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Keyless ignition trends toward standardization

A federal plan to require automakers to standardize keyless ignition systems in the wake of Toyota's unintended acceleration problems is likely to mirror industry guidelines issued in January, an automaker group said. Large automakers except Toyota said they already comply with the guidelines crafted by SAE International or plan to do so. These "recommended practices'' seek to counter the variation, driver confusion and safety problems that have ensued since automakers started installing push-button ignition in luxury models.

Land Rover & Range Rover: Geneva Motor Show 2013

No new models at Geneva for Land Rover, but there is the new Range Rover Evoque Black Design Pack, Evoque 9-speed auto ‘box and electric Land Rover Defender. But despite no new models from Land Rover or Range Rover, there are new options and new technology on offer. Probably of most interest is the new 9-speed auto ‘box for the Range Rover Evoque – replacing the current 6-speed auto box which should offer a lot more relaxing – and economical cruise – on motorways as well as make change more seamless.

Magna Electronics develops 'Touchskin' concept [w/video]

Electronics firm Magna is working on a new technology it calls 'Touchskin concept' that has the potential to eliminate traditional switches and instruments inside vehicles. As part of its ‘Intelligent Surface Technology', the Touchskin concept is set to be an integral part of a system that allows the user to control the car via intuitive gestures – such as pinching, tapping and swiping – as we've become so familiar with when using smartphones. The potential design implications are easy to see with the large amount of space made available by removing the traditional instrument cluster and its wiring and the removal of wired-in switches and buttons.