While he has pounded the bully pulpit, held high-profile media events and facilitated a limited texting-and-driving ban over the past year, LaHood dealt carefully with car companies whose interior electronics are key selling points.
Carmakers have accelerated offerings of souped-up navigation and entertainment systems to boost sales, which surged in 2010 following historic, recession-driven lows.
The government, which owns a third of General Motors Co and 10 percent of Chrysler following their federally supported bankruptcies, is mindful of heavy handed action against industry that might impact business and jobs.
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