Fisker battles problems as the Karma finally lurches toward launch

All Henrik Fisker wants is to build his plug-in hybrid cars and deliver them to customers--some of whom have been waiting three years since plunking down $5,000 deposits. Instead, he has been fending off criticisms aimed at his green-car company as shipments of his $103,000 Karma plug-in hybrid sedan have been delayed by cash flow troubles, regulatory snarls and a recall. But when a startup such as Fisker Automotive accepts a Department of Energy loan in a down economy, having the company tossed around like a political football comes with the territory.

VW Jetta Hybrid unveiled at 2012 Detroit show

Volkswagen unveiled its second hybrid production car at the 2012 Detroit auto show: the new Jetta Hybrid, which goes on sale in November 2012. The hybrid Jetta is aimed predominantly at the north American market, although it is likely to be sold in other markets over the coming years. VW Jetta Hybrid: the technical lowdown The first hybrid from Wolfsburg was the VW Touareg, co-developed with Porsche and Audi.

Pothole app gets goverment backing

A NEW SMARTPHONE APP to report potholes has been given backing by the government. The Department for Transport has given £30,000 to help develop the app, which has been launched by the Cyclists’ Touring Club (CTC). The app is part of the CTC’s ‘Fill That Hole’ pothole reporting website.