Valterra Ez Flush Viper 15' Sew Hose Kit D04-0450 on 2040-parts.com

Mercedes launch new 9G-Tronic gearbox on E350 BlueTec

New Mercedes E350 BlueTec (pictured) gets 9-speed 9G-TRONIC auto It’s not exactly a million years ago that automatic gearboxes offered poorer performance and economy than manual gearboxes, and came as standard with just three gears. But now, automatic gearboxes are so good they can  change quicker than any driver and, with the proliferation of eight-speed auto ‘boxes, offer improved economy and performance too. The next logical step is even more ratios in an auto ‘box, and Land Rover has already revealed they’ll be fitting the Evoque with a 9-speed ZF ‘box from 2014, and the new Jeep Grand Cherokee gets a nine-speed auto ‘box too.

NTSB calls for nationwide ban on use of mobile electronic devices while driving

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has called for a nationwide ban on the use of personal electronic devices while driving. “According to NHTSA, more than 3,000 people lost their lives last year in distraction-related accidents,” said NTSB chairman Deborah A.P. Hersman.

2013 Buick Encore priced at $24,950

The 2013 Buick Encore crossover will cost $24,950, including a $750 destination charge. The top trim package, called Premium, will sticker at $28,940. A 1.4-liter turbocharged engine will power the small SUV, which competes against the Acura RDX, Hyundai Tucson and the Ford Escape.