2006 Raptor Seat on 2040-parts.com

Ford eyes dandelions as sustainable alternative to synthetic rubber

Ford, in conjunction with Ohio State University, is turning to the humble garden weed as sustainable resource, researching the dandelion's potential use as an alternative to synthetic rubber. While the automaker already makes considerable use of sustainable materials in its vehicles – such as soy foam seat cushions and straw-filled plastic for interior trim – this latest discovery opens up a wealth of new possibilities for automotive applications. According to research conducted by Ford, a milky-white substance that is found in certain dandelion roots can produce a sustainable rubber that could be used to create plastic parts for vehicle interiors.

2013 Kia Sorento engine lineup revealed

Kia has revealed that the 2013 Sorento – which will debut at the Paris Motor Show next month – will get a choice of two diesel and one petrol engines. We’ve had two reveals of the 2013 Kia Sorento so far this year, the first for the 2013 US Sorento and the second for the 2013 Europe and UK Sorento, but no details on the engine lineup. But now, ahead of a debut at next month’s Paris Motor Show, the engine lineup for the 2013 Kia Sorento in Europe has been revealed.

Transport dangers

FILM FOOTAGE showing the shocking consequences of motorists not slowing down or paying attention when driving through roadworks has been released by the Highways Agency. One bit of film shows a lorry overturning, while another shows a truck ploughing into the back of a car. The footage prompted a Government minister to warn drivers that "saving a few seconds on your journey is simply not worth it".