Cars made by U.S. automakers topped imports in quality ratings for the first time, according to J.D. Power, with Ford leading the way in pushing domestics past imports.

Domestic auto brands, as a whole, have demonstrated higher initial quality than import brands, according to the 2010 U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS) released today by J.D. Power and Associates. The study has been conducted annually for the past 24 years.

Overall, the industry average for initial quality is 109 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) in 2010. However, initial quality for domestic brands as a whole has improved by 4 PP100 in 2010 to an average of 108 PP100-slightly better than the initial quality of import brands, which averages 109 PP100 in 2010.

Substantial improvements by many domestic models-including the Ford Focus, Ram 1500 LD and Buick Enclave-drive the overall improvement of domestic automakers in 2010. In particular, initial quality of Ford models has improved steadily for the past nine years. In addition, as a corporation, Ford Motor Company (including Volvo) has 12 models that rank within the top three in their respective segments in 2010-more than any other corporation. General Motors Company has 10 models that rank within the top three in their segments.

Here’s a bright idea for the planet. A Hong Kong-based company has introduced what it bills as the world’s only solar-powered light bulb with the hope of reaching millions of people with little or no access to electricity.

The Nokero solar bulb in its rainproof plastic housing is hung outside during the day and then turned on at night. Batteries inside provide up to four hours of light when the device is fully charged.

With no need for electric power lines, this bulb can assist people in remote areas who normally burn dangerous substances like kerosene just to light their homes.

(READ more at the CNET blog)