General Motors to keep green car technology in house

For the first time in its 100-year history, General Motors plans to design, develop and manufacture electric motors for its growing array of gasoline-electric hybrids and electric vehicles. The electric motors used in GM's current lineup of hybrids are made to GM specifications by outside vendors. GM wants to bring the design and manufacturing in-house to save money and to apply its own technology to boost performance, lower weight and reduce power consumption, said Larry Nitz, GM's chief hybrid powertrain engineer.

Nissan's Design Future

Recently Nakamura briefed the world's press at a product seminar and displayed some teaser images of the new Infiniti concept. The design is a coupe with classical sporty proportions featuring a cabin set back over the rear-axle and a long, sporty hood. Nakamura says the concept will not directly represent a future production model, but give the flavor of the new design theme.

RM Auctions buys Auburn complex from Kruse

RM Auctions has bought the Kruse International Auction Park in Auburn, Ind., from financially troubled auctioneer Dean Kruse and plans to hold the site's annual Labor Day weekend car auction Sept. 2-6. Rob Myers, RM Auction CEO, said his company will spend the next several weeks making upgrades to the auction facility and lining up consignments.