7 Rows Grey/light Black Crystal License Plate Frame/free Caps-a on 2040-parts.com

Seven automakers agree on standardized fast-charge system for EVs

Seven automakers have agreed to use a common single-port fast-charging system for electric cars in the United States and Europe. The goal is to reduce development costs and make it easier for consumers to adopt electric vehicles. Audi, BMW, Daimler, Ford, General Motors, Porsche and Volkswagen will use identical charge plugs and the same system for communication between the charger and the car in their electric vehicles.

Subaru XV gets world’s first self-cleaning function (+ video)

Subaru UK has revealed that the Subaru XV Crossover can now be specified with the world’s first self-cleaning function for a car. It’s a decent effort from Subaru, with added credibility as a compact urban warrior coming from Subaru’s 4WD prowess, a choice of a couple of petrol engines and a couple of diesels, manual or auto options and prices from £21k to £30k. But in a crowded market place it’s good to have a USP, so Subaru has pushed the boat out and is offering a world first for the Subaru XV – a self-cleaning function.

Kahn Range Rover Evoque RS250 Vesuvius

A. Kahn Design has turned its hand to the Range Rover Evoque with the RS250 Vesuvius Copper Evoque with cosmetic tweaks and big wheels. Kahn Design is a relative newcomer in the Land Rover pimping and preening scene compared to Overfinch (whose Evoque 2012 GTS we showed last weekend), but they have a strong following and do a fine job of making stand-out Range Rovers.