Winnebago and other RV manufacturers temporarily idled their manufacturing plants last month after stay-at-home orders were issued in Indiana and other states where RVs are produced.

In March, General Motors began working with Seattle-area ventilator maker Ventec Life Systems to increase the company's production. A short time later the automaker began lining up parts suppliers and retooling an electronics factory in Kokomo to build the devices.

As in World War II, automakers today represent manufacturing, engineering, and philanthropic capabilities that can be tapped for everything from face masks to ventilators and food programs.

Most three-row crossovers seem to be "designed" for passenger space over beauty. Auto correspondent Casey Williams says the 2020 Mazda CX-9 is an exception.

The automaker said Monday that it's working around the clock with Ventec Life Systems of Washington State to build more of the critical medical devices.

Auto correspondent Casey Williams expected to see the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, or Hyundai Sonata listed as Consumer Report's top mid-size sedan of 2020. Instead, he found the Subaru Legacy on top. After driving it, he says, he agrees with the magazine.

Several auto manufacturers announced Wednesday temporary shutdowns at facilities in response to the novel coronavirus.

It's sometimes difficult to explain all of the latest technology on today's automobiles, even for seasoned automotive journalists. Consumer Reports teamed up with J.D. Power and the National Safety Council to propose standard terminology.

Indiana is just the stroke of a pen away from becoming the 22nd state to ban cell phone use while driving unless hands-free.

Ford, Ram, and General Motors dominate the pickup truck segment, but auto correspondent Casey Williams says there are other trucks worth considering.