New Tyc Power Window Motor And Regulator Assembly, 660485 on 2040-parts.com

New techniques cut cost of carbon fiber

Carbon fiber, once so costly that it was the preferred material only for fighter planes and supercars, is catching the attention of weight-conscious automakers. Carbon fiber's cost is falling dramatically, thanks to production advances that let suppliers speed the material's finicky, and costly, curing process. One technological breakthrough that makes carbon-fiber auto parts more affordable may come from a process used to make carbon-fiber golf clubs.

Linda Vaughn recovering from heart surgery

Editor's note: This story has been corrected to change the mailing address to South Laguna, CA. Linda Vaughn, best known as the iconic Miss Hurst Golden Shifter, underwent heart surgery on April 28 to clear out blockage in her arteries. Prior to the operation, Vaughn said, "I am tired of feeling 'low speed.' " After surgery, her spirits are equally as high and she is recovering as expected.

Spy photos: BMW's 3-series GT

The BMW 5-series GT has been a sales success for the German automaker, even though the AutoWeek staff is sharply divided over its looks. There's a redesigned 3-series coming for 2012, and a GT version is joining in the lineup. These spy photos give an early look at the 3-series GT ahead of its expected debut this September at the Frankfurt motor show.