GM Developing Futuristic Windshield

Now all South Korean has to do is pass the physical test

(NEWSER) - A 68-year-old South Korean woman has finally been granted the chance to take her actual, physical driving test after completing the written exam—on her 950th try. Cha Sa-soon took the test and failed almost daily since April 2005 before recently squeaking through with the minimum score of 60%. At four and a half bucks a pop, Cha has spent $4,400 in application fees in pursuit of a license…thus far. More»

(NEWSER) - A new software technology can automatically disable cell phones moving at car speeds, augmenting laws already in place forbidding their use while driving, RealTechNews reports. The developer, Canada's Aegis Mobility, is partnering with Nationwide insurance to offer discounts to adopters. Aegis still needs carrier support but expects the software to available next year. More»

Says fires may be caused by electronic problem

(NEWSER) - As the US investigates the Chevy Volt following fiery crash tests , General Motors will lend cars to current owners of the electric vehicles, the Wall Street Journal reports. Meanwhile, the company is working to fix the problem. It believes the fires aren’t caused by overheating chemicals, but rather, that faulty electronics are at issue. One possible solution: stronger battery casings. "I believe in the safety of the Volt," says an exec. "This technology should inspire confidence and pride, not raise doubt and concern." More»

2010 least deadly year on American roads since 1949

(NEWSER) - Some 32,788 people died on American roads in 2010, the smallest number since Harry Truman was in the White House—and there were a lot fewer people on the roads back then. Last year saw the fewest traffic accident deaths since 1949, according to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration figures released today. Traffic deaths have dropped an amazing 25% in just five years, reports the New York Times . More»

Smart car? Maybe not so smart

(NEWSER) - Some of us lovingly referred to our first car variously as "the jalopy," "the tin can on wheels," or "the death trap." And some of us were right. Here, as per Autoshippers, are the most dangerous cars of all time:

• 1967-1971 Ford Pinto: Had a nasty habit of exploding even on low-speed impacts.
• 1915-1925 Briggs & Stratton Flyer: No doors, windshield, impact protection. Super cheap, and often fatal, transportation.
• 1960-1963 Chevrolet Corvair: Engine in the back let toxic fumes in the car and the steering wheel was known to fatally impale drivers. Other than that, great car.