2002 Cadillac Escalade Floor Center Console Gray 2308899 on 2040-parts.com

Kia uses wind power to lower emissions and boost economy

Kia's new Aero-Soul concept utilises wind power to lower emissions and boost economy [ad#ad-1] In a dramatic, and very cost effective manner, Kia has revealed the new Aero-Soul concept, which aims to drastically reduce Co2 emissions and improve economy by harnessing the power of the wind, in a low-cost solution called Air Propulsion and Retardation Installation Line. In simple terms, the A.P.R.I.L system uses small sensors built in to the front and rear of the car to monitor wind forces, and deploys wind chutes at the front or rear of the car to aid in braking or forward propulsion. So at cruising speeds if the wind behind the car is strong – such as in winter gales – the panels will harness wind power to provide forward motion.

Cash for clunkers plan revives trade fight

Import brand automakers and dealers warned on Thursday that a vehicle scrappage proposal before the Senate would violate trade agreements and could weaken the economy. The Senate could vote on the plan on Thursday, which would offer $10,000 to any moderate- or low-income consumer who trades in a car or truck that is at least 10 years old and buys a new one that is more fuel-efficient and "assembled in the United States." The trade-ins would be scrapped rather than resold. The U.S.-made mandate "smacks of the protectionism that led to the Great Depression," said Barbara Nocera, the top Washington lobbyist for Mazda North American Operations.

Dassault Systèmes and Autodesign & Styling's 'Prague Experience' contest launched

Dassault Systèmes and AutoDesign & Styling magazine are looking for designs for everyday objects inspired by the Czech capital of Prague for their annual international design competition. The contest, which is open to designers from all over the world, calls for entries that are both user- and eco-friendly and reflect the character of Prague as a European city full of famous architecture and hundreds of monuments. Anne Asensio, vice-president of design experience at Dassault Systèmes and jury president for the past two years, said, "We are pleased to announce the third annual competition, and we have already introduced a small tradition.