2003 F-150 Transmission on 2040-parts.com

Volvo makes breakthrough in battery tech

Volvo has developed a new way of ‘storing’ energy for its future electric vehicles. The Swedish firm is exploring the concept of lightweight structural energy storage components made from carbonfibre, containing “nano structured batteries and super capacitors.” This technology is said to offer a lighter, more compact solution to the problem of energy storage, potentially removing the need for the heavy, bulky batteries used in current electric vehicles. On Bing: see pictures of the Volvo S80 Find out how much a used Volvo S80 costs on Auto Trader The investigation into the new technology is part of an EU-funded research project, undertaken by Volvo – the only major car manufacturer involved – and nine other organisations.

Toyota previews two new Geneva-bound concepts

Toyota has released the first images of its FT-86 Open and i-Road concepts ahead of their debuts at the upcoming Geneva motor show. The carmaker's FT-86 Open concept previews a potential future development of the GT86 sports coupe. Toyota is using the concept to gauge public reaction while carrying out engineering tests on a prototype.

CDN-GM Interactive Design Contest 2013 – Buick Brief [w/Video]

The launch of the third CDN-GM Interactive Design Competition is just days away, and as promised we're revealing more details about the Buick brief. In the CDN-GM Interactive Design Contest, you can display and update your proposals on the competition's website. Interactivity comes into play as your peers critique submissions while GM mentors guide and support you throughout.