2008 Ford Fusion Heater Climate Control # 7e5h-19980-aa on 2040-parts.com

New Mercedes S-Class Plug-in Hybrid to debut at Frankfurt Motor Show

The new Mercedes S-Class (pictured) will arrive with a plug-in hybrid version in September We’ve known Mercedes were planning a plug-in hybrid version of the new S-Class as far back as 2009, and it now appears it will debut – as a 2014 model – at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show in September. When Mercedes revealed the Vision S500 Plug-in Hybrid Concept at Frankfurt in 2009, they had fitted it with a V6 petrol engine mated to a 44kw motor and a bank of lithium-ion batteries, and promised the hybrid S-Class would do 90mpg, have emissions of under 75g/km and manage 18 miles in EV mode. That means the hybrid S-Class would have performance comparable to the V8 petrol-engined S500 but attract no BIK or VED in the UK.

Ford S-Max Vignale concept unveiled

Remember the Ford Mondeo Vignale concept from Frankfurt? It's basically a posh Mondeo, but Ford would like us to think it's a bit more than that. Vignale is Ford's attempt at going upmarket – taking on German premium brands with 'Vignale lounges' in special dealerships and specially trained 'relationship managers'.

Top Gear Video: The Stig, Chris Evans & a 400bhp Black Cab

The Stig takes Chris Evans for an ExCel tour in a 400bhp Black Cab It’s not difficult to work out when Top Gear has something to promote; they send us videos and stories. And with the Top Gear Live Show looming on the horizon, TG has just sent us video of The Stig taking Chris Evans for a blat in a 400bhp Black Cab. Just to make sure everyone knows that Top Gear Live has moved out to the ExCel Centre in East London, the hair-raising ride in the back of Stiggie’s cab was filmed in – and around – an underground car park at the Excel Centre.