2014 BMW 4-series convertible coming next year

The 2014 BMW 4-series convertible will feature a three-piece hard top, both four- and six-cylinder engines and an eight-speed automatic transmission when it arrives in dealerships in the first quarter of next year. The BMW 428i Convertible will cost $49,675 including destination while the 435i Convertible will start at $55,825. The new 4-series, which replaces the 3-series coupe and convertible but not the sedan, is larger in width and wheelbase than its predecessor.

Germany to tax foreign drivers

GERMANY plans to introduce a car toll that seeks to make money from the millions of foreigners who drive through the country every year, the transport minister said today. Germany has a truck toll but, unlike many European countries, no car toll. Alexander Dobrindt said it wasn't fair that foreign drivers do not contribute to maintaining the roads and that "fairness gap" should be closed.

SPD starts collaboration with VW Group Design on Masters program

Scuola Politecnica di Design (SPD) and Volkswagen Group Design are starting a new five year collaboration program focused on the development of experimental mobility projects for Lamborghini, Audi and Volkswagen. The Milan, Italy-based university is offering eight scholarships to participate to the one year Master Program in Car and Transportation Design, which will take place from 21 October 2010 to October 2011. The university is currently accepting applications from students and professionals from all over the world, with the aim of providing training with the protagonists of automotive design.