air a segment on Steve Kroft’s interview with workers at General Motors' plant in Janesville, Wisconsin. Kroft, a correspondent for CBS, interviewed former and current employees of the plant at a nearby restaurant. He questions them about the automaker’s past and current financial situations; and how it will affect Janesville and the United Auto Workers.

"Almost everyone in Janesville either works for GM or has a relative or family member that does," Kroft says in a voice-over during the program.

Information on what channels the segment will air can be found at the link.

[Source: Gazette Extra]