BMW and Toyota plan engine-swap deal, reports say

Details have begun to emerge about a planned engine-swap deal between BMW and Toyota. Set to be made public at the Tokyo motor show this week, the cooperation is said to center on BMW supplying Toyota with four- and six-cylinder common-rail diesel engines for use in a wide range of models. In return, Toyota plans to provide BMW with technology used to combine combustion engines and electric motors in various hybrid applications.

Renault Fluence Z.E.

Honoring its 2009 Frankfurt motor show pledge to offer EV's by 2012, Renault has announced the Fluence Z.E., which will soon be offered alongside its conventionally-powered sibling. In making its transition to EV, the Fluence has undergone several changes; the most obvious being the battery pack which dictated an increase in the car's overall length. The extended rear quarter panels, which equate to the 130mm growth, add a sizeable visual weight to the rear of the car.

BMW's yearlong Mini E trial exposes infrastructure problems

Early next decade, BMW of North America plans to sell an electric "megacity car" as a subbrand of BMW, similar to the brand's M high-performance cars. But further details are skimpy. BMW already is preparing for that launch.