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Gentlemen ... start your browsers To B2B or not to B2B, that is the question major players in the automotive industry must ask themselves as business-to-business e-commerce -- "B2B" -- becomes the very first trend of the 21st century. With new online alliances being forced almost daily between OEMs and suppliers -- and with some suppliers creating their own networks -- AEI looks at some of the most prominent B2B players. Global Concepts This review of some of the more significant vehicles from this past year's motor shows showcases trends in design and technology from the world's automakers. Automotive electromagnetic emissions measurements Theoretical modeling and practical measurements are used to investigate the validity of measuring electromagnetic emissions at close ranges. Assessing and analyzing driveability Engineers use in-vehicle data-acquistion and analysis tools to develop and refine vehicle calibrations for good driveability performance.

Lithium battery bonanza Lithium battery technology is finally making its way to production hybrids and planned EVs, but improvements are needed. Reader's choice: Top technology stories of 2009 The editors look back at the past year's most significant articles according to readers of Automotive Engineering International, AEI Online, and Truck & Bus Engineering Online. Sending a message Vehicle-to-vehicle communications can improve safety, but telematics may ultimately provide more impact.

Assembly by design The latest product development software offers new tools to improve the body engineering process and deliver flexible manufacturing capability. Measure twice, cut once The old carpenter's axiom is doubly true in the expensive realm of motorsport, where simulations provide a more cost-effective way to test ideas than trial-and-error. 2005 technology in review AEI editors look back at some of the most significant engineering and innovation stories of the past year. The new steels Lessons learned on where, when, why, and how to use new higher-strength materials is an information-sharing mandate of high order. Nissan showcases advanced technology The underlying philosophy of the company's "Orchard Concept" R&D strategy is to direct its strengthened resources to "real, specifc technological innovation in the car that you see on a showroom floor," providing performance and functions that exceed customer expectations.

2006 Technology in review AEI editors look back at some of the most significant engineering and innovation stories of the past year. A new focus on emissions Cleaning up cold starts, adding precision are some of the strategies being employed by powertrain and controls engineers to further cut exhaust pollutants. Letting the sun shine in Increased modularity and reduced mass and complexity are the focus of covertible-top system engineers. Air conditioning and global warming Europe's legislated phaseout of R-134a, remaining issues with CO2 systems, and new proposals for R134-a replacements give engineers many challenges, hard choices to make, and not much time.

Tokyo concepts As usual the highly imaginative group of concepts on display at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show, held in late October at the Makuhari Messe, was unique among the year's auto shows. Some were tall, many were boxy, and a few very un-car-like, but most were focused on low emissions and consumption. Style vs. strength Software helps designers and body engineers get the most in looks and safety. Conceiving alternatives Recent concept cars explore solutions to fuel-supply and emissions concerns. 2007 technology in rearview AEI editors look back at some of the most significant engineering and innovation stories of the past year.

Bodybuilding 101 The latest designs are pumped up with flagrant use of performance-enhancing substances, such as boron steel, for maximum strength and safety. Prize-winning plastics Lower cost, lighter weight solutions highlight the 2008 SPE Automotive Innovation awards. Mean and green More than a few companies at last month's SEMA Show heralded the eco-friendly side of their products just as highly as the performance side. Setting the standards Automakers along with their supplier partners are now embracing many interfaces and protocols to enable compatibility with consumer electronics devices as well as other advances. Readers' choice: Top technology stories of the year The editors look back at some of the past year's most significant engineering and innovation articles according to readers of Automotive Engineering International and AEI Online. Green victory? The motorsports community contemplates winning races while leaving behind the smallest environmental footprint.

NAIAS concepts Though industry sales projections for 2009 were dire, automakers pushed forward with new environmentally friendly technology in concept vehicles with an eye on sportiness. Electrifying changes for F1 Teams adopt hybrid power and adapt to slick tires. Memorable advances Bigger memories, faster cores let engineers boost efficiency and reduce emissions in engines. Material opportunities Compacted graphite iron, aluminum, and composites have significant roles in engine downsizing, but steel's capability and potential endures. Building blocks Engineering a good engine is half the battle; getting it through the assembly process without introducing flaws is the final victory. Innovative Thinking 101 West Virginia University professor Dr. James E. Smith issues a call for innovation as one of the central themes of his term as SAE's 2009 President. New 7 Series improves all over From better fuel efficiency to more luxury accoutrements, BMW does more than one-up its flagship.