Global Parts 4711272 A/c Evaporator Core Body on 2040-parts.com

Excessive accessories are on display at the Tokyo Auto Salon

The Japanese tuning industry may finally be emerging from the economic slump if this year's Tokyo Auto Salon is an accurate barometer. The three-day spectacular--Japan's equivalent of SEMA--attracted nearly a quarter-million visitors, all eager to get a glimpse of the latest cars and the newest excessive accessories for 2011. Here's a recap: The Honda CR-Z was, without a doubt, the car of the show, and some versions were tuned to deliver up to 300 hp, thanks to turbocharging or supercharging kits.

Formula One: PR strikes at Austin City Hall

Free Formula One gear is good, right? That’s what those in charge of F1 public relations seem to think ahead of the Austin City Council’s vote on the Austin Grand Prix racetrack project on Thursday. Formula One baseball caps, water bottles and bumper stickers were handed out at the Austin City Hall as part of a public-relations campaign, according to KUT News.

Why this year's UAW-Detroit 3 talks don't matter

Here's what you need to know about the current UAW contract talks with the Detroit 3: They don't really matter. Oh, sure, agreements must be reached and contracts signed. But some commentators would have you believe the Detroit 3's future competitiveness hinges on their ability to stand up to the UAW in this year's negotiations.