Diesels and turbos dominate 2014

Wards Automotive released its 20th annual top 10 list of the best engines for 2014, with turbocharged, supercharged and diesel engines claiming the top spots as well as one electric motor. To be eligible, the new or improved engine must be on sale in a production vehicle during the first quarter of 2014. This powertrain revolution features world-class engine technology so compelling that they’re actually becoming the selling points for most buyers.

Who's Where: Taewan Kim appointed Vice President of Design at GM Daewoo

Taewan Kim has been promoted to Vice President of Design at GM Daewoo. Having started his career in International Automotive Design in the United Kingdom in 1991, Kim was involved in designing various Japanese and European automobiles, including British Airway's First Class seat design. From 1995, he served as Chief Exterior Designer at the former Daewoo Motor Company, leading the exterior design of the Magnus, Lacetti, Kalos and Matiz.

‘GEN Y 2012 – Express Yourself’ contest launched

Liberty Electric Cars has launched a competition for design students calling for ideas for a revolutionary ‘Car of the Year' 2020. The company, which specializes in electric vehicle (EV) drivetrain technologies for multiple vehicle platforms, has asked for students to create a revolutionary electric vehicle for its ‘GEN Y 2012 – Express Yourself' contest. The design must be targeted for Generation Y (between 18 and 29 years old), with the brief stating that the vehicle "should be iconic in shape and allow the user to express their own personality." The vehicle should also "become a fashion item, fun to drive and should use innovative technologies and materials that can be easily configured according to the driver's requirements." The contest is open for students enrolled in a college or university-level design program, either in transportation, product or fashion design, engineering or architecture.