Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Mobile Miscellany: week of May 21st, 2012]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/26/mobile-miscellany-week-of-may-21st-2012/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/26/mobile-miscellany-week-of-may-21st-2012/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/26/mobile-miscellany-week-of-may-21st-2012/#comments Mobile Miscellany: week of May 21st, 2012

Not all mobile news is destined for the front page, but if you're like us and really want to know what's going on, then you've come to the right place. This past week, it was revealed that the HTC EVO 4G LTE likely supports simultaneous voice and data connections on Sprint's network, Samsung's Galaxy Ace 2 landed at Three in the UK and Vertu revealed a refresh to its Constellation series of luxury phones. These stories and more await after the break. So buy the ticket and take the ride as we explore the "best of the rest" for this week of May 21st, 2012.

Continue reading Mobile Miscellany: week of May 21st, 2012

Mobile Miscellany: week of May 21st, 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 26 May 2012 21:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appappsaustraliabatmanblackberryblackberry bold 9900blackberry bold 9930BlackberryBold9900BlackberryBold9930bold 9900bold 9930Bold9900Bold9930canadacloveeluga powerElugaPowerevo 4g lteEvo4gLtefccGalaxy Ace 2GalaxyAce2general motorsGeneralMotorsgmhtchtc evo 4g ltehtc one vhtc titanHtcEvo4gLteHtcOneVHtcTitankoodokoodo mobileKoodoMobilelglg optimus elitelg viperLgOptimusEliteLgViperlumia 610lumia 900lumia 900 batmanLumia610Lumia900Lumia900Batmanmmmobile miscellanyMobileMiscellanymobilepostmininetwork visionNetworkVisionnokianokia c7nokia lumia 610nokia lumia 900NokiaC7NokiaLumia610NokiaLumia900one vOneVonstaroptimus eliteOptimusElitepanasonicpanasonic eluga powerPanasonicElugaPowerremotelinkresearch in motionResearchInMotionrimsamsungsamsung galaxy ace 2SamsungGalaxyAce2smartphonesmartphonessonysony xperia uSonyXperiaUspectrumcosprintsvdosymbiant-mobilet-mobile ukT-mobileUktelstrathreethree ukThreeUktitanukverizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessvertuvertu constellationvertu constellation candyVertuConstellationVertuConstellationCandyvipervodafonevodafone ukVodafoneUkxperia uXperiaUSat, 26 May 2012 21:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi, GM, others unite on 20-minute EV charging standard for green drivers in a rush]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/automakers-unite-on-20-minute-ev-charging/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/automakers-unite-on-20-minute-ev-charging/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/automakers-unite-on-20-minute-ev-charging/#comments 20-minute EV charger

Fast-charging an EV isn't new in itself, but deciding on a standard for it is. Which is why we're glad to hear that Audi, BMW, Chrysler, Daimler, Ford, GM, Porsche and Volkswagen have all agreed to a common format for their EV charging ports, the not-very-elegantly-titled DC Fast Charging with a Combined Charging System. Together, the automakers are promising a consistent way to power up a car within 15 to 20 minutes, all without breaking a current Type 1 AC charging implementation. The new format will be demoed at the Electric Vehicle Symposium 26 in Los Angeles starting May 6. Just be aware that your first-generation Focus Electric won't be certain to use the newly universal technology: the first cars to tout the new plug won't be at dealerships until 2013, and the European vehicle association ACEA is only guaranteeing that charging stations on the continent will be using the DC Fast Charging system by 2017. Check after the break for a further look at the port.

Continue reading Audi, GM, others unite on 20-minute EV charging standard for green drivers in a rush

Audi, GM, others unite on 20-minute EV charging standard for green drivers in a rush originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 04 May 2012 01:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ACEAaudibmwchryslerDaimlerelectric vehicleelectric vehicle chargerselectric vehicle chargingelectric vehicle charging stationelectric vehicle charging stationselectric vehiclesElectricVehicleElectricVehicleChargersElectricVehicleChargingElectricVehicleChargingStationElectricVehicleChargingStationsElectricVehiclesEVev chargingev charging standardev charging stationEvChargingEvChargingStandardEvChargingStationfordgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmPorschestandardstandardsvolkswagenFri, 04 May 2012 01:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Cadillac focuses on safety with vibrating drivers' seats, other accident avoidance tech (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/28/cadillac-focuses-on-safety-with-vibrating-drivers-seats-other/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/28/cadillac-focuses-on-safety-with-vibrating-drivers-seats-other/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/28/cadillac-focuses-on-safety-with-vibrating-drivers-seats-other/#comments ImageTo say General Motors' Cadillac division is taking safety seriously on its upcoming 2013 vehicles would be an understatement. The automaker recently announced its high-tech accident avoidance packages dubbed Driver Awareness and Assist, the earlier of which is set to debut this Spring on its new XTS model, moving along to the ATS by the summer. Driver Assist (set to release in the fall) packs goodies like Automatic Collision Preparation and auto-braking, while the Awareness version aims to help keep you in your lane and safe from blind spots, among other things. Despite the differing monikers, both sport many of the same systems such as Adaptive Forward Lighting that can shift 15 degrees based on your turn, radar-based adaptive cruise control and Rear Cross Traffic Alert so you don't get sideswiped while backing up. Most notable among both is the company's Safety Alert seat -- AT&T Labs may be testing a force-feedback steering wheel, but GM's gone and planted haptic feedback into the drivers' bottom seat cushion. Essentially, using the radar, cameras and sensors around the car, the seat can rumble on its left, right or all around, in order to "nudge" you in situations such as getting too close to another car or veering out of your lane. You can also opt for audio cues if you're not fond of vibrations, or use both together. Of course, there's a whole lot more to it, so if you're curious to see it all in action you'll find a duo of videos and more information in the press releases planted after the break.

Continue reading Cadillac focuses on safety with vibrating drivers' seats, other accident avoidance tech (video)

Cadillac focuses on safety with vibrating drivers' seats, other accident avoidance tech (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 08:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accident avoidanceAccidentAvoidanceAdaptive Cruise ControAdaptive Forward LightingAdaptiveCruiseControAdaptiveForwardLightingatscadillaccrossover suvCrossoverSuvgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmhaptic feedbackHapticFeedbackradarRear Cross Traffic AlertRearCrossTrafficAlertSafety Seat AlertSafetySeatAlertsedansensor fusionSensorFusionvideoxtsWed, 28 Mar 2012 08:42:00 EST<![CDATA[NASA, GM working on a 'Robo-Glove' to assist astronauts and autoworkers alike]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/14/nasa-gm-robo-glove/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/14/nasa-gm-robo-glove/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/14/nasa-gm-robo-glove/#comments We've seen power assist technology designed to help people walk, bike or just tote luggage around, and now we've for the Human Grasp Assist aka Robo-Glove. Under development from GM and NASA, the project takes inspiration from technology designed to give Robonaut 2 a hand capable of using tools designed for humans to embed actuators in the top of the glove that provide additional grip for the hands of meatbags. Once its pressure sensors detect the wearer is picking up a tool the synthetic tendons retract, holding them there until the sensor gives the signal to release. Current prototypes still weigh about two pounds and run off of a belt-mounted lithium-ion battery, although we still find the idea preferable to humanoid replacement like the impervious-to-baseball-bats DLR Hand System. By reducing the amount of force factory workers need to hold a tool from 15 to 20 pounds to just 5 to 10 pounds its expected to cut down the risk of repetitive motion injuries -- we'll wait for the fourth generation model to see what they can do for bloggers or Lee Evans. Until then, check after the break for a press release and quick demonstration video.

Continue reading NASA, GM working on a 'Robo-Glove' to assist astronauts and autoworkers alike

NASA, GM working on a 'Robo-Glove' to assist astronauts and autoworkers alike originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 07:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actuatorassistastronautautoworkerglovegmgriphuman grasp assistHumanGraspAssistnasapower assistedPowerAssistedr2robo-gloverobonaut 2Robonaut2tendonvideoWed, 14 Mar 2012 07:02:00 EST<![CDATA[RelayRides hooks up with GM, opens P2P car sharing to OnStar subs]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/05/relayrides-opens-p2p-car-sharing/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/05/relayrides-opens-p2p-car-sharing/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/05/relayrides-opens-p2p-car-sharing/#comments Usually when a stranger gets behind the wheel of your car, it's more a situation for the authorities than General Motors. But with the impending nationwide rollout of RelayRides' P2P car sharing program, owners of GM vehicles will soon be actively looking for complete strangers to take a spin at their wheels in exchange for cash. The startup, backed by venture capital from Google, launched its unique rental service two years ago in Boston and San Francisco and is now poised to expand that reach to about six million OnStar subs with an upcoming smartphone app. Admittedly, it's a bizarre, though potentially lucrative concept, as those who opt-in and open their driver-side doors to randoms could net anywhere from $250 to $1000 per month, while renters only have to cough up about $5 to $10 per hour. It's a tough sell when compared up to the more traditional, well-established likes of, say, ZipCar, but if you're keen on sniffing that previously-owned car smell, this should be right up your alley.

RelayRides hooks up with GM, opens P2P car sharing to OnStar subs originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 21:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carcar sharingCarSharingGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMgooglegoogle venturesGoogleVenturesOnStarP2Ppeer to peerPeerToPeerrelayridestransportationMon, 05 Mar 2012 21:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Envia's GM-backed battery delivers huge energy density, lower costs, headaches for competitors]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/29/envias-gm-backed-battery-delivers-huge-energy-density-lower-co/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/29/envias-gm-backed-battery-delivers-huge-energy-density-lower-co/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/29/envias-gm-backed-battery-delivers-huge-energy-density-lower-co/#comments If you're one of those worried about the battery on your expensive EV running out, look away now. Envia has unveiled a new cell that boasts a record-breaking energy density of 400Wh/kg (most currently offer between 100 and 150). It's estimated that when commercialized, this could bring the cost of a 300-mile range EV down to as little as $20,000. The performance gains come from a special manganese-rich cathode and silicon-carbon nano-composite anode combination. The battery maker is also partly owned by GM, which unsurprisingly means we're likely to see these very cells in its EVs in the future. Perhaps with the right choice of upholstery, we might see even better savings? Want to know more? Tap the fully charged press release parked just after the break.

Continue reading Envia's GM-backed battery delivers huge energy density, lower costs, headaches for competitors

Envia's GM-backed battery delivers huge energy density, lower costs, headaches for competitors originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Feb 2012 02:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batterybattery cellBatteryCelldensityeco-friendlyelectric vehicleElectricVehicleenviaenvia systemsEnviaSystemsevgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsGMLithium Ionlithium ion batteriesLithiumIonLithiumIonBatteriesWed, 29 Feb 2012 02:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Chevy Volt safe from fire hazard after all, says government]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/chevy-volt-safe-from-fire-hazard-after-all-says-government/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/chevy-volt-safe-from-fire-hazard-after-all-says-government/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/chevy-volt-safe-from-fire-hazard-after-all-says-government/#comments The Chevy Volt isn't prone to catching fire after all, says the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The all-electric car came under scrutiny last year after one caught fire following a side-impact crash test. GM offered a buyback program for Volt owners concerned their cars might suddenly immolate, then the company made "enhancements" to the Volt's battery coolant system. That set things right, as far as the NHTSA is concerned: it says "no discernable defect trend exists" in the Volt, and that GM's revisions "reduce the potential for battery intrusion resulting from side impacts." Chevy dropped the Volt's price by $1,000 for 2012, too. So what do you think? Is a $39,000 starting price and less of a chance of burning to death enough to make you go electric?

Chevy Volt safe from fire hazard after all, says government originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 02:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autobatteriesbatterycarcarschevroletChevrolet VoltChevroletVoltChevyChevy VoltChevyVoltelectricelectric carelectric carsElectricCarElectricCarsfirefire hazardFireHazardgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmhazardNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationNationalHighwayTrafficSafetyAdministrationNHTSAsafetyvoltTue, 24 Jan 2012 02:03:00 EST<![CDATA[GM teams with Future Lab on interactive Windows of Opportunity, MI:4 tech lives on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/19/gm-teams-with-future-lab-on-interactive-windows-of-opportunity/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/19/gm-teams-with-future-lab-on-interactive-windows-of-opportunity/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/19/gm-teams-with-future-lab-on-interactive-windows-of-opportunity/#comments Wishing your vehicle had a better-integrated entertainment system than the iPad you're forced to futz with in the backseat? If GM has its way, you may be in luck. The auto manufacturer has joined forces with the Future Lab at Bezalel Academy of Art and Design in Israel to transform boring rear windows into interactive touchscreens. Since there are no plans to work the tech into production models right now, R&D gave the students a blank... er, clear canvas on which to create solutions.

The results include apps that allow an animated character to respond to scenery outside the window and finger drawing on window steam. Two other applications enable a look into users' windows worldwide and a music stream-and-share with your mates on the road. "Traditionally, the use of interactive displays in cars has been limited to the driver and front passenger, but we see an opportunity to provide a technology interface designed specifically for rear seat passengers," said Tom Seder, GM R&D lab group manager. Check out the apps in action or the particulars in the PR after the break.

Gallery: GM Windows of Opportunity applications

Continue reading GM teams with Future Lab on interactive Windows of Opportunity, MI:4 tech lives on

GM teams with Future Lab on interactive Windows of Opportunity, MI:4 tech lives on originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 03:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car windowscarsCarWindowsFuture LabFutureLabGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMinteractive displayinteractive windowsInteractiveDisplayInteractiveWindowsprojectresearchsmart windowsSmartWindowstransportationvideowindowswindows of opportunitywindows of opportunity projectWindowsOfOpportunityWindowsOfOpportunityProjectwooThu, 19 Jan 2012 03:02:00 EST<![CDATA[OnStar unveils second generation Research Vehicle with Verizon (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/onstar-unveils-second-generation-research-vehicle-with-verizon/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/onstar-unveils-second-generation-research-vehicle-with-verizon/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/onstar-unveils-second-generation-research-vehicle-with-verizon/#comments
At last year's CES, OnStar and Verizon made a pact, unveiling their dream to bring 4G LTE connectivity to the vehicles of tomorrow. The duo's gotten a little closer to reality this year with the unveiling of their second research vehicle -- this time in the form of a Chevy Volt. Packed to the gills with wireless goodness, the hyper connected pair can stream content from the cloud, share it within the vehicle and communicate with OnStar's RemoteLink app. But that's not even the best part, as Skype video calling -- between car to computer and even car to car -- is now a go. Video proof and PR await after the break.

Continue reading OnStar unveils second generation Research Vehicle with Verizon (video)

OnStar unveils second generation Research Vehicle with Verizon (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 07:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012Ces2012chevy voltChevyVoltgmlteonstaronstar research vehicleOnstarResearchVehicleresearch vehicleResearchVehiclevideoTue, 10 Jan 2012 07:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Chevy Volt sees best sales yet in December, Nissan Leaf still outpaces it for the year]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/chevy-volt-nissan-leaf-sales-2011/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/chevy-volt-nissan-leaf-sales-2011/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/chevy-volt-nissan-leaf-sales-2011/#comments
It looks like GM had some good news and some bad news for the Chevy Volt to end 2011 with. As Autoblog Green reports, the plug-in vehicle saw its best ever month in December with 1,529 cars sold, bringing its total sales for the year to 7,671. That still wasn't enough to pull ahead of the Leaf electric vehicle in sales for the year, however, as Nissan managed to move a total of 9,674 units despite falling a bit short in December with just 954 cars sold. Both of those numbers are off the automakers' targets for their respective vehicles, though, with Nissan just a bit short of its 10,000-unit goal, and GM well off its original aim of 10,000-12,000 units sold. Unfortunately for GM, 2012 got off to a start with a few new headaches for the Volt.

Chevy Volt sees best sales yet in December, Nissan Leaf still outpaces it for the year originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevychevy voltChevyVoltelectric vehicleElectricVehiclegmleafnissannissan leafNissanLeafplug-inplug-in vehiclePlug-inVehiclevoltThu, 05 Jan 2012 19:31:00 EST<![CDATA[GM to add 'enhancements' to Chevy Volt's battery coolant system, will call back 8,000 cars]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/GM-Chevy-Volt-Battery-Fire-Test/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/GM-Chevy-Volt-Battery-Fire-Test/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/GM-Chevy-Volt-Battery-Fire-Test/#comments
In the wake of an NHSTA "formal safety investigation," GM today announced plans to add enhancements to the Chevy Volt's battery coolant system, in the hopes of preventing any post-crash electrical fires. As a result, some 8,000 Volt drivers will have to bring their cars back to their dealerships, as part of a move that's one notch below a formal recall. GM made the decision following federal investigation that saw three batteries erupt in flames after side-impact crash tests. Regulators blamed the irregularity on a coolant leak though thus far, no similar incidents have been reported among any Volt owners. The manufacturer plans to remedy the situation by adding extra support to protect the battery during side collisions, adding an extra sensor to keep an eye on coolant levels, and by incorporating an extra bracket atop the coolant reservoir to guard against potential overflows. Vehicles with these enhancements, GM said, passed the tests without any leakage or battery pack damage. Head past the break for the full PR.

Update: Chevrolet has just reached out to us to clarify that adding these enhancements is voluntary, and not mandatory for Volt owners: "These modifications are part of a voluntary customer satisfaction effort. While we will encourage customers to return to a dealership to have their Volt's modified, it is voluntary for them as well."

Continue reading GM to add 'enhancements' to Chevy Volt's battery coolant system, will call back 8,000 cars

GM to add 'enhancements' to Chevy Volt's battery coolant system, will call back 8,000 cars originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batterycall backCallBackcarcarschevychevy voltChevyVoltdangerelectricelectric vehicleElectricVehicleevfiregeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmlithium ion batteryLithiumIonBatteryNHSTArecalltestvoltThu, 05 Jan 2012 12:25:00 EST<![CDATA[GM considers new battery for Volt, offers to buy back hybrids from pyrophobic customers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/gm-considers-new-battery-for-volt-offers-to-buy-back-hybrids-fr/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/gm-considers-new-battery-for-volt-offers-to-buy-back-hybrids-fr/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/gm-considers-new-battery-for-volt-offers-to-buy-back-hybrids-fr/#comments Chevy Volt Still freaked out about that whole Volt catching fire thing? Well, GM wants you to know it's taking your concerns very seriously. The company is considering a redesign of the battery in the hybrid, possibly delaying the release of the Opel-branded version in Europe. What's more, for those not satisfied with being able to pick up a loaner, the company will buy the vehicle back from you. That is if you're too much of a pansy to keep your combustible car.

GM considers new battery for Volt, offers to buy back hybrids from pyrophobic customers originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 16:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batterybuy backBuyBackchevroletChevrolet VoltChevroletVoltchevychevy voltChevyVoltGMredesignsafetyVoltFri, 02 Dec 2011 16:51:00 EST<![CDATA[GM assures owners Volt is safe, offers loaners for good measure]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/29/gm-assures-owners-volt-is-safe-offers-loaners-for-good-measure/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/29/gm-assures-owners-volt-is-safe-offers-loaners-for-good-measure/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/29/gm-assures-owners-volt-is-safe-offers-loaners-for-good-measure/#comments Reports of the NHTSA's Volt catching fire post crash-tests still got you down? Well, unless you're the type who lingers for several weeks in the vicinity of your wrecked auto, there probably isn't much to worry about. GM apparently feels the same way, as it's began contacting all 5,329 owners to "reassure them" their gasoline-electric whips are safe to drive. Those who remain unconvinced can bug the General for a presumably non-electric loaner while the whole investigation sorts itself. Or if your name is Jay Leno, you could just choose one of the other hundred in your garage.

GM assures owners Volt is safe, offers loaners for good measure originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 06:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevychevy voltChevyVoltfiregeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmgm voltGmVoltnhtsanhtsa crash testNhtsaCrashTestsafetyvoltvolt fireVoltFireTue, 29 Nov 2011 06:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Chevy Volt under 'formal safety investigation' by NHTSA due to post-crash fire concerns]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/27/dnp-chevy-volt-under-formal-safety-investigation-by-nhtsa-due/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/27/dnp-chevy-volt-under-formal-safety-investigation-by-nhtsa-due/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/27/dnp-chevy-volt-under-formal-safety-investigation-by-nhtsa-due/#comments
The Chevy Volt's lithium-ion battery may be great for a lot of things -- like low gasoline-dependency, for instance -- but when it comes to government regulated crash tests, it's proving to be a fiery problem. As the story goes, back in May, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration put a Volt through standard side-impact crash testing, and in doing so, "the vehicle's battery was damaged and the coolant line was ruptured." The big issue? The car went up in flames multiple weeks later, seemingly as direct result. That event prompted the NHTSA to further study the safety of the batts in the period after a crash, which culminated in more tests performed just over a week ago to find out if they would prove volatile again -- simply put, they did. The group recently explained that it's "concerned that damage to the Volt's batteries as part of three tests that are explicitly designed to replicate real-world crash scenarios have resulted in fire."

Because of this development, the NHTSA (with assistance from the Department of Defense, Department of Energy and General Motors itself) has officially launched a formal investigation into the Volt to ensure that its current battery implementation isn't a safety defect. Despite the announcement, the agency notes that of all the Volts currently zipping along the streets, there has yet to be a to be a similar incident out on the open road. The NHTSA further clarified that there's not yet any reason for current owners to worry, so long as they haven't been in an accident with their vehicle. Overall, GM describes the whole investigation as "procedural" at this point, stating that both GM has been working with the NHTSA for over six months on a "broader program designed to induce battery failure after extreme situations." Seems a bit late at this point, but in any event, you'll find full details in the press releases from both parties just past the break.

Continue reading Chevy Volt under 'formal safety investigation' by NHTSA due to post-crash fire concerns

Chevy Volt under 'formal safety investigation' by NHTSA due to post-crash fire concerns originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 27 Nov 2011 13:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevychevy voltChevyVoltcrash testCrashTestdepartment of defensedepartment of energyDepartmentOfDefenseDepartmentOfEnergydoddoefiregeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgminvestigationJim FedericoJimFedericosafetyvoltSun, 27 Nov 2011 13:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Jay Leno's Chevy Volt still has original tank of gas, 11,000 miles later]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/19/jay-lenos-chevy-volt-still-has-original-tank-of-gas-11-000-mil/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/19/jay-lenos-chevy-volt-still-has-original-tank-of-gas-11-000-mil/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/19/jay-lenos-chevy-volt-still-has-original-tank-of-gas-11-000-mil/#comments What daily driver do you pick when you're rockin' a warehouse with over a hundred enviable whips? Well, if you happen to be a famous comedian named Jay Leno, apparently it's the Chevy Volt. Since procuring the plug-in chariot last year, the late night star has "yet to put gas in it," despite accumulating over 11,000 miles driving to and from what we'll assume is The Tonight Show. Not all of that has been gasoline-free automotive bliss, as Leno's exceeded the car's electric 40-ish mile range more than a few times, burning through around half of the vehicle's original tank. At that rate, the Volt will need refueling by this time next year -- or not, barring any further timeslot kerfuffles.

Jay Leno's Chevy Volt still has original tank of gas, 11,000 miles later originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 19 Nov 2011 04:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ChevroletchevyChevy VoltChevyVoltElectric carElectricCarEVgasolineGMJay Lenoplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridThe Tonight ShowVoltSat, 19 Nov 2011 04:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft taps Samsung VP Gavin Kim to be new Windows Phone GM]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/07/microsoft-taps-samsung-vp-gavin-kim-to-be-new-windows-phone-gm/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/07/microsoft-taps-samsung-vp-gavin-kim-to-be-new-windows-phone-gm/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/07/microsoft-taps-samsung-vp-gavin-kim-to-be-new-windows-phone-gm/#comments
The last Windows Phone General Manager, Charlie Kindel, may have been a longtime Microsoft vet, but the company's looked beyond Redmond for his permanent replacement. As BGR reports, Microsoft has snagged Samsung's VP of of consumer and enterprise services, Gavin Kim, to lead the Windows Phone product team. In describing his new role, Kim tells BGR that he'll "be responsible to help set the future direction for the Windows Phone platform and to accelerate Microsoft's trajectory to win the hearts and minds of consumers, carriers, device manufacturers, developers and partners." At Samsung, Kim most recently worked on the company's various Galaxy products, and he unsurprisingly remains complimentary of the company, noting that it has a "very bright future ahead of itself," and that he expects a "tremendous amount of synergy between Microsoft and Samsung." BGR's full interview is at the source link below.

Microsoft taps Samsung VP Gavin Kim to be new Windows Phone GM originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 16:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gavin kimGavinKimgmhirekimmicrosoftmobilepostcrosssamsungwindows phonewindows phone 7WindowsPhoneWindowsPhone7Mon, 07 Nov 2011 16:19:00 EST<![CDATA[GM's got a brand new electric motor and it'll give you the key (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/31/gms-got-a-brand-new-electric-motor-and-itll-give-you-the-key/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/31/gms-got-a-brand-new-electric-motor-and-itll-give-you-the-key/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/31/gms-got-a-brand-new-electric-motor-and-itll-give-you-the-key/#comments
Cars with electric motors running the show are few and far between, which is something we need to change -- that's why General Motors is finishing up a new plant in White Marsh, Maryland. The facility will be cooking up magnet and induction electrical motors to power GM's next generation of EVs. The first off the line will be the 85 kW (114hp) electric engine that'll sit inside the hood of 2013's dinky Chevy Spark EV. Peek after the break and you'll be rewarded with a cornucopia (that's the technical term for four, right?) of videos and a press release about the company's plans for electrical domination.

[Thanks, Nicole]

Continue reading GM's got a brand new electric motor and it'll give you the key (video)

GM's got a brand new electric motor and it'll give you the key (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BaltimoreChevy SparkChevy Spark EVChevySparkChevySparkEvElectric MotorElectric VehicleElectric VehiclesElectricMotorElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesEVGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMInduction Electric MotorInductionElectricMotorMagnet Electric MotorMagnet MotorMagnetElectricMotorMagnetMotorRick RhodesRickRhodesvideoMon, 31 Oct 2011 15:32:00 EST<![CDATA[GM demos accident avoidance system with brains and long range]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/20/gm-demos-accident-avoidance-system-with-brains-and-long-range/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/20/gm-demos-accident-avoidance-system-with-brains-and-long-range/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/20/gm-demos-accident-avoidance-system-with-brains-and-long-range/#comments GM Collision Avoidance Collision avoidance systems aren't exactly exciting new news any more. But most of these systems, even the ones that jerk the wheel out of your hands, simply detect obstacles -- they don't talk to each other. GM's new prototype uses Dedicated Short-Range Communication (DSRC) to share data with other vehicles. The cars not only detect other motorists, but construction zones, police activity, and slowed or stopped traffic. Unlike a similar concept from Ford, GM doesn't just talk to cars in the immediate area, but can detect trouble up to a quarter mile down the road, offering plenty of warning time for you to change course or hit those breaks. We think the company's estimate that such a system could avoid 81-percent of crashes in the US is a tad optimistic though -- clearly they don't realize how big of jerks most drivers are.

GM demos accident avoidance system with brains and long range originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Oct 2011 01:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accident avoidanceAccidentAvoidanceaccidentsCollision avoidancecollision detectionCollisionAvoidanceCollisionDetectiondedicated short-range communicationDedicatedShort-rangeCommunicationDSRCgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsGMintelligent transportation systemsintelligent transportation systems world congressIntelligentTransportationSystemsIntelligentTransportationSystemsWorldCongressITS World CongressItsWorldCongressThu, 20 Oct 2011 01:21:00 EST<![CDATA[EV manufacturers get harmonized, agree to build a universal charging system]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/ev-manufacturers-get-harmonized-agree-to-build-a-universal-char/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/ev-manufacturers-get-harmonized-agree-to-build-a-universal-char/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/ev-manufacturers-get-harmonized-agree-to-build-a-universal-char/#comments Fancy segregating EV charging stations by vehicle manufacturer? No? A slew of major automobile firms didn't like the idea much either, and have agreed on a combined charging system to use as an international standard. Audi, BMW, Daimler, Ford, General Motors, Porsche and Volkswagen now support a single-port fast charging system that integrates all charging configurations -- from spiffy quick charging setups, down to modest Level 1 rigs. The new system also crowns HomePlug Green PHY as the standard communication protocol, allowing charging stations to hook compatible EVs to Powerline Smart Grid applications. Where do all these fancy features leave you and your Leaf? Charged, of course -- the new "harmonized electric vehicle charging solution" promises to be backward compatible with current industry standard J1772 connectors. Hit the break for Ford's official press release.

Continue reading EV manufacturers get harmonized, agree to build a universal charging system

EV manufacturers get harmonized, agree to build a universal charging system originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 14 Oct 2011 06:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AudiBMWcarchargerchargingDaimlereco-friendlyelectricelectric carelectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesevEV chargingEV charging stationsEvChargingEvChargingStationsFordFord Motor CoGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsgmgreenHomePlug Green PHYHomeplugGreenPhyJ1772LeafNpowerplug inplug in vehiclesplug-inplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridPlugInPlugInVehiclesPorscheprotocolstandardVolkswagenFri, 14 Oct 2011 06:19:00 EST<![CDATA[GM puts Spark EV all-electric vehicle into production, begins development of next-gen EN-V concept]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/gm-puts-spark-ev-all-electric-vehicle-into-production-begins-de/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/gm-puts-spark-ev-all-electric-vehicle-into-production-begins-de/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/gm-puts-spark-ev-all-electric-vehicle-into-production-begins-de/#comments
GM has already done a fair bit of talking about electric vehicles this year, but it's not done just yet. The company announced this week that it will be producing an all-electric version of its Spark mini-car -- to be dubbed the Spark EV -- into production, with the first vehicles set to roll out sometime in 2013 (including "limited quantities" in the US). Complete details on the vehicle are otherwise still a bit light, but GM says it will use nanophosphate lithium-ion battery provided by A123 Systems. What's more, while there's no word on it going into production, GM has also confirmed that it's begun development of its next-generation EN-V concept vehicle, and that it will sport a Chevrolet badge this time around. As you may recall from our test ride, the existing EN-V is already plenty futuristic, so it'll be interesting to see what the automaker comes up with next. Head on past the break for a video of the Spark.

Continue reading GM puts Spark EV all-electric vehicle into production, begins development of next-gen EN-V concept

GM puts Spark EV all-electric vehicle into production, begins development of next-gen EN-V concept originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 14 Oct 2011 00:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-electricchevroletchevyelectric vehicleElectricVehicleen-vevgmsparkspark evSparkEvvideoFri, 14 Oct 2011 00:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Opel shows off all-electric One Euro Car concept]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/08/opel-shows-off-all-electric-one-euro-car-concept/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/08/opel-shows-off-all-electric-one-euro-car-concept/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/08/opel-shows-off-all-electric-one-euro-car-concept/#comments
It's saving most of the details for the Frankfurt Motor Show next week, but GM subsidiary Opel has now offered up the first glimpse of its all-electric One Euro Car, which seems bound to turn a few heads on the show floor. The car's name comes from the company's promise that the it will consume just one Euro's worth of energy (or about $1.40) for every 100 kilometers, though there's no indication of a price for the car itself other than that it'd be "affordable" -- if it ever goes into production, that is. Otherwise, the company's only saying that it will boast a top speed of 120 kilometers (or 75 miles) per hour, room for two, and a total weight about a third that of a modern compact car.

Opel shows off all-electric One Euro Car concept originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 08 Sep 2011 22:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevfrankfurtfrankfurt motor showFrankfurtMotorShowgmone euro carOneEuroCaropelThu, 08 Sep 2011 22:37:00 EST<![CDATA[LG and GM team up to build next generation of electric cars]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/lg-and-gm-team-up-to-build-next-generation-of-electric-cars/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/lg-and-gm-team-up-to-build-next-generation-of-electric-cars/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/lg-and-gm-team-up-to-build-next-generation-of-electric-cars/#comments
Abbreviation loving multinationals Lucky Goldstar and General Motors have entered into an "Electric Vehicle Cooperation" agreement to build the next generation of EVs. The partnership follows a successful dating phase where LG supplied the batteries for the Chevy Volt. Now, teams from both companies will collaborate on key components, vehicle structures and architectures -- which we take to mean that it's a more substantial proposition than just battery sharing. The plan is to meet the new US fuel economy targets by 2025, so the design phase for the new autos will kick off soon. Let's hope this new venture bears some fruit that's faster than a flying banana.

LG and GM team up to build next generation of electric cars originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 26 Aug 2011 07:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CAFECarCarsChevy VoltChevyVoltCvElectric Vehicle AgreementElectric Vehicle CooperationElectricVehicleAgreementElectricVehicleCooperationGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMLGLucky GoldstarLuckyGoldstarOpel AmperaOpelAmperaFri, 26 Aug 2011 07:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Cadillac Converj hits production as ELR, escapes concept purgatory]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/18/cadillac-converj-hits-production-as-elr-escapes-concept-purgato/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/18/cadillac-converj-hits-production-as-elr-escapes-concept-purgato/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/18/cadillac-converj-hits-production-as-elr-escapes-concept-purgato/#comments Cadillac Converj hits production as ELR, escapes concept purgatory If you're not already familiar with the story of the Cadillac Converj, take this quick primer: the Converj is the Chevy Volt's luxurious, canceled cousin. The up-and-coming concept suffered an early death shortly after its debut at the 2009 Detroit auto show. Now it's back, returning to development under the name Cadillac ELR. The new electric caddy is said to feature an updated version of the Voltec powertrain, complete with a Chevy Volt-like range-extending generator. Detroit promises that pricing and availability will be released "later," but you can cruise past the break right now for some extra classy PR.

Continue reading Cadillac Converj hits production as ELR, escapes concept purgatory

Cadillac Converj hits production as ELR, escapes concept purgatory originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 04:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CaddyCaddy ELRCaddyElrCadillacCadillac converjCadillac ELRCadillacConverjCadillacElrConverjElectric CaddyElectric CarElectric VehicleElectricCaddyElectricCarElectricVehicleELREVGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMgreenhybridparallel hybridParallelHybridplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridseries hybridSeriesHybridVoltecvoltec powertrainVoltecPowertrainThu, 18 Aug 2011 04:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Minecraft Pocket Edition hits Android Market, only Xperia Play users need apply]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/16/minecraft-pocket-edition-hits-android-market-only-xperia-play-u/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/16/minecraft-pocket-edition-hits-android-market-only-xperia-play-u/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/16/minecraft-pocket-edition-hits-android-market-only-xperia-play-u/#comments
Just a couple months after making its grand debut at this year's E3, Minecraft has finally made its way to the Android Market, much to the delight of cube enthusiasts and time-wasters everywhere. With this new, Pocket Edition app, Mojang is hoping to faithfully recreate the Minecraft experience on mobile platforms, with a special emphasis placed on the game's creative side. In version Alpha 0.1, users will be able to explore randomized worlds, invite friends to play along in their worlds and save multi-player realms directly to their phones -- all while manipulating 36 different kinds of blocks from the comfort of their touchscreens. For now, the game will only be available for Sony Ericsson's Xperia Play, though Mojang plans to release it for other Android handsets "in the near future." You can grab it now for $6.99, or swerve past the break for more information, in the full press release.

Continue reading Minecraft Pocket Edition hits Android Market, only Xperia Play users need apply

Minecraft Pocket Edition hits Android Market, only Xperia Play users need apply originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 16 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid marketAndroidMarketappapplicationgamegmminecraftminecraft pocket editionMinecraftPocketEditionmojangplaystation phonePlaystationPhonesony ericssonSony Ericsson Xperia PlaySonyEricssonSonyEricssonXperiaPlayxperiaXperia PurenessXperiaPurenessTue, 16 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[OnStar Family Link brings loved ones closer together through vehicle tracking]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/03/onstar-family-link-brings-loved-ones-closer-together-through-ve/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/03/onstar-family-link-brings-loved-ones-closer-together-through-ve/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/03/onstar-family-link-brings-loved-ones-closer-together-through-ve/#comments Add this to the ever-growing list of things we're glad we didn't have back when we were teenagers. GM this week announced the release of Family Link, the latest addition to its OnStar service. The new feature lets subscribers track the exact location of vehicles at any time via an online map. Subscribers can also set up a text message alert to keep on top of the car's location. There's certainly potential for the feature as a safety tool, but it's also no doubt a long awaited addition for overbearing parents everywhere. The service is beginning life as an invitation-only pilot program that includes around 10,000 OnStar subscribers.

Continue reading OnStar Family Link brings loved ones closer together through vehicle tracking

OnStar Family Link brings loved ones closer together through vehicle tracking originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 03 Aug 2011 10:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoautomobilecarfamilyFamily LinkFamilyLinkgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmonstaronstar Family LinkOnstarFamilyLinkpilot pgramPilotPgramtrackingvehiclevehicle trackingVehicleTrackingWed, 03 Aug 2011 10:04:00 EST<![CDATA[OnStar FMV available at Best Buy July 24th for $300]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/19/onstar-fmv-available-at-best-buy-july-24th-for-300/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/19/onstar-fmv-available-at-best-buy-july-24th-for-300/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/19/onstar-fmv-available-at-best-buy-july-24th-for-300/#comments Perhaps you recall hearing, back at CES, about GM's aftermarket mirror that would make the OnStar service available to most cars, including those from its most hated rival in Dearborn. No? Don't worry, here's the skinny: the OnStar FMV will let you have the company's popular blue button technology in over 90 million automobiles. Meaning that almost anyone can now reap the benefits of features like automatic crash response, turn-by-turn navigation and hands-free calling. You know... unless you're cruising in the General Lee, or something. Selling for $299.99, plus a $75 installation charge and $18.95 per month ($199 yearly) subscription, the high tech rear-view mirror will be on shelves at Best Buy starting July 24th and is now available for pre-order. Before you throw down the Benjamins for this automotive security blanket, you might want to double check that your car is compatible -- check the full PR to find out how.

Continue reading OnStar FMV available at Best Buy July 24th for $300

OnStar FMV available at Best Buy July 24th for $300 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 19 Jul 2011 06:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best buyBestBuyblue buttonBlueButtonbluetoothemergency repsonseEmergencyRepsonsegeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmhands free callingHandsFreeCallingmirrornavigationonstaronstar fmvOnstarFmvphonesafetysecurityTue, 19 Jul 2011 06:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaf sales outpacing the Volt, winning the fight for American garage space]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/07/leaf-sales-outpacing-the-volt-winning-the-fight-for-american-ga/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/07/leaf-sales-outpacing-the-volt-winning-the-fight-for-american-ga/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/07/leaf-sales-outpacing-the-volt-winning-the-fight-for-american-ga/#comments Leaf Vs. Volt According to Automobile, Nissan is winning the race to put the most electric cars in American driveways, selling 3,875 Leafs in the first six months of 2011, while Chevy only managed to put 2,754 Volt keys in the hands of consumers. This is despite Nissan suffering a month long manufacturing setback following the tsunami that struck in March. Chevy has had its own delays, having closed the Volt plant five weeks ago for upgrades that will allow it to pump out more vehicles. Lets not forget though, the Leaf starts at about $8,000 less than its American made competitor and, when it comes to weaning us off gas and putting us behind the wheel of tech-packed cars -- there's no shame in being number two. Perhaps GM will have better luck with that cheaper, shorter range version it's been contemplating.

Leaf sales outpacing the Volt, winning the fight for American garage space originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 07 Jul 2011 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011carcarschevroletchevychevy voltChevyVoltdataelectricelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevfebruaryfiguresgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmhybridleafnissannissan leafNissanLeafnumbersparallel hybridParallelHybridphevsalesseries hybridSeriesHybridstatsusus salesUsSalesvoltThu, 07 Jul 2011 09:31:00 EST<![CDATA[GMC showroom app tells you where to pick up your dream SUV, doesn't help with down payment]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/01/gmc-showroom-app-tells-you-where-to-pick-up-your-dream-suv-does/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/01/gmc-showroom-app-tells-you-where-to-pick-up-your-dream-suv-does/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/01/gmc-showroom-app-tells-you-where-to-pick-up-your-dream-suv-does/#comments Ever felt the need to customize vehicles and search dealer inventory, right from the comfort of your smartphone? Us neither, but here's the General with another app to whet our appetites. While certainly not the first of its kind, the GMC showroom app for iOS (coming soon to Android), allows you to specify drive-type, trim, and both exterior / interior colors. Once content with your selections, you're shown nearby dealers carrying exact replicas of your magnificent taste. Unfortunately for us, the app makes no mention of the closest EN-V. If SUVs are your thing, however, have a peep at the free app at the source link below.

Continue reading GMC showroom app tells you where to pick up your dream SUV, doesn't help with down payment

GMC showroom app tells you where to pick up your dream SUV, doesn't help with down payment originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Android appandroid applicationAndroidAppAndroidApplicationappappsAppStorecarcar customizationCarCustomizationcarsGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMGMCiOS appIosAppiPhone appIphoneAppmobile appMobileAppsuvsuvstrucktruck customizationTruckCustomizationtrucksFri, 01 Jul 2011 00:43:00 EST<![CDATA[DataBot mouse and HDD concepts give weight to files, encourage data purges (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/15/databot-mouse-and-hdd-concepts-give-weight-to-files-encourage-d/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/15/databot-mouse-and-hdd-concepts-give-weight-to-files-encourage-d/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/15/databot-mouse-and-hdd-concepts-give-weight-to-files-encourage-d/#comments Mice have been a computing mainstay since pretty close to the dawn of the PC, but they don't offer much in terms of information about the on-screen data you're interacting with. What if they featured physical feedback to tip you off to things like the size of the files you're moving around? Two German students have answered that question likely before you even had a chance to ask. The result is an admittedly cool concept that slows the roll of your mouse, giving files the feeling weight based on the size of their contents. A "breathing" feature can also clue you in to how much a given file has been used. Also worthy of mention is their DataBot Harddrive concept, which expands and contracts based on the amount of space being used up. Video of weirdly lifelike peripherals after the break.

Continue reading DataBot mouse and HDD concepts give weight to files, encourage data purges (video)

DataBot mouse and HDD concepts give weight to files, encourage data purges (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Jun 2011 16:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptdatabotfilegmhaptichard driveHardDrivehddjan barthJanBarthmouseprototyperoman grassyRomanGrassyvideoWed, 15 Jun 2011 16:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: solar train tunnels, refillable battery goop, and the world's first 3D-printed bikini]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/12/inhabitats-week-in-green-solar-train-tunnels-refillable-batte/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/12/inhabitats-week-in-green-solar-train-tunnels-refillable-batte/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/12/inhabitats-week-in-green-solar-train-tunnels-refillable-batte/#commentsEach week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.


This week green transportation left fossil fuels in the dust as Inhabitat reported that a record-breaking electric VW Bug rocketed from 0-60 in 1.6 seconds and Team Steam unveiled a space age vehicle that is vying for the title of "fastest steam car on earth." We also spotted the world's first natural gas-powered supercar, while a team of Cambridge students unveiled a sleek solar racer that will attempt to travel 1,800 miles in the World Solar Challenge. Oil fuels also lost more luster as GM's CEO called for a $1 gas tax increase in the US, while MIT unveiled a new type of liquid flow battery that could refuel electric vehicles in a snap.

As the summer sun hits its stride groundbreaking solar power projects are lighting up left and right - this week Google unveiled a new solar patent that could make solar energy cheaper than coal, while QSolar rolled out an array of rainbow-hued Kristal panels that can replace windows and walls. Photovoltaic gadgets also had their moment in the sun as Pixel Qi pulled back the curtain on a cheap, efficient solar-powered tablet and a wave and sun-powered seafaring robot received $22 million in funding.

Speaking of solar power, this week we applauded the opening of a two-mile-long photovoltaic train tunnel that will provide power to the Paris-Amsterdam high-speed rail line. We were also wowed by Steve Jobs' vision for Apple's new spaceship-shaped clean energy campus, and our Bright Ideas Lighting Design Competition is really heating up, so be sure to vote for your favorite green lamp before the contest ends next week. Finally, we shared 6 great green Father's Day gifts for tech-savvy dads, and as summer gets set to begin we brought you exclusive photos of the recently opened section 2 of New York's High Line park, a beautiful suspended swimmer's oasis in Denmark, and the world's first 3D-printed bikini.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: solar train tunnels, refillable battery goop, and the world's first 3D-printed bikini originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 12 Jun 2011 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batteriesbatterybikiniGMInhabitatinhabitats week in greenInhabitatsWeekInGreenKristalliquid flowliquid flow batteryLiquidFlowLiquidFlowBatteryMITnatural gasNaturalGasPixel QiPixelQiQSolarsolarsolar powerSolarPowersteamtaxtraintrainsWeek in GreenWeekInGreenworld solar challengeWorldSolarChallengeSun, 12 Jun 2011 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Buick, GMC getting IntelliLink smartphone connectivity]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/21/buick-gmc-getting-intellilink-smartphone-connectivity/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/21/buick-gmc-getting-intellilink-smartphone-connectivity/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/21/buick-gmc-getting-intellilink-smartphone-connectivity/#comments Back in February, General Motors debuted its MyLink smartphone integration for the Chevy Volt and Equinox on the Engadget Show, letting drivers control their iOS, Android, and BlackBerry smartphone apps via voice or touchscreen. The company announced today that it will be offering the same technology -- albeit rebranded as the tongue-twisting IntelliLink -- on several 2012 Buick and GMC models, including the Buick LaCrosse, Regal, Verano, and the GMC Terrain. IntelliLink offers up a fairly similar feature set as its Chevy counterpart -- connecting to iPhones and Android handsets via Bluetooth or USB, and leveraging Nuance voice recognition and Gracenote databases to control the likes of Pandora and Stitcher Radio. Autoblog reports that IntelliLink will hit the Buick Verano first, followed by the LaCrosse and Regal, though you might be more interested in the Terrain -- owners will also be able to control their vehicle's rear-view camera with IntelliLink, and who doesn't like manipulating megapixels in the name of pedestrian safety?

Continue reading Buick, GMC getting IntelliLink smartphone connectivity

Buick, GMC getting IntelliLink smartphone connectivity originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 01:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AndroidAppleBlackBerryBuickbuick lacrosseBuick RegalBuickLacrosseBuickRegalcarFordford syncFordSyncgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsGMGMCGMC TerrainGmcTerrainGracenotein-carinfotainmentintellilinkiPhonelacrossemylinkNuancePandoraregalRIMStitcherTerrainveranovoicevoice controlVoiceControlThu, 21 Apr 2011 01:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Robonaut 2 gets unboxed in space, plans for galactic domination]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/22/robonaut-2-gets-unboxed-in-space-plans-for-galactic-domination/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/22/robonaut-2-gets-unboxed-in-space-plans-for-galactic-domination/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/22/robonaut-2-gets-unboxed-in-space-plans-for-galactic-domination/#comments Remember that nondescript space shuttle that launched about a month ago -- you know, the one responsible for carrying this here nondescript humanoid robot into the outer reaches of our galaxy? Well, things went according to plan and the robot has been successfully deployed in the International Space Station, making way for the first ever robot-human space crew. R2, weighing in at 300 pounds with just a torso, head and two arms, cost NASA and GM a cool $2.5 million to build, and there's no telling what kind of handling fees were applied when shoving him into his SLEEPR crate. Because of his dexterity, the bot is up above the clouds to help out with chores and assist crew members with science experiments and handling human tools -- easy for us to say, but even easier for you to grok if you slam the play button just after the break.

Continue reading Robonaut 2 gets unboxed in space, plans for galactic domination

Robonaut 2 gets unboxed in space, plans for galactic domination originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Mar 2011 02:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assistassitantbotchoresdexteritygminternational space stationInternationalSpaceStationissnasar2roborobonautrobonaut 2Robonaut2robotrobotnaut 2Robotnaut2robotsshuttlesleeprspacespace stationSpaceStationtoolsvideoTue, 22 Mar 2011 02:48:00 EST<![CDATA[OnStar's aftermarket mirror to be called OnStar FMV, gets a new microphone]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/18/onstars-aftermarket-mirror-to-be-called-onstar-fmv-gets-a-new/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/18/onstars-aftermarket-mirror-to-be-called-onstar-fmv-gets-a-new/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/18/onstars-aftermarket-mirror-to-be-called-onstar-fmv-gets-a-new/#commentsOnStar's aftermarket mirror to be called OnStar FMV, gets a new microphone When General Motors used CES to launch a mirror with a blue button that would work in any car it was called, quite simply, "retail product." Perhaps realizing that such a sweepingly vague name for the company's assault on every car every manufactured might lead to a bit of confusion, GM has now decided to call the mirror OnStar FMV. FMV, which stands for "For My Vehicle" and not "Full Motion Video," will act like a hands-free device and allows you to get other blue button functionality, including turn-by-turn directions and emergency assistance. Since CES the mirror has been augmented with an external microphone, but the price stays the same: $299 when it launches this summer -- plus $100 for installation and $18.95 per month or $199 yearly to make use of OnStar services. Blue buttons don't come cheap, son.

Continue reading OnStar's aftermarket mirror to be called OnStar FMV, gets a new microphone

OnStar's aftermarket mirror to be called OnStar FMV, gets a new microphone originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 18 Mar 2011 19:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blue buttonBlueButtongeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmonstaronstar fmvOnstarFmvFri, 18 Mar 2011 19:37:00 EST<![CDATA[GM extends OnStar smartphone control to 14 more vehicles]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/17/gm-extends-onstar-smartphone-control-to-14-more-vehicles/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/17/gm-extends-onstar-smartphone-control-to-14-more-vehicles/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/17/gm-extends-onstar-smartphone-control-to-14-more-vehicles/#commentsOnStar expands smartphone control over entire 2011 GM lineup Once solely slated for the Chevy Volt, the OnStar MyLink smartphone app has gained considerable ground -- last July, GM expanded the iPhone and Android remote domination over your horn, door locks, and real-time data to every 2011 automobile, and now it's reaching back through time to activate fourteen vehicles from 2010. As you'd expect, that's mostly a smattering of SUVs and crossovers like the Cadillac Escalade, Buick Enclave, GMC Yukon and Chevy Avalanche, though the Impala will also get the goods, and if you live in the lap of low-end luxury, you may be able to listen to Facebook updates on your 2010 Cadillac DTS or Buick Lucerne. Find the full list of compatible vehicles at our source link.

GM extends OnStar smartphone control to 14 more vehicles originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 18:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appAvalancheBuickCadillacChevroletChevyEnclaveEscaladeGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMGMCin-carinfotainmentMyLinkOnStarOnStar MyLinkOnstarMylinkremote controlRemoteControlYukonThu, 17 Mar 2011 18:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Car Connectivity Consortium forms to bring more smartphones to more interiors]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/17/car-connectivity-consortium-forms-to-bring-more-smartphones-to-m/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/17/car-connectivity-consortium-forms-to-bring-more-smartphones-to-m/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/17/car-connectivity-consortium-forms-to-bring-more-smartphones-to-m/#commentsCar Connectivity Consortium forms to bring Terminal Mode to more cars, more devices Though Terminal Mode has always been an open standard we've never really seen any tech companies outside of Espoo show much interest in the stuff, which lets a car mirror a phone's display. When Nokia sort of shifted gears and signed on with Microsoft that left us wondering what would be next for the company's infotainment efforts. Good things, as it turns out. The Car Connectivity Consortium has been founded to drive "global innovation for in-vehicle connectivity," and both Terminal Mode and Nokia will play a big part -- though a bigger part will be played by Daimler, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Toyota, and VW. They're joined by electronics companies Alpine, LG, Panasonic, and Samsung, making us think that maybe Terminal Mode's time has properly come. Also on the docket for the CCC is study of NFC, which will hopefully standardize the sort of awesome key interactivity BMW recently showed off.

Continue reading Car Connectivity Consortium forms to bring more smartphones to more interiors

Car Connectivity Consortium forms to bring more smartphones to more interiors originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 08:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpinecar connectivity consortiumCarConnectivityConsortiumdaimlergeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmhondahyundaiinfotainmentlgmercedesmercedes-benznokiapanasonicsamsungsmartphone integrationSmartphoneIntegrationterminal modeTerminalModetoyotavolkswagenvwThu, 17 Mar 2011 08:33:00 EST<![CDATA[GM looking to offer lower-cost, shorter-range Volt?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/10/gm-looking-to-offer-lower-cost-shorter-range-volt/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/10/gm-looking-to-offer-lower-cost-shorter-range-volt/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/10/gm-looking-to-offer-lower-cost-shorter-range-volt/#commentsGM looking to offer lower-cost, shorter-range Volt? We've certainly had some complaints about the Chevrolet Volt, including mediocre highway mileage, but far and away it's that $41,000 MSRP keeping it from being a real contender for mass adoption. Now we're hearing rumors that GM is thinking about down-sizing the car's batteries in an attempt to drop that price as well. The battery pack is far and away the most expensive single component in the car and the thought is that a reduction of the pure EV range to just 20 miles (down from its current 30 - 50) could have a whopping $10,000 reduction in cost. That would mean buyers would dip into the gas tank a little sooner but be a lighter on their bank accounts -- at least in the beginning.

GM looking to offer lower-cost, shorter-range Volt? originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 10 Mar 2011 21:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevyelectric vehicleElectricVehicleevgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmhybridparallel hybridParallelHybridphevseries hybridSeriesHybridvoltThu, 10 Mar 2011 21:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Electric car sales watch: 281 Volts and 67 Leafs sold in US during February]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/06/electric-car-sales-watch-281-volts-and-67-leafs-sold-in-us-duri/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/06/electric-car-sales-watch-281-volts-and-67-leafs-sold-in-us-duri/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/06/electric-car-sales-watch-281-volts-and-67-leafs-sold-in-us-duri/#comments Neither Chevrolet nor Nissan have felt proud enough of their EV sales numbers to list them on their latest press releases, but our colleagues over at Autoblog Green have dug those numbers up anyhow. They make for dispiriting reading if you're an electric car well-wisher, as the Volt's sales declined from January's tally of 321 to an even less impressive 281, while the Leaf closed February with only 67 US sales, down 20 on last month. Upon seeing their previous numbers, we postulated that both cars are suffering from constrained supply, which is likely still the case, but it feels ironic to us that electric vehicles, whose driving experience offers instant torque, are taking their sweet time to rev up their sales.

Electric car sales watch: 281 Volts and 67 Leafs sold in US during February originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 06 Mar 2011 06:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011carcarschevroletchevychevy voltChevyVoltdataelectricelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevfebruaryfiguresgmleafnissannissan leafNissanLeafnumberssalesstatsusus salesUsSalesvoltSun, 06 Mar 2011 06:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple iOS 4.3 GM available now to developers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/03/apple-ios-4-3-gm-available-now-to-developers/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/03/apple-ios-4-3-gm-available-now-to-developers/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/03/apple-ios-4-3-gm-available-now-to-developers/#comments
That's right, kids! The Golden Master version of iOS 4.3 has become available -- it's seeding as we speak. If you do any development on the iPad, iPhone or iPod touch, and you're ready to get to partake in (or even dev for) all the new AirPlay and Personal Hotspot capabilities (for starters), you know where to go. As for the rest of us, we guess we'll have to wait until the OS gets its official release on March 11. By the way, there's no word of an OS update for Apple TV yet. Sorry, kids. That's what they call "tough love."

[Thanks, Gregg!]

Apple iOS 4.3 GM available now to developers originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 Mar 2011 15:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appledevdevelopmentgmgolden masterGoldenMasteriosios 4.3ios 4.3 gmIos4.3Ios4.3Gmipadiphoneipod touchIpodTouchThu, 03 Mar 2011 15:13:00 EST<![CDATA[GM shows off Terrain SUV with noise cancellation, says silence equals fuel efficiency]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/25/gm-shows-off-terrain-suv-with-noise-cancellation-says-silence-e/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/25/gm-shows-off-terrain-suv-with-noise-cancellation-says-silence-e/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/25/gm-shows-off-terrain-suv-with-noise-cancellation-says-silence-e/#comments GM claims its new Terrain has other SUVs beat when it comes to fuel efficiency, and they're citing active noise cancellation -- a concept near and dear to audiophiles everywhere -- as one of the driving factors that puts it 4MPG above the competition. Basically, the Terrain's enlisted a new one-touch "Eco mode" that allows its four-cylinder engine to run at a lower torque, decreasing engine speeds, and thus saving gas. The thing is, this increased fuel efficiency comes with a "low-end frequency boom," which is where the noise cancellation sets in: two microphones built in to the car's headliner detect the boom, prompting a frequency generator to pump counteracting sound waves through Terrain's speakers. Simply put, GM's just getting rid of an unpleasant hum. So a quieter car isn't necessarily a greener car, but we'll take a more fuel efficient SUV any day. If you're picking up what GM's laying down, check out the full PR after the jump.

Continue reading GM shows off Terrain SUV with noise cancellation, says silence equals fuel efficiency

GM shows off Terrain SUV with noise cancellation, says silence equals fuel efficiency originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 25 Feb 2011 06:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>active noise cancellationActiveNoiseCancellationaudioautoautomobilecarcarscrossoverCrossover SUVCrossoverSuvfuel efficiencyFuelEfficiencygeneral motorsGeneralMotorsGMGM TerrrainGMCGMC TerrainGmcTerrainGmTerrrainin-car audioIn-carAudionoise cancellationnoise cancellingNoiseCancellationNoiseCancellingSUVSUVsterrainFri, 25 Feb 2011 06:06:00 EST<![CDATA[The Engadget Show - 018: GM's Micky Bly, Watson researcher David Gondek, EN-V demo, Atrix 4G]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/18/the-engadget-show-018-gms-micky-bly-watson-researcher-david/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/18/the-engadget-show-018-gms-micky-bly-watson-researcher-david/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/18/the-engadget-show-018-gms-micky-bly-watson-researcher-david/#comments Humans, allow us to present the latest episode of The Engadget Show -- you won't want to miss it. First up, Josh and Tim Stevens sit down with GM's chief electrical engineer Micky Bly for a frank conversation on the future of automotive technology, chatting about everything from networked vehicles (with a surprise visit from the unmistakable EN-V prototype), electric cars, advancing smartphone integration, and a world without stoplights. Then, Micky announces and demos Chevy's new MyLink infotainment system, in a world-first, Engadget Show-exclusive look at the new technology.

Fresh off a resounding victory over mankind, IBM's Watson researcher David Gondek joins Josh and Paul for a breakdown of Watson's Jeopardy domination and an in-depth conversation about machine-learning, artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, and the meaning of love. Last up, Josh, Paul, and Nilay bust out the Motorola Atrix 4G and break down the week in news, including Nokia's Windows Phone announcement, the rise of Honeycomb tablets, and everything worth talking about from Mobile World Congress.

This is one you absolutely should not miss. What are you waiting for? Watch it now! Hit up the video stream after the break or download the show in HD below!

Hosts: Joshua Topolsky, Nilay Patel, Paul Miller
Special guests: Micky Bly, David Gondek
Produced and Directed by: Chad Mumm
Executive Producer: Joshua Fruhlinger
Edited by: Danny Madden
Music by: Note!
Visuals by: Batsly Adams
Opening titles by: Julien Nantiec


Taped live at SIR Stage37
Download the Show: The Engadget Show - 018 (HD) / The Engadget Show - 018 (iPod / iPhone / Zune formatted) / The Engadget Show - 018 (Small)

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Continue reading The Engadget Show - 018: GM's Micky Bly, Watson researcher David Gondek, EN-V demo, Atrix 4G

The Engadget Show - 018: GM's Micky Bly, Watson researcher David Gondek, EN-V demo, Atrix 4G originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 18 Feb 2011 17:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atrixbatsly adamsBatslyAdamschevroletdavid gondekDavidGondeken-vengadget showengadgetshowengadgetshowcastgmibmibm watsonIbmWatsonjeopardymicky blyMickyBlymobile world congress 2011MobileWorldCongress2011motorola atrixmotorola atrix 4gMotorolaAtrixMotorolaAtrix4gMWC 2011Mwc2011mylinknotepandorapowermatthe engadget showtheengadgetshowtheengadgetshowcastvideowatsonFri, 18 Feb 2011 17:34:00 EST