Police Tape app can document traffic stops

In a video that looks like something cooked up by elementary-school students, the American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey touts its new, free smartphone app called Police Tape. The application allows users to review their rights on the spot and to record both video and audio when stopped by police. Once recorded, files can automatically be uploaded to external servers, where they are retained and examined by the ACLU for possible civil liberties violations.

Techno group Daft Punk's Ferrari 412 being auctioned for Japan fundraiser

Here's a car that will appeal to Ferrari fans and techno fans--the 1987 Ferrari 412 shown at the start of the 2007 movie Daft Punk's Electroma. The Ferrari is one of several musician-related items being auctioned off by EMI Group as a fundraiser for disaster-relief efforts in Japan. The car is in mint condition, still wears the HUMAN license plate as seen in the movie, and it has been signed by Daft Punk members Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo and Thomas Bangalter.

September sales hint at improvement

A 10 percent increase in new-vehicle sales in September is sparking optimism that the year will have a strong finish. And analysts say that deals might get better over the next few months as Toyota and Honda finally recover from shortages caused by the earthquake that hit Japan in March. Those brands might increase spending on incentives to woo buyers back into their showrooms.