– The German company Definiens AG is working on a system that would allow cars’ computers to communicate directly to each other without stationary middle points such as servers or cellphone towers. The system would include a radio transmitter in cars’ computer modules and would allow drivers to create rolling computer networks in which they give each other accurate, real-time traffic information. Cars could even warn similarly equipped vehicles that they are approaching when visibility is limited, such as in a fog. DaimlerChrysler subsidiary DaimlerChryslerVenture recently invested $5.4 million in the development of the system.
– Aftermarket parts maker J&J Enterprizes has come out with a line of products to enhance the retro look of the Chrysler PT Cruiser. Parts include a sun visor; 2-inch “turbo” pipes, which run between the wheel wells; a roof rack; doorsill entry plates; and molding strips. There also is a two-piece grille assembly, in which the top piece replaces the original part and the bottom piece is installed on top of the original. Prices range from about $60 for the doorsill plates to $460 for the grille. Visit www.j-jent.com and choose “new products” in the Site Navigation menu, or call 800-367-4961.
– The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee has voted to phase out the use of MTBE over concerns that it contaminates drinking water. MTBE is an oxygenate, an additive that makes gasoline burn cleaner. States are required to make sure gasoline contains a 2 percent oxygen additive to cut down on air pollution, but MTBE has been linked to cancer and found to pollute groundwater. The future of the Senate panel’s bill is unclear, because it would allow states to opt out of using ethanol as an oxygenate, a move that drew opposition from states that produce corn, from which ethanol, another oxygenate, is derived.
– Greyhound bus ridership was near peak levels after the terrorist airplane hijackings Sept. 11. The company didn’t provide specific numbers but said that it pressed nearly all of its 2,300 buses and 5,000 drivers into service and in some places ridership levels were near the annual high Greyhound sees around July 4. The company usually uses about 1,800 buses on daily. By the Sunday after the attacks, passenger counts returned to the daily average of about 70,000.
– Rand McNally has released its 2002 U.S. road atlas, and it’s Internet savvy. Entries in the print edition of the atlas have “express codes” to type in at www.randmcnally.com for quick access to more information on cities and states as well as a mileage calculator. The atlas also includes the company’s first “Best of the Road” awards, editors’ picks for interesting or quirky destinations across the U.S. The atlas sells for $11.95 in retail stores.
– Downey Products is offering a soft-top tonneau cover that can be lifted off a pickup bed. The frame of the Downey LTD (short for lift-top design) sits on two struts that attach inside the bed, so the cover can be removed by unsnapping it or simply lifting it off the truck. Prices range from $399.70 to $437.70, depending of truck model. Call 800-736-1610 or visit www.downeyproducts.com.
