97 Mercedes E320 Rear Drive Shaft 210 Type E320 on 2040-parts.com

Ken Okuyama Design heads to Tokyo with new road racer [w/video]

Ken Okuyama Design is heading to the Tokyo motor show with what promises to be a real treat of a two-seat sports car. The Kode9 coupé, as teased in a behind-the-scenes video, follows on from the Kode7 first shown in 2008 and, if the video is any indication, this voluminous, 1960s-inspired creation will continue that car's attention to delightful detail. And who doesn't love a car with a vertical tail fin?

Van drivers at greater risk of crashing

VAN DRIVERS are 50% more likely to be involved in a collision when driving too close to the vehicle in front and a massive 142% more at danger of crashing when reversing. Drivers of vans are also 43% more at risk of being in an accident even when parked, while performing a U-turn puts them at 39% more likely to be in a collision than other road users. Other areas where van drivers are more at risk is when changing lanes (36%) and on motorways (19%).

Design Services: Ficosa International

In the hierarchy of car design the exterior of a powerful sports car is usually regarded as the highest level whilst the design of some of the smaller functional components tends to sit at the bottom. But even for companies not obviously dependant on sexy curves to help them make money, design is increasingly being recognised as a critical ingredient for commercial success. Whilst most large suppliers have grown their design capability over the last decade, few have truly embraced the potential of having a focus on Design within their corporate strategy.