Uber to lose license to work in London
Uber will lose its license to operate in London because it may be endangering public safety and security, the local regulator said Friday, in a severe blow to a company already facing big questions over its corporate culture.
The company, which has been beset by a litany of scandals over its management style - from accusations of sexism to the illegal use of software to trick regulators - was told it was not "fit and proper" to keep operating in London, where it has 3.5 million passengers and 40,000 drivers.
The regulator, Transport for London, said it "considers that Uber's approach and conduct demonstrate a lack of corporate responsibility in relation to a number of issues which have potential public safety and security implications."
It cited instances in which Uber failed to report serious criminal offences as well as its penchant to deceive regulators in its decision to not renew its license when it expires on Sept. 30. Uber said it will appeal, during which time it can continue operating.
Mazda 6 recalled for wiring short
Mazda is recalling more than 60,000 midsize cars in the U.S. and Canada because a wiring problem can knock out power-assisted steering and the passenger air bag.
The recall covers Mazda 6 sedans from 2015 and 2016. The company says in documents posted by the U.S. government that wires under the front passenger seat can rub against welding debris, causing them to short. A loss of power-assisted steering can increase the risk of a crash, although none have been reported.
Owners should see multiple warning lights if the problem happens.
Dealers will inspect the cars and install insulating tape or a protective pad to shield the wires. The recall is expected to start on Sept. 29.
Mercedes-Benz agrees to replace seat heaters
A federal judge has granted preliminary approval of a lawsuit settlement requiring Mercedes-Benz to replace seat heaters in up to 270,000 SUVs.
Southern California-based Judge James Selna preliminarily approved the potentially $80 million settlement on Monday.
The plaintiffs argue that seat heaters in some Mercedes-Benz SUVs made between 2000 and 2007 have been known to spark or smoke.
"We believe this seat heater defect presents a serious safety risk," Scott Sims, one of the plaintiffs' attorneys in the case, said in a statement.
Elizabeth Callaway, a California woman who filed the lawsuit in 2014, said the seat heater in her 2006 Mercedes-Benz R350 burned a hole through her dress and caused her pain.