1947 Chevy Chassis Frame on 2040-parts.com

New techniques cut cost of carbon fiber

Carbon fiber, once so costly that it was the preferred material only for fighter planes and supercars, is catching the attention of weight-conscious automakers. Carbon fiber's cost is falling dramatically, thanks to production advances that let suppliers speed the material's finicky, and costly, curing process. One technological breakthrough that makes carbon-fiber auto parts more affordable may come from a process used to make carbon-fiber golf clubs.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class previewed in new video, images [w/Video]

Mercedes-Benz has given us the first look at its next-generation C-Class, the W205, in a new video and interior photos. The images show the new model shares many design cues with the CLA-Class, such as the center stack, IP and steering wheel, while design cues from the S-Class include the COMAND system's control with added touchpad. The interior also features a heads-up display and an HVAC system called Air Balance.

Ford offers dealers 20% discount on aluminum-repair tools

NEW ORLEANS -- Ford is offering dealerships with body shops a 20 percent discount on the $30,000 to $50,000 in special equipment and training needed to repair the 2015 aluminum pickup. Dealers can get a maximum of $10,000 off if they buy the gear before Oct. 31, said Paul Massie, Ford collision marketing manager.