plx

PLX intros OBD-II dongles for Android, iPhone

PLX Devices (manufacturer of the Kiwi fuel-saving device) has expanded its lineup of OBD-II readers. We've already seen the PLX Kiwi Wi-Fi iPhone adapter at last year's SEMA show; now, it has announced the PLX Kiwi Bluetooth for Android phones.

Both devices work in similar ways: users plug the Kiwi dongle into the vehicle's onboard diagnostics port (all vehicles manufactured after 1996 should have one), and connect their iOS device via Wi-Fi or Android OS phone via Bluetooth pairing. At this point, the PLX device will stream vehicle diagnostics information, emissions info, power train data, and trouble … Read more

Upgrade a Car: Unlocked potential

Every once in a while, we get a vehicle in the Car Tech garage that presents great potential, but poor execution. This was the case with the 2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5GT that we took for a spin awhile back.

With DNA that includes traces of WRX and STI and a stout, turbocharged heart, we were quite disappointed with the 2.5GT's performance. We didn't get much relief in the cabin when faced with an extremely limited list of cabin tech options.

Once again, we're unable to leave well enough alone as we set about to right … Read more

Review: PLX Kiwi fuel-saving device

Among the many new devices promising to boost fuel economy during these times of high gas prices, the PLX Kiwi tries to improve the driver rather than the car. The PLX Kiwi is a training device that monitors driving habits and assigns the driver a rating based on how "green" it finds the driving style, with 100 being the best. For the most part, the Kiwi does just that, but issues with the way the device interfaces with the vehicle may leave some drivers scratching their heads.

Read the full PLX Kiwi review.

Got a lead foot? Try 'Kiwi' device to save gas

Summer road trips are a bit less fun with gas over $4 a gallon and no peak in sight. But there are a couple gadgets to help make fuel go farther.

Named after the green fruit, the PLX Kiwi from PLX Devices is a small device (a little more than 2 inches by 3 inches) that attaches to your dashboard or windshield.

By plugging into a vehicle's diagnostic port, it can display miles per gallon as well as trip information and even the cause of engine problems.

But really it's designed to make your driving habits more energy-efficient. … Read more