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Google reveals its first self-driving car prototype (video)

Google’s first self-driving car prototype (pictured) Google might not be the first company that springs to mind as a car maker, but Tesla has already proved that Silicon Valley can produce a car that buyers want and Google are intent on following a similar route. But where Tesla’s USP is its long-range electric capabilities – and a desire to build cars for the market – Google’s goal is more technology orientated and is all about developing self-driving car technology that works in the real world. For the last few years, Google has been experimenting with existing cars kitted out with self-driving gubbins, but now they’ve taken the next step and built their own self-driving prototype.

Nissan IDx concepts tour Cali

Having traveled from the Tokyo motor show to the Detroit auto show, Nissan's Datsun-inspired IDx concepts are on to much warmer weather. The upcoming three-day tour, starting Jan. 31, will begin in Venice, Calif., on Abbot Kinney Boulevard.

Toyota Hybrid Challenge: How Slow Can You Go?

Toyota Hybrid Challenge - Beware: Slow(er) moving Hybrid Ahead We’ll be the first to admit it: Toyota hybrids can achieve some pretty remarkable feats of economy. Trouble is, only if you’re happy to drive like you hate it with a passion. And that doesn’t mean thrashing the life out of your Toyota hybrid to get there as quickly as possible, because if you do you’ll probably get worse mpg than if you just had the Atkinson cycle lump without the hybrid gubbins.