Bouncing back The economic slowdown of the past year or so tooks its toll on the U.S. automotive industry, with U.S. OEMs suffering the brunt of lost sales. This four-section article explores some of the issues shaping the U.S. auto industry and some of the technologies U.S. OEMs and suppliers are using to combat their emboldened overseas competitors. Powering the future It's anyone's guess as to what type of power source will ultimately drive the majority of future vehicles in North America, but one thing is certain: advancements in various powertrain technologies from industry players are ready to make today's and tomorrow's cars more environmentally--and customer--friendly. Inside North American vehicles Vehicle interiors are incorporating more and more electronics, telematics, and other advanced technologies, challenging engineers and desginers to make them simple, safe, comfortable, and appealing. Integration hits overdrive in chassis systems Suppliers are getting more and more responsibility in the design of suspension and other chassis modules and systems. Electric heating and air-conditioning Valeo engineers believe new systems for 42-V vehicles will provide benefits in environmental protection, cabin comfort, and overall safety. Sensing the possibilities Innovation and new opportunity are driving development of automotive sensors. Exploring the Geneva Salon Entering the annual motor show is almost like stepping into the inner sanctum of a motor manufacturer's design studio or advanced engineering center. Materials for lightweight tailgates Alcoa, with help from DuPont, has developed a hybrid of aluminum and polymer materials that, along with new manufacturing and assembly processes, enables significant tailgate weight reduction without compromising performance. Powering the digital car In the future, consumers may be basing their vehicle preferences on the performance of automotive electronics systems, say experts that attended SAE's Digital Car Conference.