AUTOS

Allied Has New Catalytic Converter: Allied-Signal Inc. said it has developed a catalytic converter for automotive exhaust that uses only palladium, which would help auto makers meet the most stringent state air pollution standards at a cheaper cost. Allied said the new system, which eliminates the need for other platinum-group metals used in catalytic converters now, will reduce the precious metal cost of catalytic converters by 30% to 50%. The device can be used alone or in conjunction with existing catalytic systems, Allied said.