First customers are key to EV sales success, execs say

Word of mouth is a key element to generating buyers for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Today, it's the early adapters, tech-savvy buyers who are embracing the technology and buying the plug-in hybrid Chevrolet Volt and the battery-powered Nissan Leaf. But for these vehicles and similar models to go mainstream, anxiety about the technology needs to be eliminated.

Ford S-Max and Galaxy (2010) first official pictures

Ford today whisks the covers off updated versions of the S-Max and Galaxy, fresh for launch in 2010. The MPV duo will be shown publicly for the first time at that most Eurocratic of motor shows, the 2010 Brussels expo.The facelifts may look mild, but Ford's European design boss Martin Smith says there are more than 1700 new parts, including sheet metal changes. He says the changes are designed to 'give them a fresh new look and more premium appeal.' Both MPVs gain fresh bonnets, grilles, facias and LED tail lights.

Chevy reveals 45th-anniversary special edition, and more power, for the Camaro

Chevrolet has let slip some of the details on the 2012 Camaro. Highlights for the sports car include a few more horsepower from the V6, a new suspension package for the SS and a 45th anniversary special edition Camaro that will go on sale to celebrate the pony car's entrance into old age. The direct-injection V6, which sees duty in everything from the Cadillac CTS to the Malibu and a few crossovers, will deliver 323 hp in this application.