– Improved voice recognition and digital services are two upgrades on General Motors’ new OnStar vehicle communication system. OnStar, a GM subsidiary, is the nation’s largest in-vehicle communications system. It provides crash notification to emergency services. Operators also can locate a stolen vehicle, remotely unlock a vehicle’s doors and provide roadside assistance, remote diagnostics, directions and even dinner reservations.
– Scott Air Force Base near Belleville is canceling its annual air show and open house. The Air Force says a tight budget and demands on personnel have forced many bases to cancel similar events. In 2003, the event attracted more than 100,000 people to the southern Illinois base.
– Ford Motor Co. will continue to build pickups with Harley-Davidson colors, logos and other styling cues under an agreement the two companies extended for three years. Ford will make about 7,500 of the limited-edition F-250 and F-350 models with four-wheel-drive this year at its Louisville plant.
