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

Schreyer: More than a designer of products I wish to be an architect of Hyundai's brand image

There's no denying Peter Schreyer has been instrumental in turning around Kia's image from a manufacturer of wheeled white goods in a creator of design-led products. Now his attention turns to sister company Hyundai in his role as chief design officer for both companies and his plans are no less ambitious. "More than a designer of products I wish to be an architect of Hyundai's brand image," he told an audience at Hyundai's European headquarters, explaining how his job is not simply 'styling' but communicating the brand's message right down to details such as the seatbelt warning buzzer.

Porsche Boxster

The Porsche Boxster has been completely redesigned as it enters its third generation since its introduction in 1996. As can be expected from the Stuttgart manufacturer, the design is progressive, evolving the familiar two-seater into a more distinctive proposition within the Porsche range. Its proportions are also altered, with a flatter silhouette and shorter overhangs, while the base of the windscreen has been significantly shifted forward.

LA auto show 2011 review by Ben Pulman

When the automotive industry was in the midst of recession, the LA auto show carved out a niche for itself as the place to be seen to be green. Detroit represented the big, bad gas-guzzling old school, but the forward-thinking culture of southern California meant the relaxed atmosphere of the LA Convention Centre was the perfect setting to preview the smaller, more compact and more fuel-efficient future. This year it was different.