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

BMW X1 US launch delayed – because the new X3 is so good

BMW X1 - not in the US until late 2012 It would have been inconceivable just a few years ago that there could ever be a market in the US for a car like the BMW X1. But times have changed and even Americans see the benefits of a (much) smaller SUV, so BMW was originally planning on launching the X1 in the US around now. That X1 launch got put back until later in 2011 because the Leipzig plant – which builds the X1 – was running at capacity to meet the demands from Europe.

Metrocab Range Extender London Taxi looks a real contender (video)

Metrocab Range Extender London Taxi We’ve had lots of new competition for the traditional London Black Cab cropping up recently, with the Nissan NV200 Taxi and the Mercedes Vito Taxi heading the assault on the traditional black taxi market. Now we’re getting the Metrocab Range Extender Electric from Frazer Nash throwing its hat in to the ring as a contender for the market, and it does look to be a real contender. Looking familiar with styling that looks like a properly updated take on the traditional TX4 Black Cab, the Metrocab has been developed by Frazer Nash and Ecotive to be fully compliant with all the requirements of the London Public Carriage Office and offers a much more appealing option for cabbies and fares alike.

Volkswagen iBeetle takes iPhone integration to another level

When we’re all walking round with Smartphones that possess the sort of computing power only a major desktop could offer just a few years ago, it makes sense for car makers to tap in to that power to control functionality and Infotainment in their cars. Which is why Volkswagen has rolled out the iBeetle at this week’s Shanghai Motor Show with a level of integration with Smartphones from Apple, and that previews a roll-out of Apple integration from VW, offering far more functionality and control than we’ve seen before. Or at least that’s the VW claim.