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2013 Australian Motor Show axed

This year’s Australian Motor Show in Melbourne has been cancelled by its organizers three months before its planned opening. Falling attendance figures played a big part in taking the decision, as did what is seen as a lack of manufacturer support. The Australian International Motor Show Joint Venture's event director Russ Tyrie said the decision was taken "based on a consensus view of the automotive industry to focus limited marketing budgets in 2013 on firm-specific activities, rather than an industry-based motor show." The Volkswagen Group's decision not to attend may well have acted as the final nail in the coffin along with Hyundai's hesitancy despite initial support.

BMW's Domagoj Dukec on the 4 Series Convertible [w/Video]

BMW's head of exterior design Domagoj Dukec has explained how the 4 Series Convertible's design sets it apart from the 3 Series in a new video. Dukec says that aside from the fact the 4 Series Convertible is visibly wider than its predecessor with an increased track and wheelbase, its design is unique. While describing the changes to features such as the kidney grille, headlamps and the lines running down the hood, Dukec also compares it to the coupé.

Michael Mauer appointed head of design at Porsche

Porsche AG has anounced the appointment of Michael Mauer to take over as chief designer from Harm Lagaay, who will retire on July 1 after 15 years in the post. Michael Mauer, 41, studied automobile design at Pforzheim University, and started his career at Mercedes-Benz. In 1989, he was appointed design project leader for the Mercedes V Class models, and was in charge of design work for the first SLK model generation.