Automotive Engineering International 2003-11-01

Automotive Engineering International 2003-11-01
    • Frankfurt Motor Show concepts
      Visitors to the 60th IAA held in September were greeted with 125 world premieres, 60 of which were new vehicles by the world's automotive manufacturers. Prior to the public event, AEI editors scoured the show to put together this special section of Global Vehicles highlighting the best-in-show concept cars.
    • Dynamic rollover testing on the way
      NHTSA announces that the 'fishhook' manuever, along with the static stability factor, will be used to rate vehicles for rollover propensity beginning with the 2004 model year.
    • Shortening the chain
      Despite the trend toward increased outsourcing, the integration of compounding and molding operations at molded composite parts maker Composite Products resulted in a leaner and more economical supply chain.
    • NASCAR research and development
      With the help of a new managing director and R&D center, the popular racing series is pursuing technology to improve safety and level competition.
    • Cadillac SRX
      The new entry from Cadillac combines utility and load-carrying capacity with a sporty driving feel similar to that of the CTS.
    • Nissan Titan
      Nissan's first full-size pickup provides frame strength, payload capacity, towing muscles, and other attributes as it enters a playing field dominated by Ford, General Motors, and Dodge.
    • Ford F-150
      To stave off competition in the light-truck segment, Ford has improved upon its perennial best-seller by giving it a stiffer fully boxed frame, a unique rear suspension design, a more powerful 5.4L V8, and a variety of interior refinements.
    • Heavy-duty faces heavy challenges
      Engine and truck makers are busy developing technologies to satisfy more stringent EPA emissions rules to take effect in 2007.
    • Truck talk
      Terry Woychowski, General Motors' Chief Engineer of full-size trucks and two-time recipient of GM's highest recognition, the GM Chariman's Honors, sat down with our Detroit Editor to discuss development of the company's full-szie trucks and SUVs.
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