Cooper Bussmann 30a General Purpose Fuses on 2040-parts.com

New techniques cut cost of carbon fiber

Carbon fiber, once so costly that it was the preferred material only for fighter planes and supercars, is catching the attention of weight-conscious automakers. Carbon fiber's cost is falling dramatically, thanks to production advances that let suppliers speed the material's finicky, and costly, curing process. One technological breakthrough that makes carbon-fiber auto parts more affordable may come from a process used to make carbon-fiber golf clubs.

Ford S-Max

Following the unveiling of the SAV concept at Geneva last year comes the production version, the S-MAX. Sharing much in common with the new Galaxy, the S-Max aims to have greater dynamic appeal and retain a closer connection with Ford of Europe's 'Kinetic Design' ethos. Differences include the dropping window-line that pushes back to form a triangular D-pillar and round fog lamps at the front.

Ford F-150 pickup will get three replacement powertrains for 2011

The 2011 Ford F-150 pickup will get three replacement powertrains. Ford Motor Co. will offer a 3.7-liter V6 and a 5.0-liter V8 in the 2011 F-150 pickup when it goes on sale early next year, sources say.