2001 Suzuki Rm250 Rear Shock Mono Shock Suspension (b) 01 Rm 250 on 2040-parts.com

Ford C-Max Energi and C-Max Hybrid (2011)

Ford has unveiled two new hybrid vehicles at the 2011 Detroit motor show, the plug-in hybrid C-Max Energi, and the C-Max Hybrid. Both are based on the five-seat Ford C-Max, and the pair go on sale in North America in 2012, while European sales follow in 2013. Both the Ford C-Max Hybrid and Ford C-Max Energi use an Atkinson-cycle (like the Prius) 2.0-litre petrol engine and lithium-ion batteries.

Marin Sonoma Concours d'Elegance to feature French classics

The Marin Sonoma Concours d'Elegance will bring a selection of coachbuilt French cars to the Marin Civic Center in San Rafael, Calif., on May 20. The concours will also celebrate Italian automobile designs from 1946 to 1975 and the 75th anniversary of the demise of Cord. The work of Joseph Figoni of Coachwork by Figoni et Falaschi will be well represented at the show.

Chrysler races to upgrade its lineup

In a bid to improve its lineup before a fleet of new Fiat-based vehicles arrives in 2012, Chrysler Group is rushing new features and equipment into 15 reworked vehicles. The equipment, such as a Fiat dual-clutch, six-speed transmission and a new Chrysler V6, will boost fuel economy, improve driving dynamics and spiff up drab interiors, all areas in which Chrysler has fared poorly in consumer surveys. All the vehicles will be on sale by the first quarter of next year.