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LED-ing the way Headlamps using low-power semiconductors called light-emitting diodes have moved from concept to reality with recent production firsts, but challenges remain in taking the technology mainstream. High-value hybrids The drive to reduce hybrid vehicle cost while boosting efficiency has brought new attention to stop-start and mild-hybrid systems. Sustainability on a small scale Nanotechnology is a new battleground for fighting emissions and making vehicles more environmentally friendly. Sensors inside Suppliers are helping OEMs enhance interior comfort and convenience. CO2: The next big challenge This roundup of recent engineering developments highlights that cutting emissions does not have to mean cutting the fun. Clearing the air Emissions and fuel-efficiency issues emerge collectively as the top concern among engineers attending this year's SAE World Congress.

Throwing their weight around Vehicle mass took a back seat to aesthetics, functionality, and performance when automaker executives discussed the merits of their new products at the North American International Auto Show. Safety drives sensor growth New semiconductor technologies provide more data in a wide range of systems. Wireless gains support Wi-Fi is seen as the link between consumer electronics and cars. Supply chain migration As automakers ramp up operations in China, suppliers must consider the challenges as well as the opportunities of supporting them there. Automakers focus on soft money The huge surge in software makes it a focus for cost cutting. Chevrolet Corvette: AEI's Best Engineered Vehicle for 2005. The sixth-generation car delivers even more performance value than its predecessor, and adds greater comfort and convenience into the mix.

Spec Formula One The series is moving forward with new rules to reduce cost and make racing more directly relevant to road-car development. Adding foresight Radar and cameras will work together to help drivers avoid accidents. Lexus LS 460:AEI's Best Engineered Vehicle for 2007 The fourth generation of Lexus' global flagship sets new standards in engineering, technical innovation, refinement, and workmanship. Hot off the grid New interest in plug-in hybrids has sparked intense R&D in battery chemistries and systems integration. Digital developments Ever-improving computer-based tools are helping engineers complete more complex designs in shorter time frames with downsized staffs. Illuminating technology Sensor-linked lighting systems, automatic high-beam control, LED headlights, and brand-identifying cabin lighting are enhancing safety, convenience, and the feel-good factor.

A winning iQ SAE members voted Toyota's new microcar the Best Engineering Vehicle for 2009. The iQ shows its smarts with brilliant packaging, city-friendly efficiency, and superb overall execution. Diesel or gasoline hybrids? As the global financial crisis deepens, companies must hone their R&D programs and attempt to choose winning technologies with the European OEMs, in particular, debating their hybrid strategies. Engine upgrade With displacements headed downward but output expectations undiminished, evolving sensor technologies and strategies are helping to give a boost to engine performance, efficiency, and emissions. Smooth riding ahead Integration and continuous development are the key words as chassis dynamics head into this century's second decade. Building in smarter materials Technologies that can automatically respond to changing conditions are expected to show up increasingly in future automobiles.

DaimlerChyrsler integrates product, process, and plant CATIA software is the core around which DaimlerChysler hopes to establish a virtual manufacturing system that allows new vehicles--and the plants that manufacture them--to be designed simultaneously with full simulation and visualization. The right bead in the right place at the right time Loctite assures customers of quality by assuming more responsibility for the adhesive-dispensing process. New manufacturing and design solutions Several software products will begin the new millenium with enhancements adding to a list of others that continue to provide good functionality and capability to engineers.

The chain in China North American suppliers must confront some challenging supply-chain issues as they take aim at what could potentially become the world's largest automotive market. Visteon researches composite truck chassis The company used computer analysis extensively in a research project aimed at reducing the mass and complexity of a chassis structure while increasing strength and stiffness. Simulation goes beyond engineering Computational fluid dynamics simulation and visualization software vendors are introducing products to extend the value of CFD throughout the product life cycle, according to Acuitiv Software. Ford still riding Six Sigma quality horse Ford is combining Six Sigma with kaizen events at its plants around the globe to coax new ideas from its hourly workers in hopes of closing the gap with perennial vehicle-quality leader Toyota.

Business via the Internet E-business may not be the cure-all as originally perceived a few years ago, but it does have its place in helping automotive OEMs and suppliers achieve their supply chain goals. Collaborating via the Web The next stage of product development and engineering support software looks to enhance engineers' ability to collaborate with each other via the Internet. Power by Honda A new strategy--headlined by the Civic's hybrid twin-plug IC engine/electric powertrain--propels the company's "global dreams." End of the line for belching buses? In an effort to reduce the negative impact buses have on urban air quality, many transit agencies already have begun switching their fleets from diesel fuel to natural gas. Now, some are turning to diesel hybrid technology.