Harley Davidson Reflective Vest *lg* on 2040-parts.com

Volkswagen plans 4 million cars from one platform

Volkswagen is pushing the global-platform concept to a level unprecedented in the auto industry, introducing a modular platform this summer that eventually will be the basis of microcars, sedans, crossovers and SUVs for its four largest brands. While automakers now share platforms across brands and sometimes even segments, the VW initiative that starts this summer is far more ambitious than anything seen so far. By 2017, some analysts estimate, the MQB platform that debuts with the Audi A3 eventually will be used in 4 million units a year--close to half of VW's annual production.

2012 Jeep Compass and Patriot to be recalled for fuel-tank problem

Chrysler is recalling nearly 1,700 all-wheel-drive-equipped 2012 Jeep Patriot and 2012 Jeep Compass SUVs for a possible defect in the fuel system. In certain affected vehicles, a valve designed to prevent fuel leakage in the event of a rollover can leak. This is due to damage sustained in testing at the facility where they were manufactured.

Four CCS students win awards in 22nd annual Michelin/CCS competition

Michelin and the College for Creative Studies (CCS) in Detroit, Michigan recently held their 22nd Annual College for Creative Studies Design Competition at the A. Alfred Taubman Center for Design Education. Four CCS transportation students are receiving the exhibition opportunity of a lifetime when their winning designs are displayed in a special Michelin exhibit at the 2011 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) January 10-23, 2011.