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The AutoWeek list: Top all-time convertibles for driving fun

With the first few days of summer behind us, we got to thinking about our favorite summer pastimes. Clearly they include barbecue grilling, eating ice cream and taking long drives with the top down (the cars', not ours). It's time to contemplate the top convertible rides of all time might be.

‘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.

Lexus sketches future compact for the Frankfurt motor show

Lexus is jumping into the compact fray and has released a sketch of a concept that will be revealed at the Frankfurt motor show on Sept. 15. Lexus says the premium small car will make a design and technology statement, though further details are not available.