Chariot Chain Tensioner on 2040-parts.com

Low-emissions Chevrolet Volt models shipped to California

Californians won't have to wait much longer to take their Chevrolet Volts in high-occupancy vehicle lanes. General Motors began shipping a special version of the range-extended sedan to the state this week. The cars will arrive with a special Low Emissions package that makes it legal to drive them in the Golden State's carpool lanes.

Ford eyes dandelions as sustainable alternative to synthetic rubber

Ford, in conjunction with Ohio State University, is turning to the humble garden weed as sustainable resource, researching the dandelion's potential use as an alternative to synthetic rubber. While the automaker already makes considerable use of sustainable materials in its vehicles – such as soy foam seat cushions and straw-filled plastic for interior trim – this latest discovery opens up a wealth of new possibilities for automotive applications. According to research conducted by Ford, a milky-white substance that is found in certain dandelion roots can produce a sustainable rubber that could be used to create plastic parts for vehicle interiors.

Top Gear Video: The Stig, Chris Evans & a 400bhp Black Cab

The Stig takes Chris Evans for an ExCel tour in a 400bhp Black Cab It’s not difficult to work out when Top Gear has something to promote; they send us videos and stories. And with the Top Gear Live Show looming on the horizon, TG has just sent us video of The Stig taking Chris Evans for a blat in a 400bhp Black Cab. Just to make sure everyone knows that Top Gear Live has moved out to the ExCel Centre in East London, the hair-raising ride in the back of Stiggie’s cab was filmed in – and around – an underground car park at the Excel Centre.