Renault unveils R-Link tablet

Renault is aiming to take its in-vehicle user interface modules to the next level with the new R-Link tablet system announced at LeWeb 2011 today, December 7.  R-Link features a seven-inch tactile screen, steering wheel-mounted controls and voice recognition systems. It is simultaneously connected to the vehicle's information and data center, the user's mobile phone and to the Cloud. The company claims that the bespoke UI features interactive and intuitive menus, which enable users to access all the car's functions and data easily.

Chrysler's main creditors reach deal with U.S.; others hold out

The U.S. Treasury Department has reached a tentative debt-reduction agreement with Chrysler's main creditors but still must get other lenders to sign on for the deal to take effect, three people with knowledge of the talks said today. The accord with JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup, Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley would reduce Chrysler's $6.9 billion debt to $2 billion, which would be repaid by Chrysler in cash, they said.

No special purchase schemes for electric Golf

VOLKSWAGEN has announced that the electric-driven e-Golf will be sold just like any other Golf. The company will not separate battery rental from the purchase of the car, unlike Renault's approach with the Zoe, meaning that customers who buy the e-Golf will also be buying the batteries. There will be no special incentives like access to other Volkswagen cars for a limited number of days per year, which is a scheme in place with the electric-powered BMW i3.