19x8.5 Silver Beyern Multi Wheels 5x120 +15 Bmw 7 Series 740 7 Series 750 on 2040-parts.com

Frankfurt auto show: Mercedes-Benz previews the electric B-class

Mercedes-Benz revealed an electric-powered B-class with range-extending capabilities at the Frankfurt motor show. This rounds out the company's line of standard gasoline- and diesel-engine versions in the second generation of the multipurpose fiver-seater. Set to go on sale in selected markets in 2013, the B-class E-cell Plus is propelled by a 136-hp electric motor that draws electricity from a lithium-ion battery mounted low within the car's MFA platform structure.

Porsche announces new Weissach design center and wind tunnel

Porsche is to invest around €150m into its Weissach development facility, including a new design center. The plans also include an electronics integration department and a state-of-the art, on-site wind tunnel, which is hoped will allow the company to realize an holistic approach to efficient design, with a strong focus on aerodynamics. When we spoke with head of Porsche design, Michael Mauer, at this year's Paris motor show, he also alluded to the fact that the Volkswagen Group's – and, more specifically, Walter de'Silva's – recent influence on the German manufacturer was shifting its attitudes: "The Volkswagen Group has a very good understanding of how much freedom a brand needs to keep its characteristics and with [Walter] as 'conductor', I feel a lot of support with design issues within the company," explained Mauer.

Euro Car Parts sold for £225 million

Euro Car Parts Sold for £225 million There was a time, a very long time ago, where Euro Car Parts was an almost hidden secret, supplying manufacturer standard parts for higher end cars at prices that were much more affordable. The key to Euro Car Parts success was supplying parts which seemed to be sourced from the same suppliers as the car maker itself, but sold without the same huge margins. This writer was an avid fan of Euro Car Parts as a struggling young dad with a penchant for cars he couldn’t really afford; Euro Car Parts – and weekends with a toolbox and oily hands – kept a succession of luxury and performance cars on the road on a shoestring, but without compromising quality.