AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- The United Auto Workers won annual 3 percent wage increases for four years in a tentative contract settlement reached Thursday with DaimlerChrysler, local union officials said.\r

DETROIT -- New car prices this spring are flat or even declining, providing unexpected deals for consumers, thanks in part to cheaper imports from Asia. Automakers who set their 1998 prices low in hopes of eliminating rebates are now offering up to $1,000 in incentives to compete with the imports. The total value of rebates, low-interest loans and other incentives was up 9 percent in the first three weeks of March compared to the same month a year ago, said Art Spinella of CNW Research. "For buyers, it's great news," he said.

LAS VEGAS -- DaimlerChrysler AG confirmed Wednesday it plans to phase out the Plymouth brand at the end of the 2001 model year in an effort to eliminate overlap with other Chrysler models.

SUSONO, Japan (AP) - It's as simple and quiet as turning on a lamp - just a flick of the key switches the car on. There's barely a stir or a sound as the car glides slowly, the electric motor turning the wheels. But as soon as it begins to accelerate, the gasoline engine kicks in. Part electric car and part gasoline engine, the hybrid system - which Toyota Motor Corp. proudly showed off to reporters this week - is the best of both worlds for a super-clean, economical ride.