GM in Talks With Google for Ford Sync Rival

GM is not going to let Ford and Microsoft gallop off into the automotive technology segment sunset without offering its own infotainment system.

GM is reportedly in talks with Google to incorporate the Android OS into future GM vehicles.  Though the possible system may not be a direct rival to Ford's Sync and future MyFord system as it could allow users more interactive use through outside devices.

A third party OS would render most of GM's own OnStar features obsolete, yet its crash response is still something unique of OnStar.

Some have also considered a collaboration between GM and Apple, though software compatibility between the car and interface may pose problems.  Also, with Apple being a smaller segment of the technology world amongst the mainstream car buying community, it could alienate some buyers.

Consumers should not expect to a hear any confirmation until sometime in 2011.

-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: Motor Trend]

Video of the Day - First 2011 Mustang GT 5.0L 4V To Run 11's

Hummer Hit With Recall

There is nothing liking kicking an already dead horse, yet the NHTSA is at it again.  Hummer is recalling 200,000 2006 to 2010 Hummer H3s and H3Ts where a fake hood vent could potentially become dislodged and strike another car.

The fix?  Glue, of course.

-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: Car Gurus]

Ford and Mazda to Continue Partnership

It looks like Ford and Mazda won't be walking separate paths after Ford recently sold its controlling share in Mazda. Both automakers plan to continue working together on advanced technologies, and possible sharing of platforms again.

Masaharu Yamaki, a Mazda board member said, "Ford will remain an important partner for Mazda."

Both companies benefit from the partnership. Mazda is too small to directly compete with Ford, while Ford collaborates with Mazda on platforms and small engine technology.

-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: Left Lane News]

Toyota Investigated for Recall Delay

It looks like Toyota's recent recall woes are far from over.  The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration is investigating if Toyota is at fault for delaying a recall involving the steering linkage failures, which could result in loss of steering control.

The recall involved almost 1 million Toyota pickups, T100's, and 4Runners built from 1989 to 1998. 

Toyota first issued a recall in Japan in 2004 for the linkage failures, but did not issue one in the U.S. until September of 2005.

Toyota commented saying that the U.S. and Japan had different driving standards and a similar failure was unlikely.

This type of delay islead to Toyota's fine of $16.4 million last month when it had issued a recall in Europe regarding sticky acceleration pedals but did not do so in the U.S. until January of this year.

Under Federal law, all automakers must notify the NHTSA within five days of learning of a defect.  Not complying could lead to a $16.4 million fine; the maximum allowed.

-Anthony Alaniz
[Source: Consumer Reports]

Term of the Day

Hydraulic Pump - A device for raising, moving, or compressing fluids by mean of a piston, plunger, or rotating vanes.  Examples are the oil pump, and the power steering pump. 

-Anthony Alaniz