Spring is officially here and the automotive industry is ready for warm weather and outdoor events.
Find out how one manufacturer hopes to make your windshield wipers work better than ever, and what General Motors has in store for the small car segment.
Also, what are the top driving distractions? A recent survey brings some interesting insights.
Self-Slapping Windshield Wipers: If you’ve ever had to lift your wipers and slap them against the windshield to clear off snow or ice, then Motor City Wipers has a solution in store. The company is developing a self-slapping windshield wiper arm that mechanically lifts the wipers and allows drivers to control the movement from the drivers seat with the push of a button.
2015 Chrysler 200 Production Begins: Chrysler CEO Sergio Machionne was at the Sterling Heights Assembly outside of Detroit this week to formally launch production of the all-new 2015 Chrysler 200. According to Autoblog.com, employment at the plant, which was on the chopping block in 2010, now stands at nearly 2,800, another positive sign of a steadily recovering American automotive industry.
Top Driving Distractions: DMB Automotive conducted a study to determine what activities people are doing while driving. The group surveyed about 2,000 people and found the most common activities include singing, eating, talking on the phone, and reading and sending text messages. Note: Always focus driving, never talk or text while behind the wheel.
General Motors’ New Small Engines: General Motors announced this week that they have developed three new small engines that will provide fuel-efficiency and enhanced performance for the global lineup. The three engines are a 1.4L turbo four-cylinder, a 1.5L four-cylinder, and a 1.0L three- cylinder. Although GM has not announced which vehicles will receive the new engines, the company has said that they plan for about 2.5 million engines to be produced.
Car Data Information Fight: California Democratic Senator Bill Monning proposed legislation to make digital car information available for broader use. The legislation, which is sponsored by AAA, is intended to give greater access to information like service needs and driving habits to consumers and insurance companies. Opponents claim the measure is an information grab by insurance companies who will use the data for profit.
J.D. Power working with DealerRater: J.D. Power, a global marketing information company, and DealerRater, a dealership review source, have teamed up to provide comprehensive feedback on automotive dealers. The alliance will combine J.D. Power’s comprehensive survey capabilities with DealerRater’s review system and provide more detailed information on dealership services and support. Note: McGrath Auto currently has the Chevy and Used Car Dealership of the Year.
Car Production Continues to Rise: Auto Line is reporting that light vehicle production for the month of February was up 4.5% compared to a year ago. Although car production was down, light trucks production rose by over 11%. This is a great sign that the auto industry is set for a strong spring after a slow winter caused by the extreme weather and cold temperatures.
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