Michelin Challenge Design 2009

As the 2009 Michelin Challenge Design - focusing on the search for ‘America's Next Iconic Vehicle' - drew to a close at the NAIAS in Detroit, culminating in a press preview and an exhibition of scale models, the theme for next year's competition was announced: ‘Electrifying! Beautiful, Innovative and Radiant'. While it may sound like a slogan for a new line of women's cosmetics, this theme does in fact center on the increasingly relevant field of electric vehicle (EV) design; or more specifically the need to combine sustainable powertrains with attractive, well executed design.

Mazda CX-5 (2012) first official pictures

This is the new Mazda CX-5, the third addition to the Japanese car company’s SUV line-up after the CX-7 and CX-9 (the latter isn’t sold in Europe). It’s a rival for the Freelander, Kuga and every other compact SUV out there, and will officially unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt motor show in September. What do we know about the new Mazda CX-5?

Driven: Chevrolet Orlando

Chevrolet recently launched the new Orlando crossover in the UK market. The seven passenger vehicle – which eschews a conventional monovolume MPV package in favor of a more bulky, upright one that aims to fill the same need – will be sold in the North American market as well as in Europe. Cloaked in crossover skin, the Orlando is not to be taken lightly.