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General Motors combines smartphone functions with the Chevrolet Volt

General Motors is bringing together two of the hottest areas of technology--smartphones and plug-in electric cars. GM's OnStar telematics unit has developed a downloadable application that will let Chevrolet Volt drivers use a Blackberry Storm, Apple iPhone or Motorola Droid to remotely control and monitor some vehicle functions, such as charging. The Volt is slated to go into production late this year and arrive in California utility company fleets by early 2011.

BMW's new 5-series next for hybrid power

The new BMW 5-series being launched this winter is likely to be the next BMW to receive the ActiveHybrid system pioneered on the petrol-electric 7-series and X6 models. BMW engineers admit they can't rely on sales of the pricey hybrid 7-series and X6 to justify the development costs, even though these range-topping halo hybrids were jointly developed with Daimler and GM. Senior sources have indicated that the new 2010 5-series will be the next BMW to get an ActiveHybrid model.

Skoda reveals 2013 model offensive & extends new Skoda badge rollout

Skoda has revealed it is to launch six new models during 2013 and is also busy extending the rollout of its new badges across the Skoda range. Skoda has laid out its stall for 2013 early on, with a graphic posted on their Facebook page revealing new model plans for 2013 – all six of them. First out of the gate is the 2013 Skoda Rapid – which arrives this month – followed by the Skoda Octavia Hatch in March and the Octavia Estate in June.