2000 Ford Explorer Exterior Rear Door Moulding Trim Left Side 7825335 Oem on 2040-parts.com

For new CAFE rules, automakers place high-stakes tech bets

Game-changing 2015 fuel economy rules are forcing vehicle development teams to make high-stakes bets on expensive technologies--bets that will separate the winners from the also-rans. Not only do federal rules target a 2015 fleet average of 35.5 mpg, up from the current 27.5 mpg for cars and 23.1 mpg for light trucks; they force automakers to bet on different technology packages for each vehicle segment. Companies that do best at mixing technologies while keeping down costs will have an advantage when buyers wince at higher stickers.

Porsche 911 (2011) the first official video of the 991

Prototypes of Porsche’s new 991-spec 911 haven’t been snapped out on test by our spies this week, so just in case you’ve been having withdrawal symptoms, Stuttgart’s most famous sports car manufacturer has released its own video of its iconic car. What does Porsche’s official video of the new 911 reveal?  Shot in South Africa during the 991’s final validation and testing phase, the video is our best look yet at the new 911 on the move. We finally get to hear the flat six engines, and get glimpses under the bonnet and inside its Panamera-inspired interior – look closely and you can spy the seven forward speeds etched onto the gearknob for the manual ‘box.  Beyond that there’s little more to see, as Porsche won’t reveal the new 911 until the 2011 Frankfurt motor show this September.

Mercedes-Benz plans teen-driving school

Mercedes-Benz plans to open a driving school for teens in the United States late this year. The school will be modeled on one that Mercedes launched in the United Kingdom in 2009. The location of the school and the program cost won't be disclosed until the end of April, a company spokesman said.