Moreover, modern car assembly relies heavily on pre-assembly of parts such as entire dash boards with the stereo, the instrument panel and the steering column already built in.

BBC: NEWS | Business | GM Europe still faces major challenges

If you've got a svelte new in-dash LCD with reverse assist, or even the VideoMirror aiding your less-than-admirable backing skills, neither of those will do you much good if your precious bumper gets marred by someone else.

ENGADGET: Fujitsu Ten unveils DREC1000 in-car accident recorder

With dash and cunning, Mr Schama follows his leading characters into the shadow that falls across his story.

ECONOMIST: Slavery in America