This week in auto tech
Whether you're interested in hybrid cars, better music systems or safer driving, the New York International Auto Show was the place to be.
Among the many topics on tap there: hybrids and alternative-fuel vehicles.
Toyota's Lexus division unveiled a gas-electric hybrid luxury sedan, the GS 450h. The model is being touted as a car that pairs relatively miserly fuel consumption with luxury and performance.
Ford showed off a diesel electric hybrid concept called the Mercury Meta One. The car sports a technology called "collision mitigation by braking," which uses a camera, radar and onboard computer to sense other vehicles and determine, based on their location, speed and direction, whether a collision is imminent. Additionally, Ford's Escape SUV is available with a hybrid drive train.
GM's Sequel concept car is meant to show off GM's vision for fuel cell vehicles of the future. The Sequel can travel up to 300 miles on a tank full of hydrogen and accelerates to 60 mph in less than 10 seconds.
On the entertainment side, Jaguar and Mercedes-Benz are plugging Sirius satellite radio into their dashboards. Four 2005 Jaguar models will have Sirius radio as a dealer-installed option. In addition, the receiver will be offered as a port-installed accessory in the 2006 editions of all four models.
Mercedes-Benz, which has a partnership with Sirius, said the satellite radio will be a factory-installed option in its 2006 M-Class sport utility vehicle. The receiver will come with a six-month subscription to the service and is expected to have a suggested retail price of $500.
Meanwhile, Hyundai Motor plans to offer XM Satellite Radio as standard equipment on all U.S. models by 2007. The automaker will include the service on three models for 2006: the Sonata, the Alantra and the Santa Fe. In the 2007 model year, the service will be standard in all Hyundai cars.