02 03 04 Nissan Altima Mesh Chrome Front Honeycomb Grille Hood Grill (nissan) on 2040-parts.com

Survey Reveals Car Use Slump Despite Lower Petrol Prices

USUALLY the news that petrol prices are down would be cause for celebration, but the latest AA/Populus survey reveals that car use is also on the slide. Despite more wallet-friendly prices at the pumps the situation is failing to kick-start more car use. The poll of more than 18,000 AA members, conducted in June, revealed that just 7% were more relaxed about prices at the pumps, and were using their car more than a year ago.

Concept Car of the Week: Matra Laser (1971)

Founded in 1937, French company Matra began its activities by manufacturing military equipment such as aeronautics and weaponry. In the mid ‘60s, under Jean-Luc Lagardere's ambitious direction, the company bought Automobiles Rene Bonnet to expand its portfolio with street and racing cars. The first model solely developed by Matra was the bonkers, but brilliant, 1967 M530, which took its name from the company's surface-to-air missile the R530.

Wayne Cherry receives Lifetime Achievement Award at EyesOn Design 2013

Renowned car designer Wayne Cherry was honored with a Lifetime Design Achievement Award at the EyesOn Automotive Design Exhibition at the Edsel and Eleanor Ford House, Michigan. The former GM vice president of design was chosen by a panel of his fellow designers for the honor after a 42-year career with the carmaker, during which he was involved in the design of over 80 concepts and more than 90 production vehicles. Only vehicle designers who have previously won the award are allowed to vote, with this year's panel including Chris Bangle, Walter de'Silva, Tom Gale, Giorgetto Giugiaro, Chuck Jordan, Robert Lutz, Shiro Nakamura, Chuck Pelly, Sergio Pininfarina and Jack Telnack.