OnStar 'ignition block' disables stolen vehicles

OnStar, General Motors' in-vehicle safety and communications system, has launched a service to keep car thieves from starting a vehicle that has been reported stolen. As of July 20, three stolen cars had been disabled by the technology, called "remote ignition block." The feature is available on select 2009 and 2010 GM models. Subscribers must report their vehicles stolen to police officials and request assistance from OnStar, which then sends a signal that prevents the car from restarting.

Hyundai Performance Brand by 2015

The next gen Hyundai i20 will be the first performance Hyundai One Hyundai had made the tricky transition from budget to credible, there were only two routes open for progress – luxury and performance. The luxury route still looks like it will happen in the UK, with the next generation Hyundai Genesis Coupe heading our way, but we can also look forward to some proper performance cars from Hyundai too. That has been confirmed by Hyundai’s WRC boss, Michel Nandan, who told Australia’s Drive that all the money Hyundai is spending on Motorsport – including a new testing facility at the Nurburgring – is not just for the glow it will cast on Hyundai’s everyday cars, but for a new performance brand too.

Smart Fourjoy concept stars at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show

Smart is here at Frankfurt 2013 with an intruiging and innovative new car, called the Fourjoy concept. Unusual name, yes, and an unusual design as you’ll see – but the technology underpinning this car could be pushed forward as the basis of the next generation Smart Forfour due in 2014, including the all-electric powertrain.