Comcast expands low-cost Internet
Comcast has introduced new ways for low- and moderate-income customers and students to get discounted high-speed Internet and mobile phone service through the federal government’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP).
The $30 per month benefit can be applied to any tier of Xfinity Internet service. Customers can sign up for Internet Essentials Plus, which includes 100 Mbps download speeds, a cable modem, and WiFi router, and is free after the government’s credit is applied. Additionally, Xfinity Internet customers participating in the Affordable Connectivity program now can add mobile service through Xfinity Mobile.
“We are proud to have connected more than 500,000 Tennesseans to the Internet since we launched Internet Essentials, our low-cost broadband adoption program in 2011,” Jason Gumbs, regional senior vice president for Comcast, said in an announcement of the new program. “As the world becomes more digital, it is crucial that everyone has the resources and opportunities they need to excel in today’s economy.”
New and existing Xfinity Internet or Internet Essentials customers can visit www.xfinity.com/acp or call 844-389-4681 for more information, to determine eligibility, and sign up.
Wheelchair maker expands in Tennessee
Permobil, Inc. plans to invest $15.5 million to expand its manufacturing operations at the company’s North American headquarters in Middle Tennessee.
Permobil, a 55-year-old global leader in power and manual wheelchairs, seating and positioning products, and power assist, aims to create 70 new jobs over the next five years as the company constructs a 70,000-square-foot addition to its existing Lebanon operations.
“The contributions of our Permobil team are what enable us to enhance the lives of individuals living with disabilities, and we are excited about our expansion and the new jobs we are bringing to Wilson County,” said Chuck Witkowski, president of Permobil Americas.
Permobil has 1,600 employees worldwide, and is part of Patricia Industries, a subsidiary of Investor AB.
Ford issues 2 recalls on oil, brake problems
Ford is issuing two recalls covering over 737,000 vehicles to fix oil leaks and trailer braking systems that won’t work.
The oil leak recall includes the 2020 through 2022 Ford Escape SUV and the 2021 and 2022 Bronco Sport SUV with 1.5-Liter engines. A housing can crack and oil can leak onto engine parts, which can create a fire hazard.
Dealers will replace the housing if needed. Owners will be notified starting April 18.
The trailer braking recall includes F-150 pickups from 2021 and 2022, as well as the 2022 F-250, 350, 450 and 550. Also covered are the 2022 Maverick pickup, and Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator SUVs.
A software error can stop trailers from braking, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will update brake control software. Owners will be notified starting April 18.
GM recalls SUVs over wiper failure
General Motors is recalling nearly 682,000 compact SUVs because the windshield wipers can fail.
The recall covers the Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain from the 2014 and 2015 model years.
Ball joints in the wiper module can rust, causing one or both wipers to fail, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will inspect the module and repair or replace it if needed. Owners will be notified by letter starting May 2.