2006-2008 Jeep Commander Wheel, 17x7.5, 5 Spoke Machined/charcoal on 2040-parts.com

NHTSA may investigate Grand Cherokees over fuel-tank fire hazard

The Jeep Grand Cherokee from the 1993 to 2004 model years may be investigated by federal safety regulators after a complaint that its fuel tank is an exposed fire hazard that may have contributed to hundreds of deaths. Last month the nonprofit Center for Auto Safety complained that the SUV's fuel tank extends below the rear bumper and is inadequately protected from crashes and rollovers. The vehicle's fuel filler neck also tears off in crashes, said the center's petition for an investigation and recall.

Lotus not liquidating

When a storied car brand moves only 137 units in a year in the UK and 242 in the US, predictions of said marque's demise carry a certain amount of weight -- 137 is not exactly a number that makes an automaker too big to fail. When the manufacturer in question shows up on a government list of companies to be shut down, brand-enthusiast hearts get heavy; the early stages of mourning kick in. But when the company in question is Lotus, the enthusiast thinks to himself, “Eh, they've been in dire straits before.

Design Contest: Freightliner 'Pride & Profit'

Freightliner, the iconic American truck manufacturer, is hosting a design contest to create the next generation of its 'Pride & Profit' trucks. Steeped heavily in American history, Freightliner has been the backbone of small and large businesses throughout the country. Taking this into consideration, as well as Freightliner's own visual identity, contestants are asked to present their interpretation of a heavy-duty truck for the year 2030.