Emailing by Drivers

Communications technology too seductive to resist is creating dangerous distracted driving. Technology which automatically detects motion at over 10 mph is being developed to block all but outgoing 911 calls and store incoming voice, text and email messages to review later.

Toyota’s Direct Competitors May See Used Value Jump

Kelley Blue Book says vehicles that compete directly with Toyota models affected by recalls could see a jump in used values. The recall problems may prompt some buyers to look at other models, and rental companies may be adjusting fleets to account for loss of Toyota inventory.

DOT Bans On-Board Computer Text Messaging by Commercial Drivers

Distracted driving has become a serious problem with 5,800 deaths in US attributed to crashes involving distractions. The federal government ban of its employees texting while driving has now been followed by a ban for all commercial drivers. US DOT intends to conduct rulemaking to ban text messages sent via on-board computers in 2010, forcing a move to voice messaging.

Farm State Legislators Unhappy with EPA Biofuel Regs

The EPA has been trying to make amends with Midwestern lawmakers who've been in a rage with the agency since last year when the EPA issued a long-awaited renewable fuels standard that Congress included in a 2007 energy bill. Lawmakers are concerned about the impact on farmers and ethanol producers.

Quality Fleet Management Ideas Recognized by NAFA

NAFA Fleet Management Association recognizes ideas that increase productivity or create bottom-line cost savings annually with its Larry Goill Memorial Quality Fleet Management Idea Award. Nominations of fleet managers for the 2010 Goill Awards are being accepted through March 12, 2010, and will be presented at NAFA's 2010 Institute & Expo in Detroit April 24-27.