Dual-clutch transmission put on hold at Chrysler

Chrysler Group has delayed introduction of a fuel-saving automatic transmission so it can make the shift patterns more palatable to U.S. drivers--the latest sign that a key tool in automakers' plans to meet tougher fuel-economy rules needs some fine-tuning. Two weeks ago, Ford Motor Co., which uses a similar dual-clutch transmission in its Fiesta and Focus, took a hit in Consumer Reports' annual reliability survey because many drivers complained about balky shifting.

Umea University students complete Saab collaboration project

A selection of first-year students from Sweden's Umea University have completed a 10-week collaborative design project with Saab. Tasked with exploring new directions for the brand, students were encouraged to investigate the interplay of brand and identity. Each of them was assigned a non-automotive brand to reflect on parallels that could be established between that brand and Saab, whilst also capturing the essence of the Swedish carmaker through their project's concept, its proportions, surface language, details, graphics, functionality and material choices.

Nissan Cube (2009) unveiled at LA Auto Show

By Ben Pulman First Official Pictures 19 November 2008 02:00 This is Nissan’s funky new third-generation Cube, unveiled at the LA Auto Show today and set to go on sale in North America in spring 2009. But the big news is that Nissan will also finally sell this new Cube officially in the UK, so the Fiat 500 and Mini will have an edgy new Japanese rival from early next year. The Nissan Cube, eh?