Volvo V40 & V40 Cross Country: 2014 updates announced

Volvo are updating the new V40 for 2014 with new engine and gearbox options and a new 4WD option for the V40 Cross Country in Europe. There’s a new petrol engine choice – to go with the existing T3, T4 and T5 – in the 120PS T2 petrol engine, a 1.6 litre which offers 53.3mpg and emissions of 124g/km, a good choice if you don’t like to hustle, don’t do big mileage and pay your own bills. As well as a new engine option, Volvo are offering an auto option on the V40 D2 and V40 R-Design D2 which manages economy of 68.9mpg and emissions of 102g/km.

Ex-Morgan Chief Designer forms Matthew Humphries Design

The former chief designer at Morgan, has formed his own design consultancy, Matthew Humphries Design, in a bid to branch out into the worlds of bespoke cars and product design. Humphries will continue his relationship with Morgan in a partnership that will see the newly formed company help to develop future models for the independent British sports car manufacturer. The 28-year-old Coventry University graduate believes he can begin moving into the growing market for integrating automotive design elements into product design – such as furniture – and particularly British-themed products.

Elemental RP1 sports car (2014): first pictures of Britain’s newest track car

By Jonny Edge First Official Pictures 23 June 2014 15:58 The frighteningly lightweight Elemental RP1 emerged fully for the first time today, ahead of its public debut at this week’s Goodwood Festival of Speed 2014. At its heart, the 450kg RP1 has a unique carbon-composite tub based on the designs of contemporary race cars. The driver will sit 'feet up', allowing for greater underfloor downforce, which goes some way to explaining how the car achieves a quoted 200kg of downforce at 100mph.