Toyota Passo 2010 Radiator [0420400] on 2040-parts.com

Tesla increases Roadster production

By Nick Eaton Motor Industry 11 September 2008 11:30 Tesla Motors is about to ramp up production of its Roadster, having secured supply of a new single-speed gearbox from BorgWarner. Tesla began producing the Roadster in March 2008, but all 27 cars so far delivered to customers have effectively been interim models because the original two-speed ‘box was deemed too fragile for long-term use. The original thinking was that the Roadster would require two gears to achieve the best possible acceleration, and on that point Tesla was right.

Toyota and GM recall nearly 1.3 million vehicles over airbag issues

Toyota is recalling certain RAV4, Yaris, Highlander, Tacoma, Corolla, and Matrix models in the U.S. market, part of a larger global recall campaign, for an issue that could prevent the airbag from deploying in the event of an accident. General Motors is recalling Pontiac Vibe vehicles for the same problem; the Vibe is mechanically similar to the Matrix because the two shared a platform and were built at the same plant.

Tesla Model S warranty extended to 8 years for Drivetrain

Tesla Model S warranty extended to 8 years for Drivetrain The Tesla Model S – perhaps the only truly useable electric car – has taken the motoring industry by storm, and now it’s getting better still for owners as Tesla announce an extended warranty on the drivetrain of the Model S to 8 years, matching that of the battery pack. The warranty also applies retrospectively, so all Model S Teslas already in the hands of owners are covered – and the warranty can be transferred to as many new owners as needed – for a full 8 years, which is unlimited for the 85 models and 125k miles for the 60 models. It’s a strong response from Tesla after a number of long-term tests (by Consumer Reports and Edmunds in particular) produced a number on niggling problems, and standing behind their product so solidly – just as Hyundai/Kia did – may not take the niggles away but it will give comfort to prospective buyers (if not shareholders, at least in the short term).