Technology Takes a Front Seat in Automakers’ Latest Models

While the latest news surrounding the U.S. auto industry continues to be focused on slumping sales and production cutbacks, automakers continue to turn out cars that highlight the latest technologies in the areas of safety, engine efficiency and performance, and alternative fuels. The U.S. “Big Three” — Ford, General Motors, and DaimlerChrysler — along with Toyota, Honda, and other Japanese automakers, are introducing more models with hybrid or alternative-fuel engines, and safety features that enable parents to track their teenage drivers and cars to talk to each other.