Renault-Nissan Alliance and Daimler AG announce a wide-ranging strategic cooperation such as on the next-generation smart fortwo and Renault Twingo, including electric versions, as well as on expanding the smart and Twingo families, or a collaboration in the field of light commercial vehicles.

Erika DeBenedictis, 18, of Albuquerque, N.M., won the top award of $100,000 from the Intel Foundation for her project developing a software navigation system to help improve spacecraft travel through the solar system. Erika's research found that the gravity and movement of planets create "easy transit routes," which will ultimately help spacecraft move faster and with less fuel.

Visa Inc. announced the renewal of its partnership with the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) through 2012, which includes the 2010 Vancouver Paralympic Winter Games and the 2012 London Paralympic Games.

After a year of record losses and massive re-structuring, the auto industry is poising itself for a come-back. As part of their reorganization, General Motors, the nation's largest automaker, decided to focus on just four of their eight American brands. Buick, their oldest brand, will play a key role as the latest LaCrosse was designed collaboratively in Detroit and Shanghai.

Siemens has confirmed its objective to become one of the world's top providers of wind turbines. Siemens' strategy will be to strengthen its position as a global market leader in offshore wind farms.