Tag Archives: automotive electronics

Renault-Nissan Open an Automotive Electronics Office

Posted on 19 February 2013 by Ken Zino

Buyers aged 35 and under who grew up with myriad consumer-electronic-devices are particularly vocal about the design failures of automotive electronics. This is a growing problem for the product development departments of automakers that are largely managed by older white males. Continue reading →

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Ford Changes Software to Stop New Escape and Fusion Fires

Posted on 11 December 2012 by Ken Zino

Ford Motor Company will change computer software to stop fires on 2013 Escape SUV and Fusion sedan models- both redesigned for 2013. At the end of November Ford recalled two of its best selling vehicle lines equipped with a 1.6-liter engine – both redesigned for 2013 – without having a fix after at least 13 fires were reported. Continue reading →

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Camaro, Corvette Auto Transmissions Faster than Manuals

Posted on 22 February 2012 by Ken Zino

The latest evidence against manual shifting comes from Chevrolet whose paddle shifter automatic transmissions on Camaro and Corvette models in 2012 have a new software algorithm that improves tap response time ~60% compared to the previous system. As a result, the 2012 Camaro ZL1’s six-speed automatic transmission has a 0-60 time of 3.9 seconds – a tenth of a second faster than GM’s official manual transmission time. Continue reading →

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NRC Agrees Toyota Unintended Acceleration Mechanical – but NHTSA Didn’t Address Auto Electronics Safety Concerns

Posted on 20 January 2012 by Ken Zino

One simple step – the requirement of electronic data recorders that would show the actual driver or computer inputs immediately before and during an accident – doesn’t appear immanent. While this will end many false accusations used by product liability attorneys to garner huge fees from large lawsuits against automakers, there appears to be little appetite for the reform in lawyer- dominated Washington. Continue reading →

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Second Smallest U.S. Safety Recall in History? Toyota Recalls 32 Lexus RX 350 SUVs for Defective Antilock Brake Calibration

Posted on 1 August 2011 by Ken Zino

Toyota is recalling 32 model year 2011 Lexus RX350 sport utility vehicles equipped with vehicle dynamics integrated management (VDIM). The calibration for the hydraulic control valves from ADVICS manufacturing in Ohio is incorrect. Because of this safety defect, Toyota said in a NHTSA filing, there is a possibility that the right front wheel may not be controlled properly during antilock brake system operation or vehicle stability control actuation. Continue reading →

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Renault-Nissan to Open Silicon Valley Office

Posted on 13 June 2011 by Ken Zino

Renault-Nissan will open a research office later this month in the heart of Silicon Valley, directly across from Google. Small teams will initially work on vehicle IT development, advanced engineering research and technology recruitment. Continue reading →

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