Google reveals its first self-driving car prototype (video)

Google’s first self-driving car prototype (pictured) Google might not be the first company that springs to mind as a car maker, but Tesla has already proved that Silicon Valley can produce a car that buyers want and Google are intent on following a similar route. But where Tesla’s USP is its long-range electric capabilities – and a desire to build cars for the market – Google’s goal is more technology orientated and is all about developing self-driving car technology that works in the real world. For the last few years, Google has been experimenting with existing cars kitted out with self-driving gubbins, but now they’ve taken the next step and built their own self-driving prototype.

Toyota GT 86 gets 320bhp from turbo & S/C upgrade

Gazoo GT 86 Sport FR Concept Toyota’s Gazoo Racing has taken the standard Toyota GT 86 and added a turbo and a supercharger to give the GT 86 320bhp. The Toyota GT86 has managed to deliver almost what we expected now it’s finally arrived, although many have been a bit disappointed at its peaky performance and lack of out and out grunt. There’s been much speculation that Toyota (and Subaru with the BRZ) would bite the bullet at some point and bolt on a turbo or supercharger to give the lightweight sports car a proper turn of speed.

Study finds customer satisfaction up slightly

U.S. customer satisfaction with vehicles industrywide has increased slightly, fueled by gains among Asian and European automakers, according to an annual report released by the American Customer Satisfaction Index on Tuesday. Overall satisfaction with the auto industry climbed 1.2 percent from 2010 to 83.