Arias Pistons 12.5:1 Compression 82mm Bore Honda B-series on 2040-parts.com

Pirelli unveils 2012 edition of 'artistic' calendar

Tiremaker Pirelli has previewed the 2012 edition of its calendar, known for its regular use of unclothed models in artistic poses and the exclusivity of the list of recipients. Photographer Mario Sorrenti chose the island of Corsica as the location to capture his "swoon" images. This is the first time that Sorrenti has shot the calendar, which has used many famous photographers in the past including Annie Leibovitz, Richard Avedon and Bruce Weber.

Volkswagen Beetle Dune IS going in to production – expect it in 2016

The VW Beetle Dune (above) will hit showrooms in 2016 Volkswagen went back to its Beetle history with the VW Beetle Dune Concept at Detroit in January, a car that looked close to production-ready even if VW were adamant it was just a concept. There was no more new on the Beetle Dune until late last month when, for no apparent reason, a raft of new photos of the Beetle Dune were released by Volkswagen with the only rationale being they had made the decision to make the Dune a production car. And they have.

Lotus announces partnership with Mansory

Group Lotus has announced its new collaboration with Mansory, which will become its official customization studio. The German tuner will be contributing bodywork, trim and special finishes for the Elise, Exige and Evora in yet another controversial strategic decision for the UK company. Lotus confirmed the first fruits of this new partnership will be the unveiling a new model variant at September's Paris motor show, two years after the highly ambitious announcement of five new models of which the first is yet to become reality.