Lincoln Continental Mark Ii Picture on 2040-parts.com

GM expands brake-override safety feature

General Motors is significantly expanding the use of a brake-override safety feature in its cars through the end of 2012. GM announced on Monday that it will add the software, which it also calls “enhanced smart-pedal technology,” in all of its passenger cars with automatic transmissions and electronic throttle control. The change will reduce power to the engine when both the throttle and brakes are pressed at the same time.

Automotive X Prize teams begin performance testing in Michigan

The 28 teams competing in the Progressive Insurance Automotive X Prize will begin performance testing this week at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, Mich. The teams are vying for $10 million in prizes, which will be awarded to consumer-friendly vehicles that exceed 100 mpg. This week begins the first of the three on-track performance testing stages: shakedown, knockout qualifying and finals.

Over 350,000 drivers 'at risk of £1,000 fine'

THOUSANDS of drivers risk collecting a £1,000 fine or worse by being unaware of the date their MOT expires. Research by MOTA, an independent booking provider of servicing and MOTs suggests that 43% of customers making enquiries already had an expired MOT, and 15% had no idea when their MOT was due. A car without a valid MOT being driven on the road is potentially subject to a £1,000 by the police, and also means that insurers may not pay out in the event of an accident.