A study in the latest edition of Human Factors: The Journal of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society shows evidence that all those nifty new car features that incorporate MP3s and are supposed to make it easier and reduce driver distractions may have the opposite effect.  Especially with long playlists.  I've seen this in a number of areas.  It seems as if the technology was designed by an engineer and not a user.  There is a specific way that information mmust be accessed and it is not always intuitive.

I was in a car with Bluetooth, voice controlled calling capability and it took the driver 6 voice commands to actually make a phone call, pausing in between them all.  The issue with most of this stuff is not the physical use of the phone or radio or whatever, but the mental load that causes the distraction.  Having to work through an information management system in a non-intuitive way to do anything is more of a problem than a benefit.

For motrocysle enthusiasts, Corbin has released a new Dual Sport Saddle for the Ducati Diavel that looks to greatly improve the comfort and function of the seat for both the driver and a passenger.  Anybody have one I can do a professional review on.  I won't enjoy it, I swear.

If you're looking for the cutting edge in ergonomics computing peripherals then check out PC Mag's coverage of the ION Wireless Air Mouse.  It straps a gyroscope to a glove and gives you gesture based mousing.

I came across a report at di-ve about the new Opel Meriva, a German made car whose doors hinge at the ends of the car.  It is supposed to improve the ergonomics and the access.  What's your take on it.