Tesla announces big plans for cheaper iron-based batteries

Tesla Inc. is planning to install iron-based batteries that are not only cheaper, but less of a fire hazard, in a version of an affordable electric vehicle and a semi heavy electric truck, according to reports.

Houston traffic is the slowest in Texas, annual report finds

The traffic-analysis company Inrix releases its Global Traffic Scorecard, each year, comparing drive times around the world, in more than a thousand cities. In its latest report, Houston is 9th worst among U.S. cities and has the slowest commute in Texas.

General Motors offers buyouts for U.S. employees and executives

General Motors is offering salaried employees a voluntary buyout as it seeks to reduce costs by $2 billion over the next two years. "Taking this step now will help avoid the potential for involuntary actions," a company letter said.