Detroit to Schwarzenegger: You're winning, so let's talk

California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, who sued Detroit to force automakers to produce less polluting vehicles, sat down with executives from six automakers last week to discuss how they could work together to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The meeting marked "a significant thaw" in the ongoing battle over California's attempt to battle global warming, noted the San Diego Union-Tribune.

Among the ideas they explored, according to the San Diego paper: "Automakers could sponsor more programs to take high-polluting older cars off the roads, help add synchronized traffic signals to limit idling times, incorporate more Global Positioning Systems that steer drivers away from choked traffic and encourage drivers to adopt more 'eco-friendly' habits – from regulating speed to keeping tires inflated."

The meeting -- which included executives from Ford, General Motors, Toyota, Chrysler, BMW and Volkswagen -- came at the request of the auto industry "which appeared to begin laying the groundwork to soften post-Bush regulations," the paper reported. All three presidential candidates have sided with California.

Florida Gov. Charlie Crist's attempt to impose similar regulations prodding automakers to clean up their products ran afoul of the Legislature this year. Lawmakers said Florida cannot borrow California's clean car standard without their approval.

--Craig Pittman