N.H.T.S.A. Investigates Hyundai Santa Fe and the Adequacy of a G.M. Recall | | The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating possible axle failures on 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe models, as well as whether a recent General Motors recall for a potential fire hazard in its eAssist fuel-economy system was adequate. In a report posted on the agency’s Web site, investigators said they received two reports of front axle-shaft failures on the 2013 Santa Fe “resulting in a loss of motive power” within the first 5,000 miles. The investigation covers about 50,000 vehicles. CHRISTOPHER JENSEN (blog), The New York Times 07/11/2013 | Read Article: The New York Times | Insurance Group Says Toyota Crams for a Test, but the RAV4 Still Fails | | When the results of the new small overlap crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety on 13 compact crossovers and S.U.V.’s were released in May, the group said the new 2013 Toyota RAV4 was missing from the tests because the automaker wanted time to make improvements. So, according to the insurance group, Toyota made its changes, but in June when the new test was finally conducted, the RAV4 still failed. It got the lowest rating, Poor, in the overlap test. CHERYL JENSEN (blog), The New York Times 07/11/2013 | Read Article: The New York Times | Report Shows Open-air Burn Pits Still Used at Bases | | Open-air pits where toxic materials are burned are still being used at bases in Afghanistan, a report issued Thursday shows. The report by the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction report shows that "the toxic smoke from burning solid waste each day increases the long-term health risks for camp personnel, including reduced lung function and exacerbated chronic illnesses, ranging from asthma to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease." Kelly Kennedy, USA Today 07/11/2013 | Read Article: USA Today | | |