US DoT makes rear-view cameras compulsory

The US Department of Transportation (DoT) has issued a new safety standard for rear visibility that requires mandatory fitment of rear-view cameras. The ruling applies to all new vehicles, excluding motorcycles, weighing under 10,000 pounds (4,536kg) sold from 2018. The ruling has been introduced to cut backover crashes, caused when the victim strays into the blind zone 10-40 feet (3-12m) behind the vehicle that the driver can't see using their mirrors alone.

Hexatech F1-spec driving simulator goes on sale

If you’re serious about your gaming – and we mean very serious indeed – then Dutch simulator firm Cruden has just unveiled the last word in driving simulators. The Hexatech is a six-strut hydraulic set-up that’s normally only sold to F1, WRC and NASCAR teams. But it has now decided to unleash it on the public – you just need to find the £120,000 asking price.

Kia K9 launches in Korea

Kia K9 launches in Korea Kia’s new range-topping saloon car – the Kia K9 – has launched in Korea and will launch overseas – with a new name – later in 2012. Kia’s most impressive – and certainly most ambitious - new car has launched in Korea and goes on sale today. But it’s extremely unlikely, even with a change of name from Dr Who’s robotic dog, that we’ll see it in the UK.