1953 Cadillac Manifold on 2040-parts.com

Mini crossover to carry base price of $22,350

Mini's new Countryman crossover will start at $22,350, only $550 more than the three-door Clubman wagon. A well-equipped Countryman in a Cooper S trim with optional all-wheel drive will cost just under $30,000, Jim McDowell, head of Mini USA, said Wednesday during the media launch for the vehicle. The prices include destination charges, Mini said.

Aspid Cars teases sports car to join open-wheeler

Spanish automaker Aspid Cars informed us last Tuesday that it will be unveiling a sports car to complement its open-wheel track car. The company didn't tell us much aside from saying that the car will be bigger than its first car, that it will be extremely lightweight and that it will offer multiple powertrain options, including a V8 and a KERS-like hybrid system. The company also made sure to note that its name is no longer IFR Aspid.

Electric cars amped up with £500 million boost

THE GOVERNMENT is to extend the £5,000 grant scheme open to anyone who buys a car with plug-in electric power. It is part of a £500 million move to encourage car owners – and city authorities – to take up the electric car baton and run with it. The initiative will give cities a chance to win government funding to further the sales of electric cars in their areas, for example by allowing them to use bus lanes or park for free.