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The article focuses on the efforts of automobile makers to develop next-generation diesel engines that will use fewer cylinders to produce the same power output of bigger engines. It projects three paths of turbochanging systems that will be introduced in the future. It details the on-going proliferation of diesel fuels. It cites the factors that influence suppliers to look at innovative ways to manage fuel injection systems for next-generation diesel engines.

The article discusses the future of infotainment in automobiles. It explores new technologies and capabilities that offer vehicle safety and fuel efficiency beyond what the author considers to be the traditional infotainment platforms for entertainment driving experience. Information is also offered on the alliance Geneva In-Vehicle Infotainment (GENIVI) of carmakers, electronics and technology companies for an open-source Linux-based network that would make available new technologies for infotainment across the original equipment manufacturers. INSET: Microsoft Auto 4.0.

The article presents the ten hottest car designers. They include Dianne Allen of Nissan, Jeff Gale of Chrysler Corporation, Richard Gresens of Whirlpool Corporation, Jin Kim of Calty Design Research, Dave Lyon and Joe Paris of General Motors, Earl Lucas and George Saridakis of Ford Motor Company, Gary Telaak at Audi AG, Mike Torpey of KIA Design Center America.

The article talks about the reasons why diesel has not been accepted in the U.S. as a means to reduce reliance on foreign oil and improve fuel efficiency. Factors why diesel has not gained traction in the U.S. are discussed which are diesel's higher per-gallon price, more expensive engines, tight particulate and nitrogen oxides emission regulations that require expensive aftertreatment, and a negative image. The Audi 3.0-liter diesel engine is featured which is described to be the world's cleanest diesel engine.

The article focuses on the commitment of China to manufacturing, particularly automotive manufacturing. It notes the significant role played by the automobile industry in the growth of the manufacturing sector in China. It cites that the growing Chinese market presents an opportunity for U.S. automakers to expand their presence there through vehicle imports, as China agreed to cut its 28% tariff on vehicle imports to 10% as part of an agreement with the World Trade Organization. INSETS: Addressing the Infrastructure;Outside Pressure Forces Labor Law Changes;IP Protection Critical.

The article addresses the problems facing automakers in relation to balancing the survival of their business and protecting the global environment. In the U.S., pressure has been placed on the automotive sector through environmental regulations passed by both state and federal governments. The industry is also feeling pressure from consumers to develop higher-mileage vehicles, particularly in light of increasing gas prices. There is said to be a general failure in developing a holistic sustainability throughout entire organizations.

The article focuses on the business success story of Walt Disney Co. and what U.S. automobile makers can learn from it in terms of marketing and brand loyalty. The company has managed to become a leader in the resort and amusement business as a customer service leader. It uses its attraction engineering staff to develop properties and attractions that immerse the guest in the amusement park experience.

The article focuses on the impact of the launch of Apple's iPod on the automobile industry. It cites that several original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are installing auxiliary audio jack ports that accommodate iPod connections, while others are providing fully integrated iPod adapters that enable customers to choose music genres and podcasts directly from their steering wheel controls. According to the author, the iPod is an example of how far the industry has yet to move in order to advance at the speed of the consumer electronics industry. INSET: Could Apple's Influence Reach Even Further?.

The article traces the historical beginnings and the factors which led to the success of East Troy, Wisconsin-based Buell Motorcycle Co., headed by its founder, chairman and chief technical officer Erik Buell. This article also looks at how Buell has established the company to be the only sport bike maker and how he changed the rules of design, engineering and procurement in the automobile industry. Factors which led to the success of the company are hometown values, teamwork and determination.

Focuses on the quality problem faced by the automobile maker Mercedes-Benz. Reason for the company's decision to recall several automobile units in 2005; Information on the tag process initiative of Mercedes-Benz; Challenge faced by a product development team in developing sport utility vehicle for Mercedes.

Features automobile manufacturer Nissan. Efforts of president and CEO Carlos Ghosn to improve the financial performance of the company; Information on the Nissan MR18DE engine; Maintenance of the Nissan brand image.

The article explains the lessons that the auto industry can learn from the design of the Embody office chair, which was designed and developed by Zeeland, Michigan-based Herman Miller. It describes the key features of the chair, which was reportedly designed to work in harmony with the human body. It cites the lessons that the U.S. auto industry can learn from Herman Miller as explained by John Aldrich, Herman Miller's vice president of product development engineering.

The article evaluates the Honda Insight hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) from Honda Motor Co.

The article evaluates the ContiGuard safety system from Continental.

The article looks at the efforts of Chrysler to improve vehicle interiors. Klaus Busse joined the company in 2005 to lead its advanced vehicle interior and component design studio, after 10 years working on interiors at Mercedes-Benz. It is noted that the '09 Dodge Ram was the first vehicle to go through the advanced interior design studio process. The company is relying on more rapid prototypes manufactured using stereolithography and foam milling technology.

The article discusses the miscalculation Mazda experienced through its release of Mazda 6 sedan in 2003. It notes that Mazda 6 did not meet the expectations of the U.S. market in terms of quality, power and size. Learning from these shortfalls, Mazda engineers and designers developed a 2009 version that is fit to the U.S. market. Its size has been modified and rigidity improved. For design, its fender became its signature cue and its larger body made seemingly smaller.

The article offers updates on several brake system suppliers' plans for new products. Italian brake system manufacturer Brembo is said to be touting its carbon ceramic brake disc technology. Reports also say that TRW Automotive is hopeful that it has a solution to help automakers reduce weight and improve brake system performance. The supplier has developed a six piston electronic stability control system that help boost brake system pressure.

The article offers information on the vehicle standard that was developed by the U.S. National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) to improve safety and reduce vehicle costs. The research and development department of NASCAR began the process of improving safety after a number of race car drivers had died since 2001. NASCAR was advised by accident investigators to focus on the car driver restraint system, energy absorption of the track barrier system and reengineer the vehicle itself. INSET: COT From an OEM Perspective.

The article offers information on an emissions aftertreatment module called Bluetec developed by DaimlerChrysler. The Bluetec program is designed to meet both current and future diesel emission standards via the use of an oxidation catalyst, particulate filter, nitrogen oxide storage catalyst and, soon, the addition of Adblue, a urea-based solution.

The article provides information on the so-called Lambda platform established by General Motors (GM) Co., designed to support its crossover vehicles comprised of the Saturn Outlook, GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave. The automotive manufacturer is set to compete with the well-known brands in the segment, including the Acura MDX, Audi Q7, Toyota Highlander, Volvo XC90 and Honda Pilot.

The article features the Chevrolet Sequel hydrogen fuel-cell automobile from General Motors.

The article features concept cars featured in the 2006 Paris Motor Show, including Nissan's Qashqai, Chrysler's Dodge Avenger and Ford's Mondeo.

This article focuses on the design of the 2007 Jeep Wrangler from Chrysler. Now, the fenders, which are comprised of an ABS material, can be removed easily. Another major change to the exterior are the door handles, which feature a more functional grab handle design, as compared to the paddle configuration used on previous models. With exterior changes kept to a minimum, a more daring approach was taken to the interior, despite not having to adopt the original concept completely.

Discusses the significance of the interior part of automobiles to manufacturers. Importance of choice in perfecting vehicle trim and texture; Introduction of interiors earlier in the timetable for vehicle development plans; Action taken by Margaret Hackstedde, director of product design for color and trim at Chrysler, to find the next breakthrough in interior grains, color and trim. INSET: The Supply Side Makes Strides.

The article discusses the trends in making automobile chassis. The factors to consider in making chassis are the cost and weight. The ZF Friedrichshafen firm intends to build prototypes of the composite leaf spring solution which focuses on crash performance. The Multi Compliance Twist Beam Axle of ZF is a suspension that can be utilized more as a multi-link than a beam.

The article discusses the result of a study conducted by Bosch Automotive Group on attaining the full potential of the internal combustion engine of automobiles. The firm's engineers created a comprehensive set of technologies which can boost the turbo pressure to 2.4 bar thus improving the power output. It is inferred that the homogenous charge compression ignition (HCCI) may enhance the fuel efficiency of gasoline engines by 2 to 3 percent. The factors considered in reducing the diesel engine carbon dioxide emissions by 22 percent are cited.

The article discusses the introduction of the kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) in Formula One (F1) cars in 2009 to save energy produced under breaking in a reservoir in order to release it under acceleration. The article also states the contribution of Alcon Component Limited in offering Optimized Structure Caliper Architecture (OSCA) in the development of breaking system to f1, while Brembo, brake system developer, has worked with several teams in the incorporation of KERS system.

The article discusses the emergence of the technology called homogenous charge compression ignition (HCCI). The technology is being developed by students and faculty at the University of Michigan. According to university professor Dennis Assanis, HCCI can give 15 percent fuel economy improvement. One problem identified with HCCI is the development of combustion chamber deposits. INSET: Ford EcoBoost Hits the Line.

The article focuses on the effort of TRW Automotive to leverage the road data information used by in-vehicle navigation systems to improve occupant safety. The functions of passive safety systems are discussed. One of the applications that TRW is looking into is airbag deployment. The most significant challenge identified is repurposing the mapping data for use with the vehicle's control systems.

The article focuses on the efforts by the Taiwanese government to boost the country's share of the global automobile electronics and accessories market. It cites the plan by the government to develop new marketing plans and investment opportunities for the country's auto electronics sector. It mentions the partnership established between Taiwan and China, which will make Taiwan the preferred source for auto electronic components for Chinese auto manufacturers.

The article features Gordon Wagener, head of Design at Mercedes-Benz. At 39, he is considered to be the second youngest person to have occupied the position. He spent his formative years in Essen, Germany, studied industrial design at the University of Essen and transport design at the Royal College of Art in London. He joined Mercedes in 1997 and was transferred to California to head the advanced design studios of the company.

An interview with General Motors' director of design, Crystal Windham is presented. When asked why she chose to study automotive design, Windham attributes her choice to her belief that automobiles have an impact on many people. She notes that working at the Opel design studio in Germany expanded her knowledge on the use of grains and colors for car interiors. Windham defines her design as sculptural and connects with the latest trends in fashion.

The article reports that Ford Motor Co. is planning to implement a top hat manufacturing strategy to improve profit and operational efficiency. The entry notes that Ford will be using base vehicle designs while increasing product differentiation for customers. Also mentioned is a revamp of Ford's product development, engineering, and manufacturing divisions to assure that vehicle structures can accommodate several top hats and avoid costly modifications after finalizing the vehicle's platform dimensions.

An interview with Steve Mattin, senior vice president of design for Volvo, is presented. When asked about his vision for future Volvo designs, Mattin replies that the new vehicles will display Volvo's Dramatic New Approach (DNA) that will share a cohesive design template across all Volvo models. He notes that the older 200 series vehicles became a design hindrance, and that the company felt a need to interpret its fundamental design ingredients in a new way. Mattin believes that the future of the global automotive industry is strong.

The article features Denise Gray, director of energy storage systems at General Motors (GM). It was back during her middle school years when Gray found the inspiration that would eventually lead her to her current role at GM, where she leads the development of battery technologies that will power the Chevrolet Volt. Since obtaining the assignment in December 2006, she has been working hard to assure that GM can live up to its promises of developing a battery that can withstand 150,00 miles of operation over varying conditions and cycles.

The article discusses the development of advanced vision systems and artificial intelligence agencies that work together under a research project entitled "Project Reverb: Reverse Engineering the Vertebrate Brain." The project involves BAE Systems and universities in Great Britain. A vision system technology based on SCAMP-3 chip technology is being utilized by researchers at the University of Manchester in England. System integration is said to be the most significant challenge in the vision system.

The article evaluates the 2009 Dodge Ram pickup truck from Chrysler.

The article offers advice for designers amid economic uncertainty from Ford design manager Aram Kasparian. The executive believes that the industry offers several opportunities due to efforts to achieve fuel economy. Architecture is said to be the main factor that influenced Kasparian's design. He suggests designers to also consider the financial aspects of automotive design.

The article focuses on the increased interest in powertrain development led by AVL. A powertrain testing and calibration systems provider, AVL is laying the foundation in the development of hardware and software solutions to speed up testing and calibration. Report says these solutions aid engineers with accurate virtual simulation tools and data management systems to meet their top priorities which include reduced time-to-market, better quality, and improved collaboration. INSET: AVL Gets Plugged In.

The article reports on the implementation of a product lifecycle management (PLM) software package by Volkswagen AG that is anticipated to help deliver on the company's aggressive goals. The automobile manufacturer selected Siemens PLM Software Teamcenter at its supplier. The company considers PLM implementation as a key part of its goals to achieve global vehicle sales growth of 500,000 units. INSET: Siemens Launches NX 6.

The article features the 2009 FX automobile from Infiniti. INSET: 2009 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen.

The article reports on the decision of Wirth Research to expand its computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) capabilities as its responsibilities grew. The article claims that one of the benefits of a CAD/CAM system is the production of accurate parts. The company utilizes Siemens NX digital product development and TeamCenter PLM software solutions to handle the complexities of design and manufacturing of vehicles.

The article announces the departure of Peter Pfeiffer as chief designer of the German automobile maker Mercedes-Benz. INSET: SL AMG Roadster: No Simple Refresh.

The article features automobile designers from Mitsubishi and their new design called the Concept-RA by Chris Schuttera and Gary Ragle. According to them, the idea for the design takes cues from a shark. When it comes to interiors, Schuttera says that he takes his influence from architecture and the latest consumer gadgets and adds that the car was inspired from the features of the F35 Joint Strike Fighter.

The article evaluates the Multi Media Platform (MMP) for the automobile industry from Supplier Continental.

The article evaluates several gadgets from the 2007 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) including the Beo5 remote control from Bang & Olufsen, the Xatci E1 waterproof high-definition (HD) camcorder from Sanyo, and the ROKR E8 cellular phone from Motorola.

The article profiles General Motor North America executive director of exterior design Michael Simcoe. A brief overview of Simcoe's career as a vehicle interior designer is offered. According to the article, Simcoe originally wanted to be an architect but changed his mind when he was told that there is not too much money in architecture. Some of the vehicles owned by Simcoe are mentioned including a 1956 series 5 Lancia Aurelia B20 GT, a 1961 series 3 Aston Martin DB4 and a 1961 Lancia Fulvia 1.3 HF.

The article focuses on the development of the turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine powering Chrysler's Caliber SRT-4 automobile. The firm's SRT group worked with those in the mainstream powertrain group when the 2.4-liter project commenced in order to make sure that every step was optimized for maximum efficiency. Pistons and connecting rods with an increased bolt diameter for high clamp loads were designed specifically for the turbo variant. Engineers also had to develop a unique water pump for the SRT engine.

The article focuses on the development of the Helicon motorcycle engine by Buell. The firm's engineering team laid out specific requirements for the overall weight and power band, as well as the design of the crankcase, clutch and shift mechanism. Development of the engine's piston and ring pack was particularly tricky, according to founder Erik Buell, because of the high durability targets established by the team. The company have filed patents for the development of the break-away engine mounts on the frame and fuel tank performance.

The article evaluates the chassis developed by General Dynamics Land Systems for the U.S. Marine Corps' Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle (EFV).