Daihatsu Mira 2004 Door Lock Solenoids [3364553] on 2040-parts.com

Ford lines up Mark Fields to succeed Alan Mulally

Ford Motor Co. has named Mark Fields its chief operating officer, putting him in line to succeed CEO Alan Mulally when he retires no sooner than the end of 2014. The appointment of Fields, 51, who has been president of Ford's Americas unit, was part of a sweeping overhaul of executive ranks unveiled Thursday.

Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 deliveries halted

Hot business over on the forums today: According to GM Inside News, Chevrolet apparently has stopped delivery of the Camaro ZL1 because of an undisclosed issue. The whacking, thwacking, lumberjacking-and-it's-OK pony cars sent to dealers and--according to one poster--delivered to at least one customer are being hauled in for a once-over because of an unspecified possible issue with the potent machines. According to Monte Doran, communications manager for Corvette and Camaro, "We go through a standard quality assessment with every new vehicle and we found what we thought was a potential concern.

2009 Michelin Challenge Design theme announced

Michelin today announced the 2009 theme for its global vehicle design competition, Michelin Challenge Design (MCD), asking entrants to explore the future of transportation and share their brave and bold vision for 'America's Next Iconic Vehicle.' Designers this year are asked to render unique vehicle concepts that demonstrate emotional appeal, design courage and technical execution. Additional consideration will be given to entries with attributes that benefit safety and the environment and include a separate rendering of the tire and wheel component assembly.   Vehicle designs that best represent "Brave + Bold, America's Next Iconic Vehicle" will be reviewed by a jury of professional designers whose names will be announced later in 2008.