O.C.-based automaker will let jobless return new cars (Orange County Register)

Korean carmaker Hyundai, which is based in Fountain Valley, will allow those who lost their jobs to return new cars.

It's gridlock in Bolivia, Latin America's poorest nation (Miami Herald)

Japan's cheap hand-me-down cars have flooded Bolivia's narrow streets, where empty cabs honk pleadingly for fares and lines at gas stations often stretch down the block.

2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (The Car Connection)

2009 CHEVROLET COBALT STYLING | [6 out of 10] Kelley Blue Book: "The interiors...are attractive, if rather basic" Cars.com: "Available Sport appearance package with spoiler, body molding, 17-inch wheels and other items" ConsumerGuide: "Neat, logical dashboard" For 2009, Chevrolet has changed the model lineup and added an optional ... Watch Video | Browse Photos

Bay envisions new era in ferry transportation, but it won't be cheap (Vallejo Times-Herald)

Bay Area residents cherished the rush of riding ferry boats across the region's blue highways before eight major bridges spanned Bay waters. Then, ferries' popularity surged after accidents or earthquakes disabled bridges or blocked highways.

Automakers fear new normal of lower sales in U.S. (International Herald Tribune)

The collapse of the U.S. new-car market dragged on in December, raising questions of whether the auto industry will ever again have sales levels that it took for granted just a few years ago.