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

Volvo makes breakthrough in battery tech

Volvo has developed a new way of ‘storing’ energy for its future electric vehicles. The Swedish firm is exploring the concept of lightweight structural energy storage components made from carbonfibre, containing “nano structured batteries and super capacitors.” This technology is said to offer a lighter, more compact solution to the problem of energy storage, potentially removing the need for the heavy, bulky batteries used in current electric vehicles. On Bing: see pictures of the Volvo S80 Find out how much a used Volvo S80 costs on Auto Trader The investigation into the new technology is part of an EU-funded research project, undertaken by Volvo – the only major car manufacturer involved – and nine other organisations.

Hyundai reveals i-oniq concept teaser

Hyundai has hinted at its future design direction with this single teaser shot of its ‘i-oniq’ concept car. Further details will be revealed in the run-up to next March's 2012 Geneva show, but judging by this glimpse, the concept will take the form of a large coupe with a hatchback tail. It stops short of the full shooting-brake silhouette, but there’s a hint of Brera in the curvature of its rear end. ‘Two strong arched curves define the silhouette of i-oniq, creating a playful contrast between the sharp character lines and soft but muscular features’ says Thomas Bürkle, Hyundai’s European Chief Designer.

BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Review & Road Test (2010)

BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Review It comes as something of a shock to realise that the BMW 3 Series has been around for thirty five years, not least since I remember its launch and the stir it caused by offering as it did not just a stylish compact saloon car, but one which offered both prestige and performance. It was also streets ahead of what, until the 3-Series came along, we thought of as a cracking little BMW – the BMW 2002. Thirty five years is a huge amount of time in the world of cars and the 3-Series has changed out of all recognition in the intervening time.