Plymouth Satellite Script Emblem 3505020 4101 90332 on 2040-parts.com

Start up mobility van maker VPG shuts down

Van maker Vehicle Production Group -- recipient of a $50 million loan from the U.S. Department of Energy -- has suspended operations and is in the process of being sold, its former CEO said Wednesday. The Allen Park, Mich., company, which made MV-1 vans for the disabled, terminated about 100 workers and closed its offices in February.

Them's the Breaks: Mercedes concept name razes I browse

Yes, yes, we know. The Mercedes-Benz use of the term “Shooting Break” as the name for its latest concept vehicle is, well, it's just so wrong. The traditional, and most people would say correct, spelling is “shooting brake.” As AW's copy chief, I take this sort of thing very much to heart and felt moved to respond to the yowling of readers on our Web site.

Audi A5 Sportback preview (w/ Video)

Audi has revealed a teaser image and sketch of the forthcoming A5 Sportback, which is scheduled to make its debut at the Frankfurt motor show in September. Though the core design of the production car is similar to the Sportback show car unveiled at the NAIAS in Detroit at the start of this year, it will be smaller in size. Coined a 'five-door coupe' by the Ignolstadt-based automaker, the Sportback features a spoiler lip and a diffuser insert integrated into its elongated rear end.