Nissan’s new lightweight philosophy revealed

The leaked official drawings of the new Nissan Micra might have revealed the conventional styling of the company’s new supermini, but they gave little clue to the dramatically lightweight new platform that underpins it. The new Micra will be significantly lighter and more fuel efficient than the outgoing car due to a ruthless pursuit of weight reduction on the new V-platform (V = versatile), which on average has slashed 50kg from the new car's weight, and up to 70kg on some models. Project leader Noritaka Tsuru described the new package as a 'breakthrough car' that required a complete 'change in mentality' in how Nissan makes cars.

Rennsport Reunion IV closes with Porsche 917s tearing around the track

Rennsport IV, three days of serious Porsche love at Mazda Racway Laguna Seca, concluded on Sunday with a half-dozen races around the picturesque track near Monterey, Calif. And while there were a variety of all things Porsche to see and hear through the three days, Sunday saw some of Porsche's most powerful race cars take to the track. It was certainly a case of saving the best for last.

Study finds parents struggle with proper safety-seat use

Car crashes are the leading cause of death for kids ages three to 14, and a study released by New Safe Kids USA on Sept. 15--pegged to draw attention to National Child Passenger Safety Week, which starts on Sept. 18--shows that while parents are getting better in the proper use of child safety seats, there is room for improvement.