Nissan Maxima 98820za30a Airbag Module Reset on 2040-parts.com

Japan automakers extend shutdowns as quake impact widens

Japan's seven big automakers are extending nationwide production shutdowns amid growing concern about supply chain interruptions, power shortages and export difficulties following the massive earthquake and tsunami that hammered northern Japan, killing thousands. Toyota Motor Corp., one of the few automakers with a major manufacturing presence in the quake zone, suspended all manufacturing--at both assembly and parts plants--on Monday and extended the shutdown through at least Wednesday as an added precaution. The company will lose output of roughly 40,000 vehicles over the three-day period, spokesman Dion Corbett said.

Would you buy a Chevrolet Montana?

A few weeks ago, we asked you if you would be interested in a Ford Ecosport, a compact sport utility based on the Ford Fiesta. Defying the laws of just about every scientific discipline, the Ecosport manages to fit within the footprint of a Golf. A few of you were intrigued by the Ecosport's looks and frugal engines -- and it has to be noted that the Ecosport is taking developing markets by storm.

2012 Lexus GS Spy Video

2012 Lexus GS on track at Toyota's huge proving ground in Belgium We’ve managed to churn out a number of stories on the 2012 Lexus GS over the last few weeks as Lexus ramps up the interest in their new GS ahead of its debut at Pebble Beach in August. It all started with the Lexus LF-Gh concept at Geneva in the spring – the new GS in Concept guise –  since when our spy photographers have managed to grab shots of a disguised GS out ploughing round the Nurburgring and we’ve had a Lexus boss musing the likelihood of a Lexus GS Coupe – and an official announcement that the GS 350 will arrive at Pebble. Now we get one of the oxymorons of car PR in the internet age – the ‘Official’ Spy Video.