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

Aston Martin AM310 makes a quiet debut at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este

The Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este is more than a celebration of classic automotive design. It's also a great opportunity to view cutting-edge concept vehicles. This year's event saw the debut of the BMW Zagato coupe concept, and the Alfa Romeo 4C concept took home the concours' coveted “Design Award for Concept Cars & Prototypes.” You'd never know it based on the official coverage (or lack thereof), but Aston Martin also unveiled a concept at the concours.

Catalytic converter thefts double in three years

Associated Press Thefts of catalytic converters from cars have more than doubled in less than three years, according to an investigation by the BBC. Data compiled from 40 police regions across the UK reveal that in 2012 a total of 8,947 catalytic converters thefts were reported, compared to 3,957 similar cases recorded in 2010. On Bing: see pictures of catalytic convertersStreet sweepers to mine UK roads for precious metals A car’s catalytic converter reduces its harmful exhaust gas emissions by initiating a chemical process to neutralise many toxic substances emitted from the engine.

Infiniti to build new Mercedes A Class based model in UK

The new Infiniti premium hatch, based on the underpinnings of the new Mercedes A Class and looking like the Etherea Concept, will be built in the UK. Infiniti announced only yesterday that it is introducing a new nomenclature for its cars (Q for saloons/coupes and QX for SUVs/Crossovers) and all new cars will come with a Q at the beginning followed by a number to denote its hierarchy in the Infiniti range. Where exactly that leaves the name of the new ‘baby’ Infiniti, we’re not exactly sure (Q30 or Q40 seems the most likely), but we are pretty sure what it will look like and what will be under the skin.