Auto briefs

Ford aims for better kid test dummies

DEARBORN — A high-tech insert, similar in size and shape to a 6-year-old’s abdomen, is being developed for crash test dummies to help improve vehicle safety for children. The prototype is part of an effort to make pediatric crash dummies and crash tests more real world, leading to better vehicle restraints, according to Ford Motor Co . Partners in the collaboration include Wayne State University. Crash tests mainly have focused on head and chest injuries, said Steve Rouhana, a technical leader in Ford’s crash dummy testing. "But the lack of an abdomen is not just a matter of priority," he said. "We really didn’t have the technology before to accurately measure abdominal response." The silicone prototype features an LED and optical sensor surrounded by a high-viscosity, red or blue silicone fluid. Sensors measure penetration based on the amount of light absorbed by the silicone fluid.

Maroon 5 to perform at GM’s preview

Two-time Grammy Award winner Maroon 5 will join R&B singer Mary J. Blige at GM Style on the Detroit riverfront in January. The invitation-only event leads up to the annual North American International Auto Show, which opens Jan. 19 to the public. Blige will headline GM Style at the Renaissance Center on Jan.12. General Motors staged the first event last year. All concept and production vehicles at GM Style will be rolled out in a fashion runway show to live music in a climate-controlled pavilion.

Dana’s reorganization plan approved

TOLEDO, Ohio — U.S. Bankruptcy Court Judge Burton R. Lifland has signed an order confirming Dana Corp.’s plan of reorganization. The action paves the way for Dana’s emergence from Chapter 11 reorganization, which it expects to occur in January, after the closing of the company’s $2 billion exit financing facility and satisfaction of other customary closing conditions. "This is a significant milestone for Dana and all of its constituents," said Dana Chairman and CEO Mike Burns. "The approved plan provides a solid foundation for the new Dana. We now look forward to emerging as a focused, solvent company that is positioned to take advantage of its considerable strengths and compete successfully in its global markets."

Hella, Behr Hella unite with Visteon

PLYMOUTH — Hella KGaA Hueck & Co., one of the world’s largest companies selling automotive aftermarket parts and accessories, and Behr Hella Service will partner with Visteon Corp. to sell aftermarket lighting, air-conditioning and engine-cooling components in Europe beginning in January. Hella will exclusively market Visteon lighting equipment for its European aftermarket business in Kerpen, Germany, while Behr Hella Service will become Visteon’s vehicle air-conditioning and engine-cooling products sales partner.