Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Thursday announced details on its plans to convert a once-idled transmission plant in Kokomo to build engines.

Frankfort-based NHK Seating is a supplier for Subaru of Indiana Automotive, which last week announced a $158 million expansion for its plant in nearby Lafayette.

Auto correspondent Casey Williams says the Avalon TRD is far from a sports car, but it seduces drivers with a chassis that balances handling and comfort, enough power to slip it down the road, and interior accommodations on par with legit luxury cars.

The recalls are the latest in a litany of problems that can cause engines to burn in models made by Kia and affiliated South Korean automaker Hyundai.

The recall covers certain F-150 trucks with LED headlights from the 2018 through 2020 model years.

The company says the $158 million investment will help reduce costs and increase growth at the facility.

Since the plant began operation in 1989, its annual production has increased from 67,000 vehicles to a projected 410,000 vehicles in 2020.

Auto correspondent Casey Williams says the Rebels interior is an even blend of the Laramie luxury and Wrangler spray-out ruggedness.

James Hinchcliffe will return to Andretti Autosport for three races during the 2020 season -- the road course race at Indy, the Indy 500 and at Texas Motor Speedway.

Legislation to ban handheld cell phone use while driving appears headed to passage after a Senate committee easily approved the measure.