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American Suzuki to pull out of U.S. auto market, file Chapter 11 bankruptcy

American Suzuki Motor Corp., beset by low sales, cutthroat competition and unfavorable foreign exchange rates, said it will pull out of the U.S. auto market and file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The company, in a statement today, said it will continue its motorcycle and marine engine business units and will continue to honor customer warranties.

Mazda MX-5 Superlight concept at 2009 Frankfurt motor show

By Ben Pulman First Official Pictures 11 September 2009 09:30 To celebrate 20 years of the MX-5, Mazda has produced this special Superlight concept which be unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt motor show next week. Mazda started with the facelifted version of its third-gen sports car and pared it back to basics to create an uncompromising sub-1000kg two-seater sports car. According to project lead designer Hasip Girgin, the challenge was 'to evolve the MX-5, developed to perfection during the last 20 years, to a higher and extreme level.' As such, Mazda seems to be treating the MX-5 Superlight like a portly Caterham, claiming the lack of a windscreen and roof makes the driver and passenger feel more connected with the environment.

RCA's Dale Harrow: Car design more crucial than ever

As well as serving as head of the RCA's Vehicle Design Program, Dale Harrow is also a Financial Times columnist. His latest piece suggests the car is in the process of change, and at a rate beyond that undertaken in its first century of existence. Manufacturers have 'solved' the function of the car, and as reliability is no longer a concern for the consumer, design is now crucial.